U.S. Secretary of State intends to visit Armenia this year

We have issues of great importance to us: the economic partnership, the development of the economy and strengthening of democracy, and the security of our friends, the Armenian people, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said at the meeting with Armenian Foreign Minister Edward Nalbandian in Washington on Tuesday.

According to the press service of Armenian Foreign Ministry, Nalbandian said that the US and Armenia share the same vision and realize that “it is important to continue efforts to find exclusively peaceful solution to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict based on the principles and norms of international law, particularly non-use of force, excessive force, self-determination, territorial integrity.”

The Armenian foreign minister also said that the US and Armenia share the same vision that “relations between Armenia and Turkey should be normalized without preconditions.”

“I’m sure and confident that with our joint efforts, we could elevate relations to new heights. And the trust and understanding between our two countries are the best pillars to extend further our relations,” said Nalbandian.

John Kerry restated the commitment of the United States to assist with normalization of Armenian-Turkish relations. In his words, the U.S. continues to support efforts on peaceful resolution of the Nagorno Karabakh conflict, which will create opportunities for the development, stability and security in the South Caucasus.

John Kerry accepted the invitation to visit Armenia, saying that he intends to pay a visit in 2013.