THE REGIONAL COOPERATION IN “1+3” FORMAT IS MORE REAL AT PRESENT, SAID THE FOREIGN MINISTER OF ARMENIA

11.07.2000, MEDIAMAX. The discussion of problems of regional cooperation, security and stability in “1+3” format (Russia, Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia) is more real at present, declared today the foreign minister of Armenia Vardan Oskanian at the press conference in the National press club replying to the question of MEDIAMAX.
The head of the ministry of foreign affairs of Armenia declared that meetings in this format are the first effective attempt to discuss regional problems. Oskanian particularly stressed that on the eve of the Moscow meeting the agenda was determined, which indicates that these meetings may get an institutional character .
The Armenian minister noted that meetings in “1+3” format will be held at least twice a year and expressed confidence that the continuation of the dialogue will be useful both for Russia and the all states of the Southern Caucasus.
Vardan Oskanian said to MEDIAMAX that Armenia’s suggestion of establishing a regional stability and security system by “3+3+2” formula ( the three states of the Southern Caucasus, Russia, Turkey, Iran, and also the European Union and the USA) is still on the agenda. “Our suggestion has deep logic, as we proceed from the fact that long-term stability and security in the region of Southern Caucasus can be achieved with the maximal involvement of all the interested parties”, said Vardan Oskanian. -0-