YEREVAN, MAY 22, ARMENPRESS: Russian science and technology minister and Armenian defense minister Serzh Sarkisian, the two co-chairmen of an intergovernmental commission for economic cooperation, told a news conference today that a major business forum with participation of around 80 Russian businessmen, that wrapped today in Yerevan, discussed cooperation in several key areas such as nuclear energy and natural gas supplies and restoration of sugar production in Armenia.
Klebanov said both sides agreed to conclude a long-term, at least for five years, agreement on Russian supplies of natural gas, which he said stipulates concrete and predictable terms. Uninterrupted supplies of natural gas, he said, is very important for restoring the capacities of Armenia’s chemical industry.
Sarkisian in turn said several investment projects were discussed at the forum, particulalry, restoration of sugar production, which would in turn create thousands of jobs in agriculture. Klebanov added that the sugar plant may be built on Indian technologies and equipment , as part of a deal to settle India’s debt to Russia.
Both co-chairmen also confirmed that intensive negotiations are underway with authorities in Georgia and its breakaway region of Abkhazia on resumption of rail communication across the latter’s territory between Russia and Armenia.
“The latest related developments inspire hope that this issue may be resolved,” Sarkisian said, citing a recent announcement by Georgian president Shevardnadze. Klebanov added that absence of cheap transport communication between the two countries is among major obstacles hindering investment projects. The railway issue will be discussed by presidents of Russia, Armenia and Georgia late in May in Russian Saint Petersburg.
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