On September 17, the delegation headed by Minister Mnatsakanyan visited Riga Castle where they were received by Egils Levits, the president of Latvia.

Minister Mnatsakanyan congratulated Egils Levits on the occasion of recently assuming the post of the President and conveyed greetings and best wishes from Armen Sarkissian, the President of Armenia. 

Touching upon the relations between Armenia and Latvia, Zohrab Mnatsakanyan and  Egils Levits commended those as based on mutual respect, between two peoples with special sense of freedom and independence. 

The Foreign Minister of Armenia expressed hope that his visit would greatly contribute to the intensification and deepening of the political dialogue between the two countries.

The president of Latvia and the Foreign Minister of Armenia also emphasized the important role of the Armenian community in bringing the two countries and peoples closer together. Minister Mnatsakanyan noted that being proud citizens of Latvia and having their contribution to the development of the country, our compatriots are at the same time the carriers and guardians of their national identity.  

The Foreign Minister briefed President Levits on the ongoing reforms in Armenia aimed at strengthening democratic institutions, rule of law, establishing an independent judiciary and raising public trust in the latter. In the context of judicial and legal reforms, Minister Mnatsakanyan highlighted the coordination of support of international and regional partners, the effective use of expertise.

In the context of the partnership with the European Union and EU countries, the Eastern Partnership was highly appreciated as an effective, high-potential platform based on common values and outlined goals.

The president of Latvia and the Foreign Minister of Armenia exchanged views on international and regional developments and their positions in that regard. 

Touching upon the Nagorno-Karabakh issue, Minister Mnatsakanyan presented Armenia's principled position and approaches. President Levits and Minister Mnatsakanyan emphasized that there is no alternative to the peaceful settlement of the conflict.