On March 12, Foreign Minister Ara Aivazian had a phone conversation with Foreign Minister of Austria Alexander Schallenberg.

Both sides commended the positive dynamics in bilateral relations and reiterated mutual readiness to undertake practical efforts aimed at promoting the political dialogue, expanding and enriching the cooperation agenda.

During the telephone conversation, the Foreign Ministers of Armenia and Austria also exchanged views on issues on Armenia-EU partnership and the schedule of upcoming EaP events. Minister Aivazian stressed that the effective implementation of the Armenia-EU Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement will create new opportunities for deepening the cooperation with the EU and its member states, as well as for outlining new directions. 

In the context of regional security and stability, Minister Aivazian briefed his counterpart on the humanitarian situation in Artsakh resulting from the Turkish-Azerbaijani aggression, Azerbaijan's failure to fulfill its obligations under the November 9 statement, in particular the repatriation of prisoners of war and other detainees. Sides emphasized the need for the involvement of international partners in improving the humanitarian situation in Artsakh.

Ministers Aivazian and Schallenberg highlighted the importance of undertaking steps aimed at preserving the historical-cultural heritage and the religious sites in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict zone.

Touching upon the security challenges in the OSCE region, including in the context of conflicts, both sides expressed concern over the involvement and deployment of foreign terrorist fighters and mercenaries. The cooperation of regional and international organizations was highlighted in this regard.

The Foreign Ministers of Armenia and Austria emphasized the importance of addressing the issues of the Nagorno-Karabakh peace process within the framework of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairmanship.