Yerevan, October 22, ArmenPress: The visit of Armenian foreign minister Vartan Oskanian continues to Italy. According to foreign ministry press services, yesterday Oskanian met with city authorities and business community in Venice. He was hosted by the general secretary of Venice Commerce Chamber and local business community. The meeting passed in a business environment during which issues were discussed to stimulate Armenian-Italian ties.

Both sides mentioned that Venice and Armenia have history-long relations and tradition in the range of which the Armenian Mkhitarian Congregation of Venice plays an important role. Special attention was paid to large opportunities in small and medium-sized business cooperation. Prospective were considered carpet making, tourism, light industry and others. Arrangements are made to organize business exchange visits, exchange of experts and business forums. Ensuing the meeting, minister
Oskanian met with the local media representatives.

After mid day, a meeting was held with the city administration authorities, particularly with Venice city economy head Ms. Maria Joanna Piva during which Oskanian extended his gratitude for the support to Mkhitarian Congregation hanks to which Armenian establishments survive and fully operate on St. Lazarus Island.