Ara Mkrtchyan, Deputy Minister of Environment of the RA, met with Rafael Benitez, Director of the Social Rights, Health and Environment Department of the Directorate General of Human Rights and Rule of Law (DGI) of the Council of Europe.
Maxime Longangue, Head of the Yerevan Office of the Council of Europe also attended the meeting.
During the meeting, the parties discussed a number of priority issues related to biodiversity conservation, emphasizing the importance of coordinated policy development and practical action in this field.
Particular attention was devoted to opportunities for cooperation as part of preparations for the 17th Conference of the Parties (COP17), including prospects for international exchange of experience, joint initiatives, and coordinated participation. 
The parties highlighted the need for effective and coordinated engagement on international platforms, underscoring that sectoral challenges require a partnership-based approach and sustained cooperation.
Rafael Benitez also presented the possibilities of accession to the European Landscape Convention (Florence Convention), emphasizing its significance in the areas of landscape protection, spatial planning, and biodiversity management.
At the conclusion of the meeting, the parties agreed to continue professional consultations in the aforementioned areas, clarifying the steps and formats for further cooperation.