Armenia continues cooperation with Greek, Cypriot Diasporas

Armenia’s Ministry of Diaspora on Thursday hosted delegations from Cyprus and Greece, who met with Minister Hranush Hakobyan to discuss cooperation projects.

The second meeting, held in the trilateral format, aims at establishing and strengthening cooperation and promoting an active youth exchange and dialogue in education, culture and other fields. The three countries’ diaspora communities initiated an active cooperation back on June 19 after the Ministry signed a memorandum of understanding with a delegation from Cyprus.

Another similar document is to be signed on Friday between the Ministry of Diaspora and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Greece, Hakobyan told the guests, highlighting at the same time the intensified cooperation on both the interstate and the community levels.

The minister also praised the diaspora for an active engagement in mutual projects. “Our key purpose is to work more actively with the youth, organizing youth assemblies among the three countries, as well as initiating joint educational and cultural projects,” Hakobyan said.

She further thanked the Greek and Cypriot governments for assistance to improve the local Armenian communities’ life. The minister extended her special gratitude to both countries for legally criminalizing the Armenian Genocide denial.

Fotiu Fotis, Commissioner for Humanitarian and Foreign Affairs of Cyprus, expressed hope that the trilateral meetings will intensify further the cooperation among the three countries’ Diasporas.

“We have historically developed friendly ties in the cultural, political, religious and other sectors. Meetings of the kind mark a new beginning, opening up a new chapter for Diaspora cooperation,” he said.  

Terens - Nikolaos Quick, a Greek deputy minister foreign of foreign affairs, highlighted especially the importance of youth projects, appreciating the younger generation’s potential in realizing their countries’ vision. Addressing the recently elaborated joint agenda, he unveiled plans for organizing a meeting in Paris and opening an exhibition in Thessaloniki.