Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia

10/31/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 11/01/2024 11:19

Armenia-France Friendship Room Inaugurated at the United Nations Office in Geneva

Armenia-France Friendship Room Inaugurated at the United Nations Office in Geneva

31 October, 2024

On October 31, the Armenia-France Friendship Room was inaugurated at the United Nations Office in Geneva. This room, designated for international meetings and events, is now named to honor the longstanding friendship between Armenia and France. As part of the dedication, large-scale artworks by painter Jean Boghossian were installed in the room-one symbolizing Armenia, the other symbolizing France. Additionally, a monument by Boghossian was placed at the room's entrance, inscribed in both Armenian and French, signifying its dedication to Armenia-France friendship. All of the artworks have been donated to the United Nations Office in Geneva for permanent display.

The opening ceremony featured speeches by Mr. Vladimir Vardanyan, Chairman of the Standing Committee on State and Legal Affairs of Armenia's National Assembly and Head of the Armenia-France Parliamentary Friendship Group; H.E. Mr. Andranik Hovhannisyan, Permanent Representative of Armenia; Mr. Gilbert-Luc Devinaz, Chairman of the Armenia-France Friendship Group of the French Senate; H.E. Mr. Jérôme Bonnafont, Permanent Representative of France; Ms. Tatiana Valovaya, Director-General of the United Nations Office in Geneva; and artist Jean Boghossian.

The speakers celebrated this meaningful occasion, noting the room's symbolic significance as a tribute to Armenia's sovereignty and its enduring relationship with France. They also reflected on Armenia's history, its path to independence, and the centuries-old Armenian-French ties that continue to flourish.

Following the speeches, a reception was held to mark Armenia's Independence Day, hosted by the Permanent Mission of Armenia in Geneva. Ambassadors, diplomats, members of the Swiss Armenian community, and prominent cultural and public figures participate at the meeting.