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On November 18, in the National Gallery of Armenia a solemn reception was organized for the ISCE PA delegates by the President of the RA National Assembly Alen Simonyan. The RA NA President addressed a welcoming speech to the participants of the event:

“Distinguished Madam President,

Dear delegates, colleagues and guests,

Ladies and gentlemen,

Once again I welcome you in Armenia.

It is not accidental that today we have gathered in one of the historical buildings of Yerevan - in the National Gallery. It was founded more than 100 years ago, and it keeps under its roof not only the pearls of Armenian art, but also great works of art representing the world: from the ancient times until nowadays.

The cultural diplomacy is an influential and figurative language, with which the countries having civilization and great history speak. I am proud of the fact that here are priceless samples from different countries of the world.

The start of the Autumn Meeting of the Assembly in Yerevan was successful, and the professional discussions fully reflect our united agenda. We had an opportunity to speak sincerely and exchange ideas on the issues of vital importance concerning us, which is important in terms of effectively solving the problems.

This Autumn Meeting takes place in times of unprecedented setbacks and crises in our common security zone. Unfortunately, we continuously witness the violation of the commitments, which are steadily fixed in the fundamental principles of the Helsinki Final Act.

Dear colleagues, friends,

The holding of the Autumn Meeting of the Organisation in Armenia and personally your presence at this moment full of challenges for our country is a sign of friendship and solidarity. We highly appreciate our international colleagues’ steadfast agenda to democracy and the agenda of reforms. I believe that all of us realize what threats cause the security crisis to our young democracy and sustainable development, social cohesion and strengthening justice, but we believe that peace has no alternative in our region.

Facing all obstacles and provocations, the Government of Armenia will continue the political direction of peace. And I express my gratitude to all my colleagues for being next to us in this difficult moment.

I wish our Autumn Meeting continuity of effective works, and us – nice evening.”