Yuri Djorkaeff: "I Did Not Come to Armenia to Take Photographs, But to Provide Long-Term Support to the People of Artsakh"

"After the heavy days of war, the most important thing is to heal the wounds. First aid is essential because it primarily lifts the spirit. For 44 days, Armenians felt abandoned." This conviction was expressed by world-renowned footballer Yuri Djorkaeff during his visit to the 'We Are Armenian' humanitarian charity foundation.

"When French President Emmanuel Macron asked me to be a goodwill ambassador to support Armenians and come to Armenia, I immediately agreed, not to take beautiful photos here, but to bring long-term benefits. Today, Armenia needs the support of France and the French more than ever," Djorkaeff said.

The world and European champion visited the 'We Are Armenian' foundation with his brother, Deputy Mayor of Desines-Champigny, Denis Djorkaeff. Among the volunteers is also their cousin. For the past month, he has been participating in volunteer work in Armenia alongside about 30 ethnic Armenian French youth and is trying to lend a helping hand to families from Artsakh in need.

Stefany Karoian is among the young people concerned about the wounded citizens of Artsakh. She told Tert.am that although only her mother is Armenian, her father's heart is Armenian. The 26-year-old took it upon herself to cover the flight costs, gathered necessary items with friends, and brought them to Armenia in suitcases.

"We could not sit idle in France. We gathered in the cultural house of Alfortville, formed a group, and got to work. Here in Armenia, I felt my Armenian identity more and became strongly connected to my roots."