Minsk and Yerevan to Become Sister Cities: Armenian Ambassador Provides Details

Minsk and Yerevan will become sister cities. Furthermore, the relevant decision is already prepared and will be signed in Belarus during the visit of the Yerevan Mayor. This was stated by the Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Armenia to Belarus, Razmik Khumaryan, in an interview with "BelTA".

The ambassador noted that the countries work closely together within the frameworks of regional integration entities such as the CIS, CSTO, and EAEU. Upcoming events dedicated to the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations are also planned.

"On June 29 in Minsk, there will be an exhibition showcasing photographs titled 'Armenia through the eyes of a Belarusian photographer' and 'Belarus through the eyes of an Armenian photographer,'" said Khumaryan.

He also addressed the importance of the tourism sector, emphasizing its development. According to the ambassador, more than 9,000 Belarusian tourists visited Armenia in 2019; however, this number slightly decreased in 2021 due to COVID-19, with over 7,000 citizens traveling. In 2022, this figure exceeded 17,000, and by the first half of 2023, already 3,500 Belarusians have visited Armenia.

Khumaryan remarked that tourism in Armenia is actively developing with various directions such as extreme sports, gastrotourism, pilgrimage, and more. He expressed hope that the influx of tourists from Belarus will continue in the future.

The diplomat also emphasized the lack of a visa regime between the countries and noted that “Belavia” operates three flights weekly from Minsk to Yerevan.

Regarding the activities of the Armenian community, Khumaryan mentioned that the construction of the Holy Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Apostolic Church in Minsk will be completed this year.