I Have Fallen in Love with Goris and Kapan: Russian Ambassador in Armenia

The Russian Ambassador to Armenia, Sergey Kopirkin, has expressed that one of his favorite regions in Armenia is Syunik. He mentioned this in an interview with Public Television conducted in a "without a tie" format.

Recently, the ambassador visited Syunik again, this time to Kajaran, to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Zangezur Copper-Molybdenum Combine. Kopirkin's first visit to Syunik with his family dates back to 2019.

“I have fallen in love with Goris and Kapan, while Meghri is a unique place with its natural wealth. I also love Sisian, the Kotayk region, and Lake Sevan. I really like the Lori and Tavush regions as well. Despite being a small country, Armenia is very diverse, and there are hospitable people everywhere,” stated the ambassador.

The situation in Syunik is currently challenging, which undoubtedly affects interpersonal relations. The positive attitude towards Russia and Russians is felt throughout Armenia, but according to the ambassador, the complexity of the situation makes it more perceptible in Syunik.

Not only does the ambassador feel comfortable in Armenia, but so do his wife, Tamara Ivanovna, and son, Maxim, who have already made Armenian friends and learned a few Armenian phrases.

Furthermore, the ambassador's wife, who has worked for many years as a mechanical engineer, is familiar with the notable achievements of Armenian industry from her professional experience rather than from history or the internet.

“Both in Armenia and Russia, much in the industry has either disappeared or at least was not utilized for some time following the collapse of the Soviet Union. However, the most important asset is people, human capital, which gives reason to expect that the country will fully get back on its feet and occupy the place it should, based on its human potential,” emphasized the ambassador.

This is crucial for Russia, Armenia, and other former Soviet republics. The ambassador clarified that this discussion is not about politics (as the format of the program is non-political), but the cooperation between the two countries should serve this purpose.