On Tuesday May 14, 2013, the Student Affairs Office at the Holy Spirit University of Kaslik (USEK), in collaboration with the Armenian Embassy in Lebanon, organized the Armenian Cultural Day, which included an art exhibition reflecting the Armenian culture and tradition.

During the event, students provided the attendees with general information about Armenia and about its traditional cuisine; in addition, folkloric dances and songs were performed by a group of artists. Armenian artisans displayed their handcrafts, photographs and traditional oil paintings.

This initiative was launched by the Armenian students in the University, in collaboration with the Student Affairs Office and the Armenian Diaspora Research Center in Haigazian University.

The Armenian Ambassador to Lebanon, His Excellency Mr. Ashot Kocharian, the Director of the Student Affairs Office, Rev. Fr. Boutros Eid, his Deputy, Mr. Khalil Abboud, the Director of the Armenian Diaspora Research Center, Dr. Antranik Dakessian, and students were in attendance.

Following the Lebanese and the Armenian National Anthems, Mr. Khalil Abboud welcomed the crowd and indicated that this day is not enough to describe the long and great history of the Republic of Armenia, however, it is an opportunity to shed light on its rich culture and traditions.

Then, the Armenian Ambassador to Lebanon, His Excellency Mr. Ashot Kocharian, said: “Armenians have very rich history and culture. Armenia was the first country in the world to adopt Christianity as a state religion seventeen centuries ago, the Armenian alphabet was invented 16 centuries ago, and the art of theatre in Armenia has a history of twenty centuries.” He added: “Armenia was situated at the crossroads of civilization and was many times invaded, devastated and deprived of independence… Our entire history has been a struggle for preservation of our existence, language, religion and distinctive character… Armenian is not rich with natural resources. Our human capital is well-known for entrepreneurial spirit, diligence and people’s high level of education. We are proud of our ancestors. We are proud of our Diaspora. We are proud of the Armenian vibrant community in Lebanon which is the solid foundation and source for strengthening and deepening of existence friendly relations between Armenia and Lebanon.”

Finally, a documentary on the Armenian people was shown and this was followed by the intervention of the Director of the Armenian Diaspora Research Center, Dr. Antranik Dakessian who presented a historical overview on the Armenian people in Lebanon and how they integrated in the Lebanese society.