YEREVAN. – Argentina’s national holiday, the 203rd anniversary of the May Revolution was marked in Armenia on May 25.

The celebration was attended by high-ranking officials, members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of local and international organizations, cultural figures and media representatives.

Argentina’s Ambassador to Armenia Diego Alvarez Rivera addressed the participants with the following speech:

“Good evening,

I would like to thank you all for coming to celebrate with us the 203 anniversary of the Revolución de Mayo, which led to the first Argentine National Government and gave way to the Independence of Argentina in 1816.

This year we also celebrate 21 years since the inauguration of Diplomatic relations with the Republic of Armenia. Since then the ties between our countries have increased steadily in various ways and multiple areas. To name a few examples, in the year that has lapsed since my arrival we have received the visit of our Minister of Foreign Affairs and very recently of our Vice President.

During this period we have witnessed an increase in trade and in investment flows which allow us to be very optimistic of the future that lies ahead. Expressions of argentine culture and fine arts have been showcased, and it was wonderful to see such an interested audience gathered in the Tango Festival that took place in April in Yerevan. Also, a few weeks ago we celebrated the Malbec World Day with a large number of enthusiasts appreciating the quality of Argentine wines. Although so many things have already been achieved, still we have room to work and many avenues of cooperation to explore.

But the historical ties between our peoples go further back in history. As you well know, the Armenian community in Argentina has done, since the first part of the 20th century, great contributions to our country, with their work, their efforts and their ingenuity, excelling in businesses, arts, politics and so many other fields of life.

Finally, I would like you all to share this toast with me – which we will do with this excellent argentine wine – for our country and for the furthering of Argentinean-Armenian bilateral relations.

Thank you very much.”