RA President Serzh Sargsyan signed a decree on awarding renowned artist Hovhannes Semerjyan (Jean Jansem) with Order of Glory for his contribution to expansion of Armenia-France cultural ties on his 90th anniversary.

Under another decree, popular Italian screenwriter Tonino Guerra was awarded with Order of Glory for his contribution to the development of Armenian-Italian cultural relations.

March 9, RA President Serzh Sargsyan visited the Matignon gallery and familiarized himself with works by renowned French artist of Armenian origin Jean Jansem, who was accompanying the Armenian leader.

Jean Jansem said he always comes to Armenia with sinking heart and is proud of being Armenian. He also noted that is very concerned that his sons and grandsons do not speak Armenian.

In response, RA President said that Armenian is the one who is Armenian in spirit. And for spreading Armenian abroad, the Ministry of Diaspora was established.

As NEWS.am reported previously, the Armenian delegation led by RA President Serzh Sargsyan arrived for a 3-day official visit to France. The delegation includes RA Foreign Minister Edward Nalbandian, Minister of Diaspora Hranush Hakobyan, and Chairman of the Armenia-France parliamentary friendship group Ara Babloyan.
On March 10, at Elysée, the Armenian leader is to hold a meeting with his French counterpart Nicolas Sarkozy. The sides will discuss Armenian-French cooperation, international and regional problems.

A.G.