YEREVAN. – The 66th anniversary of Israel’s independence was marked in Yerevan on Thursday.

The ceremony was attended by heads of diplomatic missions, Cabinet members, members of parliament, representatives of international organizations and representatives of the Jewish community in Armenia.

In his opening speech, Israel’s Ambassador to Armenia Shmuel Meirom noted that despite wars and suffering, the state of Israel managed to create a model of democracy, and pointed out his country's leading positions in medicine, biotechnology and high-tech. 

Speaking about Armenia-Israel relationship, Ambassador said Israel continued to strengthen and develop relations with Armenia during the past year.

“These days we are holding political consultations and we plan to sign an official visa exemption agreement soon,” he said.

Besides, the countries are developing relations in economic and cultural areas. In particular, Israeli films will be represented at Golden Apricot international film festival in Yerevan.

For his part, head of Armenian parliament's standing committee on foreign affairs Artak Zakaryan spoke about friendly relations between the states. He added that Armenia is hopeful that Israeli parliament will express its attitude towards the Armenian Genocide, the first genocide of the twentieth century.