Grand opening of “Baze-2015” Pan-Armenian Youth Assembly took place in Armenia’s Tsaghkadzor spa town today. The event was attended by Armenia’s PM Hovik Abrahamyan, Armenia’s Education minister, Mayor of Yerevan and other high–ranking guests. 

The annual Assembly was organized by the Armenian Youth Foundation (AYF). Nearly 500 young people participate in the youth assembly every year.

In his welcome speech, Armenia’s PM Hovik Abrahamyan said “Baze” contributes to the dissemination of national values and ideas, preservation of Armenian identity and strengthening of Armenia-Artsakh-Diaspora link. The PM stressed that over the years “Baze” has managed to unite thousands of young people from homeland and Diaspora, turning into a unique youth movement.

Coordinator of the AYF Board of Trustees Karen Avagyan said in his opening speech that the 13 years of Baze’s history have come to prove that it is an expected event for the youth. “Team work lacks a lot in our every day life, and this is one of the unique programs, which contributes to the team spirit among young people,” he said.

Following the opening ceremony, Abrahamyan talked to the youth. He touched on his recent visits to Armenia’s provinces, road construction, community infrastructure development and agriculture. Abrahamyan also responded to the Assembly participants’ questions on Armenia’s Nairit rubber plant, electricity price hike, etc. 

In fact, this is the first year the students of the American University of Armenia (AUA), Khanperyants Military Aviation Institute and Crisis Management State Academy (CMSA) have been taking part in the Assembly. During 7 days of the Assembly, the participants will take part in intellectual, cultural and sports competitions.

“Baze” Assembly aims to unite the Armenian youth around national symbols, and give them opportunity for self-expression and competition.

More than 8500 young people have participated in “Baze” over 13 years.