This year the International Francophone Day has a special significance for Armenia because we are celebrating the 10th anniversary of Armenia's full membership in the International Organization of Francophonie, Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan said.

"The cultural and historical ties uniting Armenia and La Francophonie are strong and inseparable; they stem from the spirit of mutual cooperation prevailing in the Francophone community.

Throughout these years our country has been living up to its commitment to promoting Francophone values in favor of cultural diversity, democracy, promotion of human rights and freedoms with great enthusiasm and is resolute to continue its efforts in this direction.

Armenia was honored to host the 18th Francophone Summit, and we continue to chair the Francophone Summit in 2018 with the same vigor. The smooth running of this presidency, ensuring the effective work of the Organization, as well as the dissemination of Francophone ideas are among the priorities of the Armenian government.

This year, Armenia is actively engaged in organizing cultural and educational events celebrating the richness and diversity of Francophone culture as well as our common values.

To this end, numerous events will be organized in Yerevan and in all regions of Armenia, with the participation of the Francophone institutions operating in the country, as well as local self-government bodies and communities, which through their dedication and creative energy have been ensuring the success of Francophonie for two months. I am sure that these initiatives will strengthen the bonds of solidarity and friendship that unite the francophone world, strengthening our commitment to francophone culture.

In conclusion, I wish you successful events organized in Armenia on the occasion of the International Day of Francophonie," the message of the Armenian Minister of Foreign Affairs reads.