Artsakh Republic President Arayik Harutyunyan participated in the opening ceremony of the Russian center in Stepanakert today, which was established on the initiative of the authorities of the Republic of Artsakh and with the sponsorship of "Prosperous Armenia" party Chairman, benefactor Gagik Tsarukyan, as it was reported in the press service of the Artsakh President.

Activity of the center will be aimed at popularizing Russian language, Russian culture and history, development of dialogue and close cooperation in the field of education. Thanks to the rich book fund the younger generation will also have the opportunity to study works of Russian writers.

President Harutyunyan stressed the importance of such institutions for the further development of the Armenian-Russian cultural and educational ties.

"The opening of the Russian centers is another obvious proof of the centuries-long friendship between the Armenian and Russian peoples and a vivid example of our close cooperation. In Artsakh special attention has always been paid to the study of the Russian language, and the opening of the center is more than necessary in the current circumstances," said Arayik Harutyunyan.

The importance of the initiative was also stressed by Iveta Tonoyan, member of Prosperous Armenia political council and public figures who spoke at the ceremony and expressed confidence that the center will become an important cultural and educational center for all people of Artsakh.