A diplomatic dinner was held in Yerevan Tuesday to mark the 77th anniversary of Israel’s independence and to deepen Armenia-Israel relations. The dinner was held with the joint efforts of Israeli ambassador to Armenia Joel Lion and Honorary Consul Achot Chakhmouradian.

In his remarks at the event, the Israeli ambassador touched upon Armenian-Israeli relations, emphasizing that there is a real opportunity for cooperation between the two countries.

Seventy-seven years ago, despite all the trials, the Jewish people rose from the ashes of exile and extermination to regain their sovereignty in their homeland. In these difficult times, they also find strength in the friendly ties they have around the world, and Armenia is among those friends. Although Israel-Armenia bilateral relations are still in the development phase and not without complications, there is a real opportunity for cooperation said Joel Lion. He noted that they do not always agree, but they can always talk to each other and talking is important.

The Israeli and Armenian peoples, being ancient nations and historically subjected to persecution, know what it means to survive despite all trials, and what it means to fight for identity, dignity, and freedom. This is what forms the basis for mutual respect, added the Israeli diplomat.

The diplomatic dinner organized by the Israeli embassy in Armenia was attended by the Minister of Labor and Social Affairs of Armenia Narek Mkrtchyan, Armen Khachatryan from the majority faction in the Armenian parliament, the ambassadors of Russia, the US, and France to Armenia, and the head of the European Union Delegation to Armenia.

Also, a capsule exhibition on the war that began on October 7, 2023—and consisting of 43 photos—was presented at the event.