YEREVAN. – The election of Georges Kepenekian, Armenian by origin, as a mayor of Lyon is a historic event for French Armenians, member of regional Rhône-Alpes assembly, representative of the Armenian community in France, Hilda Tchoboian told Armenian News-NEWS.am on Tuesday.

“The election of Georges Kepenekian, Armenian by origin, as mayor of Lyon is a great honor and joy for French Armenians. He is very much appreciated as a person, everybody respects him in Lyon. He is a broad-minded, humane and patriotic person,” Tchoboian stressed.

She also mentioned that Kepenekian has been involved in the work of the French office of Armenian Cause since he was young.

“We have worked together for about 40 years. In addition, he plays a big role in promoting recognition of the Armenian Genocide. His parents survived the Genocide, that is why he does so much in this direction,” Hilda Tchoboian said adding that in Lyon Kepenekian is first of all famous as a good doctor.

“Besides, he is an honorable citizen of Karabakh as he visited Karabakh many times and helped people there. He also provided assistance for training of local doctors,” she noted.