YEREVAN. – The 11th Conference of La Francophonie NGOs has kicked off Wednesday in Yerevan, the capital city of Armenia. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, and secretary-general Michaëlle Jean of the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF) also were on hand at opening of this the event.

In his welcoming remarks, PM Pashinyan noted that Jean’s presence today in Yerevan is as symbolic as it is important, since Armenia will host the 17th summit of the OIF in one month’s time. He added that the recent events in Armenia have characterized the power of civil movement.

“Our country is taking on an important job and adopting an important destination by receiving the La Francophonie summit,” the PM noted, in particular. “I hope this summit will contribute to the development of La Francophonie in the whole world, and Armenia will become one of the centers for active diplomatic activity of La Francophonie.

“Also, the participants will be able to discover Armenia and its cultural treasures, which make up part of the La Francophonie expanse.”

Michaëlle Jean, for her part, said the Armenian people were preparing for the 17th La Francophonie summit with their typical hospitality.

“It is the greatest honor for us to hold a summit in a country where a velvet revolution, a peaceful change of power has taken place,” she added, in particular.

About 200 NGO representatives from Francophone countries are attending the 11th Conference of La Francophonie NGOs.