On May 26, the Armenian Foreign Minister Edward Nalbandian visited
“Pushkin” Secondary School No. 8 where he delivered a graduation lesson
for the 9th grade students.

Wishing milky way to the graduating pupils of his school of this year,
Edward Nalbandian said:

"Dear graduating pupils,
Over four decades later, I returned to our native school with the warmest
memories and emotions towards our teachers and classmates. Thirty eight
years ago I had to bid farewell to the school myself and I remember that
everyone was giving advice and recommendations on what and how to do in
order to enter the so-called big life. I am sure that today you also do
not feel the lack of advice and recommendations. Not advice and
recommendations, but just a few wishes I would like to address you.

First, I wish that you will hold our school’s reputation and prestige
high. From now on it depends on you. I wish you that years later, when you
return here, the school will be proud for having such pupils.

You spent together nine years in this school. It is a long time in
anyone's life, and in your case, it is more than half of your lived life.
My second wish is that you were able to save the school friendship –
cherish it carefully, because the school friendship has a special sweetness.
I belong to a generation that was born in one country and live in another:
Born in the Soviet Union, Soviet Armenia, and now live in the independent
Armenia. And you were born and live in an independent Armenia.

Love your place of birth, as your parents. Wherever you are in your life, in
which corner of the world, the motherland will draw you up, I know it from
my experience. Always remember the famous words: Ask not what your country
can do for you - ask what you can do for your country.

Each of you will pass his/her pathway, will have his/her own unique and
inimitable way. Stay true to your principles and ideals that were sown by
your parents, your teachers and this wonderful school, where you bid
farewell today.

I wish you milky way and that you could realize your dreams of today."
Then, on the pupils’ request, Edward Nalbandian told his memories of
school years, thanked the native high-school teachers for the excellent
education and knowledge.

The event was concluded with a musical performances of graduating pupils.