The Diplomatic School of Armenia on the 5th anniversary of its establishment organized a two-day "Digital Diplomacy: Prospects and Challenges" International Conference, that was opened on May 11, at Best Western Congress Hotel, Yerevan.

Representatives of diplomatic educational institutions, universities, Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Ambassadors and diplomats accredited to Armenia and other counties – more than 70 participants from around 25 states were in attendance.

Director of the Diplomatic School, Ambassador Vahe Gabrielyan delivered opening remarks, mentioning that the purpose of the Diplomatic School in organizating of this event is to contribute to discussions on e-diplomacy in circles of scholars and serving diplomats. Ambassador Gabrielyan commended that 5 years after the establishment of the Diplomatic School, its alumni make considerable part of Diplomatic corps of Armenia and have a good reputation.

Ambassador Traian Hristea, Head of EU Delegation to Armenia, delivered a welcoming speech.

Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia Edward Nalbandian delivered the official opening remarks at the conference. Stressing the importance of the conference and reflecting on Armenia's progress in e-diplomacy, the Minister emphasized that had the bodies of the diplomatic service used technological advance to the maximum, they would successfully pursue national interests of their states. He mentioned with satisfaction that the Diplomatic School successfully teaches future diplomats and continuously update the professional knowledge and vital skills of serving diplomats, and that it is one of the priorities for the professional training of diplomatic personnel.

Four Panels feature the conference
1. Information and Communication Management for Diplomats: Opportunities and Risks
2. Diplomacy and Virtual Realities: Tools and Practices
3. Country Experiences: Accommodating Change and Assessing Impact
4. Diplomatic Schools & E-Diplomacy: Best Training Practices

The conference is organized by the support of the European Union.

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