The year 2018 is of special importance for the Republic of Armenia. An extremely important international event will take place in Yerevan on October 11-12. We are going to host the 17th Summit of the International Organization of La Francophonie that brings together 84 member, associate and observer countries.

Armenia is honoured by the confidence shown to it by the heads of French-speaking states and governments, which entrusted it with the opportunity to organize the summit. We have now mobilized our efforts to make this summit a great success for the entire francophone family.

We have chosen the "Living Together" as the theme of the summit. We believe that Living together, respecting the humanist values which we share, can contribute to the strengthening of peace, cohesion of societies and prosperity in the whole francophone area. The “Living Together” promotes cooperation, education and cultural dialogue, and is certainly the appropriate response to combating intolerance and all forms of discrimination.

The Village of La Francophonie, which will be organized within the framework of the Summit under the sign of cultural diversity, will be open to public and to all those interested in the culture of French-speaking countries. The atmosphere of the Village will be enlivened by young people and artists.

As is the case every year, this spring as well, on March 20 we celebrate the International Francophonie Day. We will pursue our efforts to promote La Francophonie throughout the whole territory of our country, by organizing numerous events during months of March and April.

In this regard I would like to sincerely thank all the participants of La Francophonie Season in our country for their efforts and dedication.

I wish for this Season to be a success, encouraging us on the way towards the 17th Summit of La Francophonie.