From May 20 to May 24, 2009 AGBU Europe Board meeting was held in Sofia, Bulgaria. On the occasion of this global gathering, AGBU Sofia and Plovdiv chapters organized the meetings and events in Sofia and Plovdiv in order to better familiarize the participants with the activities and accomplishments of AGBU Bulgaria.
On May 21, Armenian Ambassador in Bulgaria, Sergey Manassaryan hosted a special reception at the Armenian Embassy in Sofia to welcome all AGBU Europe Board members. He encouraged the AGBU for its mission to Armenian Nation, which aspire to preserve and promote the Armenian identity and heritage in Diaspora.
After explaining the AGBU dedication to Armenia on politics, economy, and education as well as social and humanitarian issues, Alexis Govciyan, AGBU Europe Chairman, added “It is an honor and a privilege for us to be here today in Armenian territory which reminds us our commitment and duties to Armenian people and the respect with which we must act”.
His Excellency, Mr. Manassaryan and Alexis Govciyan as well as AGBU Sofia representatives and leaders of the AGBU Europe have laid a wreath at the memorial Khachkar in Sofia erected in the “Yerevan Park “.
The following day, the European Board convened at the Sheraton Hotel discussing different topics regarding continuation of establishing a strong presence in the various European institutions, whereby AGBU will advocate Armenian-related issues as well as encourage the European chapters to be more involved with AGBU agenda, especially in AGBU Youth programs in Armenia.
Specific points of discussion proposed by AGBU Sofia chapter followed the meeting: Saturday school, kindergarten and Community Center’s creation as well as fundraising campaign for Armenian Church construction and Youth activities.
In the same evening, board members had the opportunity to enjoy the AGBU Sofia Chamber Orchestra concert attended by political and cultural dignitaries of the capital Sofia.
On May 23, the guests traveled to Plovdiv in order to get acquainted with the activities of AGBU Plovdiv chapter and to exchange views and ideas about the future of the organization. In addition to members of the European Board, guests attending the AGBU Plovdiv meeting and cultural events included AGBU Sofia Chairwoman Mrs. Sonia Bedrossian, and representatives of AGBU Plovdiv associated branches-Haskovo, Yambol, Dobrich, Sliven, Silistra as well as YP Plovdiv and Bourgas groups.
Children of AGBU Plovdiv Saturday school recited Armenian poems and performed “ Nazar the Brave”, Hovhannes Toumanyan, Armenian famous writer work. The public was very excited by children’s performance in Armenian language.
The meeting continued on specific topics proposed by AGBU Plovdiv and its associated branches: Saturday school methodical materials modernization, youth seminars and cultural exchange programs.
A gala dinner was organized by Sofia chapter in the presence of numerous political leaders, some of them involved in the 2009 June European elections. At this very memorable evening, full of joy and good spirits members of the AGBU Europe have personally made generous donations to support the wonderful work done by AGBU Sofia Chapter and for the AGBU causes.
Click here to see the interview with Mr. Alexis Govcian for “Erevan” newspaper.