COP17 participants got acquainted with the heritage of Armenia`s Kotayk and Gegharkunik regions - MօESC

ArmInfo.  As part of the 17th Conference of the Parties to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (COP17), field trips to the historical and cultural monuments of the Kotayk and Gegharkunik regions were organized for participants of the "Culture and Nature" conference.

As reported to ArmInfo by the press service of the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sport (MECS) of Armenia, the purpose of the visits was to introduce the participants to the cultural heritage of Armenia and demonstrate its connection with the preservation of biodiversity, nature, and the environment. "Participants of the "Culture and Nature" conference visited the Geghard monastery complex, the Garni temple, and the "Symphony of Stones" natural monument.  On the territory adjacent to the Garni temple, the "Masunk" traditional song and dance ensemble The department presented folk songs and dances reflecting the Armenian people's cultural connection with nature. They performed dances such as "The Frankincense Tree," "I Sow Wheat," and "Decorating the Tree," as well as traditional dances associated with animal worship and imitation, such as "Krnkaven," "Gaz-Gazi," "Zakenni," and others. In addition, an exhibition and sale was organized with the participation of the Hovhannes Sharambeyan Folk Art Museum, the Teryan Cultural Center, and local producers and artisans, the department reported. Next, the participants visited the Norashen Nature Reserve of Sevan National Park, where they learned about the biological significance of Lake Sevan and the region's rich biodiversity. Then, at the Sevan Botanical Garden, guests were introduced to plant species native to the region and adapted to local conditions, including species listed in the Red Book. In the pavilion area of the city of Sevan, according to the source, conference participants were introduced to the works and products of local creative artists. The public organization "Development and Preservation of Armenian Culinary Traditions" presented Armenian culinary heritage with a demonstration of the preparation of traditional dishes. At the Sevan Cultural Center, the program continued with a screening of the documentary "People of the Lake: Sevan Fishermen." The film, produced by the Sevan Youth Club NGO with the support of the Armenian Ministry of Education, Science and Culture, presents the fishing culture of Sevan, the memories of fishermen, and their connection to the lake. The film screening concluded with a meeting and discussion with the film's characters, followed by a concert by the GAMMA band," the Ministry noted.

As a reminder, Armenia is hosting the 17th Conference of the Parties to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (COP17). It will conclude on October 30.