Meghri handed over the title of CIS cultural capital to the Belarusian city of Molodechno

ArmInfo. Meghri has handed over the title of CIS Cultural Capital to the Belarusian city of Molodechno. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture, and Sports, citing an event that summarized the results of the interstate program "Cultural Capitals of the CIS Countries." As part of this program, the city hosted nearly three dozen different events from April to November, including tree plantings, the "Taraz Fest," a CIS film festival, a traveling Yerevan Book Festival, folk crafts and dance festivals, a postage stamp cancellation, and other events. A variety of cultural events covered not only Meghri but also other settlements in the community – Agarak and Shvanidzor.

Meghri has proven its great potential to inspire, unite, and adequately represent Armenian culture on international platforms. This program has become more than just a series of events for us. Although today we officially close the Meghri Capital of Culture program, I am confident that it has left a mark on everyone's hearts and has truly contributed to the revitalization of the city's cultural life, the unleashing of creative potential, opening up new prospects for further cooperation, and forming new creative and cultural bridges," noted Tigran Virabyan, Deputy Minister of Education, Science, Culture, and Sports of Armenia.

He also handed over the title of CIS Capital of Culture to Alesya Lugovskaia, Deputy Chair of the Molodechno District Executive Committee of Belarus, presenting her with a commemorative panel depicting the sun as a symbol of the cultural relay race.

Anatoly Iksanov, Executive Director of the Interstate Fund for Humanitarian Cooperation of the CIS Member States, noted that Meghri is a city that holds its centuries-old history in high regard. "Its architectural monuments, fragrant gardens, and the boundless hospitality of its residents evoke respect and interest. I am confident that the event participants will take home vivid impressions and a touch of warmth," said Anatoly Iksanov, expressing gratitude to the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture, and Sports of Armenia and the Meghri Municipality for their collaboration.

As part of the program's closing ceremony, a cultural and educational program was also organized for representatives of the CIS member states' delegations. The guests visited Meghri's historical and cultural landmarks, in particular the Church of the Holy Mother of God in the Great Quarter and the Church of St. John the Baptist in the Lesser Quarter. The delegation also strolled through the historic Lesser Quarter, learning about the locals' way of life, traditions, and Meghri's rich cultural heritage.