“Peace Builds a Culture of Dialogue”: A Meeting of National Cultures at the “Endanik” Center

As part of the “For Cultural Dialogue” program, the “Peace Builds a Culture of Dialogue” festival was held at the “Endanik” Children and Youth Creative Center, bringing together representatives of national minorities living in Shirak Province—the Greek and Russian communities, the Yezidi community of Aknalich in Armavir Province, and the Assyrian community of Verin Dvin in Ararat Province—as well as educators and students from educational and cultural institutions in Ninotsminda and Akhalkalaki, Javakheti.

The festival became a unique platform for encounters between different cultures and creative collaboration, offering participants an opportunity to present their national identities and cultural heritage.

Handcrafted works reflecting the distinctive features of various national cultures were displayed in separate exhibition areas of the hall, revealing the richness of cultural diversity and the shared values that unite different peoples.

The artistic program of the event was filled with joint performances. Through songs, dances, and other forms of artistic expression, participants presented one another’s cultures, creating a warm, sincere, and collaborative atmosphere. These joint creative performances not only highlighted the cultural uniqueness of each nation but also demonstrated that differences can become a foundation for mutual enrichment and unity.

During the festival, representatives and heads of the participating organizations delivered welcoming and appreciation speeches, emphasizing the importance of the initiative in promoting intercultural dialogue, preserving the cultural heritage of national minorities, and strengthening educational and cultural cooperation. They expressed their satisfaction with the event, the active involvement of the participants, and the warm, friendly connections established among the cultures.

At the conclusion of the event, Artur Minasyan, Director of the “Endanik” Center, presented certificates of appreciation and Holy Bibles to the participants and representatives who had supported the cooperation and contributed to the implementation of the program, recognizing their participation, dedication, and efforts to promote cultural dialogue.

The “Peace Builds a Culture of Dialogue” festival once again highlighted that culture is a powerful bridge connecting peoples. Learning about one another’s traditions, respecting national identities, and creating together contribute to deeper mutual understanding, stronger solidarity, and the development of a culture of peaceful coexistence.