Shirak Governor, French Ambassador discuss expanding cooperation

Shirak Governor Davit Arushanyan received France’s newly appointed Ambassador to Armenia Florian Escudié in Gyumri.

The Shirak Governor’s Office said in a press release that the meeting discussed the development prospects of the province, opportunities to expand Armenian-French cooperation, as well as the economic and investment potential of the province.

The governor presented the ambassador with the specific features of Shirak Province, its economic potential, and Gyumri’s historical and cultural heritage. According to Davit Arushanyan, Gyumri is an important and symbolic choice for the ambassador’s first regional visit. “I think you made the right choice by selecting Gyumri for your first regional visit. With its history, culture, architecture, humor, and the unique attitude of its people, Gyumri is a city that, once visited, finds a place in one’s heart,” the governor said.

The ambassador thanked the governor for the warm welcome, emphasizing that he deliberately chose Gyumri for his first regional visit. According to the ambassador, the city stands out for its identity, history, and unique spirit, while there is ample evidence of Armenian-French friendship in Gyumri.

The sides also touched upon the dry port project, which is of strategic importance for Shirak Province. The governor noted that the province has important infrastructure for logistics development: Shirak International Airport, as well as railway and road transport systems. The meeting also discussed opportunities to deepen regional cooperation between Armenia and France in the economic, cultural, educational, and investment spheres.