The RA Ministry of Diaspora has launched the 2017 “Ari Tun” Program. Through this Program, 160 young Diaspora Armenians have traveled from 7 countries to Armenia and are visiting the historic and cultural sites in Armenia. During the visit to the temple in Garni and Geghard Monastery, Hayern Aysor’s correspondent interviewed some of the participants.

Mary Boksoolian, 13, Syria

This is my first visit through the “Ari Tun” Program. I am very impressed. What especially impressed me was the splendid architecture of the temple in Garni and the cordial reception of the locals. I plan on settling in Armenia in the future.

Grigori Karapetyan, 17, Kazakhstan

This is my first time in Armenia, but I am already captivated by the beauty of the nature, the hospitality of the locals, as well as the air and water in Armenia. However, perhaps the one thing that has impressed me the most is the nature and the so unreal beauty that seems to be like a painting on a canvas.

Diana Gasparyan, 14, Novorosiysk, Russian Federation

This is my third visit to Armenia. Last year, I returned to Novorosiysk with great impressions and wanted to come back. I love Armenia, its history and the warmth of the people. Being in this environment is like a big celebration, and I don’t want it to end.

Shant Barseghyan, 10, Atrau, Kazakhstan

I love Armenia. This is the first time I am participating in the “Ari Tun” Program. What impressed me the most was meeting a girl who is also participating in the Program. I am impressed with the nature, the people and the splendid architecture. Armenia is my home. I would really like to return and live in my Homeland.

Zarina Sisemaliyeva, Atrau, Kazakhstan

In Atrau, I attend an Armenian Sunday school where I learn Armenian songs and dances and read Armenian books. I am especially impressed with the history and architectural masterpieces of Armenia. I had always wanted to see all this with my own two eyes and become more familiar with the centuries-old history of Armenia and its cultural monuments. I like the people, the traditional Armenian dishes, the cold and tasty water in Armenia…Everything is so pleasant and close to my heart. This is my home and where my roots trace back to.

Interviews by 2^nd year student of the Faculty of Linguistics of the

Yerevan branch of Moscow State University Edviga Tevosyan