Since June, young Diaspora Armenians have been visiting Armenia through the 2017 “Ari Tun” Program of the Ministry of Diaspora of the Republic of Armenia for homeland recognition. Most of them visit the Homeland for the first time. Some were born in Armenia, live abroad and remember almost nothing about their birthplace since they left Armenia when they were very little. Now they will leave Armenia with many memories and interesting impressions, and they shared those memories and impressions during the interviews for Hayern Aysor.

Eric Vardanyan, 15, Russian Federation

“I was eight-and-a-half years old when my family and I moved to Russia. Armenian is our household language. When I am outside, I only speak Russian because I attend a Russian school and most of my friends are Russian. Unfortunately, not all of them know about Armenia and the Armenians. They think Armenians are Muslim. I am able to tell them as much as I can about Armenia and the Armenians and present our history. I also tell them about the Armenian Apostolic Church.

I heard about this program and really wanted to participate, and my wish came true. The tours are very interesting and help introduce us to the historic and cultural monuments in Armenia. Today we are going to go to Lake Sevan. I am certain that this visit is going to be the most impressive visit. We will also cool off at the coast. This will be my first visit to Lake Sevan. I have only heard about the beautiful lake and seen photos of it. I am very thankful to the organizers of this program for providing me and the others with the opportunity to become familiar with the Homeland, meet our peers from different countries, enjoy the summer, the exceptional water, the sun-tasting fruits in Armenia, particularly in Yerevan, as well as Armenian national dishes and the generosity of our compatriots. I would like to thank my host family, as well as our teachers and supervisors. I am also content with the food served during the field trips. I especially like the unique Armenian kebab. Tomorrow we will be leaving for the camp in Aghavnadzor. I have received a lot of positive feedback about the camp. It is a pity that each participant can participate only once. I will share my impressions with my friends. Many of them are interested in this program.”

Interview by Karine Avagyan