The Presidential Palace of the Republic of Armenia hosted a reception for about 200 Syrian-Armenian children on the occasion of Christmas and the New Year on Dec. 24. The children were in a festive mood as they saw characters from fairy tales, as well as Santa Claus and Snow Maiden. During the event, RA First Lady Rita Sargsyan greeted the children and expressed her good wishes. “Dear children, I would like to wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year and good health. May there be no wars and may everyone live in a peaceful country this coming year,” said the First Lady, reports “ArmenPress”.

President of the Center for Coordination of Syrian-Armenians’ Issues NGO Lena Haladjian donated gifts made by Syrian-Armenians to Rita Sargsyan as a token of appreciation. “Organizing a beautiful reception for children has already turned into a tradition for the President’s administration. The Syrian-Armenian children are in a good mood, and this visit is a big event for the children and their parents since they are in the homeland and at the Presidential Palace for the first time ever,” said Chief of Staff of the RA Ministry of Diaspora Firdus Zakaryan.

Karen Arbadurian, 15, studies at Alexander Shirvanzade Primary School N 21 in Yerevan. Like most of his peers, he was also happy to be hosted at the Presidential Palace. “The first thing I want from Santa Claus is peace in Syria,” said Karen.

Armin Musali, 12, attends Aregnazan Educational Complex. Armin said she misses her home in Syria and her friends the most. “We have been living in Armenia for a year and a half and have already adapted to the environment. We don’t have any problems. I wish for peace in Syria,” said Armin.

Alexan Karadanaian is one of the representatives of the Center for Coordination of Syrian-Armenians’ Issues and also stressed the fact that it was a great honor for the representatives and the children to visit the Presidential Palace.

During the event, the choir from Syria performed New Year’s songs for the children and their parents.

In 2012, the Presidential Palace hosted 6-12-year old children from night schools and orphanages, as well as Syrian-Armenian children and children of other vulnerable social groups. Last year, the Presidential Palace had also hosted 200 Syrian-Armenian children.

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