ESCS Minister Zhanna Andreasyan received Rui Gomes, Executive Secretary of the Enlarged Partial Agreement (EPA) on “Cultural Routes”. ESCS Deputy Minister Alfred Kocharyan and Director of the “Cultural Development Foundation” Karen Avetisyan also participated in the meeting.

Welcoming the guest, Zhanna Andreasyan emphasized that the visit is important in terms of strengthening cultural cooperation between the Republic of Armenia and the Council of Europe and for expanding Armenia’s active participation in the “Cultural Routes” program. According to the Minister, cultural initiatives are important for exchanging experience, building new partnerships, and preserving and promoting cultural heritage.

During the meeting, the parties discussed preparations for the 15th Advisory Forum and the informal meeting of the Governing Board of the Council of Europe’s Enlarged Partial Agreement on Cultural Routes, to be held in Armenia in September 2026.

The forum’s substantive agenda was also referred to, with particular emphasis on the cultural education component and the active engagement of youth in the forum’s activities.

Within this context, the possibility of organizing thematic events, seminars, and workshops at cultural institutions and museums was discussed.

Armenia has been a full member of the Council of Europe's extended “Cultural Routes” agreement since 2015. Armenia is a member of the following cultural routes: “Wine Routes”, “Impressionisms Routes”, “Prehistoric Rock Art Trails”, “European Cemeteries”, “European Fairy Tale Route” and “European Route of Jewish Heritage.”

The Council of Europe has been implementing the “Cultural Routes” program since 1987. The program aims to create a platform for cultural dialogue, contributing to the preservation and advancement of nature and cultural heritage.

The Council of Europe's “Cultural Routes” advisory forums are held annually.