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On September 29, the European Union officially launched the active implementation phase of the EU4Culture II programme in Yerevan, Armenia. The event, held at the Komitas Museum-Institute, brought together cultural and creative organizations, experts, and institutional partners under the theme ‘Creative Ecosystems in Armenia: Unlocking Local Potential for Sustainable Development’.
Opening Remarks Highlight Culture’s Role
The event was inaugurated with speeches from Ambassador Vassilis Maragos, Head of the EU Delegation to Armenia; Zhanna Andreasyan, Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sports of Armenia; and Anatoly Baifert, Head of the EU4Culture II Programme at the Goethe-Institut in Georgia.
Ambassador Maragos emphasized the crucial role of culture in shaping identity, contributing to social and economic life, and strengthening the Armenia-EU partnership. The central theme of the dialogue was the tangible operational impact of EU funding in Armenian regions. Discussions focused on key initiatives designed to build long-term, self-sufficient cultural centers.
EU4Culture II: Fostering Sustainable Creative Ecosystems
EU4Culture II – ‘Sustainable Creative Ecosystems’ is a flagship initiative implemented within the framework of the European Commission’s #CultureCompassEurope. Funded by the European Union and implemented by the Goethe-Institut, this initiative aims to empower cultural actors, strengthen regional economic resilience, and contribute to the formation of stronger, more interconnected, and sustainable cultural and creative sectors in Armenia.
Key Objectives of the Programme:
- Empowering cultural actors and creative professionals.
- Strengthening regional economic resilience through cultural initiatives.
- Fostering stronger and more interconnected cultural sectors.
- Promoting sustainable development within Armenia’s creative industries.
The programme seeks to leverage the rich cultural heritage of Armenia to drive economic growth and social cohesion, ensuring that cultural development is integrated into broader national development strategies.
Impact on Armenian Regions
A significant focus of the EU4Culture II programme is its operational impact on the regions of Armenia. By supporting local cultural initiatives and creative industries outside the capital, the programme aims to decentralize cultural development and ensure that benefits reach a wider population.
The discussions during the launch event underscored the importance of creating self-sustaining cultural hubs that can thrive independently in the long term, fostering local talent and providing new opportunities for communities.
Broader Context of EU-Armenia Partnership
The launch of EU4Culture II further solidifies the European Union’s commitment to deepening its partnership with Armenia, particularly in the cultural sphere. This initiative is part of a broader effort to support Armenia’s development and integration into European networks, promoting shared values and mutual understanding.
The programme is expected to generate significant positive outcomes, including increased cultural exchange, enhanced professional capacities within the creative sector, and greater public engagement with cultural activities across Armenia.
Source: https://euneighbourseast.eu/hy/news/latest-news/hayastanum-pashtonapes-meknarkec-eu4culture-ii-cragri-aktiv-irakanacman-puly%D5%9D-npatak-unenalov-xoracnel-em-hayastan-mshakutayin-kapery/
