MEETING AT THE NA STANDING COMMITTEE ON SCIENCE, EDUCATION, CULTURE AND YOUTH AFFAIRS

National Assembly, Rep. of Armenia
May 25 2006

On May 24 Hranush Hakobyan, Chairwoman of the NA Standing Committee
on Science, Education, Culture and Youth Affairs met with Dominique
Souchet, President of Sport Union of Vandea, France and Francois Bon,
Vice-President of the Committee on Culture, Economy and Tourism.

It was mentioned that the purpose of the mission is to discuss events
program within the framework of the Armenian year in Vandea, France.

Possibilities of cooperation between two countries in the sphere of
economy, tourism were specified. Mr. Dominique Souchet informed that
for the first time Armenian art pieces will be exhibited in Vandea, and
the purpose of the regional union is to carry the art to rural areas.

According to Hranush Hakobyan, there are many common interests of
cooperation in the spheres of culture, education and science. Mrs.

Hakobyan highlighted the export of agricultural goods to France,
the continuity of cultural programs. Greeting the existence of sister
cities it was mentioned that there are still things to be done in the
sphere of culture and economy. It was mentioned that several Armenian
teachers had trainings in France last year, and students will go to
France to study this year. While talking about legislation, Mrs.

Hakobyan noted that the French experience has been studied and used
for many times. Referring to new European Union programme, Mrs.

Hakobyan noted that the Armenian development programs are oriented
towards Europe. Mrs. Hakobyan highly evaluated the French political
attitude towards Armenian Genocide issue. The French guests highlighted
implementing reforms in the country and inquired about some provisions
of Constitution.

Other issues of mutual interests were also discussed during the
meeting.