UN OFFICE IN ARMENIA SUPPORTS DISCUSSION AMONG AUTHORITIES AND NATIONAL MINORITIES
Noyan Tapan
Feb 25, 2010
YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 25, NOYAN TAPAN. On the occasion of International
Mother Language Day on February 25 was held an event with the support
of the UN Department of Public Information where partook 11 national
minorities, government and legislature representatives. According
to the report of UN Office in Armenia they gathered at a round table
discussion to talk about issues of equal rights, equal opportunities
for national minorities in Armenia.
UN Department of Public Information Representative Maria Dotsenko
stated: "Languages are the most powerful instruments of preserving and
developing our heritage. Promotion and protection of mother tongues
serves not only to encourage linguistic diversity and multilingual
education but also to develope fuller awareness of linguistic and
cultural traditions and to inspire solidarity based on understanding,
tolerance and dialogue."
"The situation in Armenia is unique in the sense of celebrating
this UN Observance. Since 2006 International Mother Language Day
has been announced as a National Holiday. Moreover, 2010 has been
announced a Year of Mother Language. However, we are going to continue
supporting the development and promotion of national minorities and
their languages in Armenia", said Vardan Astsatryan, head of the
Government Department of National Minorities and Religious Affairs.