Lebanese President Michel Aoun, speaking to Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan at the 17th annual Francophonie Summit, said, “I am proud to participate in this Francophonie Summit, especially taking into consideration the connections that tie our two countries together.”
He said that language is what ties people to their mothers first, and then throughout life, they learn more languages. He spoke of language being a bridge between nations. “People fear what they do not know. This is why it is necessary to create and spread organizations that will promote tolerant ideals and peaceful government. Lebanon is a unique example of a society where there are both Christians and Muslims that has created tolerant organizations and spread them across the world.”
He welcomed the idea of creating a regional Francophone center. “I announce my readiness to help in preliminary works.”
At the end of his speech, the Lebanese president remembered Charles Aznavour’s words and his answer to the question of whether he’s French. “Charles Aznavour said that he’s 100 percent French and 100 percent Armenian. I want to announce to everyone that the people of Lebanon and myself personally are deeply grieving the loss of Charles Aznavour.”
Hripsime Jebejyan
