The newly appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Czech Republic to Armenia, Petr Piruncik, answers the questions of Aravot.am
– Mr. Ambassador, first of all, welcome to Armenia. January 2 marked the 30th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations between Armenia and the Czech Republic. You arrived in Armenia on January 2. Do you see any symbolism there?
– To be completely honest, we do not know the exact date of establishing diplomatic relations between the two countries. The Czech side assumes that diplomatic relations were established on January 5. On that occasion, we studied the diplomatic archive and got a Diplomatic note from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia sent on January 20 saying that in 1993 since January 5, the Republics of the Czech Republic and Slovakia were recognized as independent states, by the decision of the President of the Republic of Armenia, the Armenian side is ready to establish diplomatic relations with them. So we know when it happened.
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The Armenian side offered to mark January 2 symbolically as the day of establishing diplomatic relations because January 2 is the first working day after the New Year. In any case, what is essential is that the two countries established diplomatic ties very early, immediately after independence. And the clear day is just a symbol. It doesn’t matter whether that day is January 2 or 5; the important thing is that Czech-Armenian relations have been developing since that day.
The symbolism of my coming to Armenia on January 2 was related to something else. I wanted to start my new mission and professional page immediately after the New Year. It’s excellent: New Year, new Ambassador, And I came here to continue to develop excellent Czech-Armenian relations.
– You are in active meetings with the officials of different spheres of Armenia. According to you, in which areas, in particular, the relations can be made even closer?
– I did not come to Armenia to relax; although I would like to enjoy it, I came here to do something. Since my official arrival, I have met with different ministers of your government, including the RA Prime Minister and other officials. I appreciate that everyone took the time to meet with me and that they were well-prepared, positive, and constructive. It proves that they are interested in Czech-Armenian relations. As for bilateral cooperation, there are many areas where we can deepen cooperation. Armenia is in a very unique and complicated situation. The Czech Republic understands this situation; in that sense, Armenia can count on our help.
By the way, we have certain expectations. The best thing is when people talk directly about everything, so I activate contacts with representatives of state and non-state institutions. Connections between people, from the highest government institutions to students, professionals in various fields, and the so-called ordinary people, are the basis of relationships. We are planning Prime Minister Pashinyan’s visit to the Czech Republic; we have also arranged the visit of the Chairman of the Chamber of Deputies of the Czech Parliament to Armenia, and the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic will also arrive for consultations soon.
These are just a few examples. In addition, Armenia is considered a priority country for the so-called “transformational cooperation,” and I want to continue this. Joint programs should focus on transferring best practices in areas where we can provide expertise. We will also focus on cooperation in mass media to expand relations between Czech and Armenian public organizations and universities. Another essential direction, a priority for me, is to increase awareness and visibility of our embassy in Armenia and visibility and understanding of the Czech Republic.
Its tools include an active social and cultural representation and more frequent meetings with Armenian and foreign partners, events in regions, and even more significant involvement of Czech companies operating in Armenia in the Czech Republic representation. The Czech Republic is a beautiful and exciting country with more to offer, and it’s not just beer, Prague, and sightseeing. Support for economic diplomacy is also considered one of the essential agenda issues.
Bilateral trade turnover has grown considerably, reaching 60% last year. In particular, export from the Czech Republic to Armenia has increased. It is at the same level as, for example, in the case of Chile or Indonesia and higher than in the case of Argentina or Vietnam. I will continue strengthening trade cooperation and look for new opportunities, emphasizing modern sectors. And finally, I want to talk about a sometimes forgotten field, the classic consular work: issuing visas to citizens of Armenia, providing support to citizens of the Czech Republic who need it, etc. I see practical consular work as representing our diplomatic service, which significantly impacts the general public more than the best political reports.
-You always wear a flower on your suit, which is part of your image and evokes positive emotions in people. In general, what do flowers symbolize for you?
– For me, the flower symbolizes beauty, elegance, and the miracle of nature. Isn’t it wonderful that they are so different and attractive simultaneously? I love nature, and by the way, this is one of the reasons why Armenia attracts me. And wearing the flower this way is a beautiful tradition we still need to remember. I’m happy about the positive feelings about my boutonniere (as an accessory, a flower attached to a suit). Moreover, I would like such things to lead to more love and admiration for nature.
– Where have you been in Armenia, and do you have any favorite places?
– I have been to several places so far. I like to walk, so I want to discover Yerevan, the center of which I know pretty well. I have been to Garni, skied in Tsaghkadzor, visited several churches, and been to Yeghegnadzor. I intend to continue getting to know Armenia. As I mentioned, I love nature; I am also interested in history.
I took camping equipment, suitable shoes, and a sleeping bag. Among other sports equipment, I also took two bikes, one road bike, and the other mountain bike. I want to discover Armenia’s nature, people, and places gradually. If your readers help me in this matter, I will be glad.
Interview: Gohar HAKOBYAN
