The official opening of the interstate program "Meghri – the Commonwealth Capital of Culture 2026" took place in Armenia. Representatives from Kazakhstan, Belarus, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan participated in the event.
One of the key events was the "Art Expo" exhibition, held near the Agarak House of Culture. Delegations from participating countries presented folk art, cultural objects, and goods reflecting the identity and traditions of their countries in their national pavilions.
During the working visit, the Kazakh side confirmed its interest in further developing cooperation with Armenia both in the cultural and humanitarian spheres and within the framework of broader interstate cooperation. Vice Minister of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan Aibek Sydykov noted that the partnership is steadily strengthening: last year, Days of Kazakh Culture in Armenia were held in Yerevan, and in 2024, Days of Armenian Culture were held in Astana. Furthermore, Armenian and other foreign partners were invited to participate in a number of international events to be held in Kazakhstan this year, including a project dedicated to Turkic cultural heritage.
Special attention was given to introducing the historical and cultural heritage of Armenia. Participants visited several cultural monuments in Meghri and noted their high historical and artistic value, including the medieval Church of St. Hovhannes, renowned for its unique frescoes.