Presidency hosts gala awards ceremony

By presidential decrees, for valuable contribution and productive activities, several individuals were awarded high State awards. An honorary title was also awarded.

At the solemn ceremony held at the Presidential Palace, the President of Armenia handed in high State awards to a group of public figures, thanking them for good work and dedication, wishing new achievements and inexhaustible energy.

“Handing out State orders, titles and medals is perhaps the most pleasing duty of the President of the Republic. But it is not just a ceremonial event and, in my opinion, it is highly emblematic. It is a well-known fact that a rolling stone gathers no moss. The Armenian State is guided by that folk wisdom. No good deed has been ignored and will never go unnoticed. Freedom of speech in Armenia, the opportunity to discuss everything openly and honestly will always be conducive to appreciation and reward.

Each reward triggers reaction of course. People may express approval or disagreement. But we are abiding by the principle that the public authorities supposed to nominate candidates for State awards are more knowledgeable in the matter, and their opinion is important for us. I think it is better to value the merit of some things a bit over and encourage than to be offended by some criticism and ignore people’s contribution.

I am confident that the recognition of earnings is important for everyone, including those awarded today. You are obviously being hosted in this hall for your years-long hard work. I hope you will not be satisfied with what you have achieved. Thank you for dedication and good work.

Once again, I congratulate you on the receipt of State awards. I wish you good health and happiness in your personal life and inexhaustible energy on the way to your noble goals. Thank you very much: I once again congratulate you,” President Sargsyan said.

After the ceremony, the President met at the tea table with those journalists and news service leaders who have covered the President’s activities, his regional and foreign visits over the last ten years and who received the State awards.

The President talked to the journalists about their concerns about the country’s future, foreign policy, regional challenges, the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict settlement process and a number of other issues related to Armenia’s domestic affairs and the new system of public governance.