President Sarkissian visited the Galust Gyulbenkian Foundation: He offered the leadership of the Foundation to expand programs implemented in Armenia

President Armen Sarkissian, who is in Portugal on a working visit, today visited the Galust Gyulbenkian Foundation.

Noting that the last time he visited this establishment 15 years ago, President Sarkissian said, “It is always very pleasing and gratifying to come back here. Distinction and charity work of Galust Gyulbenkian translated into an instructive example and experience.”

The President of the Foundation Mrs. Isabel Mota presented the large-scale humanitarian and charity activities of the Foundation, particularly programs implemented in Armenia and Spyurk.

President Armen Sarkissian stressed the importance of the Armenia-oriented programs of the Foundation and its great contribution to the preservation of the Armenian identity and development of the Armenian studies. The President of Armenia spoke about research programs implemented by the Foundation and noted in particular that the structure has been supporting Matenadaran since Soviet times.

“I believe it would be a good idea if the Foundation views Matenadaran as an international project. Matenadaran has a rich collection and through its ample scientific and expert experience might become a regional and international center for the preservation, restoration, evaluation of ancient manuscripts and retraining of specialists,” Armen Sarkissian said.

He offered to consider this program and take joint steps to call it to life. He also informed that he has had discussions on this topic with the Secretary General of UNESCO. Armen Sarkissian offered the leadership of the Foundation to expand programs implemented in Armenia, increasing also the Foundation’s continuous assistance to students, scientists, and researchers. The interlocutors exchanged also views on appealing jointly to the Horizon 2020 research program. Considering the fact that this year celebrates the 150th birth anniversary of Galust Gyulbenkain, President Armen Sarkissian presented to the President of the Foundation a stamp collection issued on this occasion.

President Sarkissian observed the temporary exhibition on display at the Foundation dedicated to the great Armenian, businessman and benefactor.

Armen Sarkissian visited also Galust Gyulbenkian museum and toured the exhibition halls. Galust Gyulbenkian was a great art admirer, and presented in this museum are his collections of paintings, sculptures, coins, books, and pieces of decorative arts.