STEPANAKERT, OCTOBER 1, ARTSAKHPRESS: This statement was made by world-famous French singer of Armenian origin Charles Aznavour during his visit to Artsakh on May 17, 2009, within the framework of the "For You Armenia" program.

In an interview with ''Artsakhpress'' Lernik Hakobyan, who held the post of Minister of Culture of the Republic of Artsakh during those years, said that the world-famous singer personally cut off the red ribbon at the opening of a new culture center, named after him in Stepanakert.

We were enthused over Aznavour's visit to Artsakh. In our turn, we did our best to receive him at a high level. I remember he was also very excited. President Bako Sahakyan awarded Aznavour with the Order of St. Gregory the Illuminator for his “exceptional services and contributions to the Armenian people.” Afterwards, the world-famous singer visited Gandzasar," said Hakobyan.

Concert was held at the Renaissance Square in Stepanakert. His sister and daughter, Aida and Seda Aznavouryans performed. The concert was also attended by Charles Aznavour. "Though everyone was waiting for his songs, but unfortunately health did not allow him to perform. He warmly welcomed the audience and said he was proud of being in Artsakh for the first time and would pray will pray that it I wasn't his last visit, "Hakobyan said.

Lernik Hovhannisyan, the Minister of Culture, Youth Affairs and Tourism of the Republic of Artsakh, noted that the death of the prominent figure of the world culture as a great loss, especially emphasizing his devotion to his Armenian roots.
''He is a great Armenian. After the Spitak earthquake in 1998, the activities of the Aznavour Foundation and all the projects implemented by him were addressed to the solution of different problems in our homeland. I express deep condolences to Charles Aznavour's relatives and friends. It is the grief of all of us,''noted Hovhannisyan.