Ararat was the first that struck me in Armenia

The most interesting thing is your changing landscape, when I was traveling… Khor Virap, Sanahin, Haghpat, Akhtala, Gyumri… every time my visitors say that they have a totally different landscape, with climate and vegetation always changing…”

The Ambassador confessed to having his favorite locations in Armenia - Byurakan, where he spends summer days and Lake Sevan, where he goes for a swim even in chilly weather.

“Armenia is a small country, but a very varied one. Like a never-ending story, it never fails to surprise you with new impressions,” the ambassador says.

“However, there was something that depressed me a bit when I got acquainted with Armenia and Armenians. This is the tradition of early marriage. I was once introduced to a young lady of 18 and she told me during the conversation that she was going to get married. It was odd for me, as I think marriage sometimes is a kind of obstacle for woman in sense of career.”

According to the ambassador, Armenia is an outstanding country in terms of hospitality. “And you have a huge amount appetizers, it's unbelievable that you have fish and meat together. And summer outings are simply fantastic.”

The ambassador went on to tell of European traditions for New Year celebrations. “In Germany we have a family-oriented Christmas; on a New Year our friends and colleagues usually gather for a small party.”