World champ Tigran Martirosyan lights the flame of 5th Pan-Armenian Games August 14, 2011 - 00:48 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - The grand opening of the 5th Pan-Armenian Games took place in Vazgen Sargsyan Republican Stadium in Yerevan on August 13 evening, which broke out with fireworks and dancing. The parade of sportsmen was kicked off by the team from Artsakh, followed by 3200 sportsmen from 125 cities of 34 countries. The flame which was first set in Ani and then traveled to Gandzasar, Garni, Syunik and Khor Virap was taken to the stadium by IBO champ Vic Darchinyan and world sambo champ Ashot Danielyan and was lit by world and European champion Tigran Martirosyan. Catholicos of All Armenian His Holiness Karekin II and president of the international committee of Pan-Armenian Games Ishkhan Zakaryan welcomed the participants after what Prime Minister Tigran Sargsyan declared the Games open. Arstakh President Bako Sahakyan, Armenian Defense Minister Seyran Ohanyan and other high ranking officials attended the opening ceremony. Top stories Armenian gymnast, Olympic bronze medalist Artur Davtyan has reached the finals of the World Cup. Gor Manvelyan has denied reports alleging that he has expressed a desire to one day play for the French national team. Roma midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan is not considering FC Spartak Moscow as his next haven, according to fresh reports. 10 Armenian lifters will compete in the 2021 World Championships scheduled to be held from 7 to 17 December in Tashkent. Partner news | European Parliament to discuss repression in Azerbaijan The European Parliament will discuss repression of civil society in Azerbaijan on April 24 PACE wants concessions from Azerbaijan to accept Baku back A PACE co-rapporteur said that Azerbaijani authorities must make certain concessions so that the country can return to PACE. Cyprus parliament honors Armenian genocide victims Acting House President Zacharias Koulias noted that April 24 marks the “black anniversary” of the Armenian genocide. Armenia PM, France envoy discuss regional matters Issues related to the consistent development of Armenia-France cooperation were discussed. |