As part of the CIS Interstate Program “Cultural Capitals of the Commonwealth,” the town of Meghri in Armenia’s Syunik Region was designated the CIS Cultural Capital for 2026.
On November 1, the “Meghri – CIS Cultural Capital 2026” program concluded with a joint concert featuring national songs and traditional instruments from CIS countries. During the closing ceremony, the title of CIS Cultural Capital was officially handed over to the town of Molodechno, Republic of Belarus.
Welcoming remarks were delivered by ESCS Deputy Minister Tigran Virabyan, Deputy Governor of Syunik Province Hayk Harutyunyan, Executive Director of the Interstate Foundation for Humanitarian Cooperation of CIS Member States Anatoly Iksanov, and First Deputy Governor of Meghri Community Artur Grigoryan,. A congratulatory address from Sergey Lebedev, Chairman of the CIS Executive Committee, was also presented.
Welcoming the guests gathered in Meghri and the historic Syunik region, Deputy Minister Tigran Virabyan noted that the designation of Meghri as a cultural capital had been a major responsibility, while also providing an opportunity to showcase Armenian culture, develop regional infrastructure and boost tourism.
He emphasized that Meghri had proudly upheld the title of CIS Cultural Capital, becoming a unique platform for intercultural dialogue. From April to November, nearly 30 events of various formats were held in the town, including a tree-planting initiative, “Taraz Fest”, the Commonwealth Countries Film Festival, the Yerevan Book Festival's travelling edition, folk crafts and dance festivals, a commemorative stamp cancellation ceremony and other events.
The cultural program extended beyond Meghri itself to other settlements within Meghri Community, including Agarak and Shvanidzor. This was in line with Armenia's strategy of decentralizing cultural life and ensuring wider access to culture.
“Meghri has demonstrated its great potential to inspire, unite and represent Armenian culture with distinction on international platforms. For us, this program was much more than a series of events. Although today we are officially closing the chapter on Meghri's tenure as a cultural capital, I am confident that it has left a lasting impression on everyone and genuinely contributed to revitalizing the town's cultural life, unlocking its creative potential and opening up new prospects for future cooperation, while building new creative and cultural bridges,” Tigran Virabyan said, expressing his gratitude to the Interstate Foundation for Humanitarian Cooperation for its partnership.
The Deputy Minister wished success to the Belarusian town of Molodechno, which will assume the role of CIS Cultural Capital 2027. In a ceremonial handover, Tigran Virabyan transferred the title to Alesya Lukovskaya, Deputy Chair of the Molodechno District Executive Committee, presenting her with a commemorative artwork depicting the sun as a symbol of the continuing cycle of cultural exchange.
In his address, Anatoly Iksanov, Executive Director of the Interstate Foundation for Humanitarian Cooperation of CIS Member States, congratulated Meghri on becoming a new and shining star in the constellation of CIS Cultural Capitals.
“Meghri is a town where its centuries-old history is held in particular esteem. Its architectural monuments, fragrant orchards and exceptionally hospitable people inspire respect and admiration. I am confident that everyone who took part in the events will carry home vivid memories and a little of the warmth they experienced here,” Iksanov said, thanking the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sport and Meghri Municipality for their cooperation.
The closing concert featured performances by the “Kayt” Ethno Group, which presented traditional Armenian songs and melodies, including rare and lesser-known folk pieces, in contemporary arrangements.
Artists from Russia, Belarus, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan also performed national songs and instrumental pieces, showcasing the musical traditions of their countries.
Ahead of the closing ceremony, Deputy Minister Tigran Virabyan, Anatoly Iksanov, Deputy Head of the Department for Political, Social and Humanitarian Cooperation of the CIS Executive Committee Khalmurat Rashidov, and Alesya Lukovskaya, Deputy Chair of the Molodechno District Executive Committee, held a press briefing with media representatives.
As part of the closing program, a cultural and heritage tour was organized for representatives of delegations from CIS member states. During their visit, the guests explored Meghri's historical and cultural landmarks, including the Holy Mother of God Church in the Big Quarter and the Church of St. Hovhannes Mkrtich in the Small Quarter. The delegation also walked through the historic Small Quarter, where they learned about the daily life of local residents, as well as Meghri's rich traditions and cultural heritage.