Gegharkunik Marz Governor Karen Sargsyan wrote on his social media page:

“On September 8, together with Olivier Decotigny, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of France to the Republic of Armenia, we were in the Kutakan settlement of Vardenis community of Gegharkunik marz, where the launch of first aid courses conducted by the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the French Embassy in Armenia, and the French organization “Armenian Peace Initiative” in the border settlements of the marz and located 0-10 km from the border was given.

The courses are planned to be held until April 2026, with the participation of residents of 30 settlements with such status in the marz. During the two-day courses held in each settlement, residents will acquire theoretical knowledge and practical skills. At the end, each participant will be provided with an individual first aid kit.

Large first aid kits will also be provided to the school, community hall, and medical center of the given settlement.

The Ambassador noted that their focus is on the support provided to border settlements. If the French side implements such programs, it means that they highly appreciate the level of cooperation between the parties.

Our cooperation with France is very comprehensive: from teaching the French language, developing tourism, to renovating and equipping healthcare institutions.

I wish this program well, and it is necessary to note that the Armenian people have a deep and firm foundation of friendship with the French side. France was also with us during the external threats and difficult days created for us in recent years.