On September 25, High Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs of the Republic of Armenia Zareh Sinanyan met with Martin Russell, Co-Founder of The Diaspora Institute and an expert in diaspora engagement and the development and implementation of diaspora policies.

The meeting was also attended by Seda Arzoumanian, Vice President for Donor Relations at APRI Armenia.

Welcoming the guests, Zareh Sinanyan presented the approaches of the Government of the Republic of Armenia to diaspora engagement and the effective mobilization of the global Armenian potential, as well as the key areas of activity and ongoing programs of the Office of the High Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs.

Martin Russell presented the work of The Diaspora Institute and international practices in diaspora engagement across different countries, highlighting its work in the development and implementation of diaspora policies and strategies, research and capacity building, as well as the establishment of effective mechanisms for cooperation between government institutions and diaspora communities.

During the meeting, the parties exchanged views on opportunities for sharing expertise and professional capacity between the Office of the High Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs and The Diaspora Institute, studying and applying international best practices, and further enhancing the effective engagement of diaspora potential.

The High Commissioner emphasized that, as part of its diaspora engagement efforts, the Government of the Republic of Armenia attaches particular importance to harnessing the professional expertise of Diaspora Armenians across various sectors of Armenia’s development, promoting their investment engagement, and establishing sustainable and effective mechanisms for Armenia–Diaspora cooperation.

In this context, Zareh Sinanyan presented the opportunities available in Armenia, as well as several successful examples of engaging the professional and investment potential of the Diaspora.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the parties agreed to continue the dialogue and further develop cooperation between the Office of the High Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs and The Diaspora Institute, with a view to exploring opportunities for joint initiatives in areas of mutual interest.