On the occasion of the 34th Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Armenia, on 6 October 2025 in The Hague, H.E. Ambassador Viktor Biyagov hosted an outstanding commemoration at the historic Pulchri Gallery.
The event gathered Dutch government officials, heads of international organizations, ambassadors, members of the Diplomatic Corps at large, members of parliament, reverend fathers, business leaders, members of the Armenian diaspora, artists, and friends of Armenia. Distinguished guests included Judge Tomoko Akane, President of the ICC; Dr. Cezary Czepelak, Secretary-General of the Permanent Court of Arbitration; Mr. Philippe Gautier, Registrar of the ICJ; Mr. Osvaldo Zavala Giler, Registrar of the ICC; and the Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs, Caspar Veldkamp.
“It is my great honour and privilege to welcome you all to the celebration of the 34th Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Armenia.
For more than three decades, my country and people have been navigating an uneasy path, striving to safeguard our independence and national security amid persistent geopolitical turmoil.
And now, I am filled with hope that in the next three, ten, one hundred decades, the citizens of Armenia will be living in the long-awaited peace and prosperity that we aspire to,” said Ambassador Biyagov.
Armenia is internationally recognised for its historical and cultural treasures. “But today I’m especially pleased to speak about the Armenian national costumes, known as taraz, which beautifully reflect our country’s rich heritage and cultural diversity. For centuries, people wore them, taking pride in every touch of the needle. Every detail in these dresses speaks a language of its own. They tell the story of the family who wore them, their region, and their profession. They contain all the colours of the Armenian highlands and showcase the artistry and techniques of Armenian masters.”
The highlight of the evening was a unique presentation of Armenian national costumes, staged with the support of the Teryan Cultural Centre of Armenia and the youth of the Abovian Centre in the Netherlands. The performance was accompanied by works of renowned Armenian composers Arno Babajanyan, Alexander Spendiaryan, and Aram Khachaturyan, performed by talented pianists Aylin Vardanyan, Adam Akopian, and Meline Yeghoyan.
After the performance, a photo zone at the back of the hall offered guests the opportunity to experience the taraz up close.
“Make sure to enjoy the evening to its fullest with the Armenian food and Armenian brandy.
Long live Armenia!”
