Diplomacy, cultural heritage and Armenian gastronomy take centre stage at a distinguished National Day reception
The Embassy of the Republic of Armenia in the Netherlands celebrated the 35th anniversary of Armenia’s independence with an elegant reception in The Hague, bringing together Dutch politicians, representatives of government ministries, diplomats, international courts and organisations, and members of the Armenian diaspora.
The gathering reflected the warmth and hospitality associated with Armenia, combining formal diplomatic exchanges with music, gastronomy and an opportunity to learn more about the country’s history, achievements and ambitions.
H.E. Mr. Viktor Biyagov, Ambassador of Armenia to the Netherlands, personally welcomed his distinguished guests and delivered an address reflecting on the significance of independence, Armenia’s development over the past three and a half decades, and the country’s aspirations for peace, economic cooperation and closer international engagement.
The attendance included members of the Dutch Senate and House of Representatives, senior officials from several ministries, and a strong representation from the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Representatives of international courts and organisations based in The Hague, members of the diplomatic corps and the Armenian diaspora also joined the celebration, underscoring Armenia’s connections with the international community.
Among others we remarked the presence of the Secretary General of the Permanent Court of Arbitration, H.E. Mr Marcin Czepelak, the Director General of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, H.E. Ambassador Sabrina Dallafior, the President of the International Criminal Court, H.E. Judge Tomoko Akane, the Secretary General of the HCCH, H.E. Mr Chirtophe Bernasconi, the Director of Protocol Ms Gabriella Sancisi, the Dutch Ambassador for International Organisations, H.E. Mr. Erik Weststrate and Ms. Joanneke Balfoort, Director of the Europe Department at the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Also many Members of Senate and House of Representatives of the Netherlands.
From the dream of independence to a new chapter
In his address, Ambassador Biyagov recalled the long historical journey behind Armenia’s independence, describing it as the fulfilment of a dream preserved across generations.
“For nearly five centuries, the dream of a free Armenia was kept alive in the hearts of our people,” he said, paying tribute to those who had struggled and sacrificed in the hope of establishing an independent state.
The Ambassador referred to September 1991, when the Armenian people made the historic decision to determine their own future. He acknowledged the difficulties that marked the early years of independence, including regional conflict, economic hardship, a severe energy crisis and disruptions to traditional trade routes.
Despite these challenges, Armenia developed its economy, advanced its scientific and cultural institutions, and established diplomatic relations around the world. The country became an active member of the international community, building partnerships while pursuing its own national priorities.
Looking ahead, Ambassador Biyagov emphasised Armenia’s commitment to pursuing lasting peace in the region. He outlined a vision of a region in which borders are respected, communication routes are open, and neighbouring countries focus on the opportunities offered by cooperation rather than conflict.
He also highlighted the growing importance of international economic cooperation in Armenia’s foreign policy, alongside traditional economic sectors and emerging technologies. Referring to the establishment of a major artificial intelligence facility in Armenia through Firebird in partnership with NVIDIA, he presented technological development as part of the country’s ambition to strengthen its position in the global digital economy.
The Ambassador described this vision as the beginning of a new chapter for Armenia, centred on democratic governance, innovation, education and opportunities for younger generations to build their futures at home. Independence, he stressed, should be experienced in everyday life through personal freedom, safety and dignity.
Armenia and the Netherlands: a growing partnership
A significant part of Ambassador Biyagov’s address was devoted to relations between Armenia and the Netherlands, which he described as a successful partnership since Armenia regained its independence.
“Since regaining independence, Armenia has enjoyed a robust and successful partnership with the Netherlands,” the Ambassador stated. He highlighted regular political dialogue, an expanding economic partnership, and close ties in culture, education and people-to-people relations.
He also expressed appreciation for Dutch support in strengthening Armenia’s trade capacities and expanding its access to the European market, underlining the importance of international cooperation in the country’s economic development.
In particular, Ambassador Biyagov expressed gratitude for the Netherlands’ support for the European Union’s autonomous trade measures, describing this as an important contribution to Armenia’s economic diversification and closer integration with Europe.
“I want to express my deepest gratitude to our dear colleagues at the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Their dedication, vision, and hard work have made this exceptional level of cooperation possible,” he said.
His remarks acknowledged the role of diplomatic engagement and the work of officials on both sides in developing bilateral relations. The strong presence of Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs representatives at the reception provided a fitting setting for this expression of appreciation.
The Ambassador also reaffirmed Armenia’s commitment to multilateralism, a principle of particular relevance in The Hague, home to international courts and organisations.
“Here in The Hague, the global City of Peace and Justice, we do our utmost to contribute meaningfully to the vital work of international organizations and international courts,” he said.
Looking towards the international agenda, he highlighted Armenia’s preparations to host the United Nations Biodiversity Conference COP17 in Yerevan in October 2026, under the theme “Taking Action for Nature”. The conference represents an opportunity for Armenia to contribute to international discussions on biodiversity and environmental protection.
Armenian gastronomy brings culture to the table
The celebration also offered guests an opportunity to experience Armenia through its culinary traditions. Two chefs, Arayik Amzayan and Stepan Burmistrov, travelled to The Hague to present Armenian gastronomy ahead of the Armenian Food Festival, scheduled for 24 and 25 September at the Leonardo Royal Hotel The Hague.
Their culinary knowledge, creativity and professionalism were evident in an outstanding buffet-style presentation featuring a selection of traditional Armenian dishes. The display introduced guests to the diversity of Armenian cuisine, with its distinctive flavours, presentation and traditions of hospitality.
The chefs’ participation connected the National Day celebration with the forthcoming Food Festival, extending the Embassy’s cultural presentation beyond the formal programme. Armenian cuisine offered a welcoming way for guests to discover another dimension of the country’s heritage and contemporary identity.
The reception was further enriched by a musical performance from the Black Swan Quintet, whose contribution added an artistic dimension to the evening.
In his closing remarks, Ambassador Biyagov thanked the guest chefs and their team for making the celebration special through their culinary creativity. He also expressed appreciation to the musicians for their performance and to the Embassy staff for their professionalism and dedication in bringing the event together.
Celebrating independence and looking ahead
The 35th anniversary of Armenia’s independence provided an occasion to reflect on the country’s historical journey while looking towards its future. The Ambassador’s address linked the meaning of independence with Armenia’s aspirations for peace, economic development, technological progress and constructive international engagement.
Through diplomacy, music and gastronomy, the National Day reception presented Armenia as a country proud of its history, attentive to its cultural traditions and determined to shape its future through international partnerships.
The evening concluded in an atmosphere of hospitality and exchange, bringing together representatives of the Dutch and international communities to mark a significant milestone in Armenia’s modern history.
