The Government of the Republic of Armenia

On the second day of his working visit to Russia’s northern capital Saint Petersburg, Prime Minister Tigran Sargsyan was hosted in the State University of Economy and Finance (former Financial-Economic Institute after N. Voznesensky) where the Armenian Prime Minister was a graduate student and defended a thesis. Tigran Sargsyan joined rector Igor Maximtsev to tour the classrooms and talk to the teaching staff.

Following the meeting, the Prime Minister was presented with the silver medal of the university. In turn, Tigran Sargsyan handed out copies of his monograph and books on Armenia’s cultural heritage.

The head of government made a record in the visitors’ book stating in part: “I wish all its ex-students were proud of their university, strived for innovations like me as they are given here the most important thing – the aptitude of thinking.”

Note that the State University of Economy and Finance is considered to be one of largest educational institutions of Russia.

The State University of Saint Petersburg was the Prime Minister’s next port of call where he took part in the opening of first president of Armenia’s National Academy of Sciences Hovsep Orbeli’s bust. The event was attended by director of Hermiage Museum Mikhail Piotrovsky, Hovsep Orbeli’s descendants, scholars and community leaders.

The bust is authored by Armenian sculptor Levon Baiburtyan. Tigran Sargsyan said to be highly honored by the fact that bust of a great Armenian was being inaugurated in Russia’s northern capital: “I appreciate your remembering and paying tribute to Hovsep Orbeli who did much for the development of science.”

According to the Prime Minister, a special focus should be placed on sciences in the 21st century by appreciating those who have contributed to research since this may ensure scientific development in our countries.

Tigran Sargsyan paid homage to Hovsep Orbeli by laying a wreath at his bust.

Later today the Prime Minister-led delegation will be back to Yerevan.