On February 26, in the city of Balatonalmádi, Hungary, a sister city agreement was signed between Sevan and Balatonalmádi, marking the beginning of cultural and economic cooperation between the two cities.

The agreement was signed by Balatonalmádi Mayor László Berényi and Deputy Mayor of Sevan, Gegharkunik Province, Arman Harutyunyan. The meeting was attended by Armenian Ambassador to Hungary Ashot Smbatyan, Armenian National Self-Government Spokesperson Nikogos Akopyan, President of the Armenian National Self-Government of Hungary István Czárán, and Honorary Consul of Armenia in Hungary Dr. Géza Abkarovics. The parties discussed a wide range of opportunities related to cooperation between Sevan and Balatonalmádi based on the signed agreement.

The selection of these two cities for the agreement was no coincidence. Months prior, during a meeting between Armenian Ambassador Ashot Smbatyan and Balatonalmádi Mayor László Berényi, the possibility of cooperation with the city of Sevan was discussed, considering their geographical location and similarities. Balatonalmádi, situated on the shores of Lake Balaton, shares geographical characteristics with Sevan, which is also located by its namesake lake.

The signing of this agreement is a significant event, serving as the first of its kind in the developing relations between Armenia and Hungary.

Article written by: Shogher Manukyan, Project code: 2024-1-HU01-ESC51-VTJ-000207879

Photos uploaded: Shogher Manukyan, Project code: 2024-1-HU01-ESC51-VTJ-000207879