The European Parliament recently opened an exhibition dedicated to the 100th anniversary of Sergei Parajanov. Organized by the Armenian and Ukrainian representations in the EU, the event was hosted by Czech MEP Markéta Gregorová.
Speaking at the event in Brussels, Gregorová highlighted Parajanov’s significance for the South Caucasus and Eastern neighbors. “Often, when discussing security, we focus on borders. However, this is an excellent opportunity to remember the importance of cultural heritage and its preservation,” Gregorová stated.
The Armenian Ambassador to Belgium, Tigran Balayan, also spoke at the event, expressing gratitude to the “Greens” group and MEP Gregorová for hosting the exhibition. Balayan emphasized the unique value of the exhibited works, which are rarely seen by the public. He also thanked the Parajanov Museum in Yerevan and Armenia’s Ministry of Education, Science, Culture, and Sport for providing the exhibits.
It was noted that Armenia successfully included Parajanov’s 100th anniversary in UNESCO’s 2024-2025 calendar of significant figures and events. Oksana Diakun, Deputy Ambassador of Ukraine to the EU, also expressed appreciation for the joint initiative, stressing the importance of preserving cultural heritage.
The exhibition offers visitors a unique opportunity to appreciate Parajanov’s artistic legacy and underscores the unifying power of art in today’s world.