Culture for Nature: the COP17 cultural programme

From 19 to 30 October, Yerevan is hosting COP17, the 17th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity — the largest international environmental event in Armenia's history. Alongside the negotiations, the conference offers a rich cultural programme built around Armenian music, dance, and ritual heritage.

COP17 officially opened on 18 October with a solemn ceremony and concert programme. Earlier, on 16 October, guests at the opening of the "Leaders for Nature" summit at the Karen Demirchyan Sports and Concert Complex were presented with an interactive show devoted to nature conservation.

Green Zone (free entry) — The Karen Demirchyan complex hosts a dedicated Cultural Stage. Under the programme of Armenia's Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sport:

• on 19 and 21 October, the "Barekamutyun" (Friendship) State Ensemble presents Armenian dance;

• on 19 and 30 October, the Yerevan State Pantomime Theatre stages "Girk Tsaghkants" (Book of Flowers).

Blue Zone (Meridian Expo) —

• the "Nature and Culture" thematic summit takes place on 25 October;

• on 26 October, the "Horovel" song and dance ensemble of Vanadzor performs as part of the "Day of the Mountains".

Beyond Yerevan — On 25 October, the "Masunk" traditional song and dance ensemble named after R. Haroyan will perform ritual dances at the Garni Temple, while a hospitality programme at Sevan introduces guests to the history and ritual meaning of Armenian dishes.

In addition, institutions under the Ministry are holding more than 30 events in museums, libraries, heritage reserves, and concert venues. Yerevan City Hall has also opened an urban biodiversity zone in the 2750th Anniversary Park featuring concerts, film screenings, and public talks.

The COP17 cultural programme carries a simple message: protecting nature also means protecting culture, memory, and identity.

Details: cop17yerevangreenzone.com