On 19 June, the British Embassy hosted a celebration of the official birthday of King Charles III. This is the first King’s Birthday Party since His Majesty the King acceded to the throne of the
United Kingdom on the death of his mother Queen Elizabeth II on 8 September 2022.
British Ambassador to Armenia John Gallagher said in his welcoming speech:
King Charles is a great friend of Armenia. He visited ten years ago and I’m sure he has very fond memories of his time here and of Armenia’s famous hospitality.
The King is a passionate advocate for opportunities for young people, protection of the environment and for protecting and valuing diversity in society. These are all important topics on which we need to make progress. Not just in the UK, not just in Armenia, but around the world.
I am really proud that the British Embassy, through our political engagement, programme funding and capacity building, has supported Armenia in respect of these issues and many others that are crucial for this country’s sustainable development.
We want to deepen our relationship with Armenia and support the government’s commitment to reform, transparency, and peace.
The guest of honour Tigran Khachatryan, Deputy Prime Minister of Armenia emphasised in his speech:
The United Kingdom has consistently provided support and has been an important partner in the process of state-building for the newly independent Armenia. Even today, the UK continues to contribute to ongoing democratic reforms, the reinforcement of the protection of human rights and the rule of law in our country. I am confident that the extensive experience gained during these years offers significant opportunities to fully harness the potential of Armenian-British cooperation, revitalising bilateral relations, including economic interaction.
Many guests from the Government of Armenia, the National Assembly, members of the diplomatic corps, business and civil society representatives joined the celebration.
The Embassy served traditional British food and drinks, and guests were entertained with a fantastic repertoire of British and Armenian music. Internationally renowned magician Luca Gallone, who has benefitted from the Prince’s Trust (founded by the then Prince Charles) was also on hand to amaze guests with a variety of tricks and illusions. Photo by Sebleouf, Wikimedia commons.