Yerevan is the international capital of Book in 2012

“Today UNESCO issued its decision according to which Yerevan was recognized the international capital of Book,” told the journalists Hasmik Poghosyan, the RA culture minister.

She mentioned that the Armenia has presented the package of participation half a year ago. “We have tried to fulfill all the demands existed, that’s why we were sure our capital will be recognized a capital of Books. After long elections Yerevan was chosen to be that capital. It was announced today.”

The Mayor of Yerevan Gagik Beglaryan mentioned that it is very nice and encouraging event as the UNESCO has accepted the application of Yerevan.

According to the Mayor each year the UNESCO and three international organizations of Publishers, Librarians select the city which later is being recognized as a an international city of book.

G. Beglaryan mentioned that the election is being done by the applications presented by the municipalities. He informed also that Yerevan had presented its application on March. “The quality of the suggested events, variety and a series of factors served bases for the election,” G. Beglaryan mentioned.

The Mayor also mentioned that the title of international capital of Book have received only 11 capitals which are Madrid (2001), Montreal (2005), Turin (2006), Amsterdam (2008), Beirut and others. Buenos Aires was elected as the 11th international capital of Books in 2011. Yerevan is going to have this honorable title in 2012 from April 23 till 2013 April 22. April 23 is recognized as an international day of book and international copyright.