Mkhitar Hayrapetyan Discusses Homeland-Diaspora Collaboration in High-Tech Sector with Diaspora in Paris

During his visit to France, RA Minister of High-Tech Industry Mkhitar Hayrapetyan took part as a speaker at the AGBU Europe “Goriz” Leadership Development Program, held in Paris on April 5–6. He explored new opportunities for strengthening cooperation and mutual trust with Diaspora communities, as well as promoting Armenia-Diaspora partnership. The event targeted young Armenian leaders living in Europe and aimed to inspire, educate, and equip the next generation of leaders to play a greater role in Armenia’s development.

The Minister presented to the participants the activities and programs of the Ministry of High-Tech Industry of the Republic of Armenia, along with several legislative reforms aimed at advancing the sector. He emphasized that the continued development of the high-tech industry is one of the Government’s top priorities and a key pillar of economic development.

In particular, the Minister stressed the importance of identifying and leveraging opportunities to more effectively harness the technological potential of the Diaspora. He also spoke about the “Neruzh” Diaspora technology startup program implemented by the Ministry, which aims to promote professional repatriation, introduce new startup ecosystems to Armenia, strengthen Armenia-Diaspora ties, and contribute to the country’s economic growth.

The event brought together around 35 young participants from across Europe. They engaged in discussions focused on leadership and cultural identity, the challenges and opportunities facing Armenia, and entrepreneurship as a driver of innovation and a tool for building impactful businesses.

Speakers included Olivier Decottignies, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the French Republic to the Republic of Armenia; Zohrab Mnatsakanyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia (2018–2020); Talin Muradyan, Director of Brand Strategy and Content at Google; Mihran Papazyan, Co-founder of ChinAR Tech; and political analyst Christian Makaryan.

At the end of the event, open thematic discussions were held, during which Minister Hayrapetyan answered questions from the audience.