Polish NEWS — The Armenian community in Poland, alongside friends of Armenia, gathered to celebrate the 34th anniversary of the Republic of Armenia’s declaration of independence. At exactly 7:00 p.m., one of Warsaw’s most iconic landmarks — the Silesian–Dąbrowski Bridge — was illuminated in the colors of the Armenian flag: red, blue, and orange. This symbolic gesture of solidarity once again highlighted the enduring friendship between the Polish and Armenian nations.
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Official Reception at the Central Library – The Diplomatic Ceremony
The illumination was initiated by the Embassy of the Republic of Armenia in the Republic of Poland, which has long been committed to promoting Armenian culture, history, and diplomatic ties. Photos of the event shared on the embassy’s social media platforms and in Armenian online media were met with warm responses both in Poland and in Armenia.
To mark the occasion, an official reception was held at the Central Agricultural Library on Krakowskie Przedmieście in Warsaw, also organized by the Armenian Embassy. The event brought together a wide array of guests — representatives of the Polish government, members of Parliament and the Senate, diplomats, leaders of Armenian organizations, and members of the Armenian community in Poland.
In his opening speech, Armenian Ambassador Alexander Arzoumanian emphasized the deep historical ties between the two nations and highlighted prospects for economic, cultural, and political cooperation. Marcin Bosacki, Secretary of State at the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, spoke about the importance of strengthening Armenian-Polish relations and supporting initiatives that promote the integration of national minorities in Poland.
The evening was held in a spirit of friendship and mutual respect. Guests were treated to Armenian cuisine, music, and cultural performances reflecting Armenia’s rich heritage.
Musical Highlight: Ararat Grooves and the Voice of a New Generation
This year’s celebrations also included a vibrant artistic element. A video circulating on social media featured the band Ararat Grooves, known for fusing traditional Armenian melodies with modern electronic music. Their performance served not only as musical entertainment but also as a statement of the evolving identity of young Armenians living in Poland.
The band’s growing presence on the Polish cultural scene is evidence that the diaspora is not only preserving tradition but also actively shaping new forms of artistic expression — blending Armenian and Polish influences into a harmonious whole.
The Armenian Diaspora in Poland – A Legacy of Centuries
Armenians are among the oldest ethnic minorities in Poland. Their presence dates back to at least the 14th century, when traders and craftsmen began settling in the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. In cities such as Lviv, Zamość, and Kraków, Armenian communities made significant contributions to commerce, culture, and science. While many Armenians eventually assimilated into Polish society, they managed to preserve their unique religious, linguistic, and cultural identity.
Today, the Armenian diaspora in Poland numbers several thousand individuals who are active in both public life and the cultural sector. Organizations such as the Foundation for Armenian Culture and Heritage in Poland and the Nairi Armenian Center in Łódź organize educational and cultural initiatives, including Armenian language classes, concerts, exhibitions, and commemorative events that honor key moments in Armenian history.
The Significance of the Celebration
“For Armenians living in Poland, Independence Day is not only a political anniversary — it’s a moment to express pride in their identity and heritage,” says Miłosz Manasterski, President of the Information Agency. “Events like the 2025 celebration — combining symbolic gestures, diplomacy, and culture — show that the Armenian diaspora is not a passive observer in Polish society, but an active, creative force within it. These celebrations remind us how close the Armenian people are to us, how valuable and important their traditions are, and how fascinating Armenian culture is, with its deep historical roots and unique charm.”
“I hope that the beautiful illumination of the Silesian–Dąbrowski Bridge on the occasion of Armenian Independence Day becomes a symbolic starting point for building new bridges — between Warsaw and Yerevan, and between Poles and Armenians,” Manasterski concluded.
Polish NEWS / Source: Agencja Informacyjna / Main photo and following images: Facebook page of the Embassy of the Republic of Armenia in Poland / 21.09.2025
