The official opening ceremony of the 2nd Winter Pan-Armenian Games 2025 took place in the Armenian resort town of Jermuk. The event was attended by the President of Armenia, the Speaker of the National Assembly, heads of the government organizing committee, honorary guests, and officials.
The highlight of the ceremony was the lighting of the Pan-Armenian Games flame. The honor of carrying out this mission was given to world weightlifting champion Varazdat Lalayan, who lit the flame with a torch brought from the Noravank Monastery. Before this, spectators witnessed a grand light and sound show symbolizing the unifying power of sports.
The 2nd Winter Pan-Armenian Games are being held 10 years after the first edition and stand out for their broad geographical coverage and high number of participants. This year, 1,348 athletes from 88 cities representing 18 countries will compete in the Games. Sports delegations marched solemnly through the stadium, while athletes and referees took an oath of fair play and impartial judging under the flag of the Pan-Armenian Games. The flag was raised by European weightlifting champion Hripsime Khurshudyan.
Ishkhan Zakaryan, Chairman of the World Committee of the Pan-Armenian Games, emphasized the importance of the event in preserving national identity and strengthening ties among Armenians worldwide. "A homeland is neither good nor bad; it is one, and our gaze must always be directed towards Armenia," he stated.
Arayik Harutyunyan, Chief of Staff of the Prime Minister of Armenia and Chairman of the Government Organizing Committee of the Pan-Armenian Games, noted that two years ago, holding such a large-scale event in Jermuk seemed impossible, but today it has become a reality and turned into a true celebration of sports.
President of Armenia Vahagn Khachaturyan highlighted the special significance of the Games, which contribute to the unity of the Armenian people through sports and the spirit of competition.
Starting tomorrow, participants will begin competing in seven disciplines, showcasing their skills and sporting unity.
Schedule of the 2025 Winter Pan-Armenian Games
