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Yerevan will host the 4th Argentine Film Festival from September 28 to October 2. Films made by five renowned Argentine directors will be screened, for the first time - with Armenian subtitles. During an interview with Panorama.am, Argentine Consul in Armenia, Head of the Embassy’s Cultural Unit Adriana Trotta spoke in detail about the festival, other cultural programs, and cultural ties between Argentina and Armenia.

- Ms. Trotta , what films will be screened at the festival?
- Five films will be screened, three of them accompanied by Armenian subtitles, while there was no such opportunity at the previous festivals. This will enable to draw a larger audience. The films were made by quite well-known directors. The festival will open with ‘A Boyfriend for My Wife’ romantic comedy, followed by ‘Aniseto’ musical drama film. The screening of ‘My First Wedding’ comedy film starring famous actress Natalia Oreiro is scheduled for the third day. “Nine Queens’ will be demonstrated on October 1, and ‘Metegol’ animation movie by director Juan Jose Campanella will be the closing one on October 2. We are interested in popularizing Argentinian culture in Armenia. In addition to the film festival, ‘Tangheto’ musical group will perform in Armenia soon. We did our best so that the group will visit Armenia as part of its European tour. The concerts will take place at Yerevan’s Mezzo Club on October 3 and 4 and feature electronic tango – a kind of modern tango. One of the group members is an Armenian.

- Prior to your activities in Armenia, how familiar were you with Armenian culture?
- All Argentinians are somewhat familiar with Armenian culture: there is a large Armenian community and Armenian churches in our country. In any case, although I was familiar to some extent, I became closely acquainted with Armenian culture here. I like Armenia very much.

- Ms. Trotta, after spending over a year in Armenia, what cultural monuments did you see here? Please tell us about your impressions.
- I was greatly impressed by my trip to Khor Virap. It also provided me with the opportunity to get a closer look at Mount Ararat. It made an unforgettable impression on me. I would also advise Argentinian travelers to visit Tatev, Noravank, Garni, and Dilijan. These are exceptionally wonderful places where one can re-experience history.

- What can attract Argentinians to Armenia?
- You have a rich cultural heritage, but it is first of all human warmth and generosity that can be appreciated here. Both your people and culture are original, and you music and cuisine are also noted for their peculiarity.

- Ms. Trotta, when communicating with Armenians, did you notice any similarities between Argentinians and Armenians?
- Our nations have their distinctive features, but there are similarities as well such as a sense of humor, hospitality towards foreigners, and the readiness to give a warm reception. I have been to many countries, which is part of my job. People are hospitable everywhere, but in your country the attitude is special.

- Are you acquainted with the Armenian community of Argentina?
- In Buenos Aires I had no chance to make the acquaintance with Armenian community members, but I would like to enjoy their presence. I know that the community is quite active, especially in the sphere of culture. There are two Armenian schools, which set up a fund to help Argentinian Armenian children to visit Armenia and see their historic homeland.
Efforts are underway to establish contacts between Armenia and the Armenian community of Argentina. We plan to hold a video conference in October with the participation of Armenian pupils and Argentinian Armenian schoolchildren.

- What is your opinion of Armenian-Argentinian relations at a state level, especially regarding culture?
- There is high-level cooperation between the two countries, with agreements related to various spheres. It is nice to work in a country where friendly ties have been established not only between the two peoples, but also the governments. We will do everything to further deepen and promote cooperation.