Armenian Ministry of Diaspora, set up four years ago, is now a well-established institution, Diaspora Minister said.

As Hranush Hakobyan told a press conference, Diaspora organizations, as well as state, scientific and educational institutions contributed to the ministry’s activates.

“The number of the programs has increased manifold. The geography of cooperation has expanded. The ministry’s activates have contributed to the development of the tourism sector, with 30-35% growth recorded this year,” Minister Hakobyan said.

She further noted that the number of people having received dual citizenship in 2011-2012 totaled 14000-15000, against the previous year’s 1700.

Conduction of “My Armenia” Pan-Armenian Festival and establishment of Diaspora’s summer school have been set as the ministry’s priorities for 2012

Minister Hakobyan has awarded 117 diplomas, 500 letters of appreciation, 886 certificates and 78 medals.