October 15, 2013 - 13:02 AMT
Israeli President invites legendary singer Charles Aznavour to lunch

Israeli President Shimon Peres will host one of the greatest singer's in the history of France, Charles Aznavour, YNet news reported.

Peres became familiar with Aznavour's music during his long stays in Paris as part of activities aimed at strengthening the strategic-security relations between Israel and France.

Aznavour is arriving in Israel not just as a legendary singer, but also as Armenia's ambassador to Switzerland and its permanent representative at the United Nations.

According to a statement issued by Aznavour's office, his visit to the region will be dedicated to promoting the peace process and increasing public support for it. The singer was therefore officially invited for lunch at the President's Residence, and accepted the invitation.

Aznavour was born in 1924 in Paris to parents who immigrated from Armenia, and began performing at the early age of nine. In his 80-year career, he sold more than 100 million albums around the world and recorded songs in six languages. He also had an impressive acting career, appearing in more than 60 films.

Some of Aznavour's songs were translated into Hebrew over the years. In 2011 he was awarded the Hebrew University's Scopus Award for his contribution to Israel.