"I want to voice assurance in Armenia's future," French President Jacques Chirac said during the opening ceremony of the Square of France in Yerevan. "I am sure of capabilities of Armenia, a young republic of an ancient nation, which shares with us the adherence to human rights advocacy. I am sure of the Armenian youth, who are inspired by a common urge towards peace and freedom. I am sure of the ability of you republic to overcome the economic challenges and become attractive for investments. I am sure of Armenia's ability to struggle for peace. This is the most serious challenge Armenia should overcome, since only a fair and lasting peace will allow your people to make dreams true.

I do believe in peace. The times, when people thought that conflicts can resolved by force, have passed. Only a mutual dialogue will open the way to the future. Today the greatest is the one who achieves peace. I want this square to be the square of peace.

Several hours later we will gather at the Republic Square to see the concert of Charles Aznavour, the Great French and the Great Armenian. Can we dream of a better event to mark the start of the Year of Armenia in France, the symbol of our friendship, our past, present and future?" the French President said.