Secretary-general of National Museum of Oman visits YSU to discuss development prospects of Arabic studies

Yerevan State University hosted Jamal Al Moosawi, Secretary-General of the National Museum of Oman. During the visit, discussions revolved around the development of Arabic studies, the expansion of academic cooperation, and issues related to the preservation of cultural heritage. The talks were aimed at establishing new partnerships that will contribute both to the advancement of academic programs and to the further strengthening of Armenian-Arab cultural ties.

In his remarks, YSU Rector Hovhannes Hovhannisyan reflected on the longstanding historical relations between Armenians and the Arab world, emphasizing the significant role the Arab world has played in Armenian history.

"Following the Armenian Genocide, many Armenians found their second home in Arab countries. Arabs welcomed Armenians at the highest level well before the beginning of the twentieth century. Certainly, one may delve further into earlier historical periods; however, the principal waves of migration and the formation of major Armenian communities in Syria, Lebanon, and other countries occurred during that time. Later, many returned to Armenia and began teaching Arabic here, contributing to the development of Arabic studies. On this foundation, a strong academic school emerged, which continues to retain its strength to this day," the rector said.

The meeting also addressed opportunities for Arabists' professional development and the implementation of student exchange programs. Jamal Al Moosawi underscored that Oman offers a specialized Arabic-language program designed specifically for non-native speakers.

The secretary-general of the National Museum of Oman also referred to cultural initiatives in Syria, highlighting that the museum had maintained active engagement in the country for many years until the escalation of hostilities.

According to him, the institution was involved in the restoration of cultural heritage, including architectural monuments and museum artifacts, as well as in the training and support of specialists during challenging periods.

"Work was also carried out in the Armenian quarter of Aleppo, a UNESCO-listed heritage site. Over a period of five years, at Oman's initiative, seventeenth-century mansions belonging to Armenian merchants were restored. However, these programs are currently suspended," he noted.

Jamal Al Moosawi further emphasized that the institution has consistently maintained contact with the Armenian community and has remained well-informed about migration processes in the region.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the parties reaffirmed the importance of Arabic studies as one of Yerevan State University's strategic priority areas.