Mayor Najarian’s Visit to Armenia Advances Sister City Partnerships

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 30, 2025 Sister City Program Contact: Ani Avanesyan Email: [email protected] Phone: (818) 548-4844, option 1

City Media Contact: Communications and Community Relations Email: [email protected] Phone: (818) 548-3342

Mayor Najarian's Visit to Armenia Advances Sister City Partnerships

Glendale, CA - Glendale Mayor Ara Najarian's recent visit to Armenia reinforced partnerships between Glendale and its sister cities Gyumri and Kapan, as well as friendship city Yerevan's Kentron District, focusing on cultural, economic, and infrastructure development opportunities.

On September 15, 2025, Mayor Najarian met with Petros Petoyan, Head of the Kentron District in Yerevan. The officials explored future cooperation programs centered on creative and cultural initiatives, modernizing community spaces, economic development, and expanding sports and cultural exchange programs. Mayor Najarian toured several local projects, including renovated courtyard areas, an inclusive playground, and the public art initiative "The Saryan's Steps," which blends Armenian heritage with contemporary urban design.

During his meeting with Zareh Sinanyan, High Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs of the Republic of Armenia and former Glendale Mayor who served alongside Najarian on the City Council, Sinanyan expressed appreciation for Glendale's ongoing support of the Armenian community. The former colleagues discussed cooperation between Glendale and its sister cities Kapan and Gyumri, upcoming joint initiatives, and Armenia-Diaspora collaboration.

Mayor Najarian also met with Davit Khudatyan, Armenia's Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure. The meeting focused on expanding partnerships between Glendale, Kapan, and Gyumri, with emphasis on urban infrastructure cooperation. Both officials emphasized the importance of knowledge sharing and sustainable collaboration between the cities.

In a meeting with Deputy Minister of Economy Arman Khojoyan, Mayor Najarian and the Deputy Minister discussed strategies to strengthen Armenia's economy through consumer awareness. Mayor Najarian proposed developing a promotional marketing campaign to encourage diaspora communities to support Armenian products, including wine, food, and crafts to highlight the impact of purchasing Armenian-made goods.

The visit concluded with Mayor Najarian's trip to Gyumri, where he met with Mayor Vardan Ghukasyan to discuss municipal funding opportunities, economic development initiatives, and public art projects that could benefit both cities.

"Armenia and our sister cities are beautiful, vibrant communities with tremendous potential," said Mayor Najarian. "Through our Sister City Program, Glendale is committed to supporting cultural, educational, and municipal collaboration efforts that benefit both our residents and our partners abroad. The City of Glendale looks forward to continuing these warm relationships and building even stronger ties throughout the region."

Click here for photos of Mayor Najarian's trip.

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ABOUT GLENDALE

Known as the "Jewel City," Glendale is the fourth largest city in Los Angeles County. With a population of nearly 200,000, Glendale is a thriving, culturally diverse city that supports world-class events and community engagement. The City continues to invest in public spaces, recreation, and cultural programming that elevate quality of life for residents and visitors alike. Visit GlendaleCA.gov for more information and follow us on social media @MyGlendale.

ABOUT SISTER CITIES PROGRAM

Established in 1960, Glendale's Sister City Program aims to enhance cultural, educational, and professional ties while addressing mutual challenges and promoting economic development. Glendale maintains sister city relationships with cities across Armenia, the Dominican Republic, Japan, Mexico, the Philippines, and South Korea. For more information about the Glendale Sister City Program, please visit GlendaleCA.gov/SisterCities.