April 16, 2025 | 16:18
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International cooperation
Renowned political scientist Gilles Kepel visits YSU
Yerevan State University hosted French political scientist and Arabist Gilles Kepel, an expert on the contemporary Middle East and Muslims. During his visit, he met with YSU representatives to discuss prospects for academic and scientific cooperation, the interaction of religion, politics, and culture in today’s world, as well as other topics of mutual interest.
Professor Kepel is the author of numerous books, many of which have been translated into different languages. His visit provided an opportunity for meaningful dialogue and the exchange of international experience.
Participants of the meeting included YSU Vice-Rector for Development and Innovation Mikayel Hovhannisyan, Head of the International Cooperation Office Alexander Markarov, Senior Specialist Haykuhi Mkrtchyan, Dean of the Faculty of Oriental Studies Ruben Melkonyan, and Head of the Chair of Arabic Studies Hayk Kocharyan.
The discussion focused on potential areas for collaboration in research and the development of educational programs.
Vice-Rector Mikayel Hovhannisyan, highlighting YSU's role as the oldest and largest university in Armenia, presented the university's activities and educational programs. He emphasized the significant role of Arabic studies and, more broadly, Oriental studies at YSU. The discussion touched upon the high quality of education and the opportunities for students to study abroad, as well as YSU's active collaboration with universities in Arab countries, including Qatar, Egypt, Kuwait, and others. The vice-rector stressed the importance of such expert exchanges, underscoring the need to deepen international academic ties.
The participants agreed to translate and publish Professor Kepel’s most recent book in Armenian. The book covers the events of October 7, 2023—Hamas’ attack on Israel—and subsequent developments in the Middle East.
There was also a proposal to organize lectures by Professor Gilles Kepel for YSU students in the future, as an important educational initiative that will contribute to a deeper understanding of contemporary Islamic studies and Middle Eastern politics.
The meeting concluded with both sides expressing readiness for continuing collaboration and implementing joint projects.
The university is always open to collaborating with leading scientists, analysts, and researchers to contribute to the development of education and science in Armenia. The professor's visit, along with discussions on current professional issues and collaboration, provides an opportunity to open new horizons for the development of YSU's international collaboration and scientific programs.
