Macron to attend concert in Gyumri during Yerevan summit

French President Emmanuel Macron will visit Gyumri on May 5 to attend a major open-air concert as part of a European leaders’ summit in Yerevan, according to a draft government decision.

The summit, scheduled for May 3–5, will bring together European heads of state and government, with Macron among the expected participants.

The concert, to be held in Gyumri’s central Vardanants Square, is dedicated to Armenian-French friendship and cultural cooperation. It will feature leading Armenian and French performers, accompanied by the Armenian State Symphony Orchestra, with a repertoire blending national and French-themed works.

The Armenian government has earmarked approximately 392.9 million drams (around $1 million) for the event, framing it as a project of national cultural significance.

Officials say the initiative is intended to deepen bilateral cultural ties, enhance Armenia’s international profile and invigorate the domestic cultural landscape by broadening public access to high-profile artistic programming.

Gyumri’s selection reflects its enduring connection to French language and culture, shaped in part by France’s assistance following the 1988 earthquake.

The event is also expected to support preparations for the 2027 Francophonie Games, which Armenia is due to host, reinforcing its engagement with the Francophone world.