Golden Apricot Yerevan International Film Festival kicks off

The 23rd Golden Apricot Yerevan International Film Festival opened on Monday with a ceremony marking the start of one of Armenia's leading cultural events, bringing together filmmakers, industry professionals and cinema enthusiasts from around the world.

The festival, running through July 19, features competition and non-competition programs showcasing films from multiple countries, including works that have been presented at major international film festivals.

The opening ceremony was attended by government officials, cultural figures, international guests, filmmakers and art enthusiasts.

Festival founding president Harutyun Khachatryan reflected on the event's origins, saying the idea to establish the festival was conceived with two colleagues in 2004. He said the festival has become an important platform for Armenian cinema and culture and remains significant for the country's cultural life.

During the ceremony, Khachatryan presented the festival's Master Award to Austrian filmmaker Jessica Hausner, who is serving as president of this year's international jury.

The festival's three founders then officially declared the 23rd Golden Apricot Yerevan International Film Festival open.