Keron Development Foundation at the Armenia–UK Business Forum 2026
On October 5–6, Yerevan hosted the Armenia–UK Business Forum 2026 for the first time, bringing together representatives from government, business, investment, education, and culture to explore and develop new opportunities for Armenian–British cooperation.
The Keron Development Foundation participated in the Forum, with a particular focus on the potential of cultural cooperation and cultural diplomacy to strengthen ties between Armenia and the United Kingdom.
Following the Forum’s special opening Gala Concert at the Aram Khachaturian Concert Hall on October 5, guests were welcomed to VERNATOUN powered by Keron. During the evening, they discovered the history and architectural heritage of the historic Afrikyan House and were introduced to the concept and community of VERNATOUN. The gathering also provided an informal setting to continue conversations started earlier in the day, exchange ideas, and build new connections.
On October 6, Vanane Ararktsyan, Executive Director of the Keron Development Foundation, moderated the panel discussion “The Cultural Bridge: Heritage, Music and Cultural Diplomacy.”
The panel brought together:
- Marios Papadopoulos MBE — Founder and Music Director of the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra, conductor and pianist
- Thomas Harrison — Institute of Classical Studies; Keeper of Greece and Rome at the British Museum
- Edward Gibbs — Chairman, Middle East and India, Sotheby’s
- Michael Erdman — Head of Asian and African Collections, British Library
- Davit Poghosyan — Director of the History Museum of Armenia
The discussion focused on the potential of culture to build long-term trust, mutual understanding, and institutional ties between Armenia and the United Kingdom.
The speakers explored how heritage, museums and collections, music, cultural exchange, and international cooperation can provide a foundation for stronger relations between the two countries, as well as how individual successful initiatives can evolve into sustainable, long-term partnerships.
The conversation also reflected on existing examples of Armenian–British cultural cooperation and explored new opportunities that could be developed further in the future.
Culture can be more than a means of preserving history — it can create new connections, build trust, and lay the foundation for partnerships of the future.