Diana Abgar

This photograph shows Diana Abgar, a great benefactor of the Armenian people and the first woman in history to hold a diplomatic post. She is seated on a chair, wearing a light-coloured dress with a lace collar and cuffs and a brooch at her chest.

During the years of the Genocide she selflessly helped thousands of Armenian refugees, opening paths of rescue for them. Through her efforts Japan was the first to recognise the independence of Armenia, and she became Armenia’s representative in that country.

Diana Abgar’s life shows that one can serve the homeland with faith, conscience and unshakeable will, even from afar.