The Armenian Academy of Sciences convened a special international program to commemorate Fridtjof Nansen (1861-1930), the Norwegian diplomat.

Minister Oskanian spoke at the opening session, praising the humanitarian and political significance of Nansen's work.

Nansen, a Norwegian scientist, zoologist, oceanographer, mountain climber, arctic explorer, historian, writer, winner of the Nobel Peace Prize was also appointed by the LEague of Nations as High Commissioner for Prisoners of War during World War I. The League, together with the Red Cross, put him in charge of the millions of people -- not just Armenians -- who were left without a homeland.