Council of Europe expert, professor emeritus of the University of Strasbourg Mr Robert Hertzog was awarded the memorable medal of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia for his contribution towards the consolidation of local self government in Armenia. Prime Minister Mr Hovik Abrahamyan personally awarded the medal at the 5th Conference of rural communities in Armenia, Jermuk 10 November 2015.

Professor Hetzog and the Council of Europe have assisted Armenian authorities in reforming the structure of local government in accordance with European standards since the early days of Armenia's membership to the Council of Europe. Currently active cooperation is ongoing within the framework of the programme "Support to consolidation of local self government in Armenia" implemented by the Council of Europe and financed by the government of Denmark.