Geneva - Charles Aznavour, the ageing French singer, will take up a new role as the Armenian ambassador to Switzerland, media reports said Friday.

Aznavour made the announcement on Armenian TV, saying he was honoured to have been given the position.

The Armenian diplomatic mission in Geneva could not confirm the appointment.

The French singer, famous for songs such as La Boheme and his roles in numerous movies, was born Shahnur Aznavourian to Armenian parents who immigrated to Paris. He has been very active in promoting Armenian issues in Europe and set up a relief fund following the earthquake in the Central Asian region in 1988.

Aznavour, aged 84, received Armenian citizenship last year. (dpa)