“Decisions on the Karabakh issue were made through consultations.” Pashinyan

Photo: primeminister.am

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan categorically denied the accusations that he alone and without taking into account the opinion of the people of Nagorno Karabakh will decide the fate of the region. The head of the government emphasized that all key decisions were taken exclusively after detailed consultations with Karabakh representatives. He also commented on the scandalous video with the participation of his former party member and answered questions about the current national security strategy.


In the briefing following the government session on March 26, the journalists touched on a number of acute topics. Answering the question of how he could make fatal decisions regarding Karabakh without representing the interests of its people, Pashinyan stated: “Basically, all the decisions I made before were consulted with the representatives of Karabakh. There was no such decision that I made without consulting the representatives of Karabakh.” At the same time, the prime minister distanced himself from the recent decisions of the authorities of the unrecognized republic, stating that he learned about them later and emphasizing the absence of Armenia’s role in those processes.


Speaking about the Prague agreements of 2022, Pashinyan described as absurd the situation when Armenia had to recognize its territorial integrity. According to him, this decision has become the most important step on the way to overcome the “greatest conspiracy against the statehood of Armenia”.


The Prime Minister also commented on the publication of a video recording of the meeting of the “Civil Contract” party’s board in pro-government media, where he communicates in a harsh style with Hakob Aslanyan, a former member of the team. The journalists asked if this is not a message to the teammates that there are kompromats and the government is ready to use them. Pashinyan denied these assumptions, calling the publication a manifestation of intra-party democracy. “Democracy is for this purpose, to show the stupidity among them,” he said, emphasizing the transparency and competitive nature of the processes within the ruling power.


At the end of the briefing Nikol Pashinyan admitted that the current national security strategy of Armenia has largely lost its relevance. He informed that currently the country does not actually have an effective strategy, but the government is already working on the creation of a document that meets the new, modern challenges.

Fraud on behalf of law enforcement. do not transfer your money to unknown persons

Do not transfer your money to other accounts through fake phone calls made on behalf of law enforcement agencies. This is being urged by the Cyber ​​Police of the Ministry of Internal Affairs.


“Recently, cases of fraud have become frequent, when unknown persons call or send messages (via WhatsApp, Viber and other platforms) pretending to be employees of the National Security Service, the Central Bank or various banks. Under various pretexts, they try to convince you to withdraw money from your bank accounts and transfer them to the accounts provided by them, often also in the form of crypto-assets.


Do not trust such calls or messages. If you receive such a call, immediately stop the conversation and contact the police of the Ministry of Internal Affairs.


Remember, no government agency or bank ever requires you to transfer your money to other accounts by phone. Vigilance is your best defense,” the message reads.

On May 28, Armenia will demonstrate new military equipment in Yerevan

Pictured is the Indian Pinaka MLRS acquired by Armenia, source: Wikimedia Commons

On May 28, the Republic Day, the Armenian government will organize a public exhibition of recently acquired military equipment in the capital’s main square. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan described the upcoming event not as a traditional military parade, but a unique public report to the citizens, while emphasizing the immutability of the country’s peace agenda.


In a briefing with journalists after the government meeting on March 26, the head of the executive confirmed that the final decision on the exhibition has already been made. Aware of the diplomatic subtlety of similar military reviews, Pashinyan emphasized that the Armenian leadership is actively engaged in explanatory work with international and regional partners. The main purpose of these contacts is to exclude any misunderstanding and not to allow the event to be interpreted as a rejection of the peace process by Yerevan.


The decision to hold a mass demonstration in the Republic Square replaces the initiative put forward earlier, which planned to pre-queue citizens to see the new arsenal. The prime minister explained that the unprecedented demand and the huge number of applications made the original plan unfeasible from a logistical point of view, and also created risks of spreading misinformation about the country’s modern defense capabilities. Announcing the scale of the upcoming event, Pashinyan expressed confidence that the display of modernized weapons will be a truly spectacular sight. For residents of Armenia.

Former and current employees of Vanadzor municipality were arrested

 


Arrests took place in Vanadzor community hall.  Anti-corruption committee reported the news.

From there, it was reported that 10 people were arrested within the framework of the proceedings initiated by the RA Anti-corruption Committee regarding cases of bribery, giving, group abuse of official powers and fraud, 7 of whom are former and current officials of the Vanadzor municipality. In the interests of the preliminary investigation, we cannot reveal any other details, NEWS.am reports.

Vardevan Grigoryan joins the “Offer to Armenia” program

Dear compatriots, being at the beginning of the establishment of the “Prosperous Armenia” party, coordinating the work of the party’s Shirak regional and Gyumri city councils for many years, being elected as a member of the National Assembly several times as a member of the “Prosperous Armenia” party, I express my unconditional support for the “Offer to Armenia” program initiated by Gagik Tsarukyan, because I am convinced that only with unity, public solidarity and joint work can the problems facing our country be solved.


As Gyumri M. Former rector of Nalbandyan State Pedagogical Institute, I have seen how Gagik Tsarukyan shows a unique attitude to student youth, sports world and all fields (education, science, art, spiritual life). The problems of the city of Gyumri were also not left out of Mr. Tsarukyan’s attention, some of which were solved with his direct patronage and support.


I call on all my former students of different generations and today’s student youth to participate in the discussion and strengthening of this program, because this is a unique platform to make everyone’s voice heard.

We have no right to be indifferent to the fate of our country.


Vardevan Grigoryan
Honored pedagogue of RA,
doctor of pedagogical sciences, professor




The SRC delegation took part in the meeting of the board of customs services of the Eurasian Economic Union

The delegation led by Hamlet Sahakyan, Deputy Chairman of the State Revenue Committee, participated in the 53rd session of the United Board of Customs Services of the Eurasian Economic Union member states in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. Delegations of the customs services of EAEU member states, led by their heads, took part in the meeting. 


During the session, 25 decisions were discussed and signed, which refer to various areas of customs affairs. In particular, the decisions related to making changes in the procedure for filling out the transit declaration, the practice of control of temporarily imported vehicles for personal use, the implementation of changes in Article 330 of the EAEU Customs Code, as well as problematic issues of interaction between the customs services of the EAEU member states.


Decisions were adopted regarding the application of the customs value declaration, the change of the data included in the declarations of goods after the omission of goods, as well as the classification of some goods in accordance with the unified product nomenclature of the external economic activity of the Eurasian Economic Union.


Decisions were also discussed and signed regarding the unified value indicators of risks, as well as the results of monitoring the customs declaration of goods implemented using them.


The next, 54th meeting of the joint collegium of the customs services of the member states of the Eurasian Economic Union will be held in the Republic of Kazakhstan in the 2nd quarter of 2026.

People who sold drugs illegally were arrested. the investigation is over

As a result of the investigative activities conducted during the preliminary investigation of the criminal proceedings initiated in the Main Department of the Investigative Committee of Armenia, as well as the operative-investigative measures implemented jointly with the NSS employees, the circumstances of the criminal proceedings initiated in connection with the cases of smuggling 20 kg of various types of narcotic drugs and later selling them to other persons in RA have been revealed, reports the Investigative Committee.

During the preliminary investigation, it was established that A.M., a resident of Yerevan, and Nakich H.D., a resident of Vanadzor, with a prior agreement, with the intention of illegally acquiring large quantities of narcotics by smuggling, on February 2, 2026, took the plastic packages containing narcotics transported to RA, placed them in the interior of the car, transported them to a hotel in Ararat Marz, and hid them. However, the latter were arrested by NSS officers.
A public criminal prosecution was initiated against A.M. and H.D. in accordance with Article 393, Part 3, Clause 2 of the Criminal Code (especially large amounts of narcotics, psychotropic (psychoactive) substances, their preparations or their equivalent substances (analogues) or their derivatives for the purpose of illegal trafficking or their illegal realization) and Article 46-399, Part 3 under item 2 (supporting smuggling of narcotic drugs, psychotropic (psychoactive) substances, their preparations, their equivalent substances (analogue) or their derivatives or their precursors, in particular in large quantities).

Arrest was applied to them as a preventive measure. The criminal proceedings were sent to the supervising prosecutor with an indictment.

Pashinyan, Koshta and von der Leyen will meet at the first RA-EU summit in Yerevan

2026 On May 4 and 5, the inaugural RA-EU summit will be held in Yerevan, at which the Republic of Armenia will be represented by Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, and the European Union will be represented by the President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, together with the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, the Foreign Ministry reports.


Ahead of the summit, Presidents Kosta and von der Leyen will also attend the 2026 Summit. at the 8th Summit of the European Political Community to be held on May 4 in Yerevan.


The focus of the RA-EU summit will be on the strengthening of bilateral relations, particularly in the fields of economy, energy, transport, digital, people-to-people contacts. The leaders will also discuss progress towards peace, security, connectivity and prosperity in the South Caucasus, as well as current global challenges.

Verelq: The RA Deputy Foreign Minister met with the State Secretary of the German Foreign Ministry

On March 26, within the framework of the 7th Global Meeting of the Mountainous Partnership held in Andorra, RA Deputy Foreign Minister Robert Abisoghomoyan had a meeting with the Secretary of State of the German Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Bernard Kotch.


The interlocutors discussed issues of the bilateral agenda between Armenia and Germany, highly appreciating the existing positive dynamics. In this context, the importance of promoting cooperation and implementation of common projects in the field of economy and green energy was emphasized.


Regional security issues were discussed during the meeting. RA Deputy Foreign Minister Robert Abisoghomoyan presented to his colleague the steps aimed at the further institutionalization of the established peace. Thoughts were also exchanged on the situation in the Middle East.


The interlocutors highly appreciated the cooperation formed between the two countries in multilateral platforms and international organizations, emphasizing its further expansion.


Thoughts were also exchanged regarding the activities and possible cooperation ahead of the 17th conference of the UN Convention on Biological Diversity to be held in Armenia this year. Deputy Foreign Minister Robert Abisoghomoyan presented the vision of RA regarding the organization of the Conference aimed at ensuring the full and meaningful participation of all interested parties in discussions related to biodiversity.

Asbarez: ARF Washington DC Celebrates 100 Years of Dedication

In 2026, the Armenian Revolutionary Federation Sebouh Gomideh proudly marked 100 years of service to the Armenian community of Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia. For a full century, the Sebouh Gomideh has stood as a pillar of organized Armenian communal life in the Greater Washington area, dedicated to preserving Armenian identity, advancing the Armenian Cause, strengthening community institutions, and preparing future generations for lives of service, leadership, and national commitment.

The Armenian Revolutionary Federation, founded in 1890 in Tiflis (now Tbilisi, Georgia), is one of the most significant and influential Armenian political organizations worldwide. Established to defend the rights of Armenians and to fight for freedom and self-determination, the ARF played a historic role in the Armenian national liberation movement and the defense of the Armenian people.

In Washington DC, the ARF chapter became known as the Sebouh Gomideh, named in honor of Commander Sebouh (Arshak Nersesian), one of the most respected leaders of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Known for his courage, leadership, and unwavering dedication to the Armenian people, Commander Sebouh embodied the spirit of sacrifice and resilience that continues to define the Gomideh today.

Established in 1926, the Sebouh Gomideh has faithfully served the Armenian-American community of the region for generations. Over the past century, it has remained deeply committed to community building and to Hai Tahd (the Armenian Cause). Its work has included advocacy for the recognition of the Armenian Genocide, efforts to strengthen U.S.–Armenia relations, and steadfast support for Armenia and Artsakh. Through demonstrations, commemorations, educational initiatives, and community engagement, the Gomideh has consistently raised awareness of Armenian issues while strengthening the voice of the Armenian-American community.

At the same time, the Gomideh has helped cultivate a vibrant Armenian communal life rooted not only in political advocacy, but also in faith, culture, youth development, education, and service.

A defining strength of the Sebouh Gomideh has always been its close partnership with its sister and allied organizations, each of which play a vital role in sustaining Armenian communal life. Together, these organizations form the backbone of the Armenian community in the Greater Washington region.

Among them is the Armenian Relief Society Satenig DC Chapter, whose humanitarian and social service mission has long addressed the needs of Armenians in the homeland and throughout the diaspora. Through charitable initiatives, family support, and programs that empower women and strengthen communities, the ARS has been an indispensable force for compassion and solidarity.

Homenetmen DC, the Armenian athletic and scouting organization, has shaped generations of youth through athletics, discipline, teamwork, leadership, and service. Its programs have instilled pride, resilience, and a strong sense of Armenian identity among countless young members of the community.

Hamazkayin DC, the Armenian educational and cultural organization, has played a vital role in preserving and promoting Armenian heritage through literature, music, theater, and the arts. Through cultural events and educational initiatives, Hamazkayin continues to nurture creativity while safeguarding Armenian cultural traditions across generations.

The Sebouh Gomideh also works with the Armenian Youth Federation DC Ani Seniors and Sevan Juniors, the youth organization of the ARF. Through educational seminars, athletic programs, cultural events, and activism, the AYF prepares the next generation of Armenian leaders while strengthening young Armenians’ connection to their heritage and community.

Likewise, the Armenian Youth Center of Greater Washington has emerged as a vital hub of Armenian communal life, providing a welcoming space for education, athletics, culture, and social connection for youth and families throughout the region.

The Armenian National Committee of America, the leading grassroots advocacy organization representing Armenian-American interests, has also remained a key partner in advancing Armenian policy priorities and mobilizing community engagement in pursuit of justice and national interests.

Together, the ARF and its sister and allied organizations have played an essential role in supporting the broader institutional life of the community – particularly its churches and schools. They have consistently supported Soorp Khatch Armenian Apostolic Church and St. Mary Armenian Church, recognizing the central role of the Church in preserving faith, identity, moral values, and communal unity.

They have likewise supported Armenian education through institutions such as Hamasdegh Armenian Sunday School, Shnorhali Armenian Sunday School, and the Baltimore Armenian School, understanding that Armenian schools are indispensable to the transmission of language, history, heritage, and national consciousness to younger generations.

Looking ahead, the Sebouh Gomideh remains firmly committed to continuing this noble mission for generations to come. While honoring a proud century of service, the organization looks forward with renewed energy and determination to strengthening Armenian identity, expanding community institutions, and deepening engagement among the next generation of Armenian-Americans.

Together with its sister and allied organizations, the Gomideh will continue to support Armenian churches, schools, youth programs, and cultural institutions while advocating for Armenian national interests and advancing the Armenian Cause.

As the ARF Sebouh Gomideh enters its second century of service, it invites members of the community, friends, and supporters of the Armenian Cause to remain engaged in the mission that has strengthened Armenian life in Greater Washington for generations.

The continued vitality of the Armenian community depends on the collective participation and support of its members. Those interested in learning more about the activities of the ARF Sebouh Gomideh, becoming involved in community initiatives, or supporting its work are encouraged to connect with the organization.

For inquiries or to get involved, please contact [email protected].

To support the ongoing work of the ARF Sebouh Gomideh and its community initiatives, please visit the ARF DC website.

Together, with the support of the community, the ARF Sebouh Gomideh looks forward to continuing its service to the Armenian people and the Armenian Cause for generations to come.

https://asbarez.com/washington-dc-arf-celebrates-100th-anniversary/?fbclid=IwY2xjawQzAr1leHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeO8pjDU6yu5Y6NzWQpOa0CCtjxGoXn8mKMGQnlgr2KcxWFwug-uRdrZ-0it4_aem__5nAmBLtUJ7jM2fz96tAcA