Month: June 2005

AZG Armenian Daily #120, 30/06/2005
Visit
AMBASSADOR OF SOUTH KOREA IN ARMENIA
Kim Je Sob, ambassador of South Korea to the Russian Federation,
arrived in Yerevan to hand his credentials to Robert Kocharian, RA
President. The delegation he led visited the consulate of Korea. There
they got acquainted with Armen Abrahamian, consul-general of Korea to
Armenia. The ambassador said that they are only starting to establish
relations between Armenia and South Korea. He emphasized the importance
of developing the economic relations between two countries.
RA citizens have to leave for Moscow for departing to Korea and
get their visas confirmed there. This procedure takes too much time
and money. Ambassador Kim Je Sob promised that they will do their
best to solve that issue and make the entry to South Korea for RA
citizens easier. As for the activities of Abrahamian, consul-general
of South Korea in Armenia, the ambassador said the following: “The
government of our country gave that position to Mr. Abrahamian. We
are very impressed and thankful to him for what he does. He spares
no efforts to strengthen the relations between our countries and we
are sure that he will continue working very well.”
The delegation of diplomats from Korea will be present at sports
arrangements, meet with the students of the Yerevan State Linguistic
University as well as RA education and science minister. The South
Korean diplomats will also visit historic places of Armenia.
By L. Martirosian

ECONOMIC RELATIONS WITH SOUTH KOREA START WITH LEARNING ITS LANGUAGE AND CULTURE
AZG Armenian Daily #120, 30/06/2005
Cooperation
The coming academic year will add a new subject – Korean – to the
curriculum of Yerevan State Linguistic University after Valeri
Brusov. On this occasion, a delegation headed by ambassador of
South Korea to Russia and Armenia, Kim Je Sob, accompanied by South
Korean council-general to Armenia, Armen Abrahamian, visited the
university. The ambassador took part in the scientific council
of the university, talked about Korean culture and language and
Armenian-Korean cooperation in the sphere of higher education.
The South Korean government has prioritized the promotion of Korean
language, literature and culture in different countries of the world.
Growing interest in Korean language made Russian authorities open a
faculty of Korean Studies in St. Petersburg University, along with
the one functioning at Moscow University.
The ambassador pointed out that Korean is a peculiar language, with
no resemblance to Chinese and no kin to Japanese. He is sure that
students will easily command his mother tongue, which has only 24
letters created by Ly Dynasty in 14th century.
Rector of the university, Suren Zolyan, presented the ambassador
with the university’s medal as well as books on educational system
of Armenia and the university itself. The rector underscored that
economic relations begin with learning the language and the culture
of the country. Before arriving in Armenia, the education minister of
South Korea told the ambassador that necessary equipment for Korean
classes are bound to arrive in Armenia and the lecturer of Korean
will land in Yerevan in September.
The fact that optional classes of Chinese drew enormous number of
students last year allows the university administration to hope for
the same boom at the Korean classes. The optional classes of Chinese
will grow this year into a department of Chinese Studies.
The university administration has already chosen the first student,
Zaruhi Soghomonian, to depart for South Korea on July 30-August 11
together with other students form 6 countries to get acquainted with
the countries historic-cultural values and educational system.
In a conversation with journalists, Kim Je Sob shared with his
impressions of the first Armenian visit and talked about development
of Armenian-Korean relations at the present stage. “We have wonderful
prospects for the future and will do everything to establish mutually
beneficial cooperation between the states. We have focused particularly
on the spheres of trade, economy and technological development”,
the ambassador said.
The ambassador has relished pleasant weather, tasty fruits and dishes,
beautiful women and people’s kindness and warmth.
By Ruzan Poghosian
From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress

The Daily News, Lebanon
June 30 2005
Speaker’s re-appointment draws waves of congratulations
By Karine Raad
Daily Star staff
Thursday, June 30, 2005
BEIRUT: The re-election of Nabih Berri to serve a record fourth term
as parliamentary speaker by the newly formed anti-Syrian Parliament
generated a wave of congratulatory reactions by several supporting
forces. However, one unsuccessful candidate in the parliamentary
elections, Ahmad Karami, criticized Berri’s re-election, stressing
that the anti-Syria Parliament eventually elected a pro-Syria
speaker.
“The first treat was given to Speaker Nabih Berri, and the second
will be the release of the Lebanese Forces leader Samir Geagea from
prison in July,” he said.
The Karamis strongly oppose the release of Geagea, who was accused of
assassinating former Prime Minister Rashid Karami, brother of former
Prime Minister Omar Karami, in 1987.
Meanwhile, Hasbaya-Marjayoun MP Anwar Khalil praised Berri’s speech
during Tuesday’s session after the speaker pledged to introduce
national and comprehensive reforms.
Khalil said Berri’s vows are a turning point in Parliament’s work
because they aim to promote public life and national participation,
in addition to implementing the principle of accountability.
“The concept of reform preached by Berri is a natural development of
his national stands and a promise to restructure the state on
national grounds based on the Constitution and the National Consensus
Pact known as the Taif Accord,” the MP added.
Khalil applauded Berri’s honesty, stressing that the parliamentary
elections incarnated the full partnership between public opinion and
the current Parliament.
“The Resistance, Liberation and Development Bloc will seek to
preserve this partnership not just in South Lebanon but across
Lebanon,” Khalil said.
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Despite being the sole candidate for the post, Berri won 90 votes out
of 128.
The speaker received 36 blank ballots, one MP voted for MP Bassem
Sabaa, a member of key opposition leader Walid Jumblatt’s
parliamentary bloc, whereas former Deputy Speaker Michel Murr left
Parliament before voting started.
On the occasion, the Ramgavar president Hagop Kassardjian urged
Parliament officials to grant the Armenian confession its rights to
access the Cabinet and chair a parliamentary committee just like
other confessions in the country.
Kassardjian congratulated Berri on his victory, pledging to cooperate
with the speaker through the Hariri-backed Future Bloc “to identify
the instigators, planners, perpetrators and accomplices in the
assassination of former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri and MP Bassel
Fleihan and in the assassination attempt against MP Marwan Hamade.”
Festivities marking Berri’s re-election continued on Wednesday.
In Baalbek, the Amal movement’s representative in the Bekaa, Mohammad
Jibawi, said this victory will be used to continue the work of the
resistance in a bid to free the land and consolidate national unity
and reconciliation.
In Hermel, mukhtars cabled Berri to congratulate him while convoys of
the Amal movement patrolled the streets honking out of joy.
Speaking from Nabatieh, MP Ali Bazzi described Berri as the “security
valve of the country,” stressing that the speaker’s speech will be
the Parliament’s program in the coming phase.
He highlighted the importance of promoting national unity, calling
for transcending bickering and striving to serve the country’s
interests.
From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress

PRESS OFFICE
Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern)
630 Second Avenue, New York, NY 10016
Contact: Fr. Untzag Nalbandian
Tel: (212) 686-0710 Ext. 21; Fax: (212) 779-3558
E-mail: [email protected]
Website:
June 29, 2005
___________________
ANNUAL GRADUATION AND AZKATROSHM CEREMONIES AT SAINT VARTAN CATHEDRAL
FOR KHRIMIAN LYCEUM: “THE JEWEL OF THE DIOCESE”
In 1898 on the occasion of the establishment of the Diocese of the
Armenian Church of America the Catholicos Khrimian Hayrig in his
encyclical advised the Diocese of the Armenian Church of America to take
care of the religious and cultural needs of the Armenian people living
outside their fatherland. The Jewel of the Diocese the “Khrimian Lyceum”
is the perfect example of the many achievements of our Church in this
role.
Saturday, June 11, 2005 was an exciting day for all those who are
involved and interested in the Khrimian Lyceum work and accomplishments.
At 4:30 am the plaza of the Church and the sidewalks were filled with
proud parents, curious guests and happy student who had come to take
part in the “Graduation” and “Azkatroshm” Ceremonies.
The “Azkatroshm” ceremonies started with “Oorakh Lehr” by Maro
Partamian, the international opera singer as well as one of the
instructors at the Khrimian Lyceum, accompanied by the organist Florence
Avakian, while the former Primate of England Archbishop Yeghisheh
Gizirian and his entourage entered the church. The Alumni member of the
Khrimian walked down the aisle holding silver plates with the
certificates, gold charms and flowers and stood on both sides of the
alter ready for the ceremonies.
In her opening remarks Mrs. Shakeh Kadehjian, the Mistress of
ceremonies, said: “The Khrimian Lyceum, established in 1987 by the
Diocesan ALLARC, is an extensive Six-year Program for the graduates of
Armenian schools from 12 to 18 years old. It aims to prepare them to be
well-rounded and knowledgeable leaders, teachers administrators of the
Armenian churches and various communities. The Diocesan Khrimian Lyceum
aspires to be an Ivy League type of an Armenian private institution
where Armenian school graduates, with common interests learn in a highly
friendly, formal and intellectual environment. The curriculum requires
from the, along the formal courses, a selection of particular community
services and internships as well as extracurricular activities such as;
computer skills, one-day symposiums on various subjects, educational
tours, art & crafts, chorale, orchestra, dance, choir, drama and book
club, organization of the annual “Gala des Amateurs”, reading of the
Holy Scriptures and singing Badarak on Christmas & Easter eves and on
Tarkmantchats day, the official opening day of the Armenian Schools, as
well as Christmas Tea party, Strawberry Festival, A Touch of Class
Dinner, and a series of awards: Role Model, Abrik and Perfect
attendance.
The Khrimian Lyceum graduates are also required to participate in the
Four Eight-Day Accredited Summer programs of the Diocese. Participants
learn the mechanics of working in various communities, the process of
organizing cultural and religious programs for all ages, as well as the
specific areas of academic discipline. Their training includes teaching
the various grades and organizing educational, religious and cultural
programs.
After her remarks, the Instructors of (Naruhntchakooyn Tasaran): Shakeh
Kedehjian and Karine Barsoumian called upon each Azkasans/sanoohies and
Azkahayrs/mayrs to come forward to pledge and receive blessings of
Surpazan Hayr. The students were; Apanossian Anita, Aiazian Sharis,
Aydin Talar, Barikian Gabrielle, Babikian Armine, Chahinian Philippe,
Dabaghian Lori, Esenyan Sibyl, Hamparsoumian Gayane, Kudyan Haig,
Krikorian Markrete, Keurian Ani, Mikaelian Tamar, Nigdelian Taline,
Oganisyan Nareg and Panoyian Ani.
Archbishop Yeghishe Gizirian, Rev. Fr. Untzag Nalbandian, Director of
the Department of Youth and Education, and Deacon Levon Kirakosyan of
St. Vartan Cathedral performed the three parts “Azkatroshm” ceremony.
1. The Presentation: Each student “azkasan/sanouhy” accompanied by
his/her in this case “azkahayr and azkamayr” (equivalent to
godfather/godmother) were presented to Surpazan Hayr. After installing
the “Stole of Duties” on their azkasans/sanouhis’ shoulders, they
requested that he blessed them so that, with the Grace of the Holy
Spirit, they become the worthy children of the Armenian Church and
Armenian Nation. After the presentation, the Askahayrs received the
Primate’s Certificate of Merit and Azkamayrs red roses, for accepting to
take the responsibility of the Religious and Cultural education of their
azkasans/sanouhies.
2. the Pledge: The students pledged to be faithful to their Armenian
Faith and Armenian Nation.
3. the Blessings: Special prayers from “Mashdots” book were said. Each
azkasan/sanouhy received medallions called “Az-ka-nuh-shans” a golden
charm representing the Map of Armenia and a Cross right where Holy
Etchmiadzin is, as a reminder of their nation and faith. They also
received the Certificate of Merit of the Khrimian Lyceum for attending
the first three year courses and completing their internship.
The Second part of the program was devoted to students who completed the
Khrimian Lyceum studies and will be heading to prestigious
Colleges/Universities; Armagan Ari, Baydar Jacqueline, Kherlopian Ani,
Kayserian Andrew, Manoukian Lori, Minassian Christine, Nalbandian Ani,
and Nisanyan Lori.
Lucy Martayian, Instructor of the graduating class (Yerevan Tasaran)
spoke about the Vision of Mesrob Mashdots, who 1600 years ago invented
the Armenian Alphabet and gave us the “Golden Age of Armenia” for which
we are all so proud. She praised the students for their achievements and
encouraged them to continue to learn, to be involved in their Armenian
communities and touch the heart and mind of every single Armenian and
promote the Armenian riches.
Prof. James Jacobson, Chairman of the Educational Department of St.
Peter’s College and the Director of the Khrimian Lyceum presented to
each graduate a letter from St. Peter’s College attesting their hard
work and achievements.
The Primate’s gifts, The “Stole Of Duty” and the prayer book “Nareg”,
were presented to them as a reminder of their duties towards their
Armenian Nation and their Armenian Church and the power of prayers.
On behalf of the Graduates, Lori Manoukian, the assistant coordinator
and recipient of the “Role Model” award spoke in Armenian and Lori
Nisanyan in English. They both thanked the Primate for supporting
Khrimian Lyceum and encouraging the students in their endeavors. Then
they recited poems thanking their parents for helping them to go to an
Armenian School and enrich their knowledge by attending the Khrimian
Lyceum.
Archbishop Yeghisheh Gizirian, impressed by the participants
seriousness, gave his fatherly advice and encouraged them to be the
active leaders of the Armenian Church and Communities and remain
concerned with the well being of their Nation and people.”
After the singing of Hayr Mer the ceremonies ended with a joyful note
with cymbals and music of “Sion”. Group pictures were taken after which
the Clergy, graduates, instructors and parents headed to Waldorf Astoria
Hotel, on Park Avenue, NY, to celebrate The Special Day Of The Khrimian
Lyceum with a sumptuous dinner at the beautifully decorated “Bull and
Bear” restaurant.
“I cannot explain my feelings, I don’t know what to say, but today the
ceremonies touched me. I know this will last in me forever. I promise
you to bring all my children to Khrimian Lyceum. I want them to get this
memorable experience in participating in this impressive and moving
ceremony. I am certain that our youngsters will always remember this day
that was so tastefully and meaningfully organized” said one of the
Azkahayrs/Azkamayrs, with tears of happiness and pride for belonging to
a Nation that could survive, because of its committed sons/daughters, to
a Nation that is ready to take-up the challenges of the third
millennium. These feelings were shared by all mothers, fathers,
azkahayrs/mayrs and guests.
E-mail photos available on request. Photos also viewable in the News
and Events section of the Eastern Diocese’s website,
PHOTO CAPTION (1): The graduates
PHOTO CAPTION (2): The graduates
PHOTO CAPTION (3): Krimian Lyceum graduates with Abp. Yeghishe Gizirian
and Fr. Untzag Nalbandian
PHOTO CAPTION (4): Participants of “Azkatrosh” ceremony
# # #
From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress

ASBAREZ ONLINE
TOP STORIES
06/29/2005
TO ACCESS PREVIOUS ASBAREZ ONLINE EDITIONS PLEASE VISIT OUR
WEBSITE AT <;HTTP:// 1) Lennmarker Report on OSCE Parliamentary Agenda 2) EU Commission Seeks Membership for Turkey 3) Oskanian Keynote Speaker at Haigazian University~Rs 50th Anniversary 4) President Kocharian Meets with Armenia-2020 Program Board Members 5) Spiritual Leader of German Churches Expresses Support for Armenian Genocide Recognition 1) Lennmarker Report on OSCE Parliamentary Agenda Armenian delegation head calls rapportuer~Rs assessments ~Qaccurate, balanced, and healthy.~R COPENHAGEN (Combined Sources)--The OSCE~Rs (Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe) rapporteur on Mountainous Karabagh is expected to present his report on the Karabagh conflict to the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly meeting in Washington, DC, July 1-5. Rapporteur Goren Lennmarker~Rs report proposes that Mountainous Karabagh become a part of Armenia. Nearly three-hundred parliamentarians from the OSCE~Rs fifty-five participating States are expected to debate the issue. The head of Armenia's delegation to OSCE Vahan Hovhannissian stressed that although certain points concerning refugees and seizure of territories have been transferred from previous reports, he called Lennmarker's report, "accurate, balanced, and healthy." Hovhannisian, who is also the Deputy Chairman of the Armenian National Assembly and a member of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation~Rs Bureau, will be in Washington for the session. Hovhannisian commended the report on two grounds. He first noted that it provides a fresh perspective, unlike previous reports. "Lennmarker presents MKR's stance on the issue--meaning, he views the conflict not as one between Armenia and Azerbaijan. He accepts MKR as a side to the conflict, and seeks Karabagh's viewpoint and expectations on a resolution." Hovhannisian said Lennmarker's suggestion to join MKR to Armenia is the second vital difference. Hovhannisian also commended Lennmarker's insistence that the fundamental cause of the conflict is MKR's status. "He clearly grasps the fact that Azerbaijan's arguments concerning refugees and seizure of territories are secondary." Lennmarker, nevertheless, opposes both recognition of Mountainous Karabagh Republic and questions its return to Azeri rule, assessing the latter as an "unbearable burden on Azerbaijan." Lennmarker argues that the international community is not ready to accept the possible independence of the many small ethnic populations throughout the South Caucusus, fearing the emergence of secessionist movements throughout the region. Addressing the concerns of the conflicting sides, Lennmarker says that for Armenia, the issue is one of national security, explaining that being subjected to Ottoman, Russian, and Soviet rule has greatly affected its national psyche about security and defenselessness. He says that the fundamental problem for Azerbaijan is the feeling of injustice--that the majority of the country is "occupied," and there exist one million refugees. Lennmarker proposes the formation of a joint commission on truth and reconciliation in order to come up with solutions that satisfy both sides. His report clearly calls for the opening of all borders, as well as third party intervention from countries to ensure the security of both sides, a high-level of democracy, the freedom of movement of citizens, as well as economic integration. Hovhannisian revealed that in opposition to Lennmarker's report, the Azeri delegation to the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly has submitted an ~Sineffective~T supplemental resolution that will be reviewed at the upcoming session. The resolution can be placed on agenda only with the approval of the Standing Committee, and the General Committee, which is composed of delegation heads. 2) EU Commission Seeks Membership for Turkey BRUSSELS (Reuters)--The EU's executive Commission reaffirmed on Wednesday that it aims to bring Turkey into the 25-nation bloc, but not before 2014, adopting a draft mandate to start negotiations despite fierce internal and public debate. "The negotiations will be based on Turkey's own merits and the pace will depend on Turkey's progress in meeting the requirements for membership," said a draft negotiating mandate adopted on Wednesday as the basis for accession talks. "The shared objective of the negotiations is accession." The negotiations are scheduled to start on October 3, as agreed last December by EU leaders, provided the bloc's 25 foreign ministers unanimously approve the mandate by then. The document states that negotiations for Turkish European Union membership can only be concluded from 2014, after the bloc's next long-term budget which runs from 2007 to 2013. Growing public skepticism about Turkey's bid, especially in western Europe, was reflected in a tough political debate inside the 25-member EU executive on the terms and timing of the "negotiating framework". EU Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn was more than two hours late for a news conference to announce that the Commission had adopted the mandate and told reporters: "We had a lengthy, argumentative and also very political debate. Some Commissioners had argued the mandate should contain wording allowing for Turkey to be granted only a "privileged partnership" with the EU rather then membership, he said, although in the end no such language was included. "STICK TO OUR WORD" Commission sources said Luxembourg's commissioner, Viviane Reding, had led a small group arguing against full membership and had questioned the need to adopt a mandate now. She was backed to a lesser extent by Charlie McCreevy of Ireland, Benita Ferrero-Waldner of Austria and Jan Figel of Slovakia, the sources said. But Rehn prevailed, noting that EU leaders had reaffirmed unanimously their commitment to accession talks at a summit just two weeks ago, after the French and Dutch referendums rejecting the EU constitution, in which hostility to Turkish membership was a factor. "The European Union has made commitments to Turkey...We stick to our word," he said. "Europe needs a stable democratic and prosperous Turkey. It is in our own strategic interests." However, he said he fully expected an impassioned public debate about Turkey in which the issue of full membership versus "privileged partnership" would be aired for years to come. The Commission called on EU governments to launch a debate on Turkey's relationship with Europe. A growing number of centre-right leaders in western Europe, including the likely next German chancellor, Angela Merkel, and a top presidential contender in France, Nicolas Sarkozy, oppose Turkish entry and favor the "privileged partnership" option. But Britain, which takes over the EU's rotating presidency on Friday for six months and will chair the start of accession talks, is a staunch advocate of Turkish membership. Commissioner Peter Mandelson led the pro-Turkey camp in the Commission debate, the sources said. Rehn called the negotiating framework "rigorous," and highlighted its demands that Turkey develops better relations with its neighbors--notably Cyprus, divided since 1974 into Greek and Turkish Cypriot communities, and Armenia, with which it has no diplomatic relations and a sealed border. He said Turkey had been working constructively to improve ties with Cyprus, although more needed to be done with the eventual aim of reunifying the island. "So far we have not succeeded. I don't take any sides on this issue, I work for a solution," he said, adding that he would emphasize Cyprus in the Commission's next regular report on Turkey's progress to membership, due on November 9. 3) Oskanian Keynote Speaker at Haigazian University~Rs 50th Anniversary YEREVAN (Armenpress)--Foreign minister Vartan Oskanian will serve as keynote speaker for the celebrations dedicated to the 50th anniversary of the Beirut-based Armenian Haigazian University. During his three-day visit, Oskanian will meet with Lebanon~Rs top government officials, as well as with family members of the late former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri. Oskanian is also scheduled to meet with Catholicos Aram I, Haigazian University faculty, and members of the local Armenian community. Haigazian University was established in 1955 as a liberal arts institution of higher learning using English as the language of instruction. It offers the Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts degrees. All three are recognized by the Lebanese government and the Association of International Colleges and Universities. Supported by the Armenian Evangelical community, Haigazian University strives to offer quality education at a fair and affordable cost. The University also prepares educated, professional citizens with a sense of social responsibility and leadership skills that empower them to rise to the challenges of the future. 4) President Kocharian Meets with Armenia-2020 Program Board Members YEREVAN (Armenpress)--President Robert Kocharian met on Tuesday with Armenia 2020 Project Coordination Board members Nubar Afeyan and Ruben Vardanian to discuss the project's main objectives, as well as the results of recent activities. Armenia 2020 is a scenario-building initiative that focuses on the identification of alternative development models for the Republic of Armenia until the year 2020 and the elaboration of development scenarios for the country. The Board Members presented Kocharian with various development schemes already underway in the fields of health, jewelry, and diamond-cutting. To sum up the results of three years~R activities and to define possible ways for further development, the Board members informed the President of Armenia 2020~Rs fourth gathering with over 300 participants. The two-day conference in Yerevan, September 19-20, will be attended by a number Armenian officials, public activists, political, business, cultural leaders and intellectuals concerned with the role they can play in building a prosperous future for their homeland. The first day of the conference will be a working session with a limited number of participants. Participants will hold roundtable discussions on the results of key sphere studies, as well as to define the next steps for the Project. The second day of the conference will summarize the results of the previous day~Rs discussions. Armenia 2020~Rs goals are to contribute to Armenia's future strategic assumptions, development formulating through collaborative discussion teams; create a wider shared view of future possibilities, through public deliberation on potential long-term development models for Armenia; and create robust decisions in the face of uncertainty. 5) Spiritual Leader of German Churches Expresses Support for Armenian Genocide Recognition ANTELIAS (Armenpress)--In a letter to His Holiness Aram I, the spiritual leader of the German Protestant Church, Bishop Wolfgang Huber affirmed his full support for the recognition of the Armenian genocide and has promised to exert efforts in this direction. Bishop Huber informed the Catholicos about the work carried out by the German Churches for the recognition of the Armenian genocide, ensuring him that the churches he presides over will pursue their efforts. ~SMost recently the German Parliament accepted a common statement on the issue. It does not fulfill all expectations but can be seen as a step in the right direction~EI tell you this in order to assure you, that EKD and myself will try to do what we can to intensify the process of recognition of the Armenian Genocide and to encourage a process of reconciliation between the Armenian and the Turkish people,~T he said. Bishop Huber is a personal friend of His Holiness Aram I. The Catholicos had written to him a month ago, requesting his support in the efforts for the recognition of the Armenian genocide by Germany. The German Bundestag adopted a resolution lately condemning the Armenian atrocities and apologizing for the role played by Germany in them. All subscription inquiries and changes must be made through the proper carrier and not Asbarez Online. ASBAREZ ONLINE does not transmit address changes and subscription requests. (c) 2005 ASBAREZ ONLINE. All Rights Reserved. ASBAREZ provides this news service to ARMENIAN NEWS NETWORK members for academic research or personal use only and may not be reproduced in or through mass media outlets.

Armenian Assembly of America
1140 19th Street, NW, Suite 600
Washington, DC 20036
Phone: 202-393-3434
Fax: 202-638-4904
Email: [email protected]
Web:
 
PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 29, 2005
CONTACT: Christine Kojoian
Email: [email protected]
SENATE FOREIGN AID PANEL APPROVES $75 MILLION FOR ARMENIA
Assembly Hails Leadership of Majority Whip McConnell
Washington, DC – The Senate State, Foreign Operations Appropriations
Subcommittee today approved $75 million in assistance to Armenia
for Fiscal Year (FY) 2006 – an increase of $20 million over the
Administration’s request and nearly $8 million more than the House
request. The Subcommittee also approved $3 million in humanitarian
assistance to Nagorno Karabakh.
In addition, the overall funding level for the former Soviet states
was increased to $565 million, up from the Administration’s request
of $482 million and the House allocation of $477 million.
“We commend the leadership of Majority Whip Mitch McConnell (R-KY),
the Subcommittee’s Chairman, for securing – under very challenging
budget restraints – the same level of assistance for Armenia as
was allocated in FY 2005,” said Assembly Executive Director Bryan
Ardouny. “Additionally, we appreciate the support of Members of the
Subcommittee with respect to Armenian issues. Maintaining significant
aid to Armenia is essential in the face of the ongoing Turkish and
Azerbaijani blockades.”
Today’s action also allocated $5 million in Foreign Military Financing
and $750,000 for International Military Education and Training to
Armenia as requested by the Administration. These funds will improve
inter-operability between Armenia’s military and its Western partners,
upgrade Armenia’s communication systems and better its personnel
training.
The bill’s report language also addressed the political and
economic development of Nagorno Karabakh and offered its support for
confidence-building measures to further the peaceful resolution of
the NK conflict.
Armenia’s neighbors, Georgia and Azerbaijan, are slated to receive
$70.5 million and $38 million respectively.
The spending measure will be considered later this week by full Senate
Appropriations Committee.
In a related development, the House of Representatives last night
approved its version of the Foreign Operations bill by a vote of
393 to 32. The House bill provides $67.5 million for Armenia and an
additional $5 million for Nagorno Karabakh and maintains military
assistance parity between Armenia and Azerbaijan with $5.75 million
allocated to each country. Once the Senate completes action on their
version of the bill, a joint House-Senate Conference Committee will
reconcile the differences.
The Armenian Assembly of America is the largest Washington-based
nationwide organization promoting public understanding and awareness of
Armenian issues. It is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt membership organization.
NR#2005-073
–Boundary_(ID_kx+k8R5Q3GtQBt413mpKew)–

Euro-reporters.com, Belgium
June 29 2005
Rich Europe’s Turkic animosity
Written by Brussels journalist David Ferguson
Wednesday, 29 June 2005
“I hope that at least one Member State in the Council will pull
the emergency chord and stop this proposal by the Commission,” said
Christian Democrat MEP Elmar Brok, speaking just after the European
Commission presented its framework for negotiating EU membership with
Turkey. Brok, along with other conservative MEPs from rich older Member
States like France and the Netherlands, believes the Commission has not
understood the Zeitgeist. “Today’s decision by the Commission on Turkey
shows that the Commission has not recognised what its job is, which
is to lead the European Union out of its current crisis,” said Brok,
who is chair of the European Parliament Foreign Affairs Committee.
If Turkey fulfills the preliminary conditions, that include recognizing
Cyprus, then talks with Ankara could start as early 3 October. Unless,
that is European leaders, pushed by an ever louder chorus of
politicians, decide otherwise. “Turkey is our partner and must have
a European perspective,” continued Brok. “But it is dangerous to lead
either Turkey or the people of the European Union to believe that what
was being negotiated from October 3 onwards was full EU membership.”
“The main point in common behind the no victories in France and the
Netherlands was popular animosity to the Turkish candidacy. Everyone
knows that this sentiment is shared more or less in half a dozen
other Member States,” added French MEP Alain Lamassoure from the
conservative UMP party.
Fellow UMP MEP, Françoise Grossetête says she was always against Turkey
joining citing the Armenian genocide, torture and lack of democracy,
and the non-recognition of Cyprus. “The results of the referendum
in France and the Netherlands clearly showed that European citizens
wanted a pause in the enlargement process and a majority of them were
against the entry of Turkey,” said Grossetête, who is vice-president
of the Christian Democrat EPP group in the Parliament.
The draft framework for negotiating with Turkey, leaked earlier this
week to Brussels journalists, talks of “accession” being the “shared
objective”. Negotiations will last a minimum of ten years but there’s
no membership guarantee. Ankara will also be committed to the eventual
adoption of the euro. And even if negotiations are successful, Turkey
will not join before the next long-term EU budget starts in 2014.
Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn, who last week told MEPs that
“enlargement had been stretched to its limits”, admitted negotiations
will be long and difficult but beneficial: “We all know that it will
be a long and difficult journey and we have to take into account the
concerns of citizens,” Rehn said, whilst presenting the negotiating
framework.
“It is in Europe’s interest to have a stable, democratic, prosperous
Turkey that adopts and implements all EU values, policies and
standards,” continued Rehn. “The opening of the accession negotiations
is a recognition of the reforms already achieved in Turkey. It gives
this country a chance to demonstrate, through a fair and rigorous
negotiation process, whether it is able to meet fully all the criteria
required to join the EU.”
Following Dutch and French rejection of the proposed European
constitution, a growing number of mostly conservative politicians from
richer old Member States want enlargement frozen for Turkey. “We
must hold up enlargement at least until institutions have been
modernised. Europe cannot enlarge for ever,” said French Interior
Minister Nicolas Sarkozy on Monday. Angela Merkel, the German Christian
Democrat leader likely to take over from Chancellor Gerhard Schröder
after September elections, is also against Ankara’s EU membership.
Even European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso admits things
are different now. “We should seriously discuss the signals sent by
the electorate regarding Turkey. We need the support of Member States
and citizens for the enlargement of the European Union,” said European
Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso, speaking last week. “We need
a frank discussion on this matter. It would be mistake not to look
at this issue seriously.” Even Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn,
speaking last week to MEPs, said enlargement had “been stretched to
its limits”.
Ankara is under immense pressure to finally carry through on economic
and political reforms as well as expand its customs union with the
EU to include all ten new Member States, including Cyprus. Turkish
officials, however, are still talking of an additional declaration
to the Ankara Protocol on customs union stating the document does
not entail Turkish recognition of Cyprus.
If Turkey is not compliant, Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn is
ready with an emergency clause. “We have taken into account the lesson
learned from previous enlargement and focused less on commitments and
more on actual progress,” said Rehn. “We also have the emergency break
that allows for a suspension of negotiations if there are persistent
breaches of human right or the rule of law in Turkey.”
Member States will have the final word on whether to actually start
negotiations with Turkey on the basis of the ‘negotiating framework’.
Taking over the EU presidency from Luxembourg on 1 July, the UK is a
staunch supporter of Turkey joining. On the other hand, Greek Cypriots
will try to add additional conditions that could include withdrawal
of Turkish troops and settlers from northern Cyprus.
–Boundary_(ID_2zy8utw1fT7IDS5DiZJ6Dw)–

Johansson eases past Nalbandian
By Mark Barden
BBC Sport at Wimbledon
Wednesday, 29 June, 2005
Thomas Johansson reached his first-ever Wimbledon semi-final with a
7-6 (7-5) 6-2 6-2 win over David Nalbandian.
The 12th-seeded Swede, contesting his first quarter-final in SW19,
always had the upper hand against the Argentine 18th seed, the losing
finalist in 2002.
Nalbandian, who defeated Britain’s Andy Murray in the third round,
found himself battling to hold serve from the start against a
determined opponent.
Johansson’s serve, apart from a single first-set break, was rarely
threatened.
Nalbandian was broken in the third game of the opening set but broke
back five games later for 4-4.
A see-saw tie-break saw no less than seven breaks, with Johansson
holding his nerve to finally come out on top after an hour and
13 minutes.
I couldn’t believe it when I heard I was the oldest guy left in the
draw, but I’m happy to be the oldest guy in the semis.

Grand Traverse Herald, MI
June 29 2005
Group picnic honors heritage
Armenian network picnic celebrates history and culture
By Carol South
Herald contributing writer
Grilled shish kebobs, rice pilaf, tabbouleh, bouma and more food than
anyone could ever eat – must be an Armenian picnic!
Members of the Northern Michigan Armenian Network gathered Sunday
at East Bay Park to celebrate their heritage with an afternoon
feast. Nearly 60 people attended, including spouses of Armenian
members as well as children and parents. One family of Slovakian
heritage attended just to share a common central European background.
For a culture with residents in countries around the world, Armenians
in every country make sure to honor their roots.
“Because of our history, Armenians were scattered all over the world,”
said Leslie Narsisian-Voss, the group’s founder. “There’s an instant
connection, no doubt about it: if someone’s last name is Armenian,
there’s an immediate connection.”
Narsisian-Voss launched the social group last July after culling
through the phone book for Armenian names, which end with ‘ian.’ She
sent every name she found a letter announcing the Network and inviting
them to attend.
The first meeting drew ten people to the Traverse Area District
Library, but since then the network has exploded with members and
activities. The group meets weekly to delve into some aspect of
Armenian culture.
“About every month I get a new call and there were specifically two
families at the picnic that we hadn’t seen yet,” Narsisian-Voss said.
The group has held informal language lessons, held cooking classes
for dishes such as Armenian pizza, learned to bake classic desserts
and met for dinner just to socialize.
“We’re beginning to be one big family here,” said Rose Megregian of Elk
Rapids. “Our group has grown so much and we’ve had so much enthusiasm.”
Cindy Buss of Traverse City found the group late last summer.
Growing up in Reed City, a small northern Michigan town, she was
disconnected from her mother’s Armenian heritage. Neither her father’s
last name nor her husband’s last name reflect that background. In
addition, there were no other Armenians to meet, worship with or
learn from, as there are in cities such as Detroit.
Since finding the Northern Michigan Armenian Network, Buss has
learned some of the language and attended the cooking classes. She
relishes finding other Armenians after years of longing to connect
with her roots.
“I’ve always wanted to know my heritage, I always was an Armenian in
my heart,” Buss said. “This has been a great connection, something
I never expected to have.”
Myriam Der-Boghossian Parker said her Armenian ancestors fled to France
in the early part of the 20th Century. They settled in a town in the
south of France that had many Armenian refugees as well as Armenian
businesses and churches. She grew up hearing her grandmother’s stories
of the Armenian genocide, which the older woman witnessed first-hand.
“I don’t speak Armenian here but when I go back to France, I speak it
a little,” said Parker, who attended the picnic with her two grown
sons. “I came from a big community of Armenians, probably half of
the town is Armenian.”
Narsisian-Voss, ever on alert for Armenian names, spotted Parker’s
maiden name on a flyer advertising a French class Parker teaches at
Northwestern Michigan College. She called Parker up and added another
Northern Michigan Armenian Network member.
“I think there’s probably more Armenians here than we think,” Parker
said of the Traverse City region.

John Sahag, 53, Stylist Whose Cuts Became Stars, Dies
NYT
By ERIC WILSON
Published: June 26, 2005
John Sahag, a Manhattan hairstylist for many celebrities with a dry-cut
method that challenged the old routine of shampoo, rinse and repeat
at upscale beauty salons, died on June 15 at Calvary Hospital in the
Bronx. He was 53.
The cause was cancer, according to a statement released by the John
Sahag Workshop, the Madison Avenue salon where he developed his
signature technique of building texture by cutting hair in a series
of uneven layers, seemingly on blind intuition.
With his leather pants and unruly mop of hair he was often described as
the industry’s rock star. He created recent styles for the actresses
Jennifer Aniston and Debra Messing, but he is perhaps best known for
the boy cut he gave Demi Moore for the 1990 film “Ghost,” prompting
a trend of short, choppy styles for women.
“John was like the mad professor of hair,” said Edward Tricomi, owner
of the Warren-Tricomi salon, who along with Mr. Sahag advocated a shift
to dry-cutting in the late 1970’s because it gave greater command of
how a style would ultimately look.
“It was the difference from painting by numbers to sketching a haircut
by hand,” Mr. Tricomi said. “You didn’t cut a haircut, you felt it.”
Mr. Sahag, whose original name was Sahag Jamgotchian, was born on
Jan. 2, 1952, in Beirut, Lebanon. He was raised in Australia, where
he started sweeping the floor in a hair salon as a child. At 18 he
moved to Paris, where he learned his craft.
He opened his first salon in New York in 1985.
Mr. Sahag is survived by his father, Atum Jamgotchian; his mother,
Hatum; a sister, Mary; and three brothers, Hoveness, André and Jack.
–Boundary_(ID_bfR/KSOoS+bhJBYA6XcORQ)–