Month: May 2008

May 15, 2008

PRESS RELEASE
American University of Armenia Corporation
300 Lakeside Drive, 5th Floor
Oakland, CA 94612
Contact: Gaiane Khachatrian
Tel: (510) 987-9452
Fax: (510) 208-3576
E-mail: [email protected]
Web: <;

AUA Appoints a New Director of Development

Oakland, CA – Daniel Maljanian has recently joined the American
University of Armenia as the Director of Development for the
University.

AUA President, Dr. Haroutune Armenian, welcomed Mr. Maljanian in his
new position stating: `We are confident that Daniel’s proven abilities
will contribute significantly to the growth and development of AUA. We
especially value his strong research and proposal writing skills, his
aptitude in maintaining good donor relations and soliciting
foundations and corporations, his ability to communicate effectively,
and his diverse career experiences.’

Daniel has been actively involved in a broad spectrum of development
activities, including procuring a grant from USAID, which enabled him
to bring U.S. Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia and five other
prominent justices and judges to Armenia for a week-long Rule of Law
project. He did this in his capacity as Executive Director of
Technical Assistance for the Republic of Armenia (TARA).

As a member of the development team at the Los Angeles Children’s
Chorus (LACC), Daniel was successful in identifying individual and
institutional funders, and worked effectively with LACC’s donors and
stakeholders.

Daniel holds a BA degree in Economics from the University of
California, Los Angeles, and a JD/MBA degree from the University of
California, Berkeley, with a year of study at Harvard Law School. A
native of Southern California, he spent 14 years in Alexandria,
Virginia practicing law at Sidley & Austin in Washington, D.C.,
founding a non-profit to help volunteers assist the newly independent
Republic of Armenia, and creating a successful bakery and café.

_____________

The American University of Armenia Corporation (AUAC) is registered as
a non-profit educational organization in both Armenia and the United
States and is affiliated with the Regents of the University of
California. Receiving major support from the AGBU, AUA offers
instruction leading to the Masters Degree in eight graduate programs.
For more information about AUA, visit

Armenian National Committee of America
1711 N Street, NW
Washington, DC 20036
Tel. (202) 775-1918
Fax. (202) 775-5648
Email [email protected]
Internet

PRESS RELEASE
May 15, 2008
Contact: Elizabeth S. Chouldjian
Tel: (202) 775-1918

REP. SCHIFF INTRODUCES BILL CALLING FOR THE END OF TURKEY’S
BLOCKADE OF ARMENIA

— Legislation Calls on Secretary of State to Submit Report on U.S.
Efforts to Lift Turkey’s Blockade

WASHINGTON, DC – Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA) introduced legislation
today calling on the President and Secretary of State to urge
Turkey to lift its 15 year blockade of Armenia and outline concrete
steps taken by the Administration in that effort, reported the
Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA.)

Titled the "End the Turkish Blockade of Armenia Act," the
legislation notes that "Turkey’s ongoing blockade of Armenia does
not promote regional security and prosperity, thereby undermining
the short-term and long-term policy objectives of the United
States." It goes on to cite that the "Department of State has
estimated that the blockade is inflating Armenia’s transportation
costs by between 30 and 35 percent, thereby stifling its trade and
economy." The resolution, in addition to calling for the immediate
lifting of Turkey’s blockade, would mandate that the Secretary of
State "submit to Congress a report that outlines the steps taken
and plans made by the United States to end Turkey’s blockade of
Armenia," within thirty days of the bill’s passage.

"We need to step up pressure on Turkey to lift the draconian
blockade of Armenia, permitting Armenian businesses to fully
participate in the global economy and assisting Armenia’s
integration into Europe," explained Rep. Schiff.

"Turkey’s illegal blockade of Armenia represents a violation of
international law, a clear hindrance to U.S. regional interests,
and an immoral action intended to economically isolate and
impoverish the Armenian people," stated ANCA Executive Director
Aram Hamparian. "We welcome Rep. Schiff’s leadership in demanding
Congressional oversight of any concrete steps the Administration
has taken to pressure Turkey to lift its blockade."

The Schiff resolution is similar to legislation introduced in the
109th Congress (H.R.3103), which secured 14 cosponsors. In the
110th Congress, Rep. Schiff is lead author, along with Reps. George
Radanovich (R-CA), Anna Eshoo (D-CA) and Congressional Armenian
Caucus Co-Chairs Frank Pallone (D-NJ) and Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) of
the Armenian Genocide Resolution, H.Res.106, which was adopted by
the House Foreign Affairs Committee last October and currently has
over 200 cosponsors.

The complete text of the resolution is provided below.

#####

To direct the Secretary of State to submit a report outlining the
steps taken and plans made by the United States to end Turkey’s
blockade of Armenia, and for other purposes.

IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

Mr. SCHIFF introduced the following bill.

A BILL

To direct the Secretary of State to submit a report outlining the
steps taken and plans made by the United States to end Turkey’s
blockade of Armenia, and for other purposes.

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
United States of America in Congress assembled,

SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.

This Act may be cited as the ”End the Turkish Blockade of Armenia
Act”

SEC. 2. REPORT RELATING TO THE TURKISH-ARMENIAN BORDER.

(a) FINDINGS. – Congress finds the following:

(1) United States policy toward Turkey and the south Caucasus has
prioritized security, conflict resolution, ensuring open borders
and commercial corridors, and regional cooperation.

(2) Turkey’s ongoing blockade of Armenia does not promote regional
security and prosperity, thereby undermining the short-term and
long-term policy objectives of the United States.

(3) The Department of State has estimated that the blockade is
inflating Armenia’s transportation costs by between 30 and 35
percent, thereby stifling its trade and economy.

(4) Turkey’s blockade of Armenia has prevented United States and
international humanitarian assistance from crossing its borders, a
violation of international law, international human rights and
humanitarian standards, and Turkey’s commitments to the
Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE).

(5) Turkey is the only Council of Europe (CE) country and NATO
member to engage in a blockade against a fellow CE country and has
been repeatedly urged by the European Union (EU) to open the last
closed border of Europe.

(6) United States, Turkish, NATO-Partnership for Peace, and EU
security and economic interests would be advanced Turkey
immediately and unconditionally lifting its ongoing 15-year
blockade of Armenia.

(7) The removal of all blockades and border closures in and
adjacent to the countries of the south Caucasus will provide
positive incentives for United States private investment, increased
trade with the West, and other forms of economic and political
interactions with the global community.

(8) By lifting its blockade of Armenia, Turkey will be playing a
constructive role in continuing the development of infrastructure
necessary for regional communications, transportation, energy, and
trade on an East-West axis.

(9) If there is to be a resolution of conflicts in the region and a
reduction of tensions along borders, it is essential that the
blockade of Armenia be lifted.

(b) SENSE OF CONGRESS – It is the sense of Congress that the
President and Secretary of State should call upon Turkey to comply
with the long-standing position of the United States that in order
to restore economic, political, and cultural links with Armenia,
Turkey should immediately lift its ongoing blockade with Armenia.

(c) REPORT – Not later than 30 days after the date of the enactment
of this Act, the Secretary of State shall submit to Congress a
report that outlines the steps taken and plans made by the United
States to end Turkey’s blockade of Armenia.

Untitled DocumentPress Release
Eastern Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church of America
138 East 39th Street
New York, NY 10016
Tel: (212) 689-7810
Fax: (212) 689-7168
Email: [email protected]
Website:
Contact: Iris Papazian

MAY 15, 2008

NATIONAL REPRESENTATIVE ASSEMBLY CONCLUDES
The Eastern Prelacy’s National Representative Assembly (NRA) convened
last week at St. Stephen’s Armenian Apostolic Church in Watertown,
Massachusetts. The clergy conference began on Wednesday, May 7, and the full
Assembly started their proceedings on Thursday, May 8 and continued to
Saturday, May 10.
Concurrent with the NRA, the National Association of Ladies Guilds
(NALG) met and celebrated that organization’s 25th anniversary. A successful
conference of Yeretzgeens-the second such conference-was also a part of the
four-day gathering
Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan presented the keynote address on Thursday.
The Prelate’s address focused primarily on the history of the Armenian
Church, with special references to the 110th anniversary of the
establishment of the Prelacy in America and the 50th anniversary of the
Prelacy under the Catholicosate of Cilicia.
Speaking about the early immigrants to America, His Eminence said:
"We must go back to those days, to experience the sorrowful existence
of our brothers and sister. They lived a life of an exile, in a foreign
country, with a foreign language and habits.. The workplace or the streets
were not genuine to their soul.. They waited anxiously for news from the
Yergir.. Their only support was their community life; their only comfort
would come on Sunday when they prayed in church..
The Prelate told the delegates, "A great responsibility and duty has
been put on our shoulders, not only to bring to fruition our every day work,
but especially our future plans. We must examine the past and present and
then plan for the future.. All of us, fortified with our faith, church,
history and existence must devote ourselves totally to the preservation of
our spiritual and intellectual values, to the strength of the Armenian
family toward the holy Armenian and Christian family education. Girded by
our imperishable cultural treasures and undefeated armor of our faith, let
us dedicate ourselves to our homeland and our church, to our culture and
sacred traditions, so that we can build a brighter future, and stand as a
barrier against time and all kinds of negative and destructive powers, so
that by standing firm and showing spiritual bravery, we secure victories."
To read the Prelate’s entire message in Armenian click here.
To read the Prelate’s entire message in English click here.
We are currently putting detailed information about the National
Representative Assembly on the Prelacy’s web site ().
Please check the site for further information about the various panels,
meetings, photographs, etc.

PLG MOTHERS DAY LUNCHEON HONORS
MRS. MARY MARDOIAN AND MRS. HASMIG HOVNANIAN
The Prelacy Ladies Guild’s (PLG) Mothers Day Luncheon was a resounding
success. The event took place Monday, May 5, at The St. Regis, in New York
City. Archbishop Oshagan honored Mrs. Mary Mardoian as the 2008 Mother of
the Year, and presented the Prelacy’s Queen Zabel award to Mrs. Hasmig
Hovnanian, the "founding mother" of the PLG.
Photos: Mrs. Mardoian honored as Mother of the Year. Mrs. Hasmig Hovnanian
receives Queen Zabel award.

BISHOP ANOUSHAVAN’S BOOK PRESENTED BY PROFESSOR PETER COWE
Archbishop Oshagan hosted a book presentation and celebration of the
recently published book, "Archbishop Nerses Lambronaci: Commentary on the
Wisdom of Solomon," by Bishop Anoushavan Tanielian, on Friday, May 2, at St.
Sarkis Church in Douglaston, New York. Dr. Hratch Zadoian was the evening’s
MC and Professor Peter Cowe, from UCLA, spoke about the newly published
book, which is based on Anoushavan Srpazan’s doctoral dissertation. Bishop
Anoushavan received his PhD from Columbia University in 2003 after
successfully defending his doctoral dissertation and was awarded the degree
with distinction at the unanimous recommendation of the examining committee.
The book is available at the Prelacy Bookstore. See below for details.

PRELATE ATTENDS DINNER RECEPTION FOR SAMANTHA POWER
Archbishop Oshagan attended a dinner-reception for the author and
scholar on foreign policy, Samantha Power, which took place Tuesday, May 13,
at the United Nations. The event, sponsored by the Carnegie Corporation was
hosted by Vartan Gregorian, in honor of Dr. Power’s latest book, Chasing the
Flame: Sergio Vieira de Mello and the Fight to Save the World, a biography
of the United Nations’ negotiator who was tragically killed while in Iraq.
Power’s earlier book, A Problem from Hell: America and the Age of Genocide,
won the Pulitzer Prize for general non-fiction in 2003. The first few
chapters of that book deals with the Armenian genocide, the efforts by Henry
Morgenthau to persuade the American government to take steps to stop the
genocide, and then relates the story of Raphael Lemkin who waged a
courageous battle to make genocide (a word Lemkin coined) an international
concern. She then describes the genocides that followed the Armenian
genocide.

PRELATE AND VICAR ATTEND LUNCHEON AND LITURGY IN HONOR OF PATRIARCH OF THE
MARONITE CHURCH
Archbishop Oshagan and Bishop Anoushavan are attending a Divine Liturgy
and reception today in honor of Patriarch Nasrallah Boutros Sfeir, Patriarch
of Antioch and the Whole Levant. The luncheon reception was hosted by the
Consul General of Lebanon in New York; the service will take place tonight
in the Maronite Church located in Brooklyn. The Maronite Church, which has a
large presence in Lebanon, is an Eastern Catholic Church in communion with
the Bishop of Rome, the Pope.

ARCHBISHOP MOUSHEGH MARDIROSSIAN ELECTED
TO FOURTH TERM IN WESTERN PRELACY
Last week the Western Prelacy also convened their National
Representative Assembly at St. Mary’s Church in Glendale. Archbishop
Moushegh Mardirossian was re-elected for a fourth term as Prelate of the
Western Prelacy. We offer our words of congratulations to Moushegh Srpazan
and the faithful of the Western Prelacy.

PRELATE AND VICAR AT ST. SARKIS CHURCH THIS SUNDAY
Archbishop Oshagan and Bishop Anoushavan will preside over the Divine
Liturgy this Sunday at St. Sarkis Armenian Church, Douglaston, New York. V.
Rev. Fr. Barthev Gulumian, who serves the Western Prelacy, will celebrate
the Divine Liturgy and deliver the sermon.

PHOTOS OF VICAR IN ARMENIA
Last month, as we reported, Bishop Anoushavan went to Armenia where he
participated in the Committee for Canonizing the Armenian Saints, as a
representative of the Catholicosate of Cilicia. The meetings took place in
Holy Etchmiadzin. Here are some photographs including a visit to the
genocide memorial.

MAJOR RENOVATION UNDERWAY AT ST. ILLUMINATOR CATHEDRAL
Major renovation of St. Illuminator’s Cathedral in New York City has
begun. Until the renovation is completed the Divine Liturgy will be offered
every Sunday at 10:40 a.m. at the Armenian Center, 69-23 47th Street,
Woodside, New York.

YEAR OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION
His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia, has
designated the year 2008 as the "Year of Christian Education."
To read His Holiness’ message in
Armenian click here.
To read His Holiness’ message in
English click here.

2008 DATEV SUMMER PROGRAM
"There’s still room at the inn," says Dn. Shant Kazanjian, director of
the Armenian Religious Education Council (AREC), about the 22nd annual St.
Gregory of Datev Institute Summer Program, for youth ages 13-18. So, if you
have not yet registered for this popular program, do it right now. Sponsored
by AREC, the program will take place at St. Mary of Providence Center in
Elverson, Pennsylvania, June 29 to July 6, 2008. By popular demand, this
year the Institute will extend the Summer Program by a weekend retreat
(optional) June 27-29. For details click here.

BLESSING OF MURON
The Catholicosate of the Holy See of Cilicia announced that His Holiness
Catholicos Aram I will consecrate the Holy Muron (Holy Oil) on June 7, 2008.
The Holy Muron, symbol of the grace of the Holy Spirit, is traditionally
blessed every seven years. Only the Catholicos can consecrate the oil which
is then distributed to the various dioceses for distribution to the
parishes. The oil consists of 48 different herbs, flowers, and oils which
are combined in a special vessel and mixed with some of the old Muron, thus
creating an unbroken chain with the past. The preparation of the Holy Muron
is a long process and each stage is accompanied with special prayers. Prior
to its blessing, the Muron remains for forty days on the altar of the
Cathedral. The Muron Blessing is expected to attract a large number of
pilgrims from various parts of the world.
During this same period the World General Assembly of the Catholicosate
of the Great House of Cilicia will convene in Antelias beginning on June 3
through to June 5.
The Prelacy is organizing a pilgrimage to Antelias for the Muron
blessing. For details click here.

INTERNATIONAL YOUTH GATHERING
An international gathering of youth is being organized by the Holy See
of Cilicia. His Holiness Aram I is inviting the youth, 18 years and older,
to attend this gathering from August 13 to 20, 2008, coinciding with the
annual pilgrimage during the Feast of the Assumption of the Holy Mother of
God.
Plans are underway for the Catholicosate, the Prelacy, and our Parishes
to facilitate the travel of the young adults to the gathering by assisting
with a portion of the travel expenses. For information contact your local
parish.

PROPHET ELIJAH
This Sunday, May 18, the Armenian Church commemorates Elijah-the prophet
of the Old Testament who is recorded in I and II Kings. Elijah was one of
the greatest prophets of the Old Testament and is therefore commemorated on
a Sunday. He appeared at the Transfiguration as the prophet of life and the
new covenant. Perhaps most important is that Elijah did not experience
death, but was taken to heaven, like the Holy Mother of God. He is mentioned
in the Armenian hymn, Ee Verhin.

SAINTS HRIPSIMEH AND COMPANIONS
SAINTS GAYANEH AND COMPANIONS
This Monday and Tuesday, May 19 and 20, the Armenian Church commemorates
the virgin saints Hripsimeh and Gayaneh and their companions. Thirty-three
nuns, led by Gayaneh, left Rome and sought refuge in Armenia hoping to
escape the Roman Emperor who desired one of the nuns, beautiful Hripsimeh.
In Armenia, King Tiridat was equally captivated by Hripsimeh’s beauty, and
sought to wed her. She refused. Enraged, the king had Hripsimeh (and the
others) tortured to death.
St. Gregory had chapels built over the relics of the nuns, and later
Catholicos Sahag Barthev rebuilt the chapels. During the 7th century
Catholicos Gomidas had two beautiful cathedrals built. The Cathedral of St.
Hripsimeh is considered to by a masterpiece of architecture. Catholicos
Gomidas also wrote a sharagan (hymn) in the memory-the famous "Antsink
Nviryalk."

DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Bible readings for today, Thursday, May 15, are: Romans 2:12-24; Matthew
8:28-34.
All who have sinned apart from the law will also perish apart from the
law, and all who have sinned under the law will be judged by the law. For it
is not the hearers of the law who are righteous in God’s sight, but the
doers of the law who will be justified. When Gentiles, who do not possess
the law, do instinctively what the law requires, these, though not having
the law, are a law to themselves. They show that what the law requires is
written on their hearts, to which their own conscience also bears witness,
and their conflicting thoughts will accuse or perhaps excuse them on the day
when, according to my gospel, God, through Jesus Christ, will judge the
secret thoughts of all. But if you call yourself a Jew and rely on the law
and boast of your relation to God and know his will and determine what is
best because you are instructed in the law, and if you are sure that you are
a guide to the blind, a light to those who are in darkness, a corrector of
the foolish, a teacher of children, having in the law the embodiment of
knowledge and truth, you, then, that teach others, will you not teach
yourself? While you preach against stealing, do you steal? You that forbid
adultery, do you commit adultery? You that abhor idols, do you rob temples?
You that boast in the law, do you dishonor God by breaking the law? For, as
it is written, "The name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of
you." Romans 2:12-24
For listing of the week’s Bible readings click here.

>From THE BOOKSTORE THIS WEEK..

ARCHBISHOP NERSES LAMBRONACI’S COMMENTARY ON THE WISDOM OF SOLOMON:
INTRODUCTION, TRANSLATION AND DIPLOMATIC EDITION OF THE ARMENIAN TEXT
By Bishop Anoushavan Tanielian
This book-mentioned earlier in this issue of Crossroads-grew from Bishop
Anoushavan’s doctoral dissertation. Besides being an excellent source of
knowledge about Lambronaci’s commentary on the Wisdom of Solomon, this book
provides valuable insight about the saint’s life and that period of time in
Cilician Armenia. 633 pages, hardbound, $50.00, plus shipping and handling.

THE COMPLETE ARMENIAN COOKBOOK by Alize Bezjian
The sub-title of this book is very appropriately, "Including favorite
international recipes," because this oversize hardcover beautifully
photographed cookbook includes not only Armenian recipes, but recipes of
French, Japanese, Chinese and Indian origin. It’s a great resource. 280
pages, $35.00, plus shipping and handling.

For shipping and handling charges contact the Prelacy bookstore
212-689-7810.

FOR INFORMATION ABOUT THESE AND OTHER ITEMS AT THE BOOKSTORE VISIT THE
PRELACY’S WEB SITE () OR CONTACT THE BOOKSTORE BY
EMAIL ([email protected]) OR BY TELEPHONE (212-689-7810).

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

June 3-5-World General Assembly of the Catholicosate of the Great House of
Cilicia will convene in Antelias, Lebanon.

June 7-Blessing of Holy Muron in Antelias, Lebanon. Click here for details.

June 24-Holy Trinity Armenian Church, Worcester, 5th annual Golf Outing,
Juniper Hill Golf Course, Northboro, Massachusetts. For information
508-852-2414.

June 27 to July 6-St. Gregory of Datev Institute, Summer Christian Studies
Program for youth ages 13-18 at St. Mary of Providence Center in Elverson,
Pennsylvania, organized by the Armenian Religious Education Council. For
more information click here.

July 19-"A Hye Summer Night 3," dance hosted by Ladies’ Guild of Sts.
Vartanantz Church and ARS Ani Chapter, Providence, Rhode Island. For details
401-434-4467.

August 3-Sts. Vartanantz Church, Providence, Rhode Island, Blessing of the
Grapes picnic. Camp Haiastan, Franklin, Massachusetts, noon to 6 pm, rain or
shine.

August 10-Holy Trinity Armenian Church, Worcester, Massachusetts. Annual
picnic on church grounds. Free admission; free parking.

August 15-17-International Gathering of Youth and Pilgrimage to Der Zor,
organized by the Catholicosate of Cilicia. Details will follow.

September 21-Holy Trinity Armenian Church, Worcester, Massachusetts, annual
church banquet. Details to follow.

September 25-Sixth annual golf outing hosted by Sts. Vartanantz Church,
Ridgefield, New Jersey, at River Vale Country Club, River Vale, New Jersey.
For information contact Richard Krikorian 201-784-2236 or church office
201-943-2950.

September 26-28-National Youth Conference at Holy Virgin Mary Spiritual
Vineyard, Charlton, Massachusetts.

September 29-30-Clergy conference at the Holy Virgin Mary Spiritual
Vineyard, Charlton, Massachusetts.

October 25-Gala celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Prelacy of the
Armenian Apostolic Church of America under the jurisdiction of the Great
House of Cilicia and the 110th anniversary of the establishment of the
Armenian Church of America. Marriott at Glenpointe, Teaneck, New Jersey.
Details to follow.

November 21 and 22-Holy Trinity Armenian Church, Worcester, Massachusetts,
Fall Food Festival.

Web pages of the parishes can be accessed through the Prelacy’s web site.

To ensure the timely arrival of Crossroads in your electronic mailbox, add
[email protected] to your address book.

Items in Crossroads can be reproduced without permission. Please credit
Crossroads as the source.

Parishes of the Eastern Prelacy are invited to send information about their
major events to be included in the calendar. Send to:
[email protected]

Earthtimes (press release), UK
May 13 2008

World Bank Co-sponsored Conference Tackles Issues on Armenia’s Global
Competitiveness,
Offers Directions for Future Reforms

Posted : Tue, 13 May 2008 18:12:30 GMT
Author : National Press Club – Catering

WASHINGTON, May 12 AIPRG-Armenia-conf-DC

WASHINGTON, May 12 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — The following is being
issued by the Armenian International Policy Research Group:

WHAT: Looking Forward: Global Competitiveness of the Armenian Economy
AIPRG Annual Conference
WHEN: May 17-18, 2008
WHERE:1818 Pennsylvania Avenue,
World Bank, Washington, DC. 20433

SYNPOSIS:After more than a decade of transition from a planned to
market-based economy, Armenia undertook important reforms and
experienced high rates of economic growth in recent years. In order to
sustain this growth and ensure further economic development, the
country will need to design and implement second-generation reforms
based on lessons learned during this transition and aimed at: (i)
solidifying the achievements of the transition period; (ii) ensuring a
fair and level playing field for private sector development; (iii)
choosing strategic directions for the country’s export-oriented
branches of the economy; and (iv) laying foundations for future
development by strengthening institutions and modernizing social
sectors, especially public education.

TOPICS:Strength of the Armenian Currency – "Dram": trends in
productivity; market structure and competition; the role of foreign
aid; tourism and IT sectors; market reforms; the role of the Diaspora;
and education.

To register for the conference and for the full agenda, please, visit:

The official language of the conference is English. The conference is
supported by the Government of Armenia and sponsored by the World
Bank, United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and the US Agency for
International Development (USAID). Any questions regarding the
conference may be directed to [email protected].

CONTACT:

In Washington, D.C.:
Sona Panajyan,
(202) 365-6415,
[email protected]

In Yerevan:
Mher Baghramyan
Phone/Fax: (+374 10) 528 723
[email protected]

SOURCE Armenian International Policy Research Group

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Trading Markets (press release), CA
May 13 2008

SWISS PRESIDENT VISITS AZERBAIJAN PARLIAMENT
Monday, May 12, 2008; Posted: 11:50 PM

Baku, May 12, 2008 (Asia Pulse Data Source via COMTEX) — — As part
of his visit to Azerbaijan, President of the Swiss Confederation
Pascal Couchepin has today visited the Milli Majlis of Azerbaijan
(Parliament).

After having familiarized himself with Heydar Aliyev Memorial Hall and
signed the Guest Book at Milli Majlis, the Swiss president met with
Ogtay Asadov, Speaker of the Azerbaijan Parliament.

Mr. Asadov said relations between Azerbaijan and Switzerland are on a
high level, adding that President Ilham Aliyev attaches great
importance to expansion of these relations.

The Milli Majlis Chairman informed the Swiss president of Azerbaijans
recent achievements, as well as its significant role in ensuring
European energy security.

He said more than 10 companies of Switzerland have invested in various
spheres of economy in Azerbaijan.

Speaking about the role of legislative bodies in strengthening of
relations between the two countries, Mr. Asadov stressed
Azerbaijan-Switzerland inter-parliamentary friendship group has great
role in this issue.

Speaker of the Milli Majlis also briefed the president on the
Armenia-Azerbaijan, Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

Expressing his satisfaction with the visit to Azerbaijan, the Swiss
President said Azerbaijan with speedy development has occupied a
worthy place in the world.

The visits of heads of states to Azerbaijan proves that the country
has achieved significant progress in human rights, economy and other
spheres, underlined the Swiss president.

He also noted Switzerland-Azerbaijan friendship group would be
established in the Swiss parliament soon.

The meeting also focused on other issues of mutual interest.

From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress

THOUSANDS OF NEW JERSEY HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS EDUCATED ON THE ARMENIAN GENOCIDE

armradio.am
15.05.2008 10:31

In continuation with the New Jersey State mandate on genocide
education, Armenian National Committee of America, Eastern Region
(ANCA-ER) Executive Director Karine Birazian presented a series of
lectures to The Academy of the Holy Angels in Demarest, New Jersey and
Chatham High School in Chatham, New Jersey on the topic of genocide.

"It is always a true honor to be invited to speak at local high
schools. The impact we can make by educating students on this important
human rights issue is vital to the prevention of the crime genocide,"
commented Birazian.

In mid April, the Academy of Holy Angels invited Birazian to be
part of their annual Awareness Day, where this year, the title of
the one-day workshop for students was called "Think Globally, Act
Locally." Students were able to select from a variety of workshops
pertaining to global issues and problems our society faces and ways
to take action. Birazian’s topic entitled "Never Again?" touched
upon genocides that have occurred throughout the 20th century and
the ongoing genocide today in Darfur. Students also gained insight
on how they can get involved and take action.

Jennifer Cucchisi, a social studies teacher at the school commented:
"It is important that every generation learns about genocide in order
to achieve the goal of "never again." Some students may not want to
hear about it, they may turn their heads at the pictures, but the only
way to stop genocides from happening is to make sure that everyone is
educated on the horrors of them. The pictures and stories, however
graphic they may be, are necessary and they help us to ensure that
what happened during these senseless slaughters is never forgotten."

Birazian also spoke to the students at Chatham High School at their
annual Holocaust Remembrance Program where she presented on the
history of the Armenian Genocide and the current battle in Congress
on trying to pass legislation recognizing this atrocity. Steve Maher,
Social Studies Supervisor for the high school has worked to coordinate
activities revolving around genocide awareness and remembrance. In
the past, the school has studied the Killing Fields in Cambodia, as
well as Darfur, Rwanda, and the former Yugoslavia. "We seem to have
our greatest success in touching the lives of students when we bring
history closer to their experience, particularly with survivors of
the European Holocaust," commented Maher.

Following the lecture, Birazian met with the activists from the Darfur
student group and spoke about additional ways they can get active on
this important issue.

During her lectures, Birazian touched upon a recent event that took
place at the Springfield Library. Last month, Birazian, ANC of NJ
members, community activists, along with Dr. Seymour Siegler, Ed.D,
Director and Co-Founder of the Center for Holocaust and Genocide
Studies at Brookdale Community College, spoke before the Library Board
regarding the decision by the Library to allow a special hosting of the
film the "Armenian Revolt" followed by a question and answer session
led by Dr. Guenter Lewy, a professor emeritus of political science
at the University of Massachusetts-Amherst. Lewy, who has written
several articles questioning the history of the Armenian Genocide,
was invited by the Society of Turkish- American Architects Engineers
and Scientists (MIM).

Birazian and others expressed deep concern that showing the film and
having an Armenian Genocide denialist come and speak at the library
would be detrimental and constitute a form of "hate speech," pointing
to the example that the library would never have allowed Holocaust
deniers come to speak on Holocaust denial at the library. The members
of the Library Board still agreed to host the event, and responded
by indicating that if Holocaust deniers want to come to present at
the library, they would be permitted because it is freedom of speech.

Birazian stressed to the students that "freedom of speech" can
eventually turn into hate speech and denial of history when pushed
to the limit, and as informed citizens, we must do all we can to make
sure that genocide denial be confronted.

From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress

JACQUES CHIRAC CONGRATULATES MINISTER NALBANDIAN

armradio.am
15.05.2008 11:08

Ex-President of France Jacques Chirac congratulated RA Foreign Minister
Edward Nalbandian on appointment. The message states, in part:

"It was a greet pleasure for me to learn that you entered the
Government of the Republic of Armenia as Minister of Foreign Affairs.

I render my warmest congratulations on this occasion. It is the
recognition of your talents, which I had the opportunity to assess
during your tenure as Armenian ambassador to France.

You really worked with great dynamics and vigor for the sake of
development of Armenian-French relations and had a decisive role in
the formation of close and intensive ties, which are peculiar to the
relations between our countries today.

Rendering my best wishes of success in your new responsible mission,
I ask you to accept, dear Mr. Minister, the assurance of my deep
respect and friendly feelings," Jacques Chirak concluded.

COUNTERPART RENOVATED KITCHEN AND LAUNDRY IN BOARDING KINDERGARTEN #14 OF YEREVAN

armradio.am
15.05.2008 12:05

On May 15, 2008, Coordinator of U.S. Assistance to Europe and Eurasia,
Ambassador Thomas Adams, cut the ribbon marking the opening of the
newly reconstructed kitchen and laundry of Boarding Kindergarten #14
in Yerevan.

The project was initiated in response to the kindergarten’s acute
humanitarian needs and implemented by Counterpart International’s
Community & Humanitarian Assistance Program (CHAP) under the
U.S. Department of State-funded Small Reconstruction Projects.

Counterpart’s CHAP has partnered with Boarding Kindergarten #14
since 2003, delivering highly needed humanitarian assistance in the
form of food, bedding, household items, school and hygiene supplies,
clothing and footwear. Overall, the value of the assistance comes to
$30 thousand.

Maro Abrahamyan, the Kindergarten Director, underlined in her request
letter addressed to Counterpart that children with special needs from
socially vulnerable families, orphans, as well as weak-sighted,
hearing-impaired and dysphasia-affected youngsters attend the
kindergarten. Renovation of the kitchen and laundry will allow the
staff to improve the overall sanitary and hygiene conditions. The
kindergarten currently serves 210 children. About 50 children stay
overnight.

The U.S. Department of State allocated $10,000 for reconstruction of
the kindergarten’s kitchen and laundry and LDS charities contributed
furniture and equipment for both facilities. The Small Reconstruction
Project was implemented by Counterpart’s CHAP in close cooperation with
the kindergarten management, which provided a financial contribution
and carried out cleaning and preparatory work. As a result of
the joint efforts by the US Department of State, Counterpart, LDS
Charities and the management of the kindergarten, the children now
have a healthy environment.

NKR PARLIAMENT URGES TO TAKE STEPS FOR INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION OF KARABAKH

armradio.am
15.05.2008 12:58

The three factions of the NKR National Assembly "Democracy,"
"Motherland" and "Dashnaktsutyun Movement" – issued their conclusion
on the process of international recognition of the Nagorno Karabakh
Republic and presented the primary steps to be taken towards this end,
Mediamax reports.

The factions suggest the NKR President and Government to "to take
practical steps for the establishment of legal interstate relations
with the Republic of Armenia to reinforce the current level of
cooperation and plan new priorities deriving form regional and
international processes."

The parliamentarians also suggest "to work out and present to
consideration the NKR National Security Doctrine." Before the
elaboration and consideration of the doctrine the President and
the Government are suggested to establish a special working group on
issues of strategic analysis and information, which will be engaged in
organization and coordination of propaganda and anti-propaganda. It
is suggested to use the potential of the NKR representatives abroad
and the Armenian community.

The Deputies urge to "make consecutive efforts for the international
recognition of NKR, making full use of the opportunities of
parliamentary diplomacy."

BUILDING OF OLD PRINTING HOUSE IN SHUSHI WILL BE PULLED DOWN

KarabakhOpen
15-05-2008 11:09:58

Although the liberation of Shushi is marked on May 9, the operation
nevertheless took part on May 8. Therefore, May 8, 1992 is a very
important day.

May 8, 2008 will be marked as the day of demolition of the building
of the old printing house due to the connivance of the local
authorities. The printing house was built in 1825 by a clergyman
Jalalyan. In the 19th century a number of books and newspapers were
published there which made Shushi a regional center of publishing
after Tbilisi.

In 2005-2006 the building was provided to one of the local
organizations to renovate it to accommodate the museum of history
of Shushi. Last year the area was to be cleaned and prepared for
reconstruction – enforcement of walls, reconstruction of the building
the main walls of which were whole.

In March they suddenly started demolishing the rear part of the
building.

Destruction stopped when the director of the museum Ashot Harutiunyan
turned to the Department for Preservation of Monuments.

The building was studied and the project was changed to comply with
seismic regulations but to preserve the appearance. The stones were
enumerated and everything was prepared for restoration.

On these days the building was surrounded with a "fence". They said
the stones of the building should be removed from the top, which may
fall down, and the facade will be changed only with plastic windows.

On May 8 work began. First it became clear that none of the
workers is a specialist of restoration, which requires skills and
carefulness. Besides, it is not "restoration" if the stones are broken
off with crowbars.

The representative of the town hall explained to the director of the
museum that the work complies with the regulations.

On the day of liberation of Shushi with the connivance of the local
authorities and overall indifference one of the historical buildings
of the town was pulled down. And only for making the building "to
comply with seismic regulations". Is it restoration when they crash
stones with crossbars and drop from a height of 4 meters?

In the morning of May 12 the workers counted the stones which did
not break after falling from such a height.

Armen de Shushi

P.S. During the celebration of May 9 in Shushi Armen de Shushi who
has come to live in Shushi from Paris told the president of Armenia
Serge Sargsyan about the breaches. The Armenian president asked about
the stance of the local authorities and after hearing the answer said
everything is clear.