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PRESS RELEASE

September 17, 2008
Contact: Michael A Zachariades
Email: mzachariades@aaainc.org
Phone: (202) 393-3434

HOUSE FOREIGN AFFAIRS COMMITTEE ADOPTS AID PACKAGE TO GEORGIA

Berman Thanks Armenia For Its Constructive Role, Sherman Raises Concern
About Attempts To Isolate Armenia

Washington, DC -The House Committee on Foreign Affairs (HCFA), adopted
the first phase of funding for Georgia, since hostilities erupted in the
region last month, reported the Armenian Assembly of America (Assembly).
The Stability and Democracy for Georgia Act of 2008, H.R. 6911,
reprograms existing funds, $470 million in fiscal year 2008, to provide
targeted humanitarian and economic assistance to Georgia.

During his opening remarks, Chairman Howard Berman (D-CA) expressed his
concerns in regard to the effects on the region, as they relate to
Armenia. Berman said "that the ripple effects of this crisis were
clearly felt beyond Georgia’s borders." He also emphasized the need to
consider Armenia when funds are appropriated in the future. Adding,
"although this bill does not include funding for other countries in the
Caucasus region, it is my intention when we consider the authorization
of assistance next year to examine the wider impact of this conflict and
provide appropriate funding for Armenia and other affected countries."

Berman also said that the "United States is grateful to the Armenian
government for providing safe transit for American and international
officials, relatives of diplomats and NGO representatives, and Georgian
nationals."

Also during the mark-up, Congressman Brad Sherman (D-CA) raised concerns
about the need to keep Armenia from being isolated during these
difficult times, stating that "since the current bill provides no aid to
Armenia, I will work to see that rectified in future legislative
vehicles that this body will consider."

"Stability in the South Caucasus is important to stated U.S. policy of
fostering regional and economic integration," said Assembly Executive
Director Bryan Ardouny. "Providing humanitarian assistance is an
important first step, and we look forward to continuing our outreach to
Members on the Committee to ensure that the needs of Armenia are also
addressed. Maintaining the security of Armenia is paramount during these
critical times."

Established in 1972, the Armenian Assembly of America is the largest
Washington-based nationwide organization promoting public understanding
and awareness of Armenian issues. The Assembly is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt
membership organization.

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