Month: October 2008

MINISTRY OF DIASPORA
DEPARTMENT OF PRESS AND PUBLIC RELATIONS
Tel. +37410 544041 287
26/1 Str. V. Sargsyan, Yerevan, 0010,
E-Mail [email protected]

PRESS RELEASE

1-02-10-2008

The Visit of the Minister of Diaspora of the RA Mrs. Hranush Hakobyan
to Mother See of Holy Echmiadzin

The Minister of Diaspora Mrs. Hranush Hakobyan visited Mother See of Holy
Echmiadzin and had a meeting with His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch
and Catholicos of All Armenians, as well as with the Archbishops of the
Armenian Apostolic Church.
Mrs. Hakobyan got the blessing of Garegin II for being appointed at such an
honorable and responsible position. She presented the development concept
for Armenia-Diaspora partnership which was accepted with appreciation.
The Archbishops made several proposals and expressed their readiness to
closely cooperate with the Ministry in the nearest future. -0-

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PRESS RELEASE
Armenian Center for National and International Studies
75 Yerznkian Street
Yerevan 0033, Armenia
Tel: (+374 – 10) 52.87.80 or 27.48.18
Fax: (+374 – 10) 52.48.46
Email: [email protected] or [email protected]
Website:

October 1, 2008

ACNIS Explores the Prospects of Armenian-Turkish Relations

Yerevan–The Armenian Center for National and International Studies
(ACNIS) today convened a foreign policy roundtable to consider all
aspects of the future of Armenian-Turkish relations. The meeting
brought together leading analysts, policy specialists, public and
political figures, NGO representatives, members of the press, as well
as a group of students and teaching staff from Istanbul’s Bilgi and
Fatih Universities who are visiting Yerevan on the invitation of the
Civil Society Institute.

Welcoming the audience with opening remarks, ACNIS research
coordinator Syuzanna Barseghian underscored the imperative of reaching
new agreements, based on mutual interests, toward normalizing
Armenian-Turkish relations. "Our current relations are more emotional
and less rational and therefore many issues seem irresolvable. And the
objective of such discussions is to reveal the whole potential for
partnership and its resources which, I believe, can serve toward
historical reconciliation and building of the best common future,"
Barseghian said.

The day’s first speaker, director Haik Demoyan of the Armenian
Genocide Museum-Institute, reflected on the media’s role in the
normalization of Armenian-Turkish relations. According to him, the
media coverage of this extremely sensitive topic needs a serious
methodological adjustment and it is not a coincidence that certain
demands periodically were made of the media as to their method of
covering the events of war and genocide. "The media have a great
import and specifically in the process of reconciliation. They either
can play a negative role and cause problems and hinder the
reconciliation process, or be a part of it," Demoyan maintained. And
as case in point, he made note of the compulsion to use quotation
marks when using the term genocide and to refer to the Armenian
Genocide as "the events of 1915," the deliberate dissemination of
false information, and the taking of comments out of their general
context and presenting as separate information.

In his turn, deputy dean Þammas Salur of the Department of Political
Science of Istanbul Fatih University looked at the historiographical
phases and the changes in the modern historiography of Turkey. "Even
though the Turkish-Islamic synthesis in history writing has some
canonical views, and especially a staunch defense against the
transformation and liberalism in Turkish policy, the 1980s have
brought a more dynamic cultural atmosphere to Turkey," Salur noted,
also adding that through serious discussions regarding the talks with
the European Union, a new type of history writing is emerging in
Turkey. According to the speaker, this new type is more tolerant
toward others and–albeit difficult to be accepted by a large part of
the public–even accepting of others as equal citizens, "and history
writing is evolving toward that end," Salur argued.

The day’s final speaker, Ambassador Ara Papian, director of the Modus
Vivendi Social and Scientific Research Center, delved into the
unclaimed pages of Armenian-Turkish relations. He presented those
pages against the backdrop of the de jure boundary between Armenia and
Turkey that was determined, at the turn of the 20th Century, by US
president Woodrow Wilson’s Arbitral Award. As stated by Papian, this
document was signed and sealed on November 22, 1920 and officially
entitled: "Decision of the President of the United States of America
respecting the Frontier between Turkey and Armenia, Access for Armenia
to the Sea, and the Demilitarization of Turkish Territory adjacent to
the Armenian Frontier." Pursuant to the Arbitral Award, the title and
rights of the Republic of Armenia were recognized on the provinces of
Van, Bitlis, Erzerum, and Trebizond of the former Ottoman Empire.
"President Wilson’s binding and irreversible Arbitral Award went into
force the day it was reached and remains in effect to this day,"
Papian asserted.

The roundtable discussants also included students Erman Bakýrcý, Emel
Güner, and Çaðla Gür from the Department of International Relations of
Istanbul Bilgi University; students Kevser Kandaz, Ümit Kurt, Mustafa
Özdemir, and Zafer Özkan from the Department of International
Relations of Istanbul Fatih University; director Artak Kirakosian of
the Civil Society Institute; Ruben Mehrabian from the Armenian Center
for Political and International Research; coordinator Armen Aghayan of
the "Defense of Liberated Territories" social initiative;
director-announcer Gayzag Palanjian of "The Road for the Enhancement
of Armenia-Diaspora Relations" television program in Los Angeles;
journalist Gayane Arustamian; and several others.

Founded in 1994 by Armenia’s first Minister of Foreign Affairs Raffi
K. Hovannisian and supported by a global network of contributors,
ACNIS serves as a link between innovative scholarship and the public
policy challenges facing Armenia and the Armenian people in the
post-Soviet world. It also aspires to be a catalyst for creative,
strategic thinking and a wider understanding of the new global
environment. In 2008, the Center focuses primarily on civic education,
democratic development, conflict resolution, and applied research on
critical domestic and foreign policy issues for the state and the
nation.

For further information on the Center call (37410) 52-87-80 or
27-48-18; fax (37410) 52-48-46; email [email protected] or [email protected];
or visit

YEREVAN PRESS CLUB WEEKLY NEWSLETTER

SEPTEMBER 26 – OCTOBER 2, 2008

HIGHLIGHTS:

"PRESS CLUB" AND "PRESS CLUB+": ACCOMPLISHMENT OF ARMENIA OF PACE
RESOLUTIONS AND LOCAL SELF-ADMINISTRATION INSTITUTE

COMPLICATED STORY WITH A TRAGIC END

COURT STARTED HEARINGS OF THE CASE OF IJEVAN MUNICIPALITY VERSUS
"INVESTIGATIVE JOURNALISTS"

CANDIDATE TO THE PREFECT POSITION ANNOUNCED THAT TV COMPANIES REFUSED TO
BROADCAST HIS CAMPAIGN MATERIALS

OSCE REPRESENTATIVE ON FREEDOM OF THE MEDIA: DIGITALIZATION SHOULD NOT BE
ALLOWED TO REDUCE DIVERSITY AND PLURALITY

GOLD KEYS AND RUSTY LOCKS OF THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION CENTER

"SHOGHAKAT" MOVED TO A NEW BUILDING

"PRESS CLUB" AND "PRESS CLUB+": ACCOMPLISHMENT OF ARMENIA OF PACE
RESOLUTIONS AND LOCAL SELF-ADMINISTRATION INSTITUTE

On October 1 another show of "Press Club" cycle went on air of "Yerkir
Media" TV company. It is produced by Yerevan Press Club with support of the
Open Society Institute Human Rights and Governance Grants Program. The
guests of the "Press Club" host, the President of Yerevan Press Club Boris
Navasardian, were Observer of First Channel of Public Television of Armenia
Armen Dulian, Responsible for Foreign Relations of Armenian National
Congress Vladimir Karapetian, and the Director of International Center of
Human Development Tevan Poghosian. "Press Club" participants continued last
program’s discussion of the obligations of Armenia before the Council of
Europe and implementation of PACE Resolutions 1609 "The Functioning of
Democratic Institutions in Armenia" and 1620 "The Implementation by Armenia
of Assembly Resolution 1609 (2008)" (see YPC Weekly Newsletter, September
19-25, 2008).

The next program of "Press Club" cycle will be aired by "Yerkir Media" on
Wednesday, October 8, at 23.00.

On September 27 another show of "Press Club+" cycle went on air of "Yerkir
Media" TV company. It is produced by Yerevan Press Club with support of the
Embassy of Great Britain in Armenia. Talk show participants, Chairman of
Committee to Protect Freedom of Expression Ashot Melikian, Head of Local
Self-Administration Department of the RA Ministry of Territorial
Administration Ashot Giloyan, and Vice-President of the Association of
Community Financiers David Tumanian, discussed whether the local
self-administration institution is fully established in Armenia. The
audience composed of representatives of civil society of Gyumri also
participated in the discussion.

The next program of "Press Club+" cycle will be aired by "Yerkir Media" on
Saturday, October 4, at 17.40.

COMPLICATED STORY WITH A TRAGIC END

During the last days press was writing about the disappearance of the Head
of "Radiolur" news program of Public Radio of Armenia Artur Sahakian: he did
not show up at the work, did not answer the phone calls. On September 29
information appeared on the web site of RA Police about the incident with
Arthur Sahakian, which took place on September 20 and continued the next
day. Nevertheless, the official information about the incident and the
version of the journalist himself that appeared in a number of newspapers on
September 30 contradict each other. According to Artur Sahakian, he has to
hide now because his life is endangered on behalf of the encirclement of the
RA National Assembly deputy, businessman Levon Sargsian who work in
agreement with some police officials. Besides, an eyewitnesses of the
incident accused the journalist of a rape attempt.

Andranik Babayan, a friend of Artur Sahakian, fell a victim of the incident
and died in the hospital on September 29, without coming to consciousness
after the beating that took place on September 21. On the same day,
September 21, Director of "Urbat" Club, Chief Editor of "Urbat Report"
weekly, Abel Mikaelian, who was in one of Yerevan cafes together with Artur
Sahakian, was beaten. Although the act of violence was to all appearances
done by a big group of people, according to the RA Police information above,
only one person was arrested, coming to the police and confessing that he
beat Andranik Babayan and Abel Mikaelian. On October 2, press informed that
two more suspected were detained.

On October 1, 2008 "Aravot" daily published a statement of Abel Mikaelian,
who is hiding at present. Abel Mikaelian urged the media not connect his
name, the name of late Andranik Babayan, as well as "Urbat" Club and "Urbat
Report" with the incident of September 20-21.

Yerevan Press Club will follow the events around this complicated story.

COURT STARTED HEARINGS OF THE CASE OF IJEVAN MUNICIPALITY VERSUS
"INVESTIGATIVE JOURNALISTS"

On September 29 hearings on the case of Ijevan municipality (Tavush region)
versus "Investigative Journalists" NGO, the founder of "Hetq" on-line,
started in the Civil Court of Yerevan. The plaintiff demands to refute the
information discrediting to honor, dignity and business reputation of Ijevan
Mayor Varuzhan Nersisian – as seen by the city administration to be present
in the article of "Hetq" correspondent in Tavush region Voskan Sargsian
"Whose Pocket Receives Money from Sand Mine?". The article was published in
"Hetq" on May 5, 2008, and also printed on May 20, 2008, in a supplement to
"Azg" daily, "Transparent Local Self-Government", produced by "Investigative
Journalists" (see YPC Weekly Newsletter, July 4-10, 2008). The plaintiff
also demanded that the respondent refund his expenses for lawyer’s legal
services in the amount of 930 thousand drams (approximately $ 3,100).

On the hearing of September 29, Ijevan municipality brought to the court
another suit as well demanding to refute also the information present in the
article "Will the Three Commissions Notice the Illegal Use of Sand?"
(published in "Hetq" on June 23, 2008, and in the supplement to "Azg"
"Transparent Local Self-Government" on July 9, 2008). The judge provided the
respondent time to prepare objections to the new suit and scheduled the next
hearing for October 13.

Meanwhile, the "Investigative Journalists", in their turn, applied to the RA
Administrative Court with a suit against Ijevan municipality. In September
the suit was taken over for proceedings. On July 2, 2008 "Investigative
Journalists" required Ijevan municipal administration to give the copies of
the session protocol of May 23, 2008 and the decision of the Council of
Elderly to allot 930 thousand drams from the city budget to cover the
expenses of lawyer’s legal services for the above-mentioned suit versus
"Investigative Journalists". In the written reply of Ijevan Mayor of July 8,
2008, it was said that required information can be provided only by the end
of the legal proceedings. "Investigative Journalists" demanded to oblige the
administration of Ijevan to give them the information and refund their
expenses for lawyer’s legal services in the amount of 114 thousand drams
(approximately $ 380).

CANDIDATE TO THE PREFECT POSITION ANNOUNCED THAT TV COMPANIES REFUSED TO
BROADCAST HIS CAMPAIGN MATERIALS

Several days before the elections of the head of administration of Kentron
community of Yerevan (that took place on September 28, 2008), one of the two
running candidates, Board Chairman of the Armenian National Movement Ararat
Zurabian announced that a number TV companies refused to broadcast his
election campaign materials. According to Ararat Zurabian, only two TV
companies agreed – "Yerkir Media" and "ALM". However, the advertisement was
aired by "Yerkir Media" only once, and "ALM" broadcasted it during one day
only.

Member of the Armenian National Movement Board Aram Manukian told YPC that,
as agreed upon with "ALM", Ararat Zurabian’s political advertisement had to
be aired during two days, yet it was not broadcasted on the second day due
to "the pressure exert upon the TV company". Regarding "Yerkir Media", Aram
Manukian said that the agreement was annulled unilaterally by the TV
company.

Director of the News and Current Affairs Programs of "Yerkir Media" Gegham
Manukian explained YPC that Ararat Zurabian’s advertisement was accepted by
the relevant department by mistake. Gegham Manukian pointed out that during
those elections "Yerkir Media" decided not to offer air for campaign
materials of the candidates to the local self-administration bodies. "We did
not offer air to the other candidate, acting head of Kentron community Gagik
Beglarian, and were not going to do it for Ararat Zurabian. That is why
after the first demonstration of the advertisement it was stopped, and
Ararat Zurabian was informed about it", stressed Gegham Manukian.

OSCE REPRESENTATIVE ON FREEDOM OF THE MEDIA: DIGITALIZATION SHOULD NOT BE
ALLOWED TO REDUCE DIVERSITY AND PLURALITY

On September 26, the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Miklos
Haraszti asked the Government of Armenia to review the addition to the RA
Law "On Television and Radio" adopted on September 10 by the National
Assembly of Armenia. As it was reported, according to this addition,
broadcast licensing competitions are suspended till July 20, 2010. The
amendment came into force on September 27 (see YPC Weekly Newsletter,
September 5-11, 2008, and September 12-18, 2008).

In his letter to RA President Serge Sargsian, Miklos Haraszti in particular
pointed out: "By cutting off any potential applicant broadcasters from
entering the market until 2010, the limited pluralism in Armenia’s
broadcasting sector will be further diminished. A moratorium on new licenses
for analogue transmission should not be the first step in the transition to
digital broadcasting. Digitalization should not be allowed to reduce
diversity and plurality or preserve a lack thereof. If the broadcasting
landscape in a country is not sufficiently pluralistic and diverse, it would
be appropriate to delay digitalization and undertake other reforms first."

In the opinion of Miklos Haraszti, moratorium on licensing meant that
Armenia will not be able to comply with the June 2008 decision of the
European Court of Human Rights that upheld the case of "A1+" TV company (see
YPC Weekly Newsletter, June 13-19, 2008). OSCE Representative also reminded
that in April 2008 the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, in
its turn, also urged Armenia to "ensure an open, fair and transparent
licensing procedure" and allow "A1+" to apply for a new license.

Miklos Haraszti offered his Office’s legal analysis and recommendations to
the amendments to the broadcasting law: "I hope that, for the sake of
pluralism, the Government of Armenia will review the amendments with the
active participation of all relevant civil society and media stakeholders."

GOLD KEYS AND RUSTY LOCKS OF THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION CENTER

On September 26 at "Regine" hotel in Yerevan the ceremony of awarding the
winners of Freedom of Information Center’s annual competition took place.
The event was dedicated to the International Right to Know Day (established
in 2002) and organized with the assistance of USAID.

The most open institution in 2008 was recognized to be the Eghegnadzor
municipality.

The best official Internet-source from the point of view of freedom of
information was recognized the web-site of the RA Ministry of Education and
Science.

The most active defenders of their civil right to information were named the
citizens of Yerevan Artashes Hovhannisian and Armine Arakelian.

The public organization that is most active and efficient in using its right
to information was named to be "Hakastver".

Among the media of the country, the one most consistent in covering the
freedom of information issues and actively using the RA Law "On Freedom of
Information" was announced "Yerkir Media" TV company, and among the
journalists – Observer of "Yerkir Media" Mariam Barseghian.

By tradition all persons and organizations, listed above, received prizes of
a gold key – as a symbol of openness.

The most closed local self-government body in 2008 was recognized to be
Hrazdan municipality.

Ijevan municipality was awarded the title of "state institution that gave
incorrect or curious information" (the litigation between Ijevan
municipality and "Investigative Journalists" NGO – see above).

The municipalities of Hrazdan and Ijevan were awarded a rusty lock – a
symbol of secrecy.

"SHOGHAKAT" MOVED TO A NEW BUILDING

On September 26 opening of a new building of "Shoghakat" TV company took
place in Yerevan (Hovsepian str. 8). Before that "Shoghakat" occupied one of
the buildings in Holy See Echmiadzin residence.

When reprinting or using the information above, reference to the Yerevan
Press Club is required.

You are welcome to send any comment and feedback about the Newsletter to:
[email protected]

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Editor of YPC Newsletter – Elina POGHOSBEKIAN
_____________________________________ _______
Yerevan Press Club
9B, Ghazar Parpetsi str.
0002, Yerevan, Armenia
Tel.: (+ 374 10) 53 00 67; 53 35 41; 53 76 62
Fax: (+374 10) 53 56 61
E-mail: [email protected]
Web Site:

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

October 2, 2008
Contact: Michael A Zachariades
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (202) 393-3434

ARMENIAN ASSEMBLY NAMES YEGHIG KESHISHIAN AS WESTERN OFFICE DIRECTOR

Los Angeles, CA – The Armenian Assembly of America (Assembly) is pleased
to announce the addition of Yeghig L. Keshishian as the Assembly Western
Office Director, effective immediately.

Keshishian will be responsible for increasing the Assembly’s grassroots
outreach and activities in California and the Western states, as well as
focus on development and membership initiatives in the region. Working
with Assembly headquarters in Washington, DC, Keshishian will also
implement the government affairs agenda with a specific focus on the
California delegation.

"Yeghig’s knowledge of the issues, coupled with his work experience and
first-hand knowledge of the legislative process, will prove beneficial
not only to the Assembly, but the community at large," said Assembly
Executive Director Bryan Ardouny.

Prior to joining the Assembly team, Keshishian served as an
International Policy Aide for Congressman Ed Royce (R-CA). Royce is an
active member of the Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues, and strong
supporter of reaffirming the U.S. record on the Armenian Genocide. As an
original cosponsor of H.Res. 106, and a Member of the House Committee on
Foreign Affairs, Congressman Royce, along with Keshishian, countered the
genocide deniers in the historic vote in the Foreign Affairs Committee
last October. Additionally, during his tenure with Royce’s office,
Keshishian worked diligently with Rep. Royce to bring attention to
Azerbaijan’s military build-up, ongoing war-mongering against Armenia,
and conflict with U.S. policy objectives in the region.

"The Armenian Assembly has a 36-year track record of non-partisan
advocacy and raising awareness on Armenian-American issues," said
Keshishian. "I will continue to expand upon the Assembly’s success
within the community, reach out to all those who share a vision of a
strong, vibrant and democratic Armenia, as well as help strengthen the
U.S.-Armenian relationship."

Keshishian is a graduate of University of Southern California’s School
of Policy, Planning & Development, and New York University’s and
Columbia University’s joint graduate program in European Studies.

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.

###

NR#2008-070

Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern)
630 Second Avenue
New York, NY 10016
(212) 686-0710

Prayer of the Week
Remind me, Lord that I am the light of the world. That a city set on a
hill cannot be hidden. A lamp is not lit and then put under a
basket. No, it is set on a stand where it gives light to all the
house. In the same way, let my light shine before all people so that
they may see goodness in what I do and give praise to you, my heavenly
Father.
__________________
BLESSING OF THE HOLY MURON HELD AT HOLY ETCHMIADZIN
His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All
Armenians, presided over the Blessing of the Holy Muron (Chrism) at
the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin on Sunday, September 28. The Holy
Muron is blessed by the Catholicos of All Armenians once every seven
years in a tradition that dates back to the Apostles of Christ. It is
then distributed to Dioceses of the Armenian Church across the world.

Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate of the Diocese of the Armenian
Church of America (Eastern), led a delegation from the Eastern Diocese
to participate in the Blessing of the Holy Muron at Holy
Etchmiadzin. The newly-blessed Holy Muron will be carried to
St. Vartan Armenian Cathedral in New York City from where it will be
distributed to all parishes of the Eastern Diocese on Sunday, October
12. To learn more about the Blessing of the Holy Muron, visit

___________________ ___________
DIOCESAN PILGRIMAGE TO THE HOLY LAND FOR ARMENIAN CHRISTMAS –
REGISTRATION DEADLINE APPROACHING
>From January 13 to 22, 2009, the Eastern Diocese will lead a
pilgrimage to the Holy Land to celebrate Armenian Christmas according
to the Old Calendar (January 18-19). Pilgrims will visit some of the
holiest sites of our faith in Jerusalem and also travel to Jericho,
the Sea of Galilee, the Dead Sea, the Jordan River, Tiberias and
Qumran. Participants will tour the Armenian Quarter in Jerusalem and
the Patriarchate Complex, where they will be received by the
Patriarch. On January 18, pilgrims will travel to Bethlehem to
celebrate the birth of Christ with a Christmas procession and a
midnight Divine Liturgy.

The registration deadline for this pilgrimage is October 15. To learn
more, click here or call Nadia Charchyan at Educational Opportunities
Tours: 863-648-0383, ext. 1+287.

__________________
DOCUMENTARY ABOUT THE ARMENIAN CHURCH TO AIR ON ABC
A documentary entitled "Everyone Prays in Holy Etchmiadzin" will air
on ABC-affiliated stations throughout the United States, beginning on
December 7, 2008. The documentary, produced by Diva Communications
under the leadership of the Eastern Diocese and the National Council
of Churches, will detail the history and spiritual heritage of the
Armenian Church, with a particular focus on the efforts of the modern
Armenian Church to foster Christian unity and interfaith dialogue. To
learn more, click here.

Please contact your local ABC affiliate and request that "Everyone
Prays in Holy Etchmiadzin" air during peak viewing times. Click here
to find contact information for your local station.
_______________________
CHURCH & HOME MATERIALS AVAILABLE ONLINE
A wealth of new Church & Home materials are now available on our Web
site, Click on the `Church & Home’ button on
the homepage and you will be directed to a listing of a variety of
online tutorials and programs designed to offer `Back to the Basics’
educational tools that can be used from the comfort of your
home. Learn about Armenian Church feasts, the calendar, Modern and
Classical Armenian and much more!
________________________
40TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION OF THE CONSECRATION OF ST. VARTAN
ARMENIAN CATHEDRAL PLANNED FOR THIS MONTH
As part of this year’s celebration of the 40th anniversary of the
consecration of St. Vartan Armenian Cathedral, a series of special
events are planned for the weekend of October 11 and 12.

Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate of the Diocese of the Armenian
Church of America (Eastern), will celebrate the Divine Liturgy at the
Cathedral on Sunday, October 12. During services, vessels containing
newly-blessed Holy Muron will be distributed to youth representatives
of every parish in the Eastern Diocese. The recipients will deliver
the Muron to their home parishes where it will be used for
consecrations, baptisms and ordinations.

A celebratory luncheon will follow services, during which all
individuals who participated in the establishment of St. Vartan
Armenian Cathedral will be honored. Celebrated Armenian-American
artists Lucine Amara, Kay Armen, Anahid Ajemian and Lili Chookasian
will be honored with the St. Nersess Shnorhali Medal and Pontifical
Encyclical.

For more information about these events, please call the Diocese at
212-686-0710 or click here to send an email. To make reservations for
the October 12 luncheon, please send a $40 check, payable to Diocese
of the Armenian Church, to Lorraine Marootian, 774 Butternut Dr.,
Franklin Lakes, NJ 07417.

FEAST OF THE HOLY TRANSLATORS CELEBRATION ON OCTOBER 11
On Saturday, October 11, Armenian school and Sunday School students
from the greater New York area are invited to participate in a
celebration of the Feast of the Holy Translators at St. Vartan
Armenian Cathedral. Students will tour the Cathedral, learn about its
history and participate in other educational activities at the
Diocese. For more information, click here.
____________________
STS. VARTANANTZ ARMENIAN CHURCH TO MARK 30 YEARS
Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate of the Diocese of the Armenian
Church of America (Eastern), will celebrate the Divine Liturgy at
Sts. Vartanantz Armenian Church in Chelmsford, Mass. on Sunday,
October 5. Following services, the parish will mark the 30th
anniversary of the consecration of Sts. Vartanantz Church. To learn
more, visit
_____________________
ACYOA HOSTS PAN NORTH AMERICAN RETREAT IN CHICAGO AREA
More than 50 young adults and clergy from the Eastern, Western and
Canadian Dioceses gathered at the Techny Towers Conference Center in
Techny, Ill. for the 4th Annual Pan North American Retreat (PNAR) on
September 26 to 28. The goal of this yearly event is to bring together
young people from the three North American Dioceses for a weekend of
spiritual growth and Christian fellowship. The retreat was sponsored
by the Armenian Church Youth Organization of America (ACYOA) Central
Council of the Eastern Diocese.

During the retreat members of the Youth Organization’s Central
Councils of the Eastern, Western and Canadian Dioceses also met to
discuss common concerns and the possibility of future joint
projects. A number of collaborative efforts were reviewed, including
plans to send representatives of each Central Council to attend the
annual ACYO General Assembly and Sports Weekend at each Diocese.

Armenian National Committee of Canada
Comité National Arménien du Canada
130 Albert St., Suite/Bureau 1007
Ottawa, ON
KIP 5G4
Tel./Tél. (613) 235-2622 Fax/Téléc. (613) 238-2622
E-mail/courriel:national.office@anc-canad a.com

PRESS RELEASE

September 23, 2008
Contact: Roupen Kouyoumjian

Armenia and ANCC Attend OSCE PA Fall Meeting in Toronto

TORONTO — Four delegates from Armenia attend the Organization of
Organizations for Security Co-operation in Europe Parliamentary
Assembly’s three-day fall meeting on Sep. 18 here. The Armenian
delegation consisted of head of delegation Aram Safarian, Prosperous
Armenia; Khachig Harutiunian, Orinats Yergir; Larisa Alaverdian,
Heritage; and Anahit Gasparyan, head of international organizations
department at the National Assembly of the Republic of Armenia.

Aris Babikian attended the meeting as an observer on behalf of the
Armenian National Committee of Canada.

The morning session on Sept. 18 was devoted to `The OSCE Mediterranean
Dimension’, while the afternoon session focused on `OSCE in an Open
World: Trade, Security, and Migration’. Keynote speaker Gareth Evans,
president and chief executive of the International Group and the
former foreign minister of Australia, analyzed the current and future
security role of the OSCE and NATO’s role in Europe.

Within the context of the OSCE ODIHR election monitoring missions
around Europe, Evans made an ambiguous remark on the presidential
election in Armenia. He said, `While the mission in Macedonia played a
very helpful role, there was the positive assessment of Armenian
presidential elections in February 2008 that in fact were fraught with
problems and led to fatal clashes between police and demonstrators.’

During a question-and-answer session, Armenian representative
Alaverdian challenged the Evans’ statement and asked more
clarification.

Evans also labeled Russia as an aggressor and occupier in the recent
South Ossetia-Georgia conflict. His remarks launched a wave of anger
from the Russian delegation. During the question-and-answer session,
the head of the Russian delegation, Alexander Kozlovskiy, attacked
Evans and criticized the OSCE Secretariat for inviting Evans. He
called the former Australian foreign minister’s speech and the western
media’s approach to the South Ossetia-Georgia crisis as `information
terrorism’. Kozlovsky also said that what had happened was an insult
to Russia. "We [OSCE] do not need lecturers to come and teach us about
our security,’ he added. Kozlovskiy then presented a historical
prospective of the crisis.

A Greek delegate also raised his objection by saying, `We are not in a
classroom. We are a political body and speakers should behave
accordingly.’

In the Mediterranean Forum session, Congressman Alcee L. Hastings made
the following supportive statement on Turkey and its membership in
EU. `I hope that Turkey is given fair and expeditious consideration
for accession to the European Union.’

The second day was the highlights of the meeting. While the morning
session was devoted to the topic of `Economic/Environmental
Dimensions’, the afternoon session was about Georgia-Russia conflict.

Goren Lennmarker, special envoy for the situation in Georgia,
presented a report in which he divided his speech into three sections:
What Happened; the cost of the conflict; the future.

He called on `the three countries of the Caucasus to come together to
help each other, cooperate and shape their future.’ He also said that
it is time to solve the Nagorno-Karabagh conflict between Armenia and
Azerbaijan. He added that in the next meeting, to be held after the
presidential elections in Azerbaijan, he would have a detailed report.

Eka Tkeshelashvili, foreign minister of Georgia, presented her
country’s case. She said, `The frozen conflicts concept is wrong and
dangerous’. She said that the recent conflict in Georgia was
premeditated by Russia. `International engagement should be more
straightforward. This is military invasion/ethnic cleansing. Russia
should restore its image as a reliable partner. NATO should be
expanded bringing Georgia closer to the European Union.’ She also
called for an `international investigation mission.

Vitaly Churkin, Russia’s ambassador to the UN, presented Russia’s
case. He went through a long list of incidents which demonstrated
Georgians had frequently broken international law. The annulment of
the Ossetians and Abkhazians self-autonomy which they had enjoyed
under the Soviet Union and the declaration of `Georgia for Georgians’
was one example, he said, of Georgia’s breaking of international
law. He cited an article in the UN Charter which demonstrated
Ossetians and Abkhazians are entitled to break away from Georgia. To
underline Georgia’s aggressive intentions, he pointed out that Georgia
had increased its military budget 50 fold. Churkin asked NATO member
countries whether they were "willing to rescue your country’s security
for the sake of Saakashvili"

Afterwards some 50 delegates took to the floor and made
statements. Delegate said that use of force by Russia was
disproportionate. They said "This is a new Iron Curtain. Russia is
redrawing the borders of Europe. Georgia’s territorial integrity
should be supported. Russia is unreliable and unpredictable. Russia
broke the rule of law. This is state annexation."

Many delegates called for an international observers and investigation
team to go to Georgia to investigate the conflict and its
aftermath. They also called for dialogue and cooperation.

The Russian and Georgian delegations exchanged frequent insults and
were often highly emotional.

Aram Safaryan of Armenia said that we [Armenia] believe in the OSCE
peaceful efforts. He said, "The Russian Federation is our strategic
ally and the largest trade partner. We look with respect to Russia’s
role and interest in the Caucasus. Georgia is our traditional
neighbor. Some 70% of our imports come through Georgia. During the
five days of the conflict Armenia lost $682 million. Armenia doesn’t
look favorably to big power clashes in the Caucasus. Safaryan called
for balanced relationship between Russia, the United States and the
European Union. He said his government supported Turkey’s `Caucasus
Platform’ proposal and positively assessed Gul’s visit to Armenia. He
called for the right of self-determination for all the nations of the
Caucasus.

Larisa Alaverdyan, called for an international conference to discuss
the issues of the over 100 nations that make up the Caucasus. She
called for the Caucasian nations to make their contribution to the
region and to speak their mind.

The chairwoman of the Azeri delegation supported the territorial
integrity of Georgia. She said Azerbaijan rejected Georgian
separatism, considered Abdullah Gul’s visit to Armenia a positive
step, and called for the establishment and safeguards for the energy
transportation routes. She said that tension and recriminations do not
help the situation and called for dialogue. She then asked the OSCE to
turn its attention to solving the problem in Nagorno-Karapagh problem
"where [OSCE] did not keep its commitment."

The head of the Turkish delegation called for peace and stability in
the region. He said nations had a moral responsibility to turn the
region to the benefit the people. The Turkish delegate said the
recognition by Russia of Abkhazia and Ossetia is an alarming
development and would have negative effect on the resolution of the
conflict.

On the third and last day of the gathering, the agenda was titled
`Human Dimension’ on role of OSCE ODIHR in promoting human rights,
democracy, migration and integration of legal and illegal migrants.

Alaverdyan of Armenia mentioned the non cooperation of neighboring
countries in the migrants issue. She mentioned Turkey’s non-responsive
attitude to cooperating on the issue of Armenian migrants to Turkey
and in protecting their rights.

The ANCC representative had many opportunities to meet the various
delegates and OSCE PA leaders, discuss with them the Nagaorno Khrabagh
conflict and give them copies of Patrick Wilson Gore`s book ` Tis Some
Poor Fellow’s Skull’ on Nagorno-Karapagh.

*****

The ANCC is the largest and the most influential Canadian-Armenian
grassroots political organization. Working in coordination with a
network of offices, chapters, and supporters throughout Canada and
affiliated organizations around the world, the ANCC actively advances
the concerns of the Canadian-Armenian community on a broad range of
issues.

——

Le CNAC est l’organisation politique canadienne-arménienne la plus
large et influentielle. Collaborant avec une série de bureaux,
chapitres et souteneurs à travers le Canada et des organisations
affiliées à travers le monde, le CNAC s’occupe activement des
inquiétudes de la communauté canadienne-arménienne.

Regional Chapters/Sections régionales
Montréal – Laval – Ottawa – Toronto – Hamilton – Cambridge –
St. Catharines – Windsor – Vancouver

From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress

ABKHAZIA AND SOUTH OSSETIA MODEL IRRELEVANT FOR CYPRUS, TRANSNISTRIA AND KARABAKH

PanARMENIAN.Net
02.10.2008 12:38 GMT+04:00

/PanARMENIAN.Net/ Now many are trying to build all sorts of parallels
between the situation in Abkhazia and South Ossetia with other
internationally unrecognized entities, including northern Cyprus,
Russia’s Foreign Minister said.

"It’s unclear, however, where those "experts" were after the unilateral
proclamation of Kosovo’s independence of. It wasn’t us who opened a
Pandora’s box. So, I advise to be cautious when drawing parallels,
which are absolutely irrelevant in the case of Cyprus, Nagorno
Karabakh and Transnistria," Sergei Lavrov said in an interview with
Elefterotipia Greek newspaper, the RF MFA press office reported.

"In all these cases a negotiation process is going on; neither of the
parties undermines the settlement mechanisms and is not going to use
force, as the current Georgian regime did, violating its obligations,"
he said.

"Our fundamental stance on the Cyprus problem is changeable. We speak
out for a just, viable and comprehensive solution for all Cypriots,
both Greeks and Turks on the basis of the relevant decisions of the UN
Security Council and the voluntary the consent of the sides. Russia’s
recognition of northern Cyprus is out of question," he added.

Commenting on Iran’s nuclear program, the Minister Lavrov said, "Our
Caucasus policy is not an article of commerce or dubious deals. We
stand for peaceful diplomatic resolution of the problem on the basis of
IAEA and UN Security Council’s decisions. Any pressure and, moreover,
use of force will immediately destabilize the region."

From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress

HRANUSH HAKOBYAN APPOINTED MINISTER OF DIASPORA AFFAIRS

PanARMENIAN.Net
02.10.2008 13:58 GMT+04:00

/PanARMENIAN.Net/ On October 1, Armenian President Serzh Sarsgyan
signed an edict on dismissal of Hranush Hakobyan from the post of
chairperson of the state committee on ties with Diaspora.

By another presidential edict Hranush Hakobyan was appointed as
Minister of Diaspora Affairs.

FRENCH ARMENIANS URGE SENATE TO PASS LAW PENALIZING ARMENIAN GENOCIDE DENIAL

PanARMENIAN.Net
02.10.2008 14:58 GMT+04:00

/PanARMENIAN.Net/ The Armenian community of France gathered yesterday
in front of the French Senate to require that the socialist bill,
providing for one-year imprisonment and 45,000 euros fine for the
denial of Armenian genocide adopted by National Assembly on October
12, 2006, be approved by senators as soon as possible, independent
French journalist Jean Eckian told PanARMENIAN.Net.

The action participants claimed that civil security and public order
is jeopardized because the law on France’s official recognition of
the Armenian Genocide (adopted in January 2001) is not observed.

The Coordination Council of Armenian Organizations of France (CCAF)
also called on the Senate to put the issue on the agenda.

Some 10,000 people are supposed to gather for another action due on
November 22.

PACE CONFIRMS THE RATIFICATION OF THE CREDENTIALS OF THE RUSSIAN DELEGATION

A1+
[12:00 pm] 02 October, 2008

The PACE decided to confirm the ratification of the credentials of
the Russian delegation, while reminding that it can be seized again
of the matter "at any moment".

The parliamentarians considered that the recent war between Russia and
Georgia constitutes in itself "a serious violation of the Statute of
the Council of Europe" and of their obligations and commitments as
member states. However, following the proposals by the rapporteur
Andreas Gross (Switzerland, SOC), parliamentarians said it is
essential to ensure that dialogue and mutual building of trust can
be pursued between the two sides, but also between each of them
and our Assembly. In order for this dialogue to be constructive and
meaningful, they said, it is essential that Russia "implements the
EU-brokered cease-fire agreement" and in particular withdraws its
troops to positions ex ante the war and allows the deployment of EU
and OSCE monitors.

On 12 September 2008, 24 members of the Assembly signed a motion
asking for the reconsideration of previously ratified credentials of
the Russian delegation for a resolution on substantial grounds under
Rule 9 of the Rules of Procedure of the Assembly and, in particular,
"on the grounds of serious violations of the basic principles of
the Council of Europe mentioned in the Preamble to the Statute"
in relation with "the conflict opposing two member states of the
Council of Europe in the South Caucasus".