Month: December 2023

Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Contradicts Armenian Counterpart on Troop Withdrawal

Tatoyan Vazgen
bnn
HongKong – Dec 17 2023

By: Rizwan Shah

In a recent joint press conference, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Ceyhun Bayramov contradicted the views of his Armenian counterpart on the topic of troop withdrawal from the Armenia-Azerbaijan border. This response came following a statement by the Armenian Foreign Minister, in which he expressed hope for continued discussions on troop withdrawal, suggesting that it could prevent potential escalations.

Bayramov highlighted the complexity of the issue, arguing that selectively presenting elements discussed in negotiations can lead to misunderstanding. He pointed out that the Azerbaijan-Armenia border has not been delimited, which further complicates matters. The Azerbaijani Foreign Minister asserted that without a comprehensive agreement, troop withdrawal could risk positions being retaken.

Bayramov further stated that a proposal for troop withdrawal was unacceptable to Azerbaijan, underscoring that the Azerbaijani Army is tasked with protecting the country’s borders. He emphasized that this was not a position arrived at through goodwill or invitation, but a duty reclaimed after 30 years of sacrifice. Bayramov stressed that the protection of Azerbaijan’s borders lies solely with its own soldiers and cannot be entrusted to a third party.

Bayramov urged Armenia to consider Azerbaijan’s constructive proposals for positive developments. The press conference also covered a variety of other topics, including additional flight delays from Baku to Nakhchivan, political developments in Russia, incidents in other regions, and weather conditions.

In other related news, a prisoner exchange was successfully executed, as announced by Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan on Facebook. The exchange involved 32 servicemen captured by Azerbaijan since 2020 who are now back in Armenia. Initial Azerbaijani reports indicated the exchange would take place along the Ijevan-Kazakh stretch of the Armenia-Azerbaijan border, involving two captured Azerbaijani prisoners. This release forms part of a deal announced last week in a rare joint statement between the two countries, which included Armenia dropping its veto of Azerbaijan hosting next year’s COP29 UN Climate Change Conference.

Putin Reveals Lack of Communication from Armenia on Nagorno-Karabakh Recognition

Ara Felekian
bnn
HongKong – Dec 18 2023
By: Momen Zellmi

In an unexpected revelation from the Kremlin, Russian President Vladimir Putin disclosed that Armenia failed to provide Russia with pertinent information preceding its recognition of Nagorno-Karabakh as Azerbaijani territory. The lack of communication between Armenia and its ally Russia could potentially impact the diplomatic dynamics concerning the disputed region.

Nagorno-Karabakh, known as Qarabağ in Azerbaijani, has been a contentious area between Armenia and Azerbaijan for decades. Internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan, it has been under the control of ethnic Armenian forces, with Armenia’s backing, since the conclusion of a separatist war in 1994. This ongoing conflict has seen Russia play an instrumental role as a mediator, with a standing peacekeeping force in Nagorno-Karabakh.

The statement by Putin indicates a potential lapse in coordination or communication between Armenia and Russia on a crucial diplomatic stance. This revelation could significantly alter the dynamics in the region and the relationship between Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Russia. The Russian Foreign Ministry has already voiced criticism towards Yerevan’s politicians for their failure to fully implement trilateral agreements and has pointed out specific actions that obstructed the process.

Reacting to the recent developments, Armenia’s Foreign Ministry has signaled its readiness to recommit to peace negotiations with Azerbaijan. The proposal for direct talks from Baku has been noted positively in Yerevan, hinting at possible diplomatic progression towards resolving the longstanding Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

In another strain of news, Gleb Karakulov, a defector from the Kremlin’s bodyguard agency, has provided intimate details about Putin, labeling him as paranoid and a war criminal. The Kremlin has remained silent on the matter while a desertion case has been opened against Karakulov in Russia. This situation underlines the existing complexities and tensions in Russian politics, which could have far-reaching implications in regional and international affairs.

https://bnnbreaking.com/world/russia/putin-reveals-lack-of-communication-from-armenia-on-nagorno-karabakh-recognition/


Armenia, Azerbaijan Progress Towards Border Resolution Amid Rising Antisemitism

Yeghisabet Vorskanian
bnn
HongKong – Dec 18 2023

By: Momen Zellmi

In a decisive move towards addressing persistent border disputes, Armenia has affirmed the terms of engagement for a commission on delimitation with Azerbaijan. Deputy Prime Minister Mher Grigoryan anticipates that official Baku will endorse the regulations today, marking a collaborative stride towards resolution of the contentious border issues that have plagued both nations in the wake of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

The establishment of a commission to delimit the borders between the two nations is seen as a significant step towards mitigating the post-conflict tension. The confirmation of the rules of engagement by Armenia and the expected approval by Azerbaijan reflects an earnest commitment from both sides to address and resolve the border disputes that followed the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. The document outlining the rules and regulations of the commission will be published simultaneously by both countries, signifying a united front in this pivotal effort.

(Read Also: Armenian Prime Minister Expresses Regret and Promises Resolve Over Captives’ Issue)

In an unrelated development, Armenia has been grappling with a surge in antisemitism. Grigor Hovhannissian, a former Armenian diplomat, highlighted numerous antisemitic incidents and the proliferation of hate speech in the country. The only synagogue in Armenia has been the target of arson attempts, and antisemitic comments have been made by Armenian officials. Armenian media outlets have also been accused of promoting antisemitic views and drawing comparisons between the situation in Karabakh and the Holocaust. The Israeli Ministry of Diaspora Affairs and Combating Antisemitism, along with professional media assets and think tanks, have documented and reported on the exploitation of the Holocaust for propaganda purposes in Armenia.

(Read Also: Azerbaijan Nears Finalization of Stance on Armenia’s Peace Proposal)

In a separate development, Armenia and Azerbaijan have agreed to exchange detainees for the first time since the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. This agreement has seen the return of 32 Armenian POWs, while several high-profile Armenian detainees remain in Azerbaijan. The United States has expressed its willingness to mediate between the two nations, reinforcing its commitment to maintaining peace in the region.

Representatives of institutions of Armenian community in Jerusalem visited Patriarch Theophilos

Vanyan Gary
Dec 18 2023
Dec 18, 2023 | 10:53

 

in Carousel Front Page, Patriarchate of Jerusalem

 

Representatives of institutions of the Armenian community in Jerusalem engaged in a momentous visit to the Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem, where, Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem, graciously received them. The meeting served as a platform for community representatives to express gratitude, discuss recent existential challenges, and seek guidance from the Patriarch.

In light of recent adversities stemming from the aggressive actions of Israeli radicals, the Armenian community highlighted the lack of restraint by the Israeli police. The source of contention revolves around an illegitimate land deal concerning Church property, mirroring a situation akin to that of the Orthodox Patriarchate Jaffa Gate properties.

During the meeting, the community representatives extended their gratitude to Patriarch Theophilos and presented an official letter outlining the complexities they face. They passionately appealed for assistance in resolving the issues, acknowledging H.B.’s pivotal role in safeguarding the interests of the Christian community in Jerusalem.

In response, Patriarch Theophilos expressed his awareness of the challenges faced by the Armenian community and assured them of His commitment to providing support. The Patriarch of Jerusalem recommended that the community should collaborate closely with their spiritual leadership, emphasizing the imperative of unity among Christian communities to fortify the Christian presence in the Holy Land.

Patriarch Theophilos extended His blessings to the Armenian community, lauding their courageous initiative in addressing the prevailing challenges. As the meeting concluded, the Patriarch conveyed His heartfelt wishes for a blessed Christmas season, fostering a spirit of hope and solidarity among the Christian brethren in Jerusalem.

This interaction stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment of Patriarch Theophilos to advocate for unity, peace, and justice within the fervent Christian communities of the Holy Land.

India’s Akash missile system can destroy not 4 but 64 targets simultaneously.

Yeghisabet Arthur
IG News, India
Dec 18 2023

India has done something that no country in the world has done so far. Because so far many countries in the world have claimed that they have systems that can target multiple targets at the same time, but no one has shown it yet. However, for the first time, India has released a video of hitting 4 targets simultaneously with the Akash missile system.

The Akash weapon system was originally designed and developed by the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO). This precision defense system in India has received orders from international customers. It is also regularly updated by DRDO scientists. This missile system was tested by India on December 12 at Surya Lanka Air Force Base.

Recently, the Philippines signed an agreement worth 375 million dollars with India to buy the BrahMos missile. China has a conflict with the Philippines on many issues, and is engaged in strengthening the defense system, in this situation it has also shown interest in the air defense system. At the same time, Egypt and Armenia have expressed their interest in purchasing the Akash defense system.

Akash is a short-range air-to-air missile system, which protects against air attacks. The Akash Weapon System (AWS) can engage multiple targets simultaneously in a group or independent mode. It has anti-counterfeiting (ECCM) facilities. The entire weapon system is optimized for mobile devices. Along with this there are 3 types of Akash, which range from 4.5 kilometers to 90 kilometers. It has the ability to easily shoot down helicopters, fighter jets, UAVs etc. Also, it automatically detects the target until it is killed.

Akash One has a range of 25 kilometers and can engage 4 targets simultaneously. In addition, the range of other species is 40 km. It can easily kill 12 targets. The extent of the third range is 90 km and is named Akash NG. If we talk about the NG variant, it has the power of 98 percent probability of killing. An Indian-made radar is installed on the NG, which can detect the enemy at a distance of 150 kilometers. Not only that, it is capable of killing 64 targets simultaneously.

In 2020, the Indian government approved the export of the Akash missile, after which 9 countries expressed their interest in purchasing it. Akash Technology is developed by DRDO and fully developed by Bharat Dynamics Limited. Bharat Dynamics Limited’s order book confirms that Akash will soon be delivered to Armenia. Until now, Armenia used to buy 94 percent of its weapons from Russia, but after the war in Ukraine, Russia refused to supply arms to Armenia. After that Armenia negotiated an arms deal with the Indian government. Until now, Armenia uses the Russian-made Pichora 125. However, he is currently upgrading his air defenses.

https://irshadgul.com/indias-akash-missile-system-can-destroy-not-4-but-64-targets-simultaneously-the-akash-missile-system-of-india-the-air-force-of-armenia-the-philippines-armenia-ig-news/

Serzh Sargsyan Asserts Unilateral Declarations Cannot Solve Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict

Liana Toganian
bnn
HongKong – Dec 18 2023

Armenian Prime Minister Serzh Sargsyan has asserted that the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict cannot be resolved by unilateral declarations. The statement comes amidst a climate of heightened tension in the South Caucasus region, following discussions between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Azerbaijan’s Ilham Aliyev focusing on stabilizing the situation.

The article discusses Belarusian President Lukashenka’s controversial claim that if Sargsyan had agreed to a $5 billion deal, war in Karabakh could have been averted. Lukashenka’s close relationship with Aliyev and his role as co-chair of the OSCE Minsk Group during the Karabakh settlement process have been subject to criticism, particularly from former Deputy Minister of Defence Artak Zakaryan.

(Read Also: Putin Reveals Lack of Communication from Armenia on Nagorno-Karabakh Recognition)

Armenian media has extensively covered debates regarding the country’s potential withdrawal from the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), strained relations with Russia, and efforts to strengthen ties with the European Union. The media has been criticized for a lack of meaningful discussions, prevalence of propaganda, and a propensity for creating a false sense of security. The potential withdrawal from the CSTO is viewed with skepticism, with critics accusing the pro-government media of using the issue to address internal public matters.

(Read Also: Armenia, Azerbaijan Progress Towards Border Resolution Amid Rising Antisemitism)

Energy security expert Armen Manvelyan has declared that gas pricing in Armenia is a political issue, with the current regime favoring Russia. The fluctuating gas prices, which have risen with Armenia’s overtures towards the EU and fallen with its inclusion in the Eurasian Economic Union, lend credence to this assertion. The media’s role in shaping public opinion and its division into pro-Western and pro-Russian factions are seen as products of political campaigns for power, highlighting the need for more genuine, fact-based discussions on real issues.

EXCLUSIVE | Indian defence triumph: Bharat Dynamics secures major deal from Armenia amidst global achievements, say sources

Lena Karagyozian
Dec 18 2023
Written By: Anuvesh Rath

In a momentous development in the global arms trade, Bharat Dynamics Ltd (BDL) reportedly finalised a major defence deal with Armenia, sending its stock to a record high on Monday.

Zee Business learned from reliable sources that Armenia has acquired the Akash Air Defence System and 15 AAD Systems from BDL, with the transaction estimated to be valued between Rs 5,000 crore and Rs 6,000 crore.

https://www.zeebiz.com/india/news-indian-defence-triumph-bharat-dynamics-secures-major-deal-from-armenia-amidst-global-achievements-say-sources-269201

Russia’s Rosatom to extend life of Armenia’s Metsamor nuclear plant

Meline Chalian
Dec 18 2023
 

ByArshaluys Barseghyan

Armenia has contracted the Russian state nuclear agency, Rosatom, to extend the life of the Metsamor Nuclear Power Plant, with talks ‘ongoing’ about building a new reactor at the ageing facility.

At a meeting in Yerevan attended by Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexey Overchuk on Friday, the Metsamor NPP signed a deal with Rosatom to extend the operation of the plant until 2036.

RIA, a Russian state news agency, reported that the deal was worth $65 million. 

The contract involves further extending the life of Metsamor’s Reactor 2, which came online in 1980 with an expected 30-year lifespan and is currently the only reactor still operational at Metsamor. The reactor was due to be decommissioned in 2026, after its lifespan was previously extended.

Environmental campaigners, Turkey, and the EU have all expressed concerns about the safety of the current reactor, urging the government to shut it down.

Overchuk also announced that Russia was in talks with Armenia to build a new reactor at the plant. Discussions about constructing a new reactor at Metsamor have been ongoing in Armenia for well over a decade.

Metsamor, the only nuclear power plant in the South Caucasus, produced 26% of Armenia’s electricity in 2021. 

Overchuk also expressed interest in developing trade and economic relations with Armenia through the ‘diversification of transport routes and the opening of new routes’ for the transportation of cargo. 

‘Unfortunately, as we know, Upper Lars cannot provide year-round transportation due to climatic reasons, which seriously hinders the development of relations between our countries,’ said Overchuk of the Russia–Georgia border point that Armenia relies on to transport goods to Russia.

In a press briefing later on Friday, Overchuck stressed that Russia was ready to continue mediating between Armenia and Azerbaijan on unblocking transport links.

‘First of all, we are talking about unblocking the railway connection,’ he said.

On Friday evening, Rosatom also announced that they hoped to secure a contract to clean up hazardous waste at a Soviet-era rubber plant in Yerevan, according to TASS. They said they had submitted their proposals last year after a request by the Armenian Government to inspect the site.

The contract for Russia to extend the life of Armenia’s nuclear plant came as relations between the two countries reached an all-time low.

On Friday, Mikheil Galuzin, Russia’s deputy foreign minister, read a statement penned by Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in which he blamed the West for the worsening of relations.

‘Allied ties between Moscow and Yerevan are being tested for strength in the light of the West’s attempts to drive a wedge into relations between our fraternal peoples’, he said.

Galuzin added that ’some temporary difficulties in our relations are not only surmountable, they are surmountable with a plus for the further development of our diverse ties.’

In response, Artur Hovhannisyan, an MP from the ruling Civil Contract party, stated that Armenia’s relations with Russia were being strained, but not due to external any influence.

‘In this context, we can also talk about the CSTO [Collective Security Treaty Organisation], because there are also contracts and unfulfilled obligations, that is, these contractual relations are being put to the test, we need to understand whether these contracts are valid or not’ Hovhannisyan told RFE/RL.

Armenia, which is a member of the CSTO, has been critical of the Russia-led security bloc for not providing military assistance in the face of Azerbaijani attacks on Armenia, most recently in September 2022. 

However, on Monday, Mher Grigoryan, Armenia’s deputy prime minister, attended a summit of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), another Russia-led bloc, in Moscow, one of the few sessions organised by the CIS or the CSTO that Armenia has attended in the past few months.

https://oc-media.org/russias-rosatom-to-extend-life-of-armenias-metsamor-nuclear-plant/

Armenpress: Prime Minister Pashinyan congratulates Emir of Qatar on National Day

Emil Lazarian

 10:29,

YEREVAN, DECEMBER 18, ARMENPRESS. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has congratulated the Emir of the State of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani, on the occasion of the National Day.

"I sincerely congratulate you and the friendly people of Qatar on the occasion of the National Day,” PM Pashinyan said in a letter to the Emir published by his office. We highly value the friendly relations with the State of Qatar, considering your country as one of the most important partners of the Republic of Armenia in the Arab world and the Gulf region. We are impressed by Qatar's achievements and innovative approaches and are ready to deepen our cooperation in various fields. I sincerely hope that we will have the opportunity to host you in Armenia in the near future. Taking this opportunity, I wish you and the friendly people of the State of Qatar continued progress, stability and prosperity,” he added.

Armenian Prime Minister extends condolences on death of Emir of Kuwait

Hovsep Chakrian

 11:09,

YEREVAN, DECEMBER 18, ARMENPRESS. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has offered condolences to Emir of Kuwait Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah on the death of Emir of Kuwait Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad Al-Sabah.

“It is with deep pain that we learnt about the death of Emir of Kuwait, His Highness Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. With his skillful and wise leadership, Sheikh Nawaf had great contribution to the development and strengthening of Kuwait,” the Prime Minister said in a letter to the new Emir, Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.

In a separate letter to the Kuwaiti Prime Minister (President of the Council of Ministers), the Armenian PM said, “It is with pain and sadness that we learnt about the death of your father, the Emir of Kuwait, His Highness Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. He has left a great legacy in ensuring the continuous progress of Kuwait, as well as strengthening the international reputation of Kuwait. Sharing your grief at this difficult time, on behalf of the Government of the Republic of Armenia, and myself, I ask you to convey our condolences to the House of Sabah and the friendly people of Kuwait.”

The emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, died on Saturday. He was 86.

Kuwait’s crown prince and his half-brother, Sheikh Mishal al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah, was subsequently named new emir, state media reported.