People are being told to sell their houses and leave. Tsarukyan

Today, people are being offered to sell their houses, so that those three hundred thousand Azerbaijanis should come and live here. Gagik Tsarukyan, the chairman of the “Prosperous Armenia” party, announced this during a meeting with his supporters.


The pre-election program of the party was drawn up with a new logic and format. Proposals were received from residents of different regions of Armenia, which were coordinated and edited by leading specialists.


Garik Tsarukyan, who is currently visiting many villages, noted that people are disappointed, but all problems will be solved quickly if an opportunity is created.


“We have a lot of work to do. I go to regions and see people’s problems. As candidates for the National Assembly, you are obliged to work hard, not to sit in offices, but to personally interact with people from different fields. There are many problems today and there are certain things that we need to add to our program. There are 18-20 areas in total, and we will offer their solutions. There are problems not only in the villages, but also in the capital. Many beautiful promises were made to the people, but they remained in limbo. Another vivid example was the promise of a new metro station. People never saw that, instead the tax burden increased. Nothing was done in Yerevan. no new road, no new tunnel, no bridge was built. In addition, there are “propkas”. In other countries, they build eight cities in eight years, in our country, not a single metro station is built in eight years, especially now, when Yerevan’s budget has increased so much: 5860 billion, which is about 150 million dollars, which can be used for the right purpose, every year, 50 million can be put for some kind of improvement,” Tsarukyan said, News.am reports.


“Not a single question or issue has been left out of the program, and provisions will be added. “Proposal to Armenia” program, the main approach and principle of which we have changed, we don’t have to sit down and make a plan with serious faces, but on the contrary, we have to ask people, as we asked the students, we made a survey, what is their problem, the problem both for studying and for working. People wrote. The same is the case with different sectors, let’s say, starting with an employee, a servant, a small and medium business, a farmer. Everyone knows well what their problem and problem is, that it needs to be solved, so that people can work conscientiously and keep their homes prosperous,” Gagik said. Tsarukyan.


He also pointed out the driver’s license issue, which also requires a priority solution. “The problem of driving rights is that nobody knows that he has already been judged, that he has disturbed some kind of order, for that there is a sentence on a person. Today there are taxi drivers, there is a lecturer, there is an artist, people go and drive at night to support their families. He can drive even after work so that he can keep his house. He drives for twelve to twenty hours to be able to provide for his child’s bread, school fees, parents, health care,” added Tsarukyan.


Serious reforms are also needed in the banking system. People everywhere complain about the burden of debt, so debt slavery and bank extortion must be abolished. “We have six hundred and fifty thousand families, two million four hundred and fifty thousand borrowers. Is it true or not? Because someone said yesterday: there is no such thing here. The banking system, I said today, I say it once again, is a pawnshop system. There is no banking system here. If you take the program to any foreign country, they look at the program, it is not completely fair, it cannot bring profit, they do not provide money to the person. And it doesn’t matter here, you put the house as a pledge: one hundred thousand, twenty thousand, they give you thirty thousand on the spot, take it and go. If not, they will immediately take it from you,” he said.

Verelq: Zhanna Andreasyan met with directors of public schools in Yerevan

RA Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sports Zhanna Andreasyan met with directors and administrative and economic coordinators of a number of public schools in Charles Aznavour Library of Ajapnyak administrative district.


Director of the library Elmira Poghosyan, presenting the activities of the structure, noted that the library was established in 1998 as a result of the reunification of five community libraries. It has three branches and functions as a centralized system of libraries.


The minister emphasized that libraries should be active public environments, and school-library cooperation should be a priority.


“Cooperation between libraries and schools is paramount. Encouraging reading among children should be seen as a priority issue, because if reading and text comprehension skills are not sufficiently developed, the development of knowledge is limited,” said the minister.


Referring to the development of libraries, Zhanna Andreasyan informed that it is planned to allocate a separate line in the school budgets for the purchase of books. “We plan to purchase and provide new book collections for newly built schools, according to the package logic. They will be books appropriate to the school curriculum and age characteristics. At the same time, continuous renewal of library funds is planned, which will enable schools to replenish their literary resources every year.”


At the meeting with the principals, a number of issues were discussed in a question-and-answer format, which, in particular, related to the functions of administrative and economic coordinators, safety issues in schools, laboratory saturation, implementation of the “School Meals” program in Yerevan schools, etc.


Referring to the formation of the administrative and economic coordinator system, the minister noted that the new management model introduced a few years ago is based on the following principle: a number of functions: purchasing, accounting, security, cleaning, food, etc., can be performed through specialized services. The goal, according to the minister, is to free principals from the burden of administrative functions so that they can focus on the quality and content of education.


The Minister of Education and Culture also informed that the schools of Yerevan will receive the necessary laboratory equipment this year, which will be followed by teacher trainings to ensure their effective use.


“The most difficult thing is the effective use of the created environment. It is important that the laboratories are active, not empty and fully included in the learning process. For this purpose, different groups and other educational formats can also work,” he said, adding that video lessons on the use of laboratories have been prepared to support schools.


During the meeting, Zhanna Andreasyan also presented the plans for school construction, noting that the next phase of the 300 schools project is being discussed, which will also include schools in urban areas, including the capital. “Yerevan will be represented in the program to a very large extent. In the first phase, we mainly focused on the educational institutions of regional settlements, and in the second phase, our attention will be no less focused on schools in Yerevan.”


Issues related to teachers’ safety, new approaches to work with parents, detection of children excluded from compulsory education, registration of student absences and other issues were also discussed at the meeting.

Asbarez: Gagik Galfayan Selected as 2026 Glendale Unified Teacher of the Year

(l tor) GUSD President of the Board Ingrid Gunnell, 2026 GUSD Teacher of the Year Gagik Galfayan, and GUSD Superintendent of Schools Dr. Darneika Watson


GLENDALE — Wilson Middle School Social Science teacher, Gagik Galfayan, on Tuesday was selected as the 2026 Glendale Unified School District Teacher of the Year. Galfayan will represent the District in this year’s Los Angeles County Teacher of the Year competition.

Gagik Galfayan has taught at Wilson MIddle School for seven years, and was previously an Armenian dual-language teacher at Thomas Jefferson Elementary School for six years. At Wilson he teaches History, Advanced History 7, and Yearbook. He also serves as the History Department Chair, runs Debate Club and serves as the Glendale Teachers’ Association site chair.

“In every classroom, he brings depth of knowledge, thoughtful instruction, and an unwavering commitment to student growth, and his impact stretches far beyond a bell schedule,” said Wilson Principal Alen Akhverdyan. “What truly sets Galfayan apart is his presence. He brings a rare sense of calm and steadiness to our campus. Teachers, students, and parents deeply respect and admire him. He is understanding, compassionate, and grounded. Gagik is just simply a wonderful human being above all. The students and families of Wilson Middle School and Glendale are fortunate to have such an exceptional educator guiding their children.”

“Gagik Galfayan represents the very best of the teaching profession. As someone who came to this country as a child, he brings a deep understanding of the power of education to change lives, and that perspective is reflected in the way he connects with and inspires his students every day,” said GUSD Superintendent Dr. Darneika Watson. “His dedication, commitment to excellence, and ability to create meaningful, engaging learning experiences truly set him apart. We are incredibly proud to have him represent Glendale Unified as our 2026 Teacher of the Year and as a candidate for Los Angeles County Teacher of the Year.”

“This recognition reflects not only Galfayan’s exceptional work in the classroom, but also the powerful example he represents for our students and community,” shared GUSD Board President Ingrid Gunnell. “His journey and commitment to education speak to the opportunities our schools can provide and the impact great teachers have on shaping the future. We are honored to celebrate his achievements and those of all the deserving nominees and the difference that they make in the lives of students every day.”

Glendale Unified School District selects one outstanding educator to advance to the Los Angeles County Teacher of the Year competition each year. Administrators and educators submit nominees from across the District. Selections typically alternate between elementary and secondary teachers. GUSD is proud to celebrate all of the 2026 Teacher of the Year finalists.

2026 Teacher of the Year Finalists
Jonathan Allen, a math teacher at Crescenta Valley High School, has taught mathematics for 29 years. Currently at CVHS, he teaches AP Statistics, Introduction to Data Science, and Integrated Math 3, and is known for making complex concepts accessible while supporting students of all levels. Beyond the classroom, Allen leads the school’s Prom Plus program, creating a safe and positive environment for students on prom night. He is a trusted and steady presence on campus, known for his commitment to students and the Crescenta Valley community.

Aurora Barboza is a mathematics teacher at Glendale High School who has been inspiring students for 27 years. As Math Department Chair, she has helped build a strong, results-driven culture focused on student achievement. She founded the school’s peer math tutoring program and has created meaningful opportunities for student leadership and engagement. Barboza is widely respected for her leadership, resilience, and lasting impact on the Glendale High School community.

Elizabeth “Beth” Curtis, English Teacher, has taught English at Rosemont Middle School for nine years. She is known for bringing literature to life through engaging, interactive lessons that inspire students to think critically and participate actively in their learning. Beyond the classroom, Curtis serves as a department chair and mentor, supporting colleagues and leading initiatives such as a schoolwide attendance challenge aimed at improving student engagement. She brings energy, creativity, and a strong sense of purpose to her work each day.

Dr. Paul Jacoy, a CTE Teacher, has taught at Daily High School for four years, bringing a prior career in chiropractic care into the classroom. He prepares students for careers in the medical field while helping them connect these skills to a wide range of future pathways. Jacoy goes above and beyond to support students, coordinating internships, helping secure job opportunities, and organizing field trips and career experiences that expand students’ understanding of their options. He is dedicated to helping students build confidence and take meaningful steps toward their futures.

All-ASA Launches Inaugural Scholarship Program for College Students


The All-Armenian Students Association announced the launch of its inaugural All-ASA Scholarship Program, a landmark $150,000 initiative made possible through partnership with the International Armenian Network.

The program will award six one-time $25,000 scholarships to exceptional undergraduate students for the 2026–2027 academic year. Designed to recognize academic excellence, intellectual curiosity, and a strong commitment to community impact, the scholarship reflects All-ASA’s mission to invest in students who will shape the future across diverse fields.

Applicants will be evaluated through a rigorous, faculty-led review process to ensure integrity at every stage. Scholarships to be distributed at the start of the 2026–2027 academic year.

Eligible applicants must be:

  • Current ASA members enrolled in an undergraduate degree program (freshmen, sophomores, and juniors only)
  • GPA of 3.5 or higher
  • Enrolled at an accredited college or university for the 2026–2027 academic year
  • Demonstrated academic excellence and intellectual curiosity
  • Proven commitment to the Armenian community and broader civic engagement

Applicants must submit:

  • Resume
  • Transcript (Unofficial or Official)
  • Three Essays
  • One Required Letter of Recommendation (3 Maximum)

Applications are due Sunday, May 31 at 11:59 p.m. PST. To apply, visit the website.

Research on Armenian Architecture Hosts Book Launch for 6th ‘History of Armeni

Attendees at the Research on Armenian Architecture’s book launch event in Glendale, Calif.


GLENDALE – The Research on Armenian Architecture hosted a compelling book presentation on Gharadagh and its five regions—a district in the Paytakaran province of Greater Armenia (Մեծ Հայքի), now in modern-day Iran—at the Armenian Society of Los Angeles. The evening served as a unique opportunity for community members to attend an event dedicated to those with Gharadagh lineage.

The book launch brought back memories of earlier times, filled with laughter and shared reminiscence. Through engaging stories, rich architectural heritage, and thoughtful discussion, the event vividly brought history to life, reminding attendees that Armenian history is not only preserved, but actively celebrated.

Founded in 1982 in Germany by Prof. Armen Hakhnazarian, RAA is dedicated to researching and documenting Armenian cultural monuments across historical Armenia and diaspora communities. The organization later expanded to Glendale in 1996 and Yerevan in 1998, with RAA Armenia becoming a formal foundation in 2010. 

Research on Armenian Architecture USA Board Members at the book launch event

Jora Manoucherian, President of RAA/USA, on behalf of the Board of Directors, warmly welcomed the distinguished guests and attendees. He noted that RAA has digitized and archived approximately 690,000 photographs and documents, creating a truly unique collection of its kind.

He further explained that the RAA building, acquired and renovated in July 2023, includes a library named in honor of Samuel Karapetyan, housing more than 20,000 books, as well as an auditorium named after Armen Hakhnazarian.

Manoucherian also shared that the RAA Museum is currently under development and will feature letters of recognition, medals, artifacts collected during expedition trips, and other valuable materials.

Janet Mirzayan and Jora Manoucherian

The newly published sixth volume of RAA’s 36-volume “History of Armenia” series focuses on Gharadagh and its regions. Richly illustrated, the book features photographs, family trees, demographic data, and a comprehensive catalog of monuments, along with a detailed regional map. The work was initiated by the late historian and architectural expert Samuel Karapetyan and later completed by his wife, Emma Abrahamyan.

Published under the patronage of Janet Mirzayan, the research and volume were generously sponsored by her and dedicated to the cherished memory of her parents, Armenoohi Aparian and Hovhanes Melik Ghassemian. “I vividly remember my trip to Gharadagh when I was 13. These memories have left a lasting impression on me,” Mirzayan said. “I will always treasure my father’s stories.”

Janet Mirzayan addressing attendees

The volume highlights the history and architectural heritage of Gharadagh’s villages, with support from Armenian institutions and foundations.

The evening also included recognition of notable Armenians from Gharadagh, past and present, celebrating a legacy of resilience, culture, and achievement.

The program concluded with a reception, where guests were invited to enjoy a selection of traditional Armenian appetizers, along with champagne, coffee, and tea, and continued the evening with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. 

To purchase a copy of the RAA’s latest volume, email [email protected].

Las Vegas Officials, Community Members Commemorate 111th Anniversary of Armeni

Las Vegas community members at Sunset Park’s Armenian Genocide Memorial, where an event commemorating the 111th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide was held on Apr. 24


BY ADROUSHAN ANDY ARMENIAN

LAS VEGAS — Members of the Armenian community in Las Vegas gathered at the Armenian Genocide Memorial in Sunset Park on April 24 to honor the 1.5 million Armenians who lost their lives during the Armenian Genocide. The commemorative event brought together community members, students, clergy, and elected officials and dignitaries in a unified act of remembrance.

Hermann Brumm, representing the Armenian American Cultural Society of Las Vegas emceed the ceremony and invited the clergy to lead the Invocation, led by Very Rev. Fr. Sasoon Zumrookhdian, Rev. Fr. Barkev Balkevorkian, and Rev. Sam Agulian. Prior to the invocation, the Homenetmen scouts of Las Vegas “Artsakh” Chapter opened the event with a flag ceremony, and performed both the American and Armenian national anthems, setting a respectful and ceremonial tone.

From left: UNLV President Chris Heavey, Lenna Hovanessian, Congresswoman Susie Lee, Mayor Shelley Berkley, Adroushan Andy Armenian City of Las Vegas Mayor Shelley Berkely delivering remarks at the event

A significant moment followed when Amber Stidham, on behalf of Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo, presented an official proclamation recognizing April 24, 2026, as Nevada’s Day of Remembrance for the Armenian Genocide.

Student leadership was also in attendance, with Ariana Khzarjyan, president of the Armenian Student Association at University of Nevada, Las Vegas, introducing UNLV President Chris Heavey. Heavy spoke about the enduring legacy and contributions of Armenian Americans within the university community.

Las Vegas’ Rev. Sam Agulian, Very Rev. Fr. Sasoon Zumrookhdian and Rev. Fr. Barkev Balkevorkian led the Invocation Gov. Joe Lombardo’s proclamation was presented to Hermann Brumm by Amber Stidham

A particularly notable address came from City of Las Vegas Mayor Shelley Berkley, who strongly emphasized the city’s commitment to remembrance, recognition, and standing in solidarity with the Armenian community. She also presented an official proclamation from the Mayor’s Office, reinforcing the importance of acknowledging the Armenian Genocide and ensuring its history is never forgotten.

Additional remarks were delivered by Nevada Congresswoman Susie Lee, Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford, Lenna Hovanessian Esq. and Joe Campos, Dean of the Nevada Consular Corps, each highlighting themes of remembrance, justice, and education.

The program included a moving violin performance by Harry Hovakimian, adding a solemn and reflective element to the ceremony. The event concluded with elected officials and attendees placing carnations at the memorial in tribute.

The gathering stood as a powerful reminder of the importance of remembrance, unity, and continued advocacy to ensure that the history and lessons of the Armenian Genocide are never forgotten.

Adroushan Andy Armenian is the former Honorary Consul of the Republic of Armenia in Las Vegas.

Asbarez: Armenia’s Nationwide AI Education Program Named Top-2 Finalist at U.

Representatives of Armenia’s “Generation AI” school network at the ASU+GSV Education Innovation Showcase in San Diego


A Scalable, Tuition-Free model Positions Armenia as an Unexpected Leader in AI Education

YEREVAN — As countries worldwide grapple with how to integrate artificial intelligence into classrooms, Armenia is emerging as an early mover. In a major reflection of the progress, the country’s “Generation AI” school network was named a Top-2 finalist in the Impact category at the ASU+GSV Education Innovation Showcase in San Diego on April 14, a leading global forum for education technology and innovation.

Implemented by the Foundation for Armenian Science and Technology in partnership with Armenia’s Ministry of Education, Science, Culture, and Sports, the initiative embeds advanced, tuition-free AI education directly into the public high school system across the country. Armenia was the only non-U.S. country to reach the finals, selected from 110 global applicants—and the first international finalist in the four-year history of the award.

“It’s especially meaningful that Armenia is gaining global recognition for educational innovation emerging from its public school system,” said Zhanna Andreasyan, Minister of Education, Science, Culture, and Sports. “Generation AI is becoming one of Armenia’s flagship education initiatives.”

“This recognition underscores that Armenia has a meaningful voice in AI education,” said Suzanna Shamakhyan, Executive Director of FAST. “We are building a scalable, future-oriented model that integrates AI into public education—and we aim to make it accessible to students globally.”

The Foundation for Armenian Science and Technology was founded in 2017 with the aim of creating a favorable ecosystem to promote technological innovation and scientific advancement in Armenia. FAST develops and pilots programs with the potential for a long-term, sustainable impact on Armenia’s science, technology, and innovation ecosystem. Over its nine years of operation, the foundation has implemented 31 programs and impacted more than 27,000 direct and indirect beneficiaries.

168: Why is the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation actively involved in contacts between Armenia and Russia?

April 29, 2026

While the expert community is discussing Russia’s political passivity in the South Caucasus with varying intensity, Russian Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Mikhail Galuzin meets from time to time with the ambassadors of Armenia and Azerbaijan in Russia. Galuzin had two meetings with the Armenian Ambassador to Russia Gurgen Arsenyan during the month of April.

The first is on April 10, to discuss high-level agreements after Pashinyan’s visit to Moscow, and the second is on April 20. According to the press release of the Russian Foreign Ministry, Galuzin discussed urgent issues of the bilateral agenda with the Armenian Ambassador to Moscow, Gurgen Arsenyan, in the context of the recent high-level contacts.

“A number of topical issues of bilateral relations were discussed in the light of the results of the recent Russian-Armenian high-level talks held in Moscow,” the Russian diplomatic agency noted.

Earlier, the press secretary of the Russian President, Dmitry Peskov, noted that during the meeting held on April 1, Vladimir Putin and Nikol Pashinyan’s contact was “useful, sincere and necessary”. the parties communicated to each other their positions on a wide range of topical issues on the bilateral agenda. However, according to the assessment of the expert community, it was one of the most tense Pashinyan-Putin meetings, during which the Russian president touched on the most sensitive issues of the bilateral agenda: the incompatibility of RA EU integration and EAEU, gas price, economic privileges due to RA EAEU membership, and internal political tension due to the Russian factor.

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It became known yesterday that Galuzin met the Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Russia Rahman Mustafaev. According to reports, the parties discussed the Azerbaijani-Russian relations during the meeting. “During the meeting, a number of urgent issues of bilateral relations were discussed,” the message says.

A few days ago, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova, referring to the destruction of Armenian churches and cultural heritage in Artsakh, said that the tripartite agreements reached at a high level between Russia, Armenia and Azerbaijan in 2020-2022 also provided for a humanitarian direction of reconciliation.

“It includes the topics of return and exchange of all detained persons, caring for architectural monuments and memorials, exchange of information on profile structures and public organizations, as well as search for missing persons.

As it can be seen, the demand of society, both in Azerbaijan and in Armenia, regarding the solution of similar issues is relevant even today, and your question confirms this. Therefore, in case of appeal, we are ready to provide the necessary support to our partners,” Zakharova said, reconfirming the Russian proposal for mediation efforts.

168.amin a conversation with Russian analyst Fyodor Lukyanov said that Russia continues its political involvement in the South Caucasus as much as it is possible and the partner countries of the Russian Federation also need it. Naturally, according to him, during the period of changes, relations also change in a number of directions, their format and perception changes.

“As we can see, today in the relations between Russia and Armenia, the economic cooperation is in the foreground, which is centered around the Eurasian Economic Union. Thanks to EAEU membership and that cooperation, trade and economic ties have deepened over the years, Armenia’s economic indicators have changed, and the price of gas is significantly different from international prices.

Naturally, EU integration will disrupt Armenia’s progress in EAEU, whether it is good or bad will be evaluated in Armenia itself, but it is not possible to combine the two economic zones, everyone knows that. Armenia wants to maintain economic cooperation with Russia, and to deepen political cooperation with the West. How far it will be possible to continue this model, time and future geopolitical developments will show,” noted Lukianov.

As for the Russian Deputy Foreign Minister’s consultations with the ambassadors, the analyst believes that as a result of the changes in the relations, the contacts between the officials, the Foreign Ministers, are also changing. Therefore, contacts are being developed for the purpose of implementing agreements at lower levels, discussing the agenda and other issues,” the analyst said.

Changing the passport “removed” the connection with the victorious past of the Third Republic of RA

April 29, 2026

Artak Zakaryan writes on his Facebook page. “The important thing is with “dukhov”…

According to the American TheBulwark.com, the US State Department is finalizing the development of a new design for US passports, which may also include the image and signature of President Donald Trump.

This idea is related to the celebrations of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States and provides for the printing of a limited number (25,000) of anniversary passports.

Let’s go back to Armenia.

To date, which country in the world has fundamentally changed its civil passport in the name of ICAO, “facilitation” of border crossings, obtaining visas or free movement?

I think that changing the passport is not so much about their UV protection, as canceling the old passport is about “eliminating” the connection with the victorious past of the Third Republic of Armenia. It is the replacement of past memories, historical stereotypes and symbols. It is not excluded that there will be a Turkish-Azerbaijani demand, for example, to remove the epic image of Davt of Sassoon from valid passports. Maybe it is a requirement to open the border with Turkey and/or to have an “acceptable” passport for Azerbaijanis returning to Armenia?

There may be other latent problems and with “pretty packaging”, all printed passports are taken out of circulation.

Otherwise, at this moment, there is no urgent and reasonable need to radically change the RA civil passport.

P.S. Can you include Nikol’s “Dukhov” picture in the “new passport” of the RA? If the image of Tamanyan will be included as the patriarch of urban development, let Pashinyan be included as the “patriarch” of Turan development. Especially since in the history of the Armenian people, Nikol Pashinyan and the sacrifice of Artsakh will forever be linked by an indelible bond (approached Syunik)…

It remains for the Armenian-hating Azerbaijanis and Turks to evaluate it as it deserves, “not to insult” the CP and help them to be re-elected in the near future.

For European institutions, Nicole’s chair is more important than human rights

April 29, 2026

Anna Mkrtchyan, deputy of the “I have honor” faction of the National Assembly, who also participates in the action organized near the EU office, emphasized that the European structures and commissions are well aware of the situation in Armenia.

According to him, the European structures do not need their letter and in their annual reports they clearly document the actions of the judicial system dependent on the authorities in Armenia, fabricated, politicized criminal cases and human rights violations.

“The problem is that there is no adequate reaction, because they are quite loyal to Pashinyan,” the deputy said in a conversation with journalists.

According to him, many members of the opposition political forces have the impression that today the Europeans are not concerned about their declared values, human rights and freedoms.