Author: Andres-Papazian

PRESS RELEASE
Eastern Prelacy of the Armenian Apost. Church of America and Canada
H.E. Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan
Prelate, Easter Prelacy and Canada
138 East 39th Street
New York, NY 10016
Tel: 212-689-7810
Fax: 212-689-7168
Web:

May 5, 2011

NATIONAL REPRESENTATIVE ASSEMBLY WILL CONVENE

NEXT WEEK IN PHILADELPHIA

The National Representative Assembly (NRA) will convene next week in
Philadelphia at St. Gregory the Illuminator Church. The clergy
conference will begin on Wednesday, May 11; the full Assembly will
convene on Thursday, May 12 at 11 a.m., and continue through to
Saturday, May 14. Archbishop Oshagan will deliver the keynote address
on Thursday and the banquet will take place Friday evening, May 13, at
the Double Tree Hotel. All of the meetings and meals during the
Assembly will be at St. Gregory Church, 8701 Ridge Avenue,
Philadelphia.

The NRA is the highest ecclesiastical and administrative body of the
Prelacy. It is composed of a ratio of one-seventh clergy and
six-sevenths lay delegates. The clergy delegates are elected by the
Clergy Conference and the lay delegates by their respective
parishes. The number of delegates from the parishes depends on the
number of members. The minimum number of delegates for a parish is two
delegates; the maximum is seven delegates.

For more information about the 2011 NRA click here (

).

PRELATE WILL TRAVEL TO MARYLAND

This Sunday, May 8, Archbishop Oshagan will preside over the Divine
Liturgy and deliver the sermon at Soorp Khatch Church, Bethesda,
Maryland. The Liturgy will be celebrated by the parish priest,
Rev. Fr. Sarkis Aktavoukian.

PRELATE DELIVERS INVOCATION AT TIMES SQUARE GATHERING

Archbishop Oshagan presided over the Divine Liturgy last Sunday, May
1, at St. Illuminators Cathedral in New York City. Following the
Liturgy he attended the gathering at Times Square commemorating the
96th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. The annual gathering is
organized by the Knights of Vartan with the sponsorship and
participation of all Armenian churches and major organizations. His
Eminence delivered the invocation. In his prayer the Prelate noted
that New generations of Armenians have stood by their obligation not
only by remembering the past and honoring the martyrs, but also by
dedicating themselves to the pursuit of justice for their Armenian
nation. This is a promise we made to our survivor generation. This is
a promise we will honor.

To read His Eminences invocation click here (

).

ARCHBISHOP OSHAGAN ATTENDS ANNUAL

CAPITOL HILL OBSERVANCE

About two dozen members of Congress gathered at the historic Kennedy
Senate Caucus Room on Capitol Hill on April 14 along with hundreds of
Armenian Americans, the Congressional Caucus on Armenian issues, the
Embassy of Armenia, and the Office of the Nagorno Karabagh Republic
and reaffirmed their support for a truthful and just resolution of the
Armenian Genocide.

Chuck Yessaian, Jr., served as master of ceremonies. Opening and
closing prayers were offered, respectively, by our Prelate Archbishop
Oshagan Choloyan, and Archbishop Vicken Aykazian, Diocesan Legate of
the Armenian Church of America (Eastern), Armenian Ambassador to the
United States Tatoul Markarian, and Republic of Nagorno Karabagh
Representative Robert Avetisyan, spoke about the importance of the
annual Capitol Hill commemoration and ongoing international efforts to
secure justice for the Armenian Genocide.

Archbishop Oshagan greets genocide survivor, 106-year-old Yeretzgin
Sirarpi Khoyan.

With Congressman Frank Pallone (New Jersey).

With Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney (New York).

With Congressman Adam Schiff (California).

WORLD COUNCIL OF CHURCHES ISSUES MESSAGE FOR
ARMENIAN GENOCIDE REMEMBRANCE DAY

His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia,
received a letter from the General Secretary of the World Council of
Churches (WCC), Rev. Dr. Olav Fykse Tveit, about the WCCs 2011
message for Armenian Remembrance Day.

The Secretary General wrote, I am glad to inform Your Holiness that
the WCC, together with Conference of European Churches (CEC), being
aware of this tragedy in the history of all Armenians and based on the
previous efforts undertaken by the WCC and CEC in supporting the
public recognition of the Armenian Genocide, issued a common letter,
signed by their general secretaries, in which the fellowship of member
churches is asked to pray for their Armenian brothers and sisters from
all around the world as well as for the victims of the genocide.

The WCC has a long history of solidarity with the Armenians. The
question of the Genocide was put on the agenda of the WCCs General
Assembly in Uppsala in 1968 by Archbishop Karekin Sarkissian, of
blessed memory. Archbishop Karekin, who was subsequently elected
Karekin II of Cilicia and Karekin I of Etchmiadzin, served as
Vice-Moderator of the WCC for seven years. Through the efforts of
Archbishop Aram Keshishian (later Aram I of Cilicia), first as a
delegate, and later as Moderator of the WCC for 16 years, the Armenian
Genocide remained a priority and April 24 was added to the Prayer
Cycle of the World Council of Churches, a prayer book used by member
churches. In 1984 the Catholicosate of Cilicia proposed that the
Commission of International Affairs of the WCC publish a background
information document on the Armenian Genocide. The Commission in
collaboration with the Middle East Council of Churches published
Armenia: the Continuing Tragedy, in the four !
official languages of the WCC (English, French, German, Spanish), and
in Arabic. This publication followed the participation of
Prof. Shavarsh Toriguian, who, representing the Catholicosate of
Cilicia at a meeting of the UN Human Rights Commission, on behalf of
the World Council of Churches, raised the question of the Armenian
Genocide.

To read the 2011 message issued by the WCC click here (

).

ARCHBISHOP NAREG ALEMEZIAN WILL RECEIVE DOCTORATE

Archbishop Nareg Alemezian, the Ecumenical Officer for the
Catholicosate of Cilicia, will be awarded his Doctor of Ministry
degree from the University of British Columbia, Vancouver School of
Theology. The graduation ceremony will take place at Christ Church
Cathedral in Vancouver, this Monday evening, May 9.

On Sunday, May 8, Archbishop Nareg will deliver the sermon at
St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Church of Vancouver. Following
the Liturgy there will be a reception.

Before assuming his current position of service at the Catholicosate,
Archbishop Nareg served as pastor of St. Gregory Church in Vancouver,
and later served as the pastor of Sts. Vartanantz Church in
Ridgefield, New Jersey.

We extend our prayers and joyful congratulations to Archbishop Nareg
on his grand achievement.

MOTHERS DAY LUNCHEON

The annual Mothers Day Luncheon hosted by the Prelacy Ladies Guild
took place last Monday, May 2, at the lovely Palace Hotel in New York
City.

Well-known musical artist Lucy Ishkanian was honored as the Woman of
the Year, and in a surprise presentation His Eminence Archbishop
Oshagan also conferred upon her the highest award given by the
Prelacy, the Queen Zabel award.

Full details and photographs will be given in the next Crossroads.

DATEV SUMMER PROGRAM:

EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION ENDS MAY 15

The 25th annual St. Gregory of Datev Institute Summer Christian
Studies Program, for youth ages 13-18, will take place at the St. Mary
of Providence Center in Elverson, Pennsylvania, from July 3-10,
2011. By popular demand, the Institute this year will again extend the
week-long program with a three-day retreat (optional) from June
30-July 3.

The summer program is sponsored by the Armenian Religious Education
Council (AREC). For information and registration, contact the AREC
office by telephone at 212-689-7810, by email at
[email protected] (mailto:[email protected]), or click
here (

) or join us on our Facebook (

) page.

BIBLE READING

Bible readings for Sunday, May 8, Green Sunday are: Luke 6:12-45; Acts
9:23-31; 1 Peter 2:1-10; John 2:23-3:12; Matthew 8:18-9:8; Mark
3:6-12.

After some time had passed, the Jews plotted to kill him, but their
plot became known to Saul. They were watching the gates day and night
so that they might kill him; but his disciples took him by night and
let him down through an opening in the wall, lowering him in a basket.

When he had come to Jerusalem, he attempted to join the disciples; and
they were all afraid of him, for they did not believe that he was a
disciple. But Barnabas took him, brought him to the apostles, and
described for them how on the road he had seen the Lord, who had
spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had spoken boldly in the name of
Jesus. So he went in and out among them in Jerusalem, speaking boldly
in the name of the Lord. H spoke and argued with the Hellenists; but
they were attempting to kill him. When the believers learned of it,
they brought him down to Caesarea and sent him off to Tarsus.

Meanwhile the church throughout Judea, Galilee, and Samaria had peace
and was built up. Living in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort
of the Holy Spirit, it increased in numbers. (Acts 9:23-31)

For a listing of the coming weeks Bible readings click here (

).

GREEN SUNDAY

This Sunday, May 8, is Green Sunday (Ganach Giragi), also known as
Sunday of the World Church (Ashkharhamadoor). The concept of Green
Sunday most probably comes from an ancient folk holiday celebrating
spring. Our forefathers, seeing mother earth bloom after long winter
months, glorified the Creator with an act of thanksgiving and
celebrated by decorating the church and themselves with greenery. The
reawakening of nature is also symbolic of the Resurrection. Green is
the color of life, freshness and promise. After a barren winter we are
filled with hope, life, and love.

Green Sunday is also known as World Church Sunday in the sense of the
church belonging to the whole world beginning with Christ and the
Apostles who met regularly to pray and partake of the Holy Sacrament
of Communion.

Green Sunday is also an appropriate time for us to remember our
obligations to be good stewards of the earth and the gifts that have
been given to us by God.

ARMENIAN CULTURAL AWARENESS WEEKEND

The Anthropology Museum of the People of New York and the Armenian
Cultural Educational Resource Center Gallery at Queens College
(Flushing, New York), have partnered with the Kupferberg Holocaust
Resource Center at Queensborough Community College to present a unique
program of exhibits, lectures, food, films, music and dance, during
the weekend of May 13 to 15. The college campus (222-05 56th Avenue,
Bayside, New York) will be open to the general public with exhibits on
Armenian history and culture, free food samples, and activities
designed to educate and entertain both adults and young people about
the vibrant Armenian community in New York City.

Friday evening at 7:30 pm, the program will include Voice Verses,
singing of Genocide and Holocaust survivors experiences performed by
the Serenity Quartet and featured speaker Dr. Dennis
Papazian. Saturday at 3 pm, the films Forty Days of Musa Dagh, and
William Saroyans short, Hello Out There, will be shown; at 7:30 pm the
program will feature Armenian Hip Hop dancers, the PT Grimm Avante
Guard Rock Band and featured speaker Bryan Armen Graham from Sports
Illustrated. Sunday at 5:30 pm the Armenian Antranig Dancers and the
Israeli Shalom Dancers will perform traditional folk and modern
dances. Featured speaker will be Shant Mardirossian. For information:
718-428-5650.

QUEENS COLLEGE LIBRARY IN SPECIAL EXHIBITION

OF BOOKS & MEMORABILA ON THE GENOCIDE

An exhibit of books, documents, photographs, and memorabilia,
entitled, Genocide: The Armenians, 1915-1922, is currently on display
and will continue until June 30, at the Queens College Benjamin
S. Rosenthal Library, Barham Rotunda, 3rd Floor. The selections are
from the personal library of Professor Hratch Zadoian, former Queens
College Vice President for Business and Finance, who currently teaches
in the Political Science department. Professor Zadoian has donated the
collection to the library.

TODAY IS NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER

Today, Thursday, May 5, is National Day of Prayer by presidential
proclamation. Since the first call to prayer in 1775, when the
Continental Congress asked the colonies to pray for wisdom in forming
a nation, the call to prayer has continued through U.S. history,
including President Abraham Lincolns proclamation of a day of
humility, fasting, and prayer in 1863. In 1952, a joint resolution by
Congress signed by President Harry Truman declared an annual, national
day of prayer. In 1988, the law was amended and signed by President
Ronald Reagan permanently setting the day on the first Thursday of the
month of May. Each year the president signs a proclamation encouraging
all Americans to pray on this day.

In his proclamation for 2011, President Barack Obama said in part: Let
us be thankful for the liberty that allows people of all faiths to
worship or not worship according to the dictates of their conscience,
and let us be thankful for the many other freedoms and blessings that
we often take for granted. I invite all citizens of our Nation, as
their own faith or conscience directs them, to join me in giving
thanks for the many blessings we enjoy, and I ask all people of faith
to join me in asking God for guidance, mercy, and protection for our
Nation.

To read the entire proclamation click here (

).

ANDDONT FORGET: SUNDAY IS MOTHERS DAY. CALL YOUR MOTHER!

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

May 7St. Sarkis Church, Douglaston, New York, Fourth Annual
Celebration of International Cuisine, Simply the Best Party, 8
pm. Enjoy a special evening of tasting gourmet cooking and dancing to
the tunes of DJ Allen. Reservations a must; donation $50 in advance;
$60 at door; children under twelve, $25. Reservations: church office,
718-224-2275.

May 11-14National Representative Assembly of Eastern Prelacy, hosted
by St. Gregory the Illuminator Church, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

May 13Mothers Day Dinner and Cultural Program sponsored by ARS Mayr
Chapter, New York, honoring Mother of the Year Mrs. Azniv
Ebrimian. Armenian Center, Woodside, New York, 8 pm, donation
$40. Contact Anais (718) 392-6982 or Maria (516) 921-0563.

May 21An event not to be missed, A Benefit Dinner Dance Extravaganza,
sponsored by the Ladies Guild of Sts. Vartanantz Church, Providence,
Rhode Island, at the West Valley Inn, 4 Blossum Street, West Warwick,
Rhode Island. Twenty-seven musicians from New England area are
generously donating their talent and time. Dinner at 6 pm; adults $35,
children (under 16) $25. Dance only $20. Dinner tickets by advance
sale only. Contact Joyce Bagdasarian, 401-434-4467.

May 21Walk Armenia, sponsored by New York Mayr and Erebouni chapters
of the Armenian Relief Society, to benefit Camp Haiastan, Franklin,
Massachusetts. Registration 12 noon at St. Sarkis Church, Douglaston,
New York. Walk (approximately 4 miles) begins at 1 pm; rest halfway at
Armenian Society, Little Neck, New York. Participation fee $25. For
information: Hasmik Israelian 516-330-5290 or Nayda Voskerijian
516-603-2809.

May 22Celebration of the 95th anniversary of St. Illuminators
Cathedral, New York City, will take place at the Terrace on the Park,
Flushing Meadow Park, under the auspices of H.E. Archbishop Oshagan
Choloyan. Cocktails 5 pm; Dinner 6 pm.

June 11St. Gregory Church, North Andover, Massachusetts, presents
Armenian Food Festival, 11 am to 7 pm. Buffet served all day; take-out
available. Pastries, handmade jewelry, Armenian gifts, raffles, and
much more. For information contact church office, 978-685-5038.

June 16Second Annual Cigar Night & Dinner in memory of Rev. Fr. Vartan
Kassabian, St. Gregory Church of Merrimack Valley, North Andover,
Massachusetts. Featuring hors doeuvres with cold seafood buffet at 6
pm, followed by Filet Mignon & Stuffed Lobster dinner at 7:30
pm. Premium Cigars and Top Shelf Complimentary Bar. Donation: $100
per person. For information/reservations contact church office
978-685-5038.

October 23Student Festival in celebration of the Year of the Armenian
Child. Details will follow.

Web pages of the parishes can be accessed through the Prelacys web
site.

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

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

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

From: A. Papazian

AGBU Press Office
55 East 59th Street
New York, NY 10022-1112
Phone: 212.319.6383, x118
Fax: 212.319.6507
Email: [email protected]
Website:

PRESS RELEASE

Thursday, May 5, 2011

AGBU-AYA San Fernando Valley Chapter’s Veterans Committee Hosts Lecture
on Challenges Facing Youth

The AGBU-AYA San Fernando Valley Chapter’s Veterans Committee held its
fourth successful educational lecture on the evening of February 25,
2011 in the Agajanian Auditorium of AGBU Manoogian-Demirdjian School
(MDS). The lecture was divided into four topics touching on the problems
and challenges faced by schools and parents in educating and raising
today’s youth. MDS Vice-principal Anahid Nalbandian-Pezeshgian, who
served as master of ceremonies, introduced the four guest speakers.

The first speaker was Haig Messerlian, chairman of the newly created
AGBU Western District Committee, who talked about AGBU’s educational
mission insofar as it concerns the organization’s schools and the
community. He stated that more emphasis should be placed on teaching the
rich history of AGBU and its accomplishments during the 105 years since
its establishment in Egypt. He stressed the importance of becoming a
member of the organization and participating in its scouting, athletic,
social, and cultural activities. The final portion of his talk was a
video presentation of AGBU’s major global accomplishments.

Messerlian was followed by Hrag Hamalian, principal of the Valor Academy
Charter School in Panorama City, California. Hamalian addressed the
topic of “Bullying and Cyber Bullying.” In his presentation, he
identified the four principal kinds of bullying: direct, indirect,
passive, and electronic. Bullying may result from name calling, pushing,
kicking or hitting. In addition, it can be carried out by rejecting,
isolating, ridiculing, blackmailing, humiliating or annoying the victim,
or by taking a neutral position in the face of wicked acts. Cyber
bullying, now the most widespread form of this behavior, occurs on the
Internet, mainly through Facebook or Twitter. Control over cyber
bullying is a very complex matter and hard to track. The challenge in
overcoming bullying is met by having constant communication with the
bully and the victim, including parents and teachers, in order to
achieve peace and harmony between the parties.

The third speaker was Los Angeles Police Department Officer Jose
Maldonado, a specialist in drug enforcement and alcohol abuse. In
speaking about drug abuse, he discussed how the use of marijuana often
gets young students started on drugs and that its legalization has led
to abuse. He also stated that the urge or habit of drug use may turn the
individual into a thief or criminal, due to lack of funds to support
their addiction.

The fourth and final speaker was Hagop Hagopian, longtime principal of
MDS, who discussed the topic of parents’ involvement in students’
behavior. He emphasized that parents should assist their children during
their homework or any other outdoor or indoor activities, in order to
create a special and closer relationship to comprehend their children’s
needs. Parents need to exercise patience when communicating with their
children. They need to follow up, encourage their children to strive
toward their goals, and teach them how to become better individuals.

Established in 1906, AGBU () is the world’s largest
non-profit Armenian organization. Headquartered in New York City, AGBU
preserves and promotes the Armenian identity and heritage through
educational, cultural and humanitarian program, annually touching the
lives of some 400,000 Armenians around the world.

For more information about AGBU and its worldwide programs, please visit

From: A. Papazian

AGBU Press Office
55 East 59th Street
New York, NY 10022-1112
Phone: 212.319.6383, x118
Fax: 212.319.6507
Email: [email protected]
Website:

PRESS RELEASE

Thursday, May 5, 2011

Avedis Manoukian Honored by AGBU Pasadena Center

On April 10, 2011, Avedis Manoukian, a veteran member of AGBU and the
organization’s Armenian Youth Association since 1936, was honored by the
AGBU Pasadena Chapter with a special tribute and exhibition of his
paintings at the AGBU Pasadena center.

Introduced by Pasadena chapter chairman Shahe Seuylemezian, AGBU Western
District Committee chairman Haig Messerlian spoke about the honoree and
his many achievements. Messerlian read a congratulatory letter from
family member Seta Manoukian-Jebejian and presented Manoukian with the
distinguished title of AGBU Honor Member, which was awarded to the
honoree by the AGBU Central Board of Directors. Family members present
included Manoukian’s daughters Seta and Ani, and his son, Nersess.

Per Manoukian’s wishes, the entire proceeds from the sales of his
paintings on display were donated to the AGBU Pasadena Chapter to
benefit its youth activities, in particular to assist the participation
of the AGBU Glendale/Pasadena scouts in the AGBU Scouts International
Jamboree in Armenia this coming summer.

Avedis Manoukian was born on July 24, 1916 in Aintab, Turkey, and in
1933 settled with his family in Beirut, Lebanon, by way of Aleppo, Syria
and Alexandria, Egypt. In 1936, Avedis Manoukian, together with Sissag
Varjabedian, Garbis Nazarian, Hagop Ghazarian, Krikor Bedoyan, Avedis
and Kevork Janjigian, and Kegham Arzoumanian, founded the AGBU/AYA Zareh
Noubar Chapter. He served as chairman of the AYA Central Committee for
many years and was a founding member of the AYA Theater, where he
directed and acted in many plays.

Manoukian and his family moved to Los Angeles in 1988. After the passing
of his wife in 2003, he started painting and, at the age of 90, had the
first-ever exhibition of his works, which was held at the Tekeyan
Cultural Center in Pasadena.

Established in 1906, AGBU () is the world’s largest
non-profit Armenian organization. Headquartered in New York City, AGBU
preserves and promotes the Armenian identity and heritage through
educational, cultural and humanitarian program, annually touching the
lives of some 400,000 Armenians around the world.

For more information about AGBU and its worldwide programs, please visit

From: A. Papazian

AGBU Press Office
55 East 59th Street
New York, NY 10022-1112
Phone: 212.319.6383, x118
Fax: 212.319.6507
Email: [email protected]
Website:

PRESS RELEASE

Thursday, May 5, 2011

AGBU Swiss Honors Two Longtime Leaders of the Topalian Foundation for
Outstanding Services

Acknowledging their longstanding dedication and outstanding services to
the Armenian community, AGBU Swiss honored the leadership of the H.D.
Topalian Foundation with a special tribute held on April 29, 2011 in
Geneva, Switzerland.

The Topalian Foundation, which is an AGBU-affiliated organization, was
established in 1993 in Switzerland to fulfill the national aspirations
of the late Hagop D. Topalian, a major benefactor of the Union. For
close to two decades, the president of the foundation, Edmond Pilossian,
and its most active vice-chairwoman, Annie Mesrobian, continued to lead
the activities of the foundation in carrying out its noble mission in
support of a number of humanitarian and cultural initiatives. During the
recognition, AGBU President Berge Setrakian emphasized the role of AGBU
Swiss, which was established in 1924 by the late Boghos Nubar and is
presently led by Vahe Gabrache of Geneva. Setrakian further praised all
those who served on the board of the Topalian Foundation for their
staunch dedication, and he bestowed the status of AGBU Honor Member on
the two honorees. They, in turn, thanked AGBU and humbly accepted this
recognition. Following the bestowal of the certificates, the two
honorees were presented with crystal plaques as tokens of appreciation.

The tributary evening was attended by several AGBU Swiss Board members,
including Vahe Gabrache, Aris Atamian, and Yervant Zorian, as well as
AGBU Europe District chairman, Alexis Govciyan, and AGBU Europe board
members. The event was held in conjunction with the 25th International
Fair for Books and Press in Geneva, where, on the occasion of the 500th
anniversary of the first printed book in Armenian, “Armenia – Hayastan”
was this year’s honorary pavilion. Not surprisingly, the event was
organized mainly by the H.D. Topalian Foundation and co-sponsored by
AGBU Swiss.

Established in 1906, AGBU () is the world’s largest
non-profit Armenian organization. Headquartered in New York City, AGBU
preserves and promotes the Armenian identity and heritage through
educational, cultural and humanitarian program, annually touching the
lives of some 400,000 Armenians around the world.

For more information about AGBU and its worldwide programs, please visit

From: A. Papazian

AGBU Press Office
55 East 59th Street
New York, NY 10022-1112
Phone: 212.319.6383, x118
Fax: 212.319.6507
Email: [email protected]
Website:

PRESS RELEASE

Thursday, May 5, 2011

AGBU’s Young Professionals of Montreal Host Opportunities Fair

On February 10, 2011, the AGBU Young Professionals (YP) Montreal
organized an “Opportunities Fair” to teach local university students of
Armenian descent different ways to work and volunteer during their time
off from school. Over 70 students participated in the event, which was
attended by many YPs and alumni from several organizations. Those on
hand used the opportunity to share their experiences with the students
and explain the benefits of internship programs, volunteer work, and
unique international experiences, particularly those in Armenia.

Alique Akkelian and Laura Chadarevian shared their enriching experiences
participating in the AGBU internship programs in Paris and New York. “I
arrived not knowing what to expect, but the local AGBU chapter guided
all interns throughout their two-month stay,” Chadarevian said. Akkelian
encouraged the students to push themselves to try something new. “The
things you fear most will end up being those most worthwhile in your
life,” she said.

The vice-chairwoman of YP Montreal, Maral Kassemjian, went into detail
about her own experience helping to build a home for a family in need
with the world-renowned Habitat for Humanity organization. “Everyone
deserves a roof over their head. We all need a house, a place we call
home,” said Kassemjian. She mentioned that Habitat for Humanity will be
building houses in the Tavush region of Armenia later this year.

During his volunteer assignment with the Canadian Youth Mission to
Armenia, Alexandre Meterissian arrived in Armenia with his
English-Armenian dictionary and the goal to contribute to a renovation
project. The difficulties in communicating and living in an Armenian
village didn’t stop him from creating what he calls “some of the best
memories of my life so far.” Karl Armen Boudjikanian introduced
Birthright Armenia to those who attended and explained their commitment
to “making service to and experiences in Armenia an essential rite of
passage afforded to all young Armenians around the world.” YP community
liaison Chahe Tanachian spoke to the audience about his inspirational
trip with Discovering Armenian Jerusalem. Tanachian stressed that the
ten-day spiritual journey was a must for all young Armenians. He is
currently enrolled to return for his second trip later in the year.

YP vice-president of finance Ayrem Ohennisian presented information on
the Land and Culture Organization, while YP chairwoman Sarine Chitilian
spoke about the importance of connecting with leaders in the community,
alumni members of associations, and with other students and peers. She
informed the students of the launch of the new online International
Armenian Students Network, AgbuAcademics.com, which went live on
February 27, 2011.

At the conclusion of the presentations, Bishop Bagrat Galstanyan,
Primate of the Canadian Diocese of the Armenian Church, gave a closing
message to the students and encouraged them to get involved in their
community.

Established in 1906, AGBU () is the world’s largest
non-profit Armenian organization. Headquartered in New York City, AGBU
preserves and promotes the Armenian identity and heritage through
educational, cultural and humanitarian program, annually touching the
lives of some 400,000 Armenians around the world.

For more information about AGBU and its worldwide programs, please visit

From: A. Papazian

Armenian National Committee of America-Western Region
104 North Belmont Street, Suite 200
Glendale, California 91206
Phone: 818.500.1918 Fax: 818.246.7353
[email protected]

PRESS RELEASE
May 5, 2011

Contact: William Bairamian
Tel: 818-500-1918

ANCA-South Bay and ANCA-WR Meet With Candidates in 36th Congressional Race

Torrance – The Armenian National Committee of America, South Bay chapter and
the Armenian National Committee of America, Western Region, met with two of
the leading candidates in the Congressional race to succeed genocide denier,
and former Congresswoman, Jane Harman. In what is building up to be a close
race between Los Angeles City Councilwoman Janice Hahn and California
Secretary of State Debra Bowen, the Armenian vote in the South Bay may serve
as the swing vote in the election.

A third candidate, Marcy Winograd, who ran against Harman the last time the
latter was up for reelection, has also regularly communicated with the
Armenian community in the South Bay. A strong supporter of Armenian issues
in the past, Winograd has continued to be a supporter, albeit in a much more
crowded field.

`Our community of activists in the South Bay was deeply concerned by Jane
Harman’s equivocation on the Armenian Genocide, especially given the great
deal of support we had provided to her in the past. This is an opportunity
where the 36th Congressional district has an opportunity to gain the moral
high ground and courage absent during the last seat holder’s tenure,’ said
ANCA-WR Chairman Andrew Kzirian.

He continued, `Janice Hahn, Debra Bowen, and Marcy Winograd have been
friends of the community in the past. Nevertheless, our endorsement will go
to the candidate whom we believe will not only be a friend, but a champion
for our issues once they are elected.’

The first meeting, with Councilwoman Hahn, was held in the Armenian Center
in Lomita, with activists from throughout the South Bay. The meeting with
Secretary of State Bowen took place at her campaign headquarters in
Torrance. Winograd has remained in constant communication with the South Bay
ANCA.

All candidates expressed a strong desire to work with the Armenian American
community to advance important issues such as affirmation of the Armenian
Genocide, U.S. – Armenia trade relations, and the right to
self-determination of the people of Nagorno-Karabakh.

`Our community is looking for an honest and courageous representative who
will face down threats from Turkey and stand up for issues that will impact
Armenian Americans in the United States. We have a strong, active, and
successful community here and the candidates who we met with seem to realize
that,’ said activist Azniv Goenjian, who is a resident of Redondo Beach and
was present during the meetings with both Hahn and Bowen.

The ANCA will release its endorsement for the 36th Congressional seat in the
coming week.

The Armenian National Committee of America-Western Region is the largest and
most influential Armenian American grassroots advocacy organization in the
Western United States. Working in coordination with a network of offices,
chapters, and supporters throughout the Western United States and affiliated
organizations around the country, the ANCA-WR advances the concerns of the
Armenian American community on a broad range of issues.

###

From: A. Papazian

Attorneys Ordered to Produce Records in Armenian Genocide Settlement

Amanda Bronstad

05-04-2011

“A federal judge has ordered plaintiffs attorneys Mark Geragos and
Brian Kabateck to turn over a list of claimants and bank records
related to a $17.5 million settlement between French insurer Axa S.A.
and descendants of the 1.5 million victims of the Armenian genocide.

U.S. District Judge Christina Snyder on April 28 ordered Geragos and
Kabateck to turn over the list of claimants to the settlement board
by May 4 and bank records by May 12.

She also ordered them to submit a proposed order regarding
distribution of the funds to claimants and instructed them not to
destroy…click here for more

”

Page from:

Copyright 2011. ALM Media Properties, LLC. All rights reserved.

From: A. Papazian

YEREVAN PRESS CLUB WEEKLY NEWSLETTER

APRIL 29 – MAY 1, 2011

HIGHLIGHTS:

“E-CLUB” CYCLE: INTERNET AND SOCIAL AID

“YERKRAGUND” ON REVOLUTION IN THE ARABIC WORLD

EDIK BAGHDASARIAN IS THE WINNER OF “THE TIME FOR FREEDOM OF PRESS” AWARD

WORLD PRESS FREEDOM DAY 2011 ADDRESSED THE 21ST CENTURY MEDIA FRONTIERS

THE DECISION ON THE SUIT OF ROBERT KOCHARIAN’S FAMILY VERSUS “ZHAMANAK”
FOUNDER WAS NOT RELEASED. THE COURT TAKES A TIME-OUT

COUNCIL ON INFORMATION DISPUTES ESTABLISHED

ARMENIAN MEDIA IS STILL NOT FREE

“E-CLUB” CYCLE: INTERNET AND SOCIAL AID

On May 3 another program from “E-Club” weekly cycle went on the online
broadcast of “A1+” TV company (). The “E-Club” is produced by
Yerevan Press Club in cooperation with “A1+” TV company under “Alternative
Resources in Media” project, supported by USAID.

The information and education blocs, particularly, presented different
online forums, told about the Facebook cause to protect from architectural
discretion the Katoghike Church of XIII century located in Yerevan center.
One of the plots regarded groups of mutual social assistance. The social
meaning of Internet was also debated by the guests of the discussion part of
“E-Club” – Lusineh Vayachian, writer, founder of “MaMaSyu” Charitable
Foundation, and Nshan Abasian, correspondent of Public Radio of Armenia.

The next “E-Club” will be aired on “A1+” on May 10.

“YERKRAGUND” ON REVOLUTION IN THE ARABIC WORLD

On May 3 the second show of “Yerkragund” (“Globe”) cycle went on the evening
air of “Yerkir Media” TV company. The current show was produced by Yerevan
Press Club with support of Open Society Foundations-Armenia.

The guests of the program host, YPC President Boris Navasardian, were Hayk
Kocharian, orientalist, representative of Civilization and Cultural Research
Center of Yerevan State University, sociologist Isabella Sargsian, Gegham
Manukian, Director of News and Current Affairs Programs of “Yerkir Media”
TV company, and political scientist Mikayel Zolian. The participants
discussed the revolutionary developments in the Arabic world.

The next “Yerkragund” show will be aired on “Yerkir Media” on Tuesday, May
10 at 19.15 (rerun – on Thursday, May 12 at 14.15).

EDIK BAGHDASARIAN IS THE WINNER OF “THE TIME FOR FREEDOM OF PRESS” AWARD

On May 2 at the Journalists Union of Armenia the award ceremony of “The Time
for Freedom of Press” prize was held on the occasion of the World Press
Freedom Day. The award was established in 2006 by Yerevan Press Club,
Internews Media Support public organization, Journalists Union of Armenia
and the Committee to Protect Freedom of Expression.

Upon the decision of four journalistic associations, in 2011 the winner of
“The Time for Freedom of Press” award became Edik Baghdasarian, the Head of
“Investigative Journalists” NGO, Chief Editor of “Hetq” newspaper, for
development of investigative journalism, independent stance and professional
courage. Edik Baghdasarian received a certificate and the traditional gift –
a watch.

WORLD PRESS FREEDOM DAY 2011 ADDRESSED THE 21ST CENTURY MEDIA FRONTIERS

On May 3 the World Press Freedom Day was celebrated worldwide. 2011 marks
the 20th anniversary since the adoption of the Declaration of Windhoek in
1991, which became the basis for proclaiming the international journalists
day by the UN General Assembly in 1993. In Armenia this event is being
marked since 1997.

“21st Century Media: New Frontiers, New Barriers” is the theme of World
Press Freedom Day 2011. The theme “highlights this dramatically changed
global media landscape”: “new media and tools such as cell phones continue
to empower individuals, enrich news-gathering and illuminate
once-largely-hidden workings of government, business and industry”, the
message of Ban Ki-moon, UN Secretary-General stated. Alongside these
benefits, UN Secretary-General reminded about the old challenges “such as
the use of media to disseminate hatred and incite violence”. “There are also
undeniable new barriers being imposed by States, including
cyber-surveillance, digital harassment and censorship on the Internet”, the
message noted.

The joint message for 2011 from UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, Navi
Pillay, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, and Irina Bokova, UNESCO
Director-General, stressed that United Nations is dedicated to ensuring that
the Internet becomes a truly global public resource, to which all have
access and where all voices are heard: “This underlines the importance of
quality content. This calls for action to defend the integrity and safety of
online reporters. All principles of freedom of expression must be brought to
the on-line world.”

“Journalists must be protected. Over the last decade, more than 500
journalists lost their lives in the pursuit of their profession. (…) Every
week brings more reports of journalists and bloggers suffering from
intimidation and violence. Violations of fundamental human rights cannot go
unanswered. State authorities must do everything to counter impunity and to
protect the safety of journalists. (…)The media revolution is triggering
new debates about freedom of expression, about the nature of regulation,
about the balance between expression and responsibility. We must not shy
away from exploring all angles of these questions. We must all rise to the
occasion and accept the responsibility of change,” called the UN
representatives.

On May 3 in Istanbul at Freedom for Journalists Congress Dunja Mijatovic,
OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, urged all OSCE participating
States to do more to curb violence against journalists and ensure a safe
work environment for the media. “Today, as the world honors the free press
that on a daily basis helps us to improve our democracies and pursue our
development goals, I call on all OSCE states to take broad measures to
ensure the most favorable and safe environment for their media. Murders,
violent attacks, intimidation of journalists and their family members,
various forms of harassment and criminalization of speech thwart the work of
free media serving their audiences”, emphasized Dunja Mijatovic.

THE DECISION ON THE SUIT OF ROBERT KOCHARIAN’S FAMILY VERSUS “ZHAMANAK”
FOUNDER WAS NOT RELEASED. THE COURT TAKES A TIME-OUT

On May 5 the court of general jurisdiction of Kentron and Nork-Marash
administrative districts of Yerevan was to release the decision on the suit
of the spouse and the son of the Second President of Armenia Robert
Kocharian, Bella and Sedrak Kocharians, versus “Skizb Media Kentron” LLC,
founder and publisher of “Zhamanak” daily. As it has been reported, the
reason of the suit became the pieces published in “Zhamanak” on September
25, September 29 and October 7, 2010. The articles dealt with a number of
companies, which were reportedly owned by the Kocharians’ family or managed
through the third parties. The representative of Kocharians’ family had sent
a letter to the daily’s founder, demanding to come up with a refutation. On
October 28, 2010 “Zhamanak” published a piece, “Kocharian’s Heart Desires a
Refutation”. Considering that the piece cannot be a refutation, as it still
contained discrediting information, the plaintiffs filed the court,
demanding to bind “Zhamanak” to refute the information damaging the honor,
dignity and business reputation of Bella and Sedrak Kocharians, exact 3
million AMD (about $ 8,200) from the defendant as compensation for libel and
defamation, as well as pay off the court expenses of 3 million AMD. The
court hearing started on February 25, 2011, where the founder of “Zhamanak”
suggested that the plaintiffs develop the text of the refutation. The
refutation appeared in “Zhamanak” on March 10, 2011 but was attended by an
editorial comment. This form of presentation did not satisfy the plaintiffs,
and the parties did not come to an agreement. At the session of March 23 the
plaintiffs submitted documents as a ground for their demands on compensating
the moral damage and the court expenses (see YPC Weekly Newsletter, March
18-24, 2011).

The hearings on the case finished on April 20. It was announced that the
court decision would be released on May 5. Meanwhile, this did not happen on
the appointed date. The parties were informed that the court will start a
new consideration of the case due to the necessity of additional examination
of facts. Even though such an outcome is authorized by law, it remains
unclear, why the court required an additional time after about three months
of litigation?

The next session is appointed on May 20.

COUNCIL ON INFORMATION DISPUTES ESTABLISHED

On April 30 – May 1 in Tsaghkadzor the Media Freedom Forum was held. The
event was organized by RA Human Rights Defender’s Office with support of
European Union. The Forum was attended by representatives of international
organizations, embassies, accredited in Armenia, media, NGO, journalistic
associations and international experts.

The main themes of the Forum were the amendments’ draft to the RA Law “On
Television and Radio”, developed by the working group on reforming the
legislation regulating the digitalization process in Armenia; journalistic
ethics and legislation on defamation.

At the event it was announced about the establishment of the Council on
Information Disputes. The Council seeks to protect freedom of expression,
access to information, human dignity and right to private life. The missions
of the newly-established structure list preparation and release of advisory
expert conclusions on court litigations regarding libel and defamation,
protection of private life and freedom of information, as well as providing
consultations to the Armenian legislative and executive authorities, local
self-government bodies and citizens. The members of the Council are:
Secretary – Shushan Doydoyan, Head of Freedom of Information Center; Boris
Navasardian, President of Yerevan Press Club; Aram Abrahamian, Chief Editor
of “Aravot” daily; Ara Ghazarian, Deputy Director of “Arni Consult” law
firm; Manana Aslamazian, Director of “Alternative Resources in Media”
project.

ARMENIAN MEDIA IS STILL NOT FREE

On May 2 the international human rights organization “Freedom House”
released its annual report on freedom of press in the world in 2010.
“Freedom House” assessed the media situation by assigning a numerical score
from 1 to 100 on the following categories: free (1-30 points), partly free
(31-60 points), not free (61-100) – the lower the score, the higher the
freedom. The latter was defined by three dimensions: legal, political and
economic environments in which media operate. The sum of all three
dimensions yielded the cumulative rating of the media situation in each
country.

Out of 196 countries and territories surveyed in 2010 in 68 (or 35%) media
were recognized free, in 65 (or 33%) – partly free and in 63 (or 32%) were
rated not free. Thus, only 15% of world inhabitants (lowest index for the
last decade) live in countries that enjoy free press, 42% have a partly free
press, and 43% – not free press. The most benign is the situation in Finland
(10 points), Norway and Sweden (11 points each), Belgium, Iceland and
Luxembourg (12 points each).

Of the post-Soviet countries only the press of the three Baltic States is
recognized by “Freedom House” to be free (Estonia -18, Lithuania – 22,
Latvia – 26). Only Georgia, Moldova (55 points each) and Ukraine (56 points)
are classed as partly free. At the same time, the situation in Georgia has
somewhat improved, while it has deteriorated in Ukraine, comparing with 2009
(59 and 53 points, respectively). The positive trends of the Georgian media
landscape are due to an improved political environment that led to a
reduction in legal and physical harassment of journalists, fewer instances
of official censorship, and more balanced coverage by the public
broadcaster. The broadcast frequencies withdrawal from critical media,
increase of extralegal harassment of journalists, leading to greater
self-censorship, negatively influenced the media freedom in Ukraine. A
10-point leap of the Moldavian media (65 points in 2009) from not free to
partly free is due to new ruling coalition’s steps to increase legal
protections for journalists’ rights and reform the regulatory framework, to
the professionalization of the management at the state broadcaster,
emergence of new private broadcasters and a substantial decline of
officially sanctioned legal harassment of journalists.

Other former USSR countries’ media continue to stay not free. Turkmenistan
(96) remains the second from the end (North Korea still closes the list –
97). As compared to 2009, the rankings of Tajikistan (78), Azerbaijan (79)
and Russia (81) have not changed. The situation has somewhat deteriorated in
Kazakhstan – 80 (versus 78 in 2009), Belarus – 93 (versus 92) and Uzbekistan
– 94 (versus 92). A progress is marked in Kyrgyzstan – 70 (versus 73).

The ranking of Armenian media, which got 65 points (versus 66 in 2009),
increased by 1 point. In other words, the Armenian media are considered by
“Freedom House” as not free for already nine years (since 2002).

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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this mailing list, please send a message to: [email protected]

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:

From: A. Papazian

Sino-Armenian Relation

Armenian-Chinese relations by Nil V. Agopoff

From the second century there was already a business with Armenians
living in China. (* 1) As opposed to after the Armenian historian
Moses of Khoren is the prominent family who was home Mamikonian
Chinese family and this gave the greatest generals of medieval Armenia
and constables.

Armenian communities in China dates from the Mongol period inthe where
thousands of Armenian prisoners had been transferred to Samarkand, but
also in northern China. From there, Armenians went to the Sea of
â=80=8Bâ=80=8BJapan. Thus we know from a letter written from 1326 to
Pope Clement by a Catholic religious Andreas Perugia. (* 2)

Before 1307, we had built in Canton a large beautiful Armenian church
(* 3) and the Armenian chronicler of the Middle Ages, Hethum, recounts
several stories about China. With the Mongol conquests common during
the Middle Ages, the Armenian communities of losing out in China like
the rest of country.

>From the seventeenth century, a new period begins for the Armenians
in China. In a letter sent to Rome at the time of Canton, it is
mentioned that lived in the big city of China Southern Christian
families, including three British, one Danish and thirty Armenian
economy in which their role was important. (* 4)

The map of China appears naturally in the first world map printed in
Armenian in 1695 Amsterdam On the occasion of the commercial treaty
between the Honourable East India Company of London and the Armenians
of India who owned a merchant fleet, it is authorized in 1688 to
Armenian Khoja Panos Kalandar to trade the same duties with China. (*
5)

The eminent Armenian historian of Venice, Santa Alichan, we reported
that the Europeans were wearing the garb of Armenia in order to travel
in China.

(* 6) In the second half of the eighteenth century, the
Armenian-Chinese relations became important point that `the country of
Chinaâ’

was in the list of Armenian communities settled by the Catholicos
Simeon Erévantsi and developed a book on China to be printed at
Trieste. (* 7)

In the early nineteenth century, Armenians are mainly from India but
also from Nor Jugha of Zankézour and Karabagh. They moved to Mukden,
Harbin (Manchuria), Tchantchoun, Dairen, Shanghai. . Wealthy Armenian
merchants of China sent significant funds to Armenia and Nakhichevan
Nor (near Rostov) as Mnatsakan Ghassapian, Hovhannes Mathéossian and
others. (*

In the early twentieth century, the most numerous of Armenians lived
in Harbin, where they had their apostolic church and its own
constitution. They owned the factories. In 1930, there was the
Association `Arziv,â’ a local youth association and women. The
Armenians had close relations with the Russian community of this
Chinese metropolis. The doctor Stephan Moughdéssian had a great
reputation in the capital of Manchukuo. (*9) Thereafter the Armenian
community has suffered greatly from Japanese occupation.

In 1937, the Armenian population of Shanghai were 200 people who later
go up to 600 people. There was an `Armenian Houseâ’ with a private
bank and a youth association. The Armenian people had different
origins: merchants, professionals, engineers, etc.. In southern China,
in the great city of Guangzhou, some Armenians founded factories.

Finally, we should mention the Chinese translation of the Gospels
which was undertaken by Hovhannes Ghazérian, born and educated in
Canton, a professor of Chinese in the British community in Canton. The
Gospel was printed in Chinese Serampoor and this translation can be
considered one of the best. (* 10)

Source: Global Armenian Heritage (translated from French using google
translate)

Chinahay – Copyright © – 2011

From: A. Papazian

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:

May 5, 2011

ACNIS Looks at National Popular Calls and Political Demands in Armenia

Yerevan–In light of most recent domestic political and social
developments in Armenia, the Armenian Center for National and
International Studies (ACNIS) today held a roundtable discussion
entitled `Armenia: Public Demands and Domestic Political Proposals.’
The meeting brought together representatives from international
organizations and the diplomatic community in Yerevan, leading
analysts, policy specialists, and members of the press.

Welcoming the audience with opening remarks, ACNIS Director of
Research Manvel Sargsian said he looked forward to a lively and
thorough discussion. `Our objective today is to make an attempt at
understanding the extent in which the processes taking place in
Armenia correspond to societal expectations and the logic of present
debates,’ Sargsian stated.

The day’s first speaker, historian and ethnographer Aghasi Tadevosyan,
analyzed the key elements of the existing discussions among different
social strata of Armenia, and pointed to the essence of post-Soviet
stereotypes and challenges of independence. Tadevosyan examined the
domains of benefits and interests which Armenia’s oligarchic clan,
small- and medium-size business owners, innovative-thinking young
generation, the `faceless society,’ and other groups represent. In his
view, some of these groups do understand their individual gains but do
not perceive the mechanisms for attaining these rewards, whereas other
groups are capable of presenting their vision in a universal and
organized manner. `The main challenge for the body politic is
promoting the process of stratification, that is, the imperative of
transitioning from a homogenous nationalistic culture to a stratified
society,’ Tadevosyan maintained.

In his turn, Manvel Sargsian looked at the current political
developments in Armenia. He underscored that for long years the
country’s political elite was `operating’ in a local and unbound
territory, and making the society’s potential serve toward the
resolution of this elite’s problems. But in recent times, as per
Sargsian, the Armenian society, just like in the Arab world, has begun
to voice its ideals for the country’s development and to pose demands
upon the political forces, specifically the opposition. According to
the speaker, as a result the argument in favor of forming a government
through fair elections was emphasized. `The most regressive phenomenon
which has `dropped anchor’ amongst the opposition, and which is
noticeable amid different opposition circles, is their accusing of one
another of serving the authorities and carrying out their demands. And
the most astonishing is the fact that the authoritarian perceptions
for all types of occurrences have started to become paramount among
the opposition,’ ACNIS Director of Research argued, adding that the
talk about the necessity for a third force is likewise an outcome of
authoritarian attitudes.

The presentations were followed by a series of questions and answers,
and featured a lively exchange with the audience. The roundtable
participants also included attorney Andreas Ghukasyan; vice president
Arayik Sargsyan of the Geopolitical Academy; governance expert
Harutiun Mesropyan; chairman Edward Antinyan of the Ramkavar Liberal
Party of Armenia; chairwoman Arpine Galfayan of the Institute for
Democracy and Human Rights; ACNIS analyst Edgar Vardanian; political
scientist Artur Avtandilyan; and several others.

——————————————————————

The Armenian Center for National and International Studies (ACNIS) is
a leading independent strategic research center located in Yerevan,
Armenia. As an independent, objective institution committed to
conducting professional policy research and analysis, ACNIS strives to
raise the level of public debate and seeks to broaden public
engagement in the public policy process, as well as fostering greater
and more inclusive public knowledge. Founded in 1994, ACNIS is the
institutional initiative of Raffi K. Hovannisian, Armenia’s first
Minister of Foreign Affairs. Over the past fifteen years, ACNIS has
acquired a prominent reputation as a primary source of professional
independent research and analysis covering a wide range of national
and international policy issues.

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

From: A. Papazian