Author: Andres-Papazian

Paper: ANC claims some passports bear multiple voter stamps

May 12, 2012 – 10:02 AMT

PanARMENIAN.Net – According to Chorrord Ishkhanutyun paper’s data, the
opposition Armenian National Congress still collects and registers
violation reports from polling stations. These include the protocols
compiled at the polling stations, as well as photographs, video
materials and other documents.

`Some areas, mostly in remote settlements had far more voting
participants than the actual number of those in the electoral lists,’
the paper says.

In addition, ANC coordinator Levon Zurabyan declared on May 11 that
they have some photographs clearly demonstrating multiple (3-4) stamps
put in the voters’ passports.

According to Chorrord Ishkhanutyun, this means these people have voted
several times during the May 6 parliamentary elections, at the same or
maybe different polling stations.

From: A. Papazian

UNDP, Eduardo Eurnekian, Team-Up to Spur Agro-Development in 4 Villages

hetq
13:46, May 12, 2012

The level of human deprivation in rural communities of Armenia is
higher than in urban areas mainly due to the lack of access to
economic opportunities and poor quality of public services, such as
healthcare, education and social protection.

UNDP’s experience worldwide and in Armenia over the past 20 years
suggests that poverty is a complex and multidimensional phenomena,
which is context specific and addressing it requires concerted and
comprehensive efforts across all levels of government and all sectors
of economy. A home grown and effective approach that was spearheaded
by UNDP in an attempt to improve people’s wellbeing and lift them from
poverty is the Integrated Community Development approach.

Communities’ needs, challenges and development opportunities are best
addressed when the intervention is holistic, focusing on the three
pillars of sustainable development (e.g. social, economic and
environmental) and fostering decentralization, good local governance
and democracy.

Agricultural activities are the main source of employment and income
generation for the residents of Baghramyan, Arevadasht, Artamet and
Myasnikyan rural communities of Baghramyan sub-region (hereinafter,
micro-region) in Armavir region. The poor conditions of the irrigation
and water supply networks, the lack of agricultural equipment and the
obsolete machinery, as well as the lack of knowledge about new
agricultural technologies are the underlying reasons behind the low
level of agricultural productivity and high level of poverty in the
micro-region.

During the recent years large-scale investments have been made by
Fruitfull Armenia in this region in the fields of vineyards-grapes
growing, including orchards for vegetables and fruits, water
reservoirs, drip irrigation and modern cultivation methods, which,
overall, positively impacted on the socio-economic growth in the
micro-region.

Capitalizing on the successful past experience of UNDP and the
Fruitful Armenia in local development, taking stock of the tangible
results achieved and recognizing the power of partnerships for
advancing sustainable development agenda, today Ms. Dafina Gercheva,
UN Resident Coordinator/UNDP Resident Representative in Armenia, and
Mr. Eduardo Eurnekian, a prominent Argentinean-Armenian businessman,
signed an agreement to support agricultural and micro-business
activities in Baghramyan, Arevadasht, Artamet and Myasnikyan
communities. This partnership is aiming at promoting the economic
revitalization of the micro-region and improving the living standards
of the population. The parties firmly believe that the shared value is
the foundation of a real partnership!

`UNDP’s best practices and experience across the world suggest that
promoting sustainable development requires an integrated approach
which targets social, economic and environmental pillars of
development. We are well positioned to proceed rapidly with the
implementation of integrated development in these communities, as it
has helped to rehabilitate social and economic infrastructure and
generate sustainable income in more than 150 rural and urban
communities across the country. This approach involves several
communities working together in a cluster, and focusing on the
holistic approach to development, i.e. infrastructure rehabilitation,
income generation, institutional capacity development, good
governance, and environmental protection,’ said Dafina Gercheva, UN
RC/UNDP RR.

Within the framework of `Armenian Village Revival: A Drive for
Employment and Income Generation’ project, UNDP Armenia aims to create
farmers’ associations, improve the economic rural infrastructure as a
key element for rural poverty alleviation, establish micro food
processing facilities, and return of non-cultivated arable land into
the sowing cycle through distribution and planting of quality seeds
and seedlings.

Based on the participatory planning approach, UNDP Armenia will
support the four communities to develop their Strategic Community
Development Plans – a tool to prioritize local community needs.
Moreover, an environmental impact assessment will be conducted in the
region to gauge the situation and prevent from environmental damages
that agricultural and agro-processing activities may cause.

The total cost of the project is USD 230,000 from which Fruitfull
Armenia’s share is USD 204,000.

From: A. Papazian

PRESS RELEASE
Catholicosate of Cilicia
Communication and Information Department
Contact: V.Rev.Fr.Krikor Chiftjian, Communications Director
Tel: (04) 410001, 410003
Fax: (04) 419724
E- mail: [email protected]
Web:

PO Box 70 317
Antelias-Lebanon

Watch our latest videos on YouTube here:

“MISSIONARY OUTREACH, STRENGTHENING OF DIASPORA AND ARMENIA, AND THE
ARMENIAN GENOCIDE SHOULD REMAIN TOP PRIORITIES ON THE CHURCH’S AGENDA” HIS
HOLINESS ARAM I

This was the core of the message that His Holiness gave to the people upon
his arrival to Isfahan, a historical city of Iran which has a well-organized
Armenian community.

Catholicos Aram I reminded the people, who were gathered in the courtyard of
the All-savior Cathedral and monastery in the city’s Armenian district of
New Julfa, that “the missionary outreach of the church is an essential
aspect of its being. The church cannot survive without mission, and the
Christian formation of men and women constitutes a top missionary priority
for the church”.

Referring to Armenia-Diaspora relations, His Holiness said that “we should
no more speak about relation but collaboration, because although we are
citizens of different countries, we belong to one nation and this sense of
oneness should undergird Armenia-Diaspora collaboration”. According to Aram
I, “strengthening Armenia means strengthening Diaspora and vice versa.
Hence, this perception and commitment should guide our collaboration”.

An important part of His Holiness message was devoted to the Armenian
Genocide. He considered “this crime against humanity a matter of serious
concern for the church”. He said that “the Armenian Church cannot remain
silent in the face of this crime. Restoration of justice is an integral
dimension of the church’s missionary vocation”. Speaking about the Antelias
Conference on the Armenian Genocide, His Holiness emphasized that “the time
has arrived that we move in a well organized manner from recognition to
reparation”. And considering these matters critical challenges before the
church and nation, Aram I appealed to the Armenian community of Isfahan to
face them responsibly and boldly.

On Thursday 10 May, at the entrance of the city His Holiness Aram I, who was
accompanied by the Primate of Tehran and diocesan representatives, was
greeted by the Primate of the Diocese of Isfahan, H.G, Bishop Papken
Charian, the clergy, the Armenian deputies and the representatives of the
diocesan committees.
##
Photos:

From: A. 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 10, 2012

NATIONAL REPRESENTATIVE ASSEMBLY CONVENES IN RHODE ISLAND

The National Representative Assembly (NRA) of the Eastern Prelacy of
the Armenian Apostolic Church of America, convened this
morning. Hosting the Assembly is Sts. Vartanantz Church of Providence,
Rhode Island. The meetings are taking place at the Crowne Plaza in
Warwick, Rhode Island. The Clergy Conference met yesterday and today
the clergy joined the full Assembly. The Assembly will continue
through noon on Saturday, May 12.

The Assembly officially opened this morning at 11 am with an opening
prayer by His Eminence Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan, Prelate. The first
session included reports from the credential committee, election of
nominating committee, election of the Assemblys co-chairs and
secretaries, and welcoming remarks by Rev. Fr. Gomidas Baghsarian,
pastor of the host parish and Mark E. Phillips, chairman of the board
of trustees of Sts. Vartanantz Church. Archbishop Oshagan will deliver
his keynote address tomorrow (Friday) morning.

The second session, which began after the lunch break, featured a
video message to the NRA from His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of the
Holy See of Cilicia. To view His Holiness message click here.

Pontifical Visit: A presentation about the upcoming Pontifical Visit
of His Holiness to the Eastern Prelacy in October was given by the
co-chairs of the National Steering Committee, Jack Mardoian and Karen
Jehanian during the second session this afternoon. During the month of
October His Holiness will visit every parish community in the Eastern
Prelacy. The co-chairs presented an overview of the itinerary as well
as the theme of the visit, the seminars, conferences, speeches,
Pontifical Liturgies, and banquets, and parish activities, national
and local communications program, and publications.

Tomorrow the co-chairs of the Pontifical Visit Steering Committee will
meet individually with the delegations of each region to go over
Vehapars local schedule and provide guidance to the parish
communities.

Theme of Pontifical Visit: Witness and Renewal: Taking the Church to
the People, has been selected with the Catholicoss participation and
guidance, as the theme of the pontifical visit. His Holiness has
requested that most of the activities being planned be with the people
in informal and intimate settings, rather than many formal
banquets. The theme will play a central role throughout the Pontifical
Visit with the aim of reaching specific goals before, during and after
the visit.

WITNESS AND RENEWAL:
TAKING THE CHURCH TO THE PEOPLE

Catholicos Aram I, recently offered the following statement about the
theme of his visit to the Eastern Prelacy, October 431, 2012:

I warmly welcome the Prelacys decision to make Witness and Renewal the
theme of my forthcoming pontifical visit to the parishes within the
jurisdiction of the Eastern Prelacy of the United States of America.

Witness and renewal are, indeed, at the heart of the churchs very
being as a community of faith and missionary reality. The church is a
witnessing community. It fulfills itself in time and space by
witnessing to the Gospel of Christ. At the end of His earthly
ministry, Jesus commissioned His disciples to take the Gospel to all
corners of the world. Hence, witness to Gods saving act in Jesus
constitutes the essence and the raison dtre of the church.

Renewal is a vital dimension of being church. The church is not a
static reality; it is in dynamic process of community building. It is
called to give substance, quality and vision to renewal through
critical self-assessment and in response to its environment. Any
effort of renewal related to the churchs liturgical, pastoral,
spiritual, missionary and institutional aspects, must generate inner
vitality and make the church relevant and credible. Otherwise renewal
will lose its very meaning and purpose.

Witness and renewal are interwoven; they must be taken as one whole
encompassing all features, dimensions and manifestations of the
church. Focusing on this holistic understanding, I would like to share
with you succinctly a few reflections concerning the Armenian Church.

1) From the very inception of our church, witness and renewal have
been taken very seriously. The missionary engagement, evangelistic
outreach, diakonal action and cultural activity have been the core of
our witness and renewal. The church has played a pivotal role in the
life of the Armenian people by responding to their needs and concerns
in constantly changing circumstances. The radically and rapidly
changing world and the growing impact of globalization on the life of
modern societies challenge the Armenian Church to consider most
seriously and in broader perspective the imperatives and implications
of witness and renewal within the context of its God-given vocation.

2) Because the church is a local reality, special attention must be
given to the parish. The parish is the full expression of the holy,
universal and apostolic church. In order to ensure an effective
witness and renewal for our church, we must reorganize parish life in
its various aspects and manifestations, reactivate pastoral and
diakonal functions, and revitalize its evangelistic outreach. In these
efforts we must consider the specificities of the environment in which
a parish is located. Further, as an integral part of the churchs
pastoral care the concerns and expectations of the parishioners need
to be properly addressed.

3) Spirituality is an essential feature of the churchs life and
witness as a praying, witnessing, confessing and serving
community. Spirituality must embrace all spheres of the churchs
life. Constant effort should be made to make the rich spirituality of
our church, which is deeply rooted in centuries-old traditions and
values, more relevant and responsive to modern times and
challenges. Our spirituality must both preserve and enhance our
distinctive Armenian-Christian identity and promote creative
interaction between the church and the youth.

4) Christ conveyed His message to the people by addressing the issues
and challenges of His time. Sustained by the power of the Gospel and
driven by the vision of the kingdom of God, the church should do the
same. As a witnessing community to the values, truths and principles
of the Gospel, the church cannot remain indifferent in the face of
moral, ethical and social issues that steer the life of modern
societies. Although the complex problems faced by our community and
the compelling questions being raised by our youth resist easy
solutions or answers, the church is called to consider these problems
and questions as an essential dimension of its pastoral vocation and
to provide spiritual and moral guidance.

How can we take the church to the people by making it a serving and
caring reality in the life of the community? How can we make the
people active members of the community of faith? These challenges
should become the driving force and purpose of the churchs witness and
renewal. It is my expectation that due consideration will be given to
these observations as you prepare the pontifical visitation program.

May God bless you all.

ARAM I

CATHOLICOS OF CILICIA

A NEW BIBLE STUDY PROGRAM AT ST. ILLUMINATORS CATHEDRAL

A four-part Bible study on St. Pauls Letter to the Philippians will be
presented at St. Illuminators Armenian Cathedral on four consecutive
Thursdays, May 17, 24, 31 and June 7, 2012, by Dn. Shant Kazanjian,
Director of the Armenian Religious Education Council (AREC). The
sessions will begin at 7:15 pm with a presentation (45 minutes)
followed by Q&A and discussion (45 minutes). The program is free and
open to the public, but registration is required. The Church is
located at 221 East 27th Street (New York City).

For further information and registration, please contact the Cathedral
office at 212-689-5880 or the Prelacy office at 212-689-7810 or at
[email protected].

NEW BOARD OF TRUSTEES IN NORTH ANDOVER

The new board of trustees for St. Gregory Church, North Andover,
Massachusetts, with their pastor, Rev. Fr. Karekin Bedourian,
following services. Front row, from left: John Dagdigian (alternate),
Karen Aznoian, Sylvia Mahlebjian, Christine Kourkounian, Nancy
Vartabedian, and Alex Movsessian. Rear, from left: Joseph Almasian,
Vartkes Hovsepian, Der Karekin Bedourian, Dr. John Saryan, and Richard
Shahtanian. (photo by Tom Vartabedian)

SCHOOLS TAKE PART IN COMPETITION

The 43rd annual competition of Armenian Saturday and Day Schools in
New York/New Jersey took place on Saturday, May 5, at St. Illuminator
School in Woodside, New York. The competition is organized by the
literary committee of Hamazkayin of New York. Rev. Fr. Mesrob
Lakissian, pastor of St. Illuminators Cathedral, guided the
competition.

Participating schools included: Holy Martyrs Day and Saturday schools;
St. Illuminators Day School; St. Sarkis Saturday School (Douglaston);
and Nareg Saturday School (New Jersey).

Certificates and gifts were given to all participants and additional
gifts were presented to those students who answered all questions
correctly.

THE WAY WE WERE ENSEMBLE PERFORMS IN NEW YORK

Archbishop Oshagan, Prelate, and Rev. Fr. Mesrob Lakissian, pastor of
St. Illuminators Cathedral in New York City, are surrounded by the
cast of The Way We Were Ensemble who performed their new musical
offering, The Hye LegionThe Gamavor last Sunday at the Cathedral.

Rev. Fr. Mesrob presents a plaque to Hourig Papazian-Sahagian,
director of the group, on behalf of the Cathedral, in appreciation of
her artistic accomplishments.

MARKARIAN PLAY RECEIVES HIGH PRAISE

Playwright Herand Markarians latest creation, Silence in a Circular
Rainbow has been receiving high praise from theatre-goers at the
sold-out premiere performance on May 4. Performances will continue
until May 20, at the Shell Theater (Times Square Arts Building). Many
of the performances are sold out. To purchase tickets ($18) go to
SmartTix.com or 212-868-4444.

BIBLE READINGS

Note: Beginning on the Sunday after Easter and continuing until
Pentecost (May 27), in addition to other readings, portions of the
four Gospels are read each day. Luke is read in the morning; John is
read at mid-day; Matthew is read at the beginning of the evening hour;
and Mark is read at the end of the evening hour.

Bible readings for Sunday, May 13, Fifth Sunday after Easter, are:
Acts 20:17-38; 1 John 3:2-6; John 9:39-10:10; (1) Luke 14:25-15:32;
(2) Acts 20:17-38; 1 John 3:2-6; John 9:39-10:10; (3) Matthew
16:13-17:13; (4) Mark 8:27-9:13.

Beloved, we are Gods children now; what we will be has not yet been
revealed. What we do know is this: when he is revealed, we will be
like him, for we will see him as he is. And all who have this hope in
him purify themselves, just as he is pure.

Everyone who commits sin is guilty of lawlessness; sin is
lawlessness. You know that he was revealed to take away sins, and in
him there is no sin. No one who abides in him sins; no one who sins
has either seen him or known him. (1 John 3:2-6)

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

FIRST ARMENIAN CHURCH IN ABU DHABI

His Holiness Aram I presided over the Holy Liturgy on May 4, at the
Greek Orthodox Church in Abu Dhabi temporarily offered to the Armenian
community. After the liturgy, His Holiness went to the location where
the first Armenian Church in Abu Dhabi will be built. Accompanying him
were Bishop Shahe Panossian, Catholicosal Vicar of the Diocese of
Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates; the Ambassador of Armenia to the
Gulf Region; the Honorary Ambassador of Armenia to Deir Zor, and
representatives of the Armenian communities in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and
Qatar.

Following the tradition of the Armenian Church, Catholicos Aram
blessed the 16 stones of the 16 columns of the churchs foundation that
were carried by 16 benefactors and witnesses. His Holiness named the
church The Church of the Holy Martyrs in commemoration of the 100th
anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. His Holiness thanked the Emir of
Abu Dhabi, the benefactors of the new church, and the members of the
community.

THIS SUNDAY IS MOTHERS DAY.
DONT FORGET TO CALL YOUR MOTHER!

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

May 11Mothers Day Celebration, sponsored by the ARS Mayr Chapter of
New York, at the Armenian Center, 69-23 47th Avenue, Woodside, New
York, 8 pm. Music by DJ Tunes. Admission (includes full dinner): $40,
adults; $15, children under 12. For reservations: Anais 718-392-6982
or Anahid 718-263-9325.

May 9-12National Representative Assembly of Eastern Prelacy, hosted by
Sts. Vartanantz Church, Providence, Rhode Island. Clergy conference on
May 9; full delegation May 10 to 12. Accommodations at Crowne Plaza
Hotel, Warwick, Rhode Island. Check Prelacy web page
() for details

May 11-12National Association of Ladies Guilds (NALG), 30th
anniversary celebration and annual conference in conjunction with the
National Representative Assembly, Crowne Plaza, Warwick, Rhode
Island. For information: Mary Derderian 781-762-4253.

May 19Cultural Evening organized by Hamazkayin Eastern USA with the
New Jersey and New York chapters, at St. Leon Church (Function Hall),
12-61 Saddle River Road, Fairlawn, New Jersey, reception and dinner;
Keynote address by Khatchig Mouradian, editor of the Armenian Weekly;
performances by the New Jersey Arekag Chorus and Nayiri Dance
Ensemble; presentation of awards; presentation of future
plans. Tickets: $50. Contact: Ms. Arous Isakhanian, 201-739-9557.

May 4 thru May 24Sixteen performances in May (including matinee
performances on Saturdays and Sundays) of Herand M. Markarians new
play commissioned by the New York State Theater Institute,
Silence. With award-winning actress Lorraine Serabian. This story of
love, loss, and relentless search by a women for her son after the
Armenian genocide of 1915, is directed by Kevin Thomson. Performances
at the Shell Theater in the Times Square Arts Building, 300 West 43rd
Street, New York City. Reserve tickets now ($18): SmartTix.com or
212-868-4444. For information: [email protected].

June 7Avak luncheon at noon, St. Gregory Church, 158 Main Street,
North Andover, Massachusetts. Speakers: Dr. Ara & Milka Jeknavorian,
Reconnecting with Armenia after 38 Years, travelogue includes scenes
from Armenia, Moscow, and Dubai. Public invited.

June 14St. Gregory Church of Merrimack Valley, North Andover, Mens
Club 3rd Annual Cigar Night & Dinner, in Blessed Memory of Fr. Vartan
Kassabian. Surf & Turf dinner, Open Bar, Cigars, Live & Silent
Auctions, Raffles. Tickets must be purchased in advance by sending a
check for $125 payable to St. Gregory Mens Club, 158 Main Street,
North Andover, Massachusetts 01845, or contact Greg Minasian at
[email protected] or 978-470-3075.

June 18Holy Trinity Church, Worcester, Massachusetts, 9th Annual Golf
Outing at Sterling National Country Club, Sterling,
Massachusetts. Continental breakfast, golf, dinner, prizes and
gift. $140 per golfer. For information: Kap Kaprielian at
[email protected] or church office 508-852-2414.

June 24St. Hagop Church, Racine, Wisconsin, annual Madagh Picnic at
Jonsons Park, Racine.

July 14Sts. Vartanantz Church Ladies Guild and ARS Ani Chapter,
Providence, Rhode Island, A Hye Summer Night VI dance, featuring
Hachig Kazarian, Richard Hagopian, Kenneth Kalajian, Jason Naroian, 8
pm to 1 am; $35 adults; $15 children 16 and under. At the Annunciation
Greek Orthodox Church, 175 Oaklawn Avenue, Cranston, Rhode
Island. Mezza will be served. Limited seating. For tickets and
information: 401-434-4467 (Joyce Bagdasarian); 401-354-8770 (Joyce
Yeremian).

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] 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]

From: A. Papazian

KARABAKH HOLDS MILITARY PARADE

Mediamax
May 9 2012
Armenia

Yerevan, 9 May: Military parade dedicated to 20th anniversary of
liberation of Shushi [Susa] was held in NKR [self-styled “Nagornyy
Karabakh republic”] capital Stepanakert [Xankandi] today.

NKR president Bako Sahakyan, Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan,
Catholicos of All Armenians Garegin II, former president of NKR and
Armenia Robert Kocharyan, former president of NKR Arkadi Ghukasyan
were present at the parade.

NKR president Bako Sahakyan delivered a speech at the parade and said
in particular:

“9 May is a holiday of victory, the victory of nationwide unity and
consolidation, freedom-loving spirit and inflexible will.

9 May is the victory of our fathers and grandfathers in the Great
Patriotic War, when the best sons of the Armenian people hand by
hand with other nations fought against violence and evil setting an
example of selfless heroism and courage for future generations.

9 May is the victory day of all Armenians in the national liberation
struggle, when all parts of the Armenian nation became a single whole
uniting around the exalted idea of defending Artsakh [Karabakh].

Everything was being done for the sake of our sacred mission, for
the realization of our age-old aspirations, for the bright future
and survivability of the Armenian nation.

With this sense we liberated Shushi, our ancient fortress, a cultural
and spiritual centre that had been in captivity for years and which
is reviving and getting a new breath of life today.

With this sense the defence army, the most important guarantor of
our nation’s freedom and security, its pride and one of the greatest
achievements, was formed. The army was born in the crucible of the
war. It accomplished and nowadays continues with credit its sacred
mission of the motherland’s defender. It is also due to the Armenian
army that peace and stability in the whole region are secured. This
undeniable reality cannot be ignored.

Free, independent and developing Artsakh is a great and exclusive
value for all Armenians. Due to the support of mother Armenia, our
sisters and brothers from the diaspora, Artsakh managed to not only
recover from the wounds of the war [in the early 1990s] but also
embarked on the path of stable development. A nation that protected
its native soil with flying colours must have a worthy life. We will
spare no efforts to achieve this goal.”

Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan also made a congratulatory address
by on the occasion of the Victory and Peace Day today:

“Victory in the World War II opened new opportunities for development
for our nation. It was a historic opportunity which allowed our
republic and our people in the following years and decades to register
impressive achievements in almost every area. Our entire nation
brought its contribution to the victory through enormous sacrifice.

On 9 May 1992 the heroic deed of their grandfathers and fathers was
repeated by the modern day freedom fighters, multiplying thus the
glory and honour of the Armenian arms.

Liberation of Shushi once again opened new doors for our people’s
peaceful, creative work and flourishing of the nation. This victory
too was achieved through the greatest sacrifice of our people.”

From: A. Papazian

KOMITAS INTERNATIONAL CLASSICAL MUSIC COMPETITION AND FESTIVAL IS AIMED AT STRENGTHENING CULTURAL TIES BETWEEN ARMENIA AND GERMANY

ARMENPRESS
10 May, 2012
YEREVAN

YEREVAN, MAY 10, ARMENPRESS: Komitas second International Classical
Music Competition and Festival will kick off in September 7-9. State
Youth Orchestra of Armenia (SYOA) informed Armenpress that the main
goal of the festival is to introduce Armenian classical music out of
the borders of Armenia.

The compositions of Komitas, Armenian contemporary composers’ music,
the works of Germany and Western European composers are scheduled
to sound within the context of the festival .Competition prize fund
makes 20, 000 euros.

According to organizers the aim of Komitas International Classical
Music Competition and Festival is to introduce the German society
the Armenian great composer’s life and works, as well as boost the
accomplishment of the history of Armenian classical music in Germany
and increase its recognition.

The Festival has intensions to establish Armenian and Germany relations
pertaining to art sphere.

In the form of Komitas International Classical Music Competition
and Festival a range of seminars, lectures and exhibitions, master
classes are scheduled to kick off.

State Youth Orchestra of Armenia (SYOA) headed by artistic director
and principal conductor Sergey Smbatyan and State Academic Choir
of Armenia led by Hovhannes Chekidzyan will come forth in Komitas
International Classical Music Competition and Festival.

From: A. Papazian

VOTE OF DISSENT: OPTION OF “AGAINST ALL” TO BE CONSIDERED FOR FUTURE ELECTIONS
By Gohar Abrahamyan

ArmeniaNow
10.05.12 | 15:30

During the May 6 parliamentary elections in Armenia, about 53,000
voters invalidated their ballots by indicating that they did not
favor any of the candidates. The demonstration of ill-will has led
Tigran Mukuchyan, head of the Central Election Commission (CEC)
to say that the Commission is willing to consider an “Against All”
option on future ballots.

“It will become one of the primary proposals that will be discussed
at the newly formed National Assembly,” Mukuchyan said at a press
conference on Wednesday.

Yet before the parliamentary elections, the Helsinki Citizens Assembly
Vanadzor Office in Vanadzor turned to Administrative court asking
to add the “Against All” option in ballots; however it declined the
request, reasoning that it was not grounded.

According to the Electoral Code of Armenia, the “Against” option is
applicable only in case if one candidate is nominated. Meanwhile,
according to Artur Sakunts, head of the Helsinki Citizens Assembly
Vanadzor Office, this is a violation of equality of right to vote.

“When voters are deprived of an opportunity to vote “Against All”
they have to vote regardless, that is to say, the absence of this
option restricts people’s free election will,” Sakunts told ArmeniaNow.

“Had the option “Against All” existed during the May 6 vote, people
would not have ruined their ballots. This would have had its impact
upon the political field, because the parties would have worked harder
to present better platforms, and would have made more efforts to gain
voters’ support,” Sakunts says.

He added that during the next six months the Helsinki Citizens
Assembly Vanadzor Office will turn to the Constitutional Court of
Armenia appealing to the constitutionality of that provision in the
Electoral Code.

From: A. Papazian

WE CAN HOLD NEW ARMENIAN PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS IF ALL MANDATES ARE RENOUNCED – OPPOSITION REPRESENTATIVE

news.am
May 10, 2012 | 13:58

YEREVAN. – There are activists among the opposition bloc Armenian
National Congress (ANC) who are asking whether it is worth entering
the National Assembly (NA) for a mere seven mandates which the ANC
received in the May 6 parliamentary elections. But those engaged in
politics should not be guided by emotions. ANC representative and
former single-mandate NA MP candidate Arshak Banuchyan said this
during a press conference on Thursday.

“We, too, had great expectations [from the elections]. But what do you
solve by giving up your mandate? If we could hold new elections by way
of renouncing our mandates-and if the [Prosperous Armenia Party] PAP,
ARF [Dashnaktsutyun Party], and the others would join us-we would do
that,” Banuchyan added.

To note, Armenia’s Central Electoral Commission has issued the
preliminary results of the May 6 parliamentary elections. Five
political parties and one bloc will be represented in the 131-seat
National Assembly (Parliament) of Armenia: Republican Party of Armenia
– 44.05%, Prosperous Armenia Party – 30.20%, Armenian National Congress
– 7.10%, Heritage Party – 5.79%, ARF Dashnaktsutyun Party – 5.73%,
and Orinats Yerkir Party – 5.49%.

From: A. Papazian

168 ZHAM: ROBERT KOCHARYAN TO REFUSE TO RUN FOR PRESIDENCY IN 2013?

tert.am
10.05.12

If the Prosperous Armenia party (PAP) again forms a coalition with
the Republican party (RPA) it will have to support the ‘incumbent
president’ like it was fixed in the coalition memorandum signed in
February 2011.

Ex-foreign minister Vartan Oskanian, who has become an MP with the PAP
list, said he is against formation of coalition with the Republican
party. Another PAP member Vahe Hovhannissyan said he does not see any
expediency in joining the possible coalition. ‘They have received
the majority of votes. Let them assume the whole responsibility in
the parliament. It is my personal opinion,’ member of the PAP Naira
Zohrabyan told the paper.

Of course, the formation of RPA-PAP coalition does not depend on the
wish of Tigran Sargsyan, Samvel Nikoyan and moreover on the wish of
Vartan Oskanian and Naira Zohrabyan.

Naturally they are making such statements to increase the value of
their parties but the decision will be made by Serzh Sargsyan, PAP
leader Gagik Tsarukyan, of course with the participation of Robert
Kocharyan. Will such arrangement be achieved between Serzh Sargsyan
and Robert Kocharyan in Karabakh? Will Robert Kocharyan refuse to
run for presidency in 2013? – asks the paper.

From: A. Papazian

PEOPLE HAVE ALREADY VALUED THE OPPOSITION AT 5,000 DRAMS AND SOLD IT TO THE AUTHORITIES
by David Stepanyan

arminfo
Thursday, May 10, 13:57

ArmInfo’s interview with Manvel Sargsyan , Head of the Armenian Center
for National and International Studies (ACNIS).

The election outcome was quite predictable. Let’s talk of the
instruments used to achieve such outcome.

The atmosphere of the elections was clear long before the voting day.

It was obviously demonstrated when people were forcefully taken to
Serzh Sargsyan’s meetings in different town of the republic within
the frames of the campaign. People were taken to the polling stations
at the voting day just the same way as to the meetings of the ruling
party. In other words, the result of the election was evident first
of all because of using of the administrative resource and than the
money one. By the way, Prosperous Armenia Party, which said about
its resoluteness to contradict bribe delivery, immediately after the
sitting of the single headquarters went to the regions of Armenia
to give bribes. And the headquarters said nothing about it. So,
two camps destined the results of the election, as they formed

equally dirty and apolitical atmosphere. The difference is that the
RPA “was gathering” votes by means of an

administrative resource, threats and bribes , and the PAP only by
means of bribes. Thanks to their joint work, one

pro-power party got 44% of votes and another one – 30%.

Another 4 forces have entered the parliament. What about their roles
and tasks?

All these forces have come across one specific problem – to take or
not to take the mandates. If these people say that the elections were
falsified but at the same time they take mandates, it means that they
transfer from the constitutional field to that of illegality. If all
these forces transfer to the anti-constitutional field, what they
will do there will be hardly interesting to anyone, as in that case
they will start playing according to the fixed rules.

Do you share the opinion that the elections passed with seeming
propriety?

The results achieved by means of administrative-criminal pressure
cannot be called legitimate.

Actually, all the international observers have recognized the elections
in line with international standards.

The international observers were honest when comparing these elections
with the elections of the Soviet times, that is, they were happy enough
not to see the ruling party collecting 99.9% of the voters. The world
community’s position depends on what the Armenian parties will do:
if they dispute the results of the voting, the world community will
do the same. So, now the key task of the winner is to convince the
other parties not to do it.

The Republicans and Prosperous Armenia have gained an absolute majority
in the new parliament. How will their relations continue given the
presidential election of Feb 2013?

The relations between the Republican Party of Armenia (RPA) and
Prosperous Armenia Party (PAP) depend on whether

the PAP will take its mandates. If it does, of which I am certain,
the party will enter the field of relations with the RPA. Having done

this, they will only have to think what to do next and what is more
profitable for them. I think it is profitable for the Prosperous
Armenia to keep playing the role of false opposition, to enlist the
sympathies of the opposition voters and at the same time to play the
master in the criminal and oligarchic regime, being a part of it. If
the PAP succeeds in being opposition, what disturbs it to play this
role for one more year? What disturbs it to advance a nominee at the
presidential election, who will be gently ousted by Serzh Sargsyan and
will ensure a second term for Sargsyan? What’s wrong about it? I think
they will do it given that it is much more valuable than membership
in a false coalition. According to the scenario of the RPA and the
PAP, the latter may form a coalition with the former, having obtained
ministerial portfolios. Therefore, everything depends on the society’s
attitude to the parties’ activities.

Is it reasonable for ANC to refuse the mandates?

Over the past 4 years the strategy of the ANC proved its
worthlessness. It makes no difference whether the ANC will carry out
its activities in the streets or in the parliament. The ANC is unable
to change its strategy and tactics.

What about Dashnaktsutyun and Orinats Yerkir?

Nobody has noticed them and they play no special role in these
processes. The latter is only a refined method to provide the power
regime with several more mandates.

Does it mean that the Republicans do not need any coalition?

The Republican Party of Armenia will get as many as 80 seats in the new
parliament, the absolute majority being 67 seats. The Republicans’ only
task now is to ensure one more presidential term for Serzh Sargsyan.

Whether they’ll do it openly, through a coalition with Prosperous
Armenia, or secretly, as they did this time, will make no big
difference.

We have been complaining about monopolies since 1998. In 2008 the
people was openly suppressed in the very center of Yerevan. Most of
the people seem to have learned no lesson from all that, however…

It is already a tradition in Armenia for 20 years to say that, for
instance, such fundamental problems like changing of regime may be
resolved only by the political parties. In its expectations the society
is oriented only towards the parties. It is high time to get rid of
such a false stereotype. People in Armenia do not understand that
no political force is able to affect changing in the power formation
process. The day, when they ask who makes these changes, the people
will understand that they are the only to be able to do that.

Why do the political parties support this false stereotype that they
are the locomotive of the changing process? They evidently lie and
present their defeat like a revolution, and call the biggest bandokrat
– a democratizator and guarantor of the election. Just the opposition
parties give such false formulas to the society. These formulas cannot
be given by the regime as the people know very well what is the core
of the regime. But when these formulas are given by the “opposition”,
the people become disoriented and cannot independently come out from
such a situation.

A total of 53,000 intentionally damaged ballot-papers mean that not
everything has been lost yet…

Those 53 thousand voters saw that they were deceived, but they have
not yet understood what should be done and what is their function. And
when they understand it, there will be thousands of “Mashtots Parks” in
Armenia, the last of which will be the parliament and the president’s
palace. This happened in all the countries…The people have already
understood that nobody must be trusted in, that all the politicians
lie cynically. The people have already valued these opposition parties
for 5 thsd drams and sold them to the authorities.

The parties already say that the people sold them for 5 thsd drams,
but I think that actually they do not cost even 5 thsd drams.

From: A. Papazian