Author: Baghdasarian Karlen

Hurriyet Daily News, Turkey
Jan 7 2015

Turkish journalist dies in road accident in Armenia

ISTANBUL

Gaye CoÃ…?ar, a Turkish journalist, has lost her life following a road
accident in the Armenian capital Yerevan.

CoÃ…?ar, who was in the country as part of the Armenia-Turkey
Normalization Process program, funded by the European Union, succumbed
to her wounds on Jan. 7 in Yerevan, after the accident took place last
week.

The 40-year-old had worked at daily Evrensel, broadcaster NTV and
lately at Al-Jazeera’s Turkey arm. She also worked as an interpreter
for a number of organizations and foundations.

CoÃ…?ar had received a bursary from the Hrant Dink Foundation, named
after the assassinated Turkish-Armenian journalist Hrant Dink.

Her family said she would be buried in the Central Anatolian province
of Kütahya after her body is brought back from Armenia.

January/07/2015

From: Baghdasarian

Rostom Sarkissian Announces Candidacy for LA City Council

Friday, January 9th, 2015
Rostom Sarkissian

Asks voters to evaluate him on years of community service and leadership

LOS ANGELES–Rostom Sarkissian has announced his candidacy for the Los
Angeles City Council Fourth District, a seat long held by the retiring
Councilmember Tom LaBonge. Sarkissian has said he is running for Los
Angeles City Council to be the community’s voice at City Hall. If
elected, he will focus on policy, not politics.

Sarkissian is a dedicated family man, who is grounded in deep Los
Angeles roots. As an 8-year-old boy scout growing up in Hollywood,
Sarkissian attended Ramona Elementary School where he returned many
years later to work on the Measure K School Bond that has repaired
hundreds of schools and built dozens of new ones across Los Angeles.
One of those new schools, Kingsley Elementary, replaced the corner
liquor store in his neighborhood.

“I never dreamed that I would come back to Hollywood and be able to do
what we did. To be part of an effort that turned a liquor store into
an elementary school is rewarding beyond words,” said Rostom
Sarkissian. “This is the type of policies that I want to pursue, and I
can’t do it without the support of our community on March 3.”

Sarkissian earned a Master’s degree in Public Policy from Harvard’s
Kennedy School of Government and a Bachelor’s degree in Diplomacy and
World Affairs from Occidental College. He was twice awarded the
Richter Scholarship for international research in Armenia, including
his undergraduate thesis on Javakhk, which has been cited in numerous
European publications about Javakhk. He was selected as a Coro Fellow
from Los Angeles and was a United Nations Intern in 2001.

For the past 20 years, Sarkissian has worked with many amazing
individuals and organizations — across the political spectrum — on a
range of issues affecting the Armenian community, from youth
mentorship programming for at-risk youth to the political empowerment
movements throughout LA County in the 2000’s to the recognition of the
Armenian Genocide at the state, federal and international levels.

He is proudest of his part in the 2011 “Recognition and Resurrection”
campaign to commemorate the Armenian Genocide, which took place on the
very rare occasion of when the Eastern and Western celebrations for
Easter were on April 24. This had not occurred for 150 years, and will
not occur again for the better part of this century. Millions of
Christian faithful around the world remembered the victims of the
Armenian Genocide during their Easter services.

The Armenian community spoke with one voice, and commemorated the
rebirth of the Armenian Nation from the ashes of Genocide, on the day
symbolizing the resurrection of Christ — Easter Sunday. Later that
year, the House Foreign Affairs Committee passed a “Return of Churches
Resolution” on a 43-1 vote, an unthinkable margin given the number of
pro-Turkey lawmakers on that Committee.

“The Resurrection and Recognition campaign shaped the discussion of
the Armenian Genocide on a global scale in the Armenian Community, but
it was sparked here in Los Angeles” said Sarkissian. “On April 24,
2011, our community not only mourned the souls that we lost, but also
celebrated the continued rebirth of the Armenian Nation through those
who survived. It was a powerful message that we will continue to
thrive.”

Sarkissian is a small business owner and has spent the last six years
working with local nonprofits in developing and writing grants,
providing marketing consulting for small business owners, and working
to elect Community focused leaders across LA County. He has worked on
campaigns across the country, including the Oregon, Colorado, and
Florida campaigns for Barack Obama and John Kerry for President.

Sarkissian is a native speaker of Armenian, and is also proficient in
Spanish. He married his wife, Lilit, in 2013. She worked as a labor
and delivery nurse at Cedars Sinai until the birth of their daughter,
Anush, who was born on September 11, 2014. The family lives in Sherman
Oaks.

City Council District 4 comprises Los Feliz, Hollywood, Sherman Oaks,
Silver Lake, Toluca Lake, Larchmont, Hancock Park, and Miracle Mile.
The incumbent councilmember, Tom Labonge, is termed out this year.
There are 14 candidates in the race, and Sarkissian is the only
Armenian-American candidate. The primary election will take place on
Tuesday, March 3, 2015.

From: Baghdasarian

Hurriyet Daily News, Turkey
Jan 9 2015

Crown princes, Russell Crowe to attend Çanakkale commemoration

Sevil ErkuÅŸANKARA

Crown Prince Charles and Prince William of Great Britain, as well as
Australian actor Russell Crowe, are scheduled to attend the centennial
of the Battle of Gallipoli in Çanakkale in late April.

The Turkish government, meanwhile, is considering decorating Crowe for
his recent film “The Water Diviner,” which is set four years after the
Gallipoli campaign in World War I and follows the journey of an
Australian farmer who travels to Turkey to discover the fate of his
three sons.

Ankara has extended invitations for the gathering, at which
high-profile participation is expected from a number of Commonwealth
countries.

The prime ministers of New Zealand and Australia are expected to
attend, along with a minister from Canada.

In response to a campaign by Armenians to attain greater recognition
on the 100th anniversary of what many in the world term the Armenian
Genocide, Turkey plans to commemorate the centennial of the Çanakkale
campaign on April 23-24-25 this year, in a bid to counter the adverse
effects of Armenian efforts.

Traditionally, Turkey marks the Anniversary of the Battle of Gallipoli
on March 18, which is declared Martyrs’ Day. Armenians, meanwhile,
commemorate their killed ancestors on April 24.

Gallipoli is a venue that traditionally hosts thousands of Australians
and New Zealanders on April 25, the day of remembrance, known as ANZAC
Day after Australian and New Zealand Army Corps soldiers who lost
their lives.

By merging the two occasions, Ankara is hoping to increase the
visibility of the commemoration of the Battle of Gallipoli in the eye
of the international community at a time when attention will likely be
on the centennial anniversary of the mass killings of Anatolian
Armenians during the Ottoman era.

Speaking during parliamentary budget talks about the Foreign Ministry
on Dec. 14, 2014, Foreign Minister Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu said a “meaningful
commemoration” of the Battle of Gallipoli was being organized.

“We are organizing the [commemoration] of the Battle of Gallipoli in a
meaningful and positive way. We are also inviting the countries that
were involved in World War I or were affected by it to take part,”
said Çavuşoğlu.

He also referred to the 100th anniversary of the forced migration of
Ottoman Armenians, which led to hundreds of thousands of deaths,
saying Turkey “will deliver messages of peace and tolerance to the
world in Çanakkale on April 24, 2015.”

Gallipoli is a district of Çanakkale province, which is also home to
the Dardanelles. The heroic resistance in Gallipoli from 1915-1916 by
the Ottoman army during World War I is known in Turkey as the
“Çanakkale Wars.”

January/09/2015

From: Baghdasarian

January 9, 2015
Western Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church of America
H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate
6252 Honolulu Avenue
La Crescenta, CA 91214
Tel: (818) 248-7737
Fax: (818) 248-7745
E-mail: [email protected]
Website:

RECORD SHOW OF SUPPORT AT PRELATE’S CHRISTMAS DINNER

– EVENING HOSTED BY ALEX AND ARDA YEMENIDJIAN

On January 6, 2015, “Bagramian” Hall in Montebello was bustling with
Christmas cheer and merriment as six hundred of the Western Prelacy’s
closest friends and supporters joined H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian,
Prelate, to collectively celebrate the Birth and Revelation of our Lord
Jesus Christ at what has become a beloved tradition within the community,
the “Prelate’s New Year and Christmas Dinner”. The event is the undertaking
of the Religious and Executive Councils and is organized by the Prelacy
Ladies Auxiliary.
Among the dignitaries and honored guests in attendance were Consul
General of Lebanon Johnny Ibrahim, Catholicosate Central Executive members
Khajag Dikijian and Vicken Kassabian, ARF Central Committee representative
Dr. Viken Yacoubian and members, representatives of ARS, Homenetmen,
Hamazkayin, ANC, parishes, schools, Prelacy committees, media, Forest Lawn,
and also Armenia’s first Foreign Minister Raffi Hovannisian and
newly-elected Mayor of Montebello Jack Hadjinian.
Master of Ceremonies Rev. Fr. Vazken Atmajian greeted the guests and
invited them to stand for the start of the official program with the
poignant clergy procession. Illuminated by candlelight alone, peace and
tranquility reigned in the hall as the Prelate and clergy entered chanting
Christmas hymns, uplifting the guests with love and harmony. The Apostle
Luke’s account of Christ’s Birth was read, followed by the traditional wine
and consecrated bread ceremony (tatakh).
On behalf of her fellow members, Ladies Auxiliary Chair Dzovig
Zetlian welcomed the guests and wished an enjoyable evening for all.
The message of His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of the Great House of
Cilicia, was then broadcast. Our Pontiff conveyed his New Year and Christmas
well wishes to the Prelate and guests at the start of a new year, and then
focused his address on the importance of service to our church and nation
with greater organization, in pursuit of our demands, and with unity;
organization as a source of strength, bringing together the leadership and
people alike, perseverance as we demand our rights, especially on this 100th
anniversary year during which we must continue our struggle with greater
vigor and resolve, and unity of spirit. We are a dispersed people, but we
must remain united in spirit and stand before Turkey as a united front, one
nation, one homeland, one cause, said His Holiness.
On behalf of the Executive Council, Chairman Vahe Hovaguimian
welcomed the guests to an evening he referred to as a demonstration of our
faithfulness to the traditions of our forefathers and an opportunity to
collectively renew and rededicate ourselves to the responsibilities and
endeavors in the coming year. As we find ourselves in the year of the
Genocide centennial, we must dedicate our efforts this year to “remembering
and demanding,” said the Chairman. In conclusion, he expressed gratitude to
the Prelate for his leadership, thanked the Ladies Auxiliary and Prelacy
staff for their efforts, and thanked the guests for their continuous
support.
Consul General of Lebanon Johnny Ibrahim was invited to deliver his
remarks, which focused on continued unrest in the Middle East over the last
four years especially. He noted that Lebanon is involved in efforts to
combat terrorism and committed to protecting its minority populations.
Lebanon has always been and remains a country of coexistence, and the
Armenian people are a vital part of the country’s fabric, said the Consul
General, and reflecting on the upcoming centennial of the Armenian Genocide,
affirmed that the somber anniversary will be commemorated in Lebanon. He
concluded by wishing a new year filled with joy, prosperity, and the
fulfillment of hopes and dreams for the Armenian people and for all.
This year’s dinner was hosted by Mr. and Mrs. Alex and Arda
Yemenidjian. Among the major sponsors were Hank and Rita Khachaturian, Mrs.
Tina Carolan and the Carolan Family Foundation, and Mr. and Mrs. Gaydzag and
Anahid Ohanessian. Mr. and Mrs. Harout and Christina Jabarian provided the
evening’s souvenirs featuring the Genocide Centennial symbol and motto “we
remember and demand.” A record show of support was demonstrated this year by
the Prelacy’s sponsors and supporters.
Prior to the official start of the dinner guests enjoyed the music
of violinist Meroujan Markarian. The entertainment continued throughout the
dinner featuring performances by the Greg Hosharian quartet (Greg Hosharian
– piano, Salpi Kerkonian – flute, George Bilezikjian – drums, and Eileen
Amirian – vocals), Christmas hymns by Taline Nalbandian, and a dance by
Hamazkayin Ani Dance Company members.
The program concluded with the Prelate’s message. His Eminence began
by thanking God for the blessing of another year and for granting the
opportunity to exchange well wishes to one another at the dawn of a new year
and the Birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. The Prelate conveyed gratitude to
His Holiness Aram I for his indispensable leadership and guidance and
thanked the evening’s sponsors for their valuable support, in particular Mr.
and Mrs. Alex and Arda Yemenidjian for their generosity in hosting the
dinner and the Prelacy’s newest sponsors, Mr. and Mrs. Gaydzag and Anahid
Ohanessian. The Prelate gave an overview of the commemorative events planned
globally for the Genocide Centennial, calling for Armenians worldwide to
unite their efforts and resources in fulfillment of our demands and goals.
“The Armenian people became followers of Jesus and His Word from early on;
we submitted ourselves as a nation to His will and followed the way of life
He paved for us. We have had more than our share of trials and tribulations,
but we placed our faith and our hope in our Lord and Savior and we rose
again. No matter the challenges of tomorrow, we will rise again and again,”
stressed His Eminence. (The full text of the Prelate’s message will be
provided separately).
At the conclusion of his message the Prelate delivered the
benediction, after which guests joined clergy to close the evening with the
Cilician and Pontifical anthems.

***

PRELATE CELEBRATES CHRISTMAS DIVINE LITURGY
AT ST. MARY’S CHURCH IN GLENDALE

On Tuesday, January 6, 2015, the Birth and Theophany of our Lord
Jesus Christ was ceremoniously celebrated in Prelacy Churches with Divine
Liturgy and the blessing of water symbolizing the Baptism of our Lord. H.E.
Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, conducted services and delivered
his Christmas sermon at St. Mary’s Church in Glendale,
At the start of his sermon, the Prelate first conveyed his New Year
well wishes to the leadership of Armenia, His Holiness Karekin II,
Catholicos of all Armenian, and our Pontiff His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos
of the Great House of Cilicia. He then turned to the message of Christ’s
birth and the blessings granted to man through His earthly mission. Speaking
on the events that transpired on the night of the Nativity, His Eminence
highlighted that the humble shepherds were the first to receive the good
news of Christ’s Birth, a reward from God for their life of goodness and
devotion; that the three magi, important men of the time whom even kings
feared, traveled from faraway lands to bow in reverence before the newborn
King. God became man and came to this world to bring the gift of renewal.
The Nativity is an invitation to humility, and His earthly parents Joseph
and Mary are the epitome of obedience and faithfulness for us to emulate,
said the Prelate.
The Birth of Christ was the birth of the Sun of Justice. From the
early ages, our forefathers followed His Light, which gave us strength to
persevere in our many crises. Today, as we commemorate the 100th anniversary
of the Genocide, we will keep the spirit of our forefathers alive, by
trusting in God to lead us to the fulfillment of our demands. With unbending
faith, we will continue our path until the triumph of justice, conclude the
Prelate. Finally, His Eminence offered prayers for peace and justice in the
world, and especially in Syria, Lebanon, and Iraq, so that our brethren can
begin to rebuild their lives.
The Prelate conducted the blessing of water at the conclusion of
Divine Liturgy. Aren Soghomonian, son of Varant and Lena Soghomonian, served
as Godfather of the Cross. The service concluded with the Christmas hymn
“Great and Marvelous Mystery”.
On Wednesday, January 7, Christmas Memorial Day, the Prelate
presided over requiem service and the blessing of the four corners of the
earth (Antasdan) at the Hollywood Hills Forest Lawn “Hall of Liberty”.
Prelacy clergy participated in the service, which was also held at Glendale
Forest Lawn “Church of the Recessional.”

***

PRELATE CELEBRATES CHRISTMAS EVE DIVINE LITURGY
AT HOLY MARTYRS CHURCH IN ENCINO

On Monday, January 5, 2014, the eve of the Feast of the Nativity and
Theophany of our Lord was celebrated in Prelacy Churches with Divine Liturgy
and the lighting of the candle service (Jrakalooyts) symbolizing the Light
of Christ coming into the world. The Liturgy was preceded by the reading of
Scriptures by Sunday School students.
H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, celebrated
Christmas Eve Divine Liturgy and delivered the sermon at Holy Martyrs Church
in Encino. Parish Pastor Rev. Fr. Razmig Khatchadourian assisted at the
altar.
Prior to delivering the sermon, the Prelate expressed thanks to God
for granting another year to collectively celebrate Christmas, greeted the
parish family, commended the Sunday School students for their participation,
and wished a happy new year to all. His Eminence reflected on the Christmas
message of humility, the greatest example of which is the birth of the Son
of God in the most humble circumstances, in a manger, surrounded by farm
animals. The second lesson on humility comes from the modest shepherds, who
were tending to their sheep when they saw the bright star and received the
angels’ tidings that the King was born.
“At the start of a New Year, we are given this opportunity to renew
ourselves with the Christmas spirit. God became man to bring renewal to
mankind, which had turned away from God. Christ was born in humble
conditions in a demonstration of goodness, mercy, and grace of God, so that
we too can live in that same image. Finally, God became incarnate so that
His peace and love can reign in the world and in our hearts, and we are
called to spread His goodwill among one another”, stated the Prelate, and
concluded by praying for peace, love, and harmony among man.
The Jrakalooyts service was conducted at the conclusion of Divine
Liturgy. The Prelate lit a candle from the altar which was then used to
light the candles of the faithful as Christmas hymns were sung heralding the
Birth of our Lord.

***

CHRISTMAS DIVINE LITURGY AND BLESSING OF WATER
AT ARARAT HOME

On Thursday, January 8, 2015, Christmas was celebrated at Ararat
Home in Mission Hills with Divine Liturgy and the blessing of water
conducted by H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, assisted by
clergy members.
The day began with Christmas hymns, Gospel readings, and the
blessing of water at the nursing facility. Religious Council Chair Very Rev.
Fr. Muron Aznikian conveyed the Prelate’s greetings and well wishes. After
the blessing of water, His Eminence conveyed his blessings to the residents
and wished a happy, healthy, and prosperous new year to all. Ararat Home
Board Chairman Joseph Kanimian, Esq. thanked the Prelate and Prelacy for
their enduring care and support and presented a New Year gift to His
Eminence as a token of appreciation. Residents received the Prelacy calendar
and illustrated Lord’s Prayers.
Divine Liturgy was then celebrated at the Sheen Chapel by Rev. Fr.
Vazken Atmajian, who also delivered the sermon. The Prelate conducted the
blessing of water at the conclusion of the service.
The Blessing of the Home service followed at the assisted living
facility, where His Eminence presented faculty members with mementos in
commendation of their dedicated service and the Prelacy Genocide Centennial
memento to Mr. Kanimian.
The visit concluded with a luncheon hosted by the administration,
during which by the request of the Prelate, Nune Avetisyan recited two
pieces of poetry.

***

CHRISTMAS SERVICE AND BLESSING OF WATER
AT GLENDALE MEMORIAL HOSPITAL

On Monday, January 5, 2015, Armenian Christmas was celebrated at
Glendale Memorial Hospital with the Blessing of Water ceremony conducted by
H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, assisted by Rev. Fr. Boghos
Tinkjian and St. Mary’s Church pastors.
The service was held in the Main Lobby with the participation of
Glendale Memorial Hospital President Jack Ivie, Glendale Police Chief Robert
Castro, City Council member Paula Devine, City Commissioner Seda Khojayan,
City Manager Scott Ochoa, Ms. Mary Hovaguimian representing Congressman Adam
Schiff, Ms. Taline Mangioglu representing State Senator Carol Liu,
administrators, and staff.
President Jack Ivie welcomed the Prelate and clergy, thanking them
for their traditional Christmas visit, and greeted also the honored guests,
wishing a happy new year to all.
The Prelate conveyed his New Year and Christmas greetings and well
wishes to the Glendale Memorial Hospital family and guests. He explained
that the Armenian Apostolic Church celebrates the Birth and Baptism of
Christ on the same day and gave an overview of the Blessing of Water
ceremony and of the Holy Muron, which is used during the ceremony from a
dove-shaped vessel, symbolizing the descent of the Holy Spirit during
Christ’s Baptism. The Birth of our Lord is the greatest gift bestowed to
mankind, the manifestation of God’s infinite love, said His Eminence, a gift
which continues to give centuries later and continues to transform hearts
and souls with hope, love, and goodwill. At the start of a new year, the
Prelate urged all to resolve to be thankful to God daily for His blessings
of health and wellness, for the love of family and friends, and for the
successes we enjoy. “May Christ be born again within our hearts and generate
new life within us so that we can live with goodness in His example, and
spread His love and mercy within our surroundings, and especially to the
less fortunate”. In conclusion, His Eminence commended the compassionate
care provided at the facility, prayed for the health of the patients, and
wished a blessed year for all filled with the priceless gifts of health,
love, peace, and joy.
The Blessing of the Home service was then conducted, during which
prayers were offered beseeching the Lord to protect and keep in peace the
facility and all within it. The Blessing of Water followed, symbolizing the
baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River and His Revelation as God. The service
concluded with the Lord’s Prayer. Guests were offered the blessed water and
received prayer cards as mementos. Afterward, the Prelate visited patient
rooms to offer prayers for healing. His Eminence also blessed a newborn baby
and conveyed his congratulations and well wishes to the parents.

***

NORTH HOLLYWOOD PARISH CELEBRATES 6TH ANNIVERSARY

On Sunday, January 4, 2015, the North Hollywood parish celebrated
the 6th anniversary of its establishment with Episcopal Divine Liturgy and
blessing of madagh conducted by H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian,
Prelate. His Eminence was assisted at the altar by parish pastor Archpriest
Fr. Nareg Pehlivanian. Faithful in attendance included Executive Council
members Mr. Antranik Kasbarian and Mrs. Therese Kemanjian. During the
service, the Prelate blessed the new chalice and paten donated by Baghdik
Ekmekjian in memory of his parents.
During the sermon, the Prelate first greeted and congratulated the
pastor, board members, and parish family on their 6th anniversary
celebration and wished them continued successes for years to come. His
Eminence spoke about Christmas, which was to be celebrated the following two
days, stating that God gave man the greatest blessing and gift of His Son
Jesus Christ to show us the way to live in His ideal example. The Birth of
Christ is the greatest demonstration of love, of God’s immense love toward
man. It also brings a message of faith and obedience, of humility and
service, ideals which must guide our lives in the example of Christ, Who
fully submitted to the will of His Father throughout His earthly life,
concluded His Eminence.
The Prelate conducted the blessing of madagh at the conclusion of
the service.
A New Year and Christmas reception followed in the Church hall,
during which Sunday School students reenacted the Nativity of Christ through
hymns and psalms. The Prelate commended and blessed the students and parents
and conveyed his well wishes to all for a happy new year.

***

PRELATE PRESIDES OVER REQUIEM SERVICE
FOR VAHAN HOVANNESIAN

On Saturday, January 3, 2015, a state funeral was held in Armenia
for Armenia’s Ambassador to Germany and long-time ARF leader Vahan
Hovannesian, who passed away on December 28, 2014 after a long illness.
Within the Western Prelacy, the life and service of the late leader was
remembered with requiem service at St. Mary’s Church, followed by a memorial
gathering.
H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, presided over Divine
Liturgy and the requiem service, and delivered his tribute to Vahan
Hovannesian, commending his lifelong service to the Armenian nation and
cause. ARF Western Region Central Committee members, representatives of
community organizations, Executive Council Chair Mr. Vahe Hovaguimian, and
Treasurer Mr. Meher Der Ohanessian attended the service.
The memorial gathering organized by the ARF Central Committee
followed at the “Armenak Der Bedrosian” Hall. The Prelate attended the first
part of the program, then headed to the North Hollywood parish to celebrate
Divine Liturgy and conduct the blessing of madagh on the 6th anniversary of
the establishment of the parish community.
On behalf of the Prelate, Rev. Fr. Vazken Atmajian delivered his
remarks on the somber occasion. Mr. Saro Nazarian served as Master of
Ceremonies. The keynote speech was delivered by ARF Central Committee member
Mr.Vahe Bozoyan. The event also featured a cultural program.

From: Baghdasarian

Economic News (Information Agency Oreanda), Russia
January 5, 2015 Monday

WB Disburses USD75 mn for Armenia Policy Reform Program

Washington. OREANDA-NEWS . January 05, 2015. The World Bank today
disbursed the full amount of the USD 75 million Second Development
Policy Operation (DPO) for Armenia to support a wide range of critical
reforms under implementation by the Government of Armenia.

The World Bank remains fully committed to helping the country as it
adjusts to the volatile regional and global economic developments and
builds a stronger economy that creates jobs, which is Armenias
long-term development challenge.

The regional dynamics that are affecting Armenia reinforce how
important it is for us to support economic growth and sustainability
in the medium- and long-term, says Laura E. Bailey, World Bank Country
Manager for Armenia. At the same time, as international partners work
with the national authorities in dealing with the current short-term
volatility, we continue to focus on important structural changes that
will allow Armenia to deal with the realities in the world economy and
be more competitive, which is what needs to happen to create jobs.

The Operation supports reform measures implemented by the Government
under five main objectives.

Strengthening the business environment through the reduction of
inspections burdening businesses, implementation of the single window
approach for customs clearance of goods, and creation of a new
institutional structure for the oversight of the aviation sector to
increase transparency and improve accountability.

Improving access to credit with measures to create a modern framework
for secured transactions, which will allow the use of moveable assets
as collateral for better access to finance.

Improving efficiency and transparency of the civil service with a
stronger performance evaluation system and broader use of e-government
systems.

Expanding social protection by extending the coverage of the waiver of
co-payments in medical institutions to the households covered by the
Family Benefits Program.

Improving fiscal space and the management of public infrastructure and
environmental resources through reporting estimates of the revenue
impacts of major tax expenditures, implementation of an Action Plan on
Drinking Water Sector Reforms, and adoption of legislative and
regulatory improvements that strengthen environmental and social (E&S)
guidelines in the mining sector.

Our commitment to the people and government of Armenia includes
supporting this package of reforms, which will help the Armenian
economy make the shift from an unsustainable reliance on inflows
towards export-oriented growth and a higher rate of job creation, says
Ms. Bailey.

The Second DPO in the total amount of US//$75 million is an IBRD
flexible loan, with a variable spread and a 14.5-year grace period,
and repayment of over 25 years.

From: Baghdasarian

ARMENIE
L’Arménie veut intensifier le contrôle des eaux souterraines

Le gouvernement arménien a approuvé un programme pour le développement
du réseau d’observation national de surveillance des eaux
souterraines.

Le ministre de la Protection de la nature Aramis Grigorian a déclaré
que le but du programme est d’améliorer l’évaluation des changements
qualitatifs et quantitatifs dans les eaux souterraines et d’assurer
leur protection et la gestion rationnelle.

Il a dit qu’en raison de la pénurie de regards il est difficile
d’évaluer les changements qualitatifs et quantitatifs dans les eaux
souterraines et d’assurer leur protection et leur bonne gestion.

Il a dit que cette année 19,4 millions de drams ont été dépensés sur
le suivi de 70 puits dans le réseau national.

Il a ajouté que le programme vise à augmenter le nombre de regards
dans le réseau national à 128. Il a précisé que cela coûtera 44
millions de drams.

vendredi 9 janvier 2015,
Stéphane (c)armenews.com

From: Baghdasarian

Ambassador: North – South corridor project paves way to the CIS countries
Political Desk

On Line: 09 January 2015 09:57
In Print: Saturday 10 January 2015

Baku. 7 January. REPORT.AZ/ The Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of
Iran to Azerbaijan Mohsun Pak Aayeen gave an interview to Report News
Agency.

– What is expected in Azerbaijani-Iranian relations in 2015?
– Of course, high-level visits will be organized this year too. The
Economy Minister of Iran will visit Baku in January, as well as the
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs is also expected to visit. In
February, more visits are expected to carry out. The visits will take
place after being defined precisely. – Kazakhstan – Turkmenistan –
Iran railway project has been opened recently.

– How do you think, will this project which is part of the “North –
South” corridor project, stimulate the Rasht – Astara railway project
to be completed soon?
– Currently, Gazvin – Astara railway line is a priority for the
government of Iran. The railway unite not only Iran, Azerbaijan and
Russia but also paves the way for the CIS countries. Even China is
interested in it. As you mentioned, the railway authorities of Iran,
Russia and Azerbaijan signed a document for the construction of the
project as soon as possible. I think, the construction of the railway
will accelerate in 2015.

– The official of Iran’s Foreign Ministry Kazim Sajjadi visited
Azerbaijan recently and discussed the issues on returning of Iranian
citizens to their native country who serve sentences in Azerbaijan and
recognizing of Iranian students’ diplomas, who studied in Azerbaijan
Medical University, in Iran. What is the improvement in this
direction?
– There is a good cooperation between the two countries in the field
of justice as in other areas. It is true that these people have
committed certain crimes and should be punished. We do not defend them
for their crime. However, the leaders of the two countries take care
of the citizens of their countries. Taking into account the wishes of
the families of the arrested people, they took this humanist step and
want to organize their extradition to their home countries. We are
grateful to the government of Azerbaijan for a positive activity in
this direction. Mr. Sajjadi’s visit was very useful and currently, we
are working on the extradition of more Iranian prisoners. The
delegation of Iran’s Ministry of Health visited Azerbaijan for
recognizing of Medical University’s diplomas. They have a positive
feedback about the university and education in it. The delegation
estimated them after reviewing the clinics and other institutions of
the university within about three days. When the Ministry of Health
made a decision on Azerbaijan Medical University’s diplomas in 2008,
the conditions were satisfactory. Thankfully, the situation is better
now. I think this issue will receive a positive answer.

– What can you say about the past year’s trade turnover?
– I hope that the trade turnover will double in 2015. To my mind, we
will observe the growth in the field of energy and oil in new year.
Taking into consideration of the development of tourism between the
two countries, I am looking forward an increase in this trade
turnover.

– As you know, the Armenian Armed Forces fired on the positions of
Azerbaijani Army on the border and frontline. Considering that the
incidents took place near the territory of Iran, what is the position
of the Iranian government’s on this issue?
-We are not satisfied with the events taking place and we regret that
these events occurred. The emergence of threats in the region is not
the regional countries favor, including Iran. The security must be
guaranteed. For this reason, the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict should be
solved fairly. Some of the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairing countries are
permanent members of the UN Security Council. Those countries should
ask the provision of safety in the region. If the resolutions of the
United Nations are carried out, we believe that the security of the
region will be provided. We are eagerly trying to resolve the Karabakh
conflict in a peaceful way. We do not think that the war is the
solution of this conflict. If it is necessary, we are ready to mediate
in this conflict.
– In mid-January, the next round of talks with P5 + 1on the Iranian
nuclear issue is expected. What are the expectations in these
negotiations?
– We want these negotiations to give the result as soon as possible,
as well as would like the elimination of illegal sanctions imposed
against Iran. I think that if the parties treat the issue seriously,
it will be possible to resolve it. The opposite side, the P5 + 1
countries, concerned that Iran could acquire nuclear weapons with its
nuclear program, but we are trying in every possible way to explain to
them that it is not like that. One side of the argument is Iran and
sanctions imposed against it. We want to remove this unjust sanctions.
I think that if the debates reach conclusion the concerns of both
sides will be eliminated. The opposite side would understand that Iran
has no intention to acquire nuclear weapons. In turn, we will make
sure that sanctions eliminated against us. I think that if the
opposite side would be serious and does not allow non-logical
statements, this debate will come to conclusion.

– When Iranian President Hassan Rouhani came to power he said that,
the main priority of his policy will be resolution of all the problems
with neighboring countries. However, we are still experiencing a hard
time with some of the neighboring countries. Do you think it will be
possible to resolve these problems in the near future?
– One of the greatest achievements of Iran’s foreign policy in 2014
was the establishment of good relations with neighboring countries and
resolution of problems. Iran has land and sea borders with 15 states.
On the one hand we have borders with the Russia through Caspian Sea
and also good relations. Moreover, we have good relations with the
other Caspian littoral states including Azerbaijan. We talked about
relations with Azerbaijan. Regarding Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan you
have noted yourself that the railway line was built in the states, it
is also a sign of good relations. We appreciate the meeting of the
Caspian littoral states in Astrakhan.

Friendly relations with each of these states are significantly
improved compared to previous years. We have a normal and developing
relations with Pakistan. For a long time we have good relations with
Afghanistan especially after the presidential elections in this
country we did our best to establish stability in the country.
Currently, Iraq is our closest friend. We are helping the Iraqi
government to combat terrorism. We also have normal relations with the
countries of the Persian Gulf. Last year compared to previous years
many of us have visited Arab countries.Even Iran’s one of the
discussions with P5 + 1 states was held in Oman. Turkey, however, is
our largest economic partner in the region. I think that as President
Hassan Rouhani said, he is committed to politics that ensures normal
relations with neighbors. Naturally, there can be problems between the
two countries.

It is possible that there can be a difference of opinion with any
country in the fight against terrorism. Perhaps, ISIS terrorist group
took advantage of these disputes and further developed. But still, we
are continuing our discussions with neighboring countries and bring
our positions closer.

From: Baghdasarian

Bohjalian Receives Award in Moscow

By Weekly Staff on January 6, 2015

Russian Translation of ‘Sandcastle Girls’ to Come Out in 2015

MOSCOW, Russia (A.W.)–New York Times best-selling author Chris
Bohjalian received a Soglasie (Corcord) Award from the World Armenian
Congress and Union of Armenians in Russia in December, for his
“devotion to the Armenian nation’s traditions and memory.”

New York Times best-selling author Chris Bohjalian received a Soglasie
(Corcord) Award from the World Armenian Congress and Union of
Armenians in Russia

The Soglasie awards ceremony was held at the Grand Kremlin Palace with
more than 5,000 community members and guests present.

“I was moved and honored by my visit with the Armenian community in
Moscow, and humbled by the award. My hopes for The Sandcastle Girls
are that it teaches non-Armenians this part of our history and gives
Armenians a sense of pride. This award and the new Russian edition
will help accomplish both.”

The Russian translation of The Sandcastle Girls, a novel on the
Armenian Genocide, will be published by the Moscow-based Vorak-Media
LLC in February 2015. Publisher Vahe Avanesyan said, “I was very moved
when Ara Abrahamyan, the head of the Union of Armenians in Russia,
handed the Concord Award to Chris Bohjalian. This award is for the
tremendous talent and work Chris has put into the creation of The
Sandcastle Girls.” There is already “a big buzz and a lot of
anticipation” for the book in Russia, he added.

The Sandcastle Girls was a New York Times best-seller, and more than a
dozen editions and translations of the book have appeared around the
world, including Canada (in English and French), Brazil, the United
Kingdom, France, Italy, Romania, Poland, Norway, Israel, and Armenia.

During his trip, Bohjalian also visited the Spiritual and Educational
Center of the Armenian Apostolic Church in Moscow and met with
archbishop Ezras Nersisyan, the head of the Russian and
New-Nakhichevan Diocese of the Armenian Apostolic Church.

From: Baghdasarian

Trend, Azerbaijan
Jan 8 2015

Israel does not intend to recognize so-called ‘Armenian genocide’ – Ambassador

8 January 2015, 14:22 (GMT+04:00)
By Elchin Mehdiyev – Trend:

Israel does not intend to recognize the so-called “Armenian genocide”,
Israeli ambassador to Azerbaijan Rafael Harpaz told Trend.

He was commenting on some Israeli politicians’ calls to the government
to recognize the so-called “Armenian genocide”.

“Israel is a democratic country, everybody has two opinions, not one
opinion,” Harpaz said. “The government has a very clear opinion.”

He said that Israel never recognizes and does not intend to recognize
the so-called “Armenian genocide”.

“But regarding the government, its policy is very clear and it was
earlier stated by foreign minister Avigdor Lieberman,” Harpaz said.

As for the unsatisfactory political relations between Israel and
Turkey, the ambassador expressed the hope that they will improve.

“There are enough common interests and issues in the world for us to
cooperate,” Harpaz said. “I would like to take an example of Turkish
Airlines. Turkish Airlines is the biggest foreign airline which is
active in Israel. Istanbul is the biggest hub for Israelis. The same
goes for tourism, trade which is up. We hope that our political
relations with Turkey will improve.”

From: Baghdasarian

Solidarité
L’Arménie condamne l’attentat à Charlie Hebdo

L’Arménie a ajouté sa voix à la forte condamnation internationale de
l’attentat du magazine satirique français Charlie Hebdo, qui a fait au
moins 12 morts.

Serge Sarkissian a envoyé une lettre à son homologue français François
Hollande condamnant fermement la tuerie, présentant ses condoléances
aux familles des victimes et exprimant sa solidarité avec la France.

“Nous condamnons avec la plus extrême sévérité le terrorisme dans
toutes ses formes et renouvelons notre engagement à poursuivre la
lutte contre le terrorisme international.

En ces moments de grande affliction et d’importantes pertes humaines,
l’Arménie et le peuple arménien sont à vos côtés, aux côtés du peuple
français ami.

Nous exprimons notre soutien sincère et apportons notre aide aux
familles des victimes en leur souhaitant courage et fermeté. Aux
blessés, nous souhaitons un prompt rétablissement.

Veuillez accepter, votre excellence, l’assurance de mon profond respect.”

“En ce moment difficile de douleur et de perte, l’Arménie et le peuple
arménien sont à vos côtés” a écrit Sarkissian.

Edouard Nalbandian, dans une déclaration distincte a écrit : “nous
exprimons nos condoléances et notre soutien au peuple et aux autorités
de la France amie, ainsi qu’à la rédaction de Charlie Hebdo et aux
proches des victimes”, a déclaré le ministre des Affaires étrangères,
.

“Ces actes effroyables commis par des extrémistes ne peuvent avoir
aucune justification et soulignent une fois de plus la nécessité d’une
plus grande consolidation des efforts internationaux de lutte contre
le terrorisme”, a t-il ajouté.

jeudi 8 janvier 2015,
Claire (c)armenews.com

From: Baghdasarian