Author: Bedik Zaminian

AW; The HALO Trust clears Stepanakert of unexploded hazards left by 2020 war

Bedik Zaminian
 Guest Contributor Non-Profit 0

HALO team clears explosive contamination from residential areas in Stepanakert, Nagorno-Karabakh, on March 9, 2022.
Anush Babajanyan’s photographs taken in March 2022 (Photo courtesy of The HALO Trust)

The HALO Trust has completed the clearance of all known cluster bombs and other explosive dangers from Stepanakert, the largest city in Nagorno Karabakh.

The eyes of the world are understandably focused on the war in Ukraine, a country where HALO is also working to save lives from deadly explosives. However, the fate of Stepanakert, a city which was in the crosshairs of the same munitions that are now falling on communities across Ukraine, offers both a sobering glimpse of the work that lies ahead as well as a hopeful example of how lives and communities can be restored in the aftermath of a tragic conflict.

HALO team, including BAC deminer Nazeli Isunts, 45, clears explosive contamination from residential areas in Stepanakert, Nagorno Karabakh, on March 9, 2022.
Anush Babajanyan’s photographs taken in March 2022 (Photo courtesy of The HALO Trust)

In the aftermath of the 2020 war in Nagorno Karabakh, local citizens returned to find their homes badly damaged, with artillery shells, unexploded cluster munitions and debris from other weaponry scattered in the streets, fields, gardens and on rooftops and balconies. 

Thanks to the generosity of our donors, HALO has now reached an important milestone in helping Nagorno Karabakh recover from the fighting. We have completed the clearance of all currently known contamination in Stepanakert.

“For the people of Stepanakert, unexploded bombs and dangers served as a painful memory of the tragedies they experienced during the war. Removing them from their communities is a real step towards recovery. The clearance of Stepanakert marks a turnaround for the many isolated communities who yearn for a better future,” Fiona Kilpatrick-Cooper, HALO’s Head of Region for Europe said.

Stepanakert, the capital of Nagorno Karabakh, was one of the areas most devastated by the fighting. At one point after the ceasefire, more than 20-percent of the city was contaminated with unexploded items that were left from constant bombardments.

Vahe Ghazaryan, 7 (right) and his counsin Arman Ghazaryan, 7, at their home in Stepanakert, Nagorno Karabakh, on March 7, 2022.
Anush Babajanyan’s photographs taken in March 2022 (Photo courtesy of The HALO Trust)

In the wake of the 2020 war, the danger for civilians increased. Population centers like Stepanakert, Martuni, and Martakert were heavily contaminated with unexploded artillery shells, bombs, and cluster munitions.

Nagorno Karabakh was littered with landmines during conflicts at the end of the Soviet era and in the early 1990’s. For many years, landmine accidents in the territory were among the worst in the world per capita, with more than 385 civilian casualties from landmines and explosives recorded.

The HALO Trust has been the only international NGO present in the Armenian-controlled territory of Nagorno Karabakh and has worked in the region since 2000. Before the 2020 war, it has cleared almost 500 minefields, making land safe and benefitting more than 130,000 people. Since the 2020 ceasefire, HALO has made more than 1,300 acres of land safe, benefitting more than 30,000 people.

The HALO Trust is the world’s largest landmine clearance organization, with almost 10,000 staff in 28 countries and territories. HALO’s program in Nagorno Karabakh employs 98-percent local Armenians, and people who were displaced by the 2020 war make up over a tenth of our staff, providing them stable jobs.

Karen Danielyan, 56, in his garden with his grandson Avetis, 2, in Stepanakert, Nagorno Karabakh, on March 7, 2022.
Anush Babajanyan’s photographs taken in March 2022 (Photo courtesy of The HALO Trust)

Armenia top destination for Russians this summer

Bedik Zaminian

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 10:51,

YEREVAN, MAY 16, ARMENPRESS. Armenia is among the top destinations for Russians this summer, TASS reported citing a survey conducted by OneTwoTrip covering all foreign flights tickets for 2022 June-August.

Armenia is the top destination with 18,7% of bookings, followed by Turkey (16%), Kyrgyzstan (14,5%), Kazakhstan (3,8%) and Greece (3,4%). Israel, Italy and Georgia are also among the destinations preferred by Russian tourists.

Asbarez: Yerevan Reveals Six-Point Proposal it Sent to Azerbaijan for Peace Talks

Bedik Zaminian
by Asbarez Staff

 

 

 

in Armenia, Artsakh, Featured Story, Latest, Top Stories

The Armenia-Azerbaijan border


The illusive six-point plan presented by Yerevan to Baku as the basis for so-called “peace talks” with Azerbaijan was finally unveiled on Saturday, further angering opposition forces, whose protests calling for the ouster of Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan are entering the third week.

The existence of the six-point plan was revealed last week by Armenia’s National Security chief Armen Grigoryan, who without elaborating on Yerevan’s proposals, simply said that the proposals include demands for security guarantees for the people of Artsakh.

Azerbaijan’s Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov last week scoffed at Yerevan’s proposal, saying that they are a reaction to the proposals the Baku has put forth, which Armenia has signaled to be “acceptable.”

Armenia’s six-point proposals were publicized by the newly-appointed ambassador-at-large, Edmon Marukyan, who is the president of the once opposition Bright Armenia party.

In an interview with Armenia’s Public Television, Marukyan outlined Yerevan’s proposal saying the first point of the document is a clarification from Azerbaijan, which submitted its plan on February 21, but Armenia received it on March 11.

The second point states that Armenia has never had and does not have any territorial claims on Azerbaijan.

According to the third point, Armenia finds it “fundamental” to ensure guarantees for the security of Armenians of Nagorno Karabakh, respecting their rights and freedoms, as well as determining the final status of Nagorno Karabakh.

In the fourth point the Armenia emphasizes the importance of the commitments enshrined in the November 9, 2020, as well as the January 11 and November 26, 2021 statements signed by the Armenian Prime Minister and the presidents of Russia and Azerbaijan.

Marukyan said they relate to the issues concerning the return of prisoners of war, the opening of transport links which he accused Azerbaijan of delaying, adding that with this point Yerevan has made it clear that unlike Azerbaijan, it remains committed to its obligations.

The fifth point states that Armenia is ready to start negotiations for the settlement of the relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan, for the establishment of inter-state relations based on the UN Charter, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and the Helsinki Final Act.

“These are the basic principles that have existed from the beginning. It is here that the nations’ right to self-determination and other important rights and freedoms are enshrined,” explained Marukyan, who added that the sixth point of Yerevan’s proposal states that Armenia has applied to the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs for organizing the negotiations.

California Budget Includes $10 Million for Armenian American Museum

Bedik Zaminian
Press Contact:
Shant Sahakian, Executive Director
Armenian American Museum and Cultural Center of California
(818) 644-2214
[email protected]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CALIFORNIA BUDGET INCLUDES $10 MILLION FOR ARMENIAN AMERICAN MUSEUM

Armenian American Museum Leadership Praises Governor Gavin Newsom

Glendale, CA () – Today, Governor Gavin Newsom released his May Revision budget plan for the State of California with $10 million in additional funding for the Armenian American Museum currently under construction in the City of Glendale. The proposed new funding would bring the state’s total investment in the museum to $19.8 million.

“The museum leadership and community are extremely grateful to Governor Gavin Newsom for his continued belief and commitment to the Armenian American Museum,” stated Executive Chairman Berdj Karapetian. “From his day as Mayor of San Francisco to his time as Governor, he has been a consistent supporter of the Armenian American community. We are also grateful to Senator Anthony Portantino in the State Legislature who has been the most ardent supporter of our community’s effort to make the museum a reality.”

The major announcement follows the museum’s highly acclaimed Legacy Gala where museum officials unveiled that the landmark center has surpassed the $31 million fundraising milestone. The additional proposed state funding would bring the total amount raised for the historic project to $41 million.

The Governor’s proposed budget will need to be approved by the State Legislature and is anticipated to be signed into law in June 2022.

Senator Anthony Portantino has been a champion of the museum since its inception and has been collaborating with the Governor’s office to educate state officials and colleagues on the historic significance of the project.

“I was very pleased, excited, and thankful to the Governor when his office informed me of the additional $10 million proposal for the museum,” stated Senator Anthony Portantino. “Governor Newsom understands how important the project is for the Armenian American community and State of California. The Governor has always had a deep appreciation and respect for Armenian Americans in California and this proposed allocation reaffirms it with action.”

The Armenian American Museum is a world class cultural and educational institution that is currently under construction in the museum campus at Glendale Central Park. The museum will offer a wide range of public programming through the Permanent Exhibition, Temporary Exhibitions, Auditorium, Learning Center, Demonstration Kitchen, Archives Center, and more. The museum celebrated its historic groundbreaking and commenced construction on the project in Summer 2021.

For more information, visit https://www.ArmenianAmericanMuseum.org.

###
Photos:

 Governor Gavin Newsom.jpg

 Senator Anthony Portantino.jpg

Armenian American Museum and Cultural Center of California
116 North Artsakh Avenue, Suite 205, Glendale, CA 91206
Office: (818) 351-3554
www.ArmenianAmericanMuseum.org
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‘A mirror move’: Economist comments on Iran’s decision to charge Armenian cars

Bedik Zaminian
Panorama
Armenia –

Terminating the 2004 agreement with Armenia, Iran recently announced its decision to charge $120 for each car with Armenian license plates entering the country starting from May 21.

Iran’s Ministry of Roads and Urban Development justified its decision by the fact that the Armenian side, contrary to the agreements reached, began collecting customs payments from Iranian cars in 2018. In addition, in early 2021 Armenia unilaterally canceled the deal on unloading and loading of cargo at the Meghri airport terminal.

In comments to Panorama.am, economist Suren Parsyan claims Iran has decided to make a “mirror move” after Armenia violated the agreements with the country.

The economist believes that the new decision will result in higher transportation costs for trucks traveling from Armenia to Iran. However, according to him, it should be taken into account that the cargo transportation between Armenia and Iran is mainly carried out by Iranian trucks, meaning there are few Armenian trucks carrying cargo to Iran.

“When the Armenian side decided that Armenia and Iran would not charge fees for cargo transportation, in fact, it mostly benefited Iran, since Iranian trucks come to Armenia more. Incidentally, Iranian trucking services are more affordable than ours. Besides, there are problems with cargo transportation through Iran. Many economic entities prefer to transport goods through Iran using the services of Iranian companies, as in this case there are incomparably fewer problems,” Suren Parsyan said.

The economist claims that Armenian companies transporting goods to Iran will be most affected by the new decision, adding their services will become more expensive.

Asked whether the decision could suggest that Iran’s attitude toward Armenia has changed, Parsyan says he does not think so, claiming that it is not such a global issue that could affect Armenian-Iranian relations.

“In essence, Armenia will benefit from this situation, as the budgetary funds will increase. For example, if 100 Iranian trucks enter Armenian territory and five Armenian trucks enter Iran’s territory, naturally, more money goes into our budget. I think that Armenia’s policy pursued a fiscal goal,” Parsyan stressed.

Thousands of protesters in Armenia demand Prime Minister Pashinyan’s resignation

Bedik Zaminian
May 3 2022
Over 200 people were reportedly arrested
Written byArzu Geybullayeva
Posted 3 May 2022 11:00 GMT 

Thousands march demanding PM’s resignation in Yerevan. Screenshot from livestream by Zabby.

As people across the world took the streets to mark International Worker’s Day on May 1, in Armenia’s capital Yerevan thousands of citizens organized an anti-government rally demanding the incumbent Prime Minister, Nikol Pashinyan, resign.

The protests were triggered by potential government concessions over Karabakh — a long-disputed territory over which Armenia and Azerbaijan fought a 44-day war in 2020. According to local media, some 200 protesters were detained on May 2, as demonstrations continued and police resorted to violence to disperse the crowds. By some accounts, over 10,000 people attended the rally. According to Civilnet.am, an Armenian news outlet, “demonstrators, who have dubbed themselves the Resistance Movement, also announced Monday they would be setting up tents at France Square, a major intersection in central Yerevan, for an indefinite sit-in. In addition, they called on employees to strike and university students not to attend classes.”

The anti-government protests began in April when Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan hinted at making concessions regarding the final status of the Nagorno-Karabakh region, after attending a meeting on April 6 in Brussels with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, facilitated by President of the European Council Charles Michel. During the meeting, the two leaders pledged to explore a “possible peace treaty,” to finally resolve the conflict.

Days after his visit to Brussels, Pashinyan said in his speech at the national parliament that the “international community was calling Armenia to lower the bars of the status of the disputed region.” 

In response, the Nagorno-Karabakh Parliament adopted a resolution that said, “no government has a right to lower the negotiating bar for a status acceptable to Artsakth [Nagorno-Karabakh] and the internationally rebounded right to self-determination under the pretext of peace.”

Meanwhile, Parliament Vice-Speaker and opposition leader Ishkhan Sagatelyan said: “Any political status of Karabakh within Azerbaijan is unacceptable to us.” Sagatelyan also said, “a large scale campaign of civil disobedience to begin on Monday [May 2].”

Also, in early April, the de facto foreign minister of Karabakh, Davit Babayan said, “any attempt to incorporate Artsakh into Azerbaijan would lead to bloodshed and the destruction of Artsakh.” Babayan also told the Armenian Service of Radio Liberty that Prime Minister’s statements caused a “wave of discontent in Nagorno-Karabakh.”

The protests had been brewing prior to Pashinyan’s trip to Brussels. According to OC Media, an independent outlet that covers the caucuses, “over ten thousand protesters rallied in Yerevan, led by Armenia’s parliamentary opposition parties.  They called on the Pashinyan government to resign and not to make any concessions to Azerbaijan.”

Critics accused him of being willing to accept Baku’s assertion of control over Nagorno-Karabakh. Pashinyan defended himself, saying the recent negotiations with Azerbaijan in no way mean surrendering Karabakh. In a special session of parliament, Pashinyan said, “we are saying that the people of Karabakh must not leave Karabakh, the people of Karabakh must live in Karabakh, the people of Karabakh must have rights, freedoms, and a status.”

On April 21, Pashinyan traveled to Moscow where he met with President Putin. The two leaders “reached an agreement on a number of important issues, including the security of Nagorno-Karabakh, the unblocking of regional infrastructure and demarcation of Armenia and Azerbaijan’s borders,” reported OC Media.

Nagorno-Karabakh has been under the control of its ethnic Armenian population as a self-declared state since a war fought in the early 1990s, which ended with a 1994 ceasefire and Armenian military victory. In the aftermath of the first war, a new, internationally unrecognized, de facto Nagorno-Karabakh Republic was established. Seven adjacent regions were occupied by Armenian forces. As a result of that war, “more than a million people had been forced from their homes: Azerbaijanis fled Armenia, Nagorno-Karabakh, and the adjacent territories, while Armenians left homes in Azerbaijan,” according to the International Crisis Group, an independent organization that works to prevent wars and shape policies.

Following the second Karabakh war in 2020, Azerbaijan regained control over much of the previously occupied seven regions. Azerbaijan also captured one-third of Karabakh itself as a result of the second war.

On Nov. 10, 2020, Armenia and Azerbaijan signed a ceasefire agreement brokered by Russia. Among several points of the agreement, Armenia and Azerbaijan agreed to a presence of 1,960 Russian peacekeeping forces in those parts of Karabakh “not recaptured by Azerbaijan and a narrow corridor connecting with Armenia across the Azerbaijani district of Lachin.” There are 27 Russian peacekeeping posts inside Azerbaijan.

Meanwhile, the demonstrators vowed not to leave the area until Prime Minister Pashinyan and his cabinet resigned.

https://globalvoices.org/2022/05/03/thousands-of-protesters-in-armenia-demand-prime-minister-pashinyans-resignation/

FFA’s Artur Azaryan appointed UEFA match delegate for upcoming Real Madrid-Manchester City

Bedik Zaminian

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 11:03, 3 May, 2022

YEREVAN, MAY 3, ARMENPRESS. Football Federation of Armenia (FFA) General-Secretary Artur Azaryan is appointed as UEFA match delegate for the upcoming UEFA Champions League semifinal second leg match between Real Madrid CF (Spain) and Manchester City FC (England), the FFA said in a press release.

The match will take place at Santiago Bernabeu stadium, Madrid on May 4.

Asbarez: Silicon Valley Armenians Commemorate 107th Anniversary of Armenian Genocide

Bedik Zaminian
by Contributor

 

 May 6, 2022

 

in Commentary, Latest, News, Top Stories

Homenetmen Ani Scouts with Fr. Datev Harutyunian at the Khachkar

BY ARRA YERGANIAN

On a beautiful Spring evening, St. Andrew Armenian Apostolic Church community commemorated the 107th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide with a memorable tribute to our ancestors in Silicon Valley.

Emceed by Tamar Grigoryan, the program kicked off with flag ceremony led by Homenetmen Santa Clara Ani Chapter Scouts. National anthems of the United States and Armenia were performed by Benjamin Choupak.

After the opening prayer, offered by Archpriest Fr. Datev Harutyunian, Ani Yeni-Komshian introduced honorary guest Congressman Ro Khanna, who serves on the Armenian caucus and is a staunch supporter of Armenia. “The world needs to remember that barbarian behavior took place 107 years ago. We are sadly reminded today of the atrocities of the past. We need to be teaching the human cost of the Armenian Genocide,” said Khanna.

A powerful message was delivered by Karin Yeni-Komshian, an American Armenian. “I’m fortunate to live in the safety and security of America,” said Yeni-Komshian. “I can’t believe I’m witnessing the continuation of aggression against Armenia. Azerbaijan’s aggression of Armenians in Artsakh and border villages of Armenia is deplorable. We have a quest for justice and, as a result, need to correlate history with justice. These actions have enabled other 20th century genocides – Rwanda, Darfur and many others.”

Keynote speaker Professor Taner Akçam Supervisor Joe Simitian offering remarks

Frustrated by the U.S. governments indifference to Armenia while being assaulted by Azerbaijan, Yeni-Komshian asked, “Why the double standard by the current administration?” Addressing her American-Armenian identity, she noted that, “This duality has given me strength and an advantage.”

“We must be engaged as US citizens and Armenians to help our country and Armenia,” said Yeni-Komshian. “We need to keep the Armenian diaspora alive by engagement—identity, culture and faith.” She concluded by asking us to participate in church, community, and language learning. “Armenia is experiencing an existential threat and each of us should to reflect on how we will help our community.”

Next, a stirring version of the poem “Ancient Country” was delivered by Anahit Tonoyan.

Following Ananhit’s recitation, accomplished 11-year-old pianist, Daniel Yousefyan performed “Elegy” by Arno Babajanyan. Daniel has earned numerous competitive awards. His performance was flawless and beautiful.

Keynote speaker, author and professor Taner Akçam asked us all an important question: “What has happened in America after the recognition of the Armenian Genocide? What will replace it as a rallying cry for Armenian’s outside Armenia?” Then he exclaimed, “There is a need for a new conversation.”

“What exactly is recognition? Is it just lip service? Things have to change,” said Akçam. He explained that, in a civilized society, historical injustices need to be remembered as to not repeat themselves.

According to Akçam, “President Biden’s recognition of genocide will not change a thing. We must understand denial and recognition. Denial is not just about an ideological attitude. It is impossible to disconnect denial from current policy creation. Turkey must reverse its policy of denial. Like apartheid in South Africa, and slavery in the U.S., denial fuels the aggression of Azerbaijan on Armenia. History is not something in the past. The past is the present. If democracy, peace and security are truly priorities, things must change.”

Akçam stated that the question of “What now?” is important. He recommended that we replace recognition with seeking justice and reparations for the events of 1915. “We must learn from the Jewish people regarding seeking reparations from Turkey,” he said. “It is necessary to establish an institution to claim reparations from Turkey.”

Akçam concluded his remarks by emphasizing that there is no guarantee of success and that the path would be long. “The campaign for recognition was long and arduous. The campaign for reparations will be no shorter or less complex,” he said.

Next, we listened to a stirring performance of “Garun A’ by Komitas. It was was performed by skilled composers, as well as guitarist Pardy Minassian. Her performance was accompanied by spoken work.

Community member and longtime supporter Supervisor Joe Simitian spoke took to the podium to speak next. Simitian has gained notoriety for focusing on keeping our community safe. Over the past three decades, he’s engaged in pro-Armenian bills as a member of California State Assembly.

“It’s time for a new conversation…we are awfully tired after 107 years,” said Supervisor Simitian. “I will take the professors invitation to start a new conversation and it will begin tonight. Recognition is important for no other reason that it is the truth. Any other word is at best a half-truth or un-truth, or candidly, a lie. I think that matters.”

Vice-Mayor Liang Chao, who was noticeably moved by the program, expressed that she was touched to witness, after 107 years, the survivors of the genocide.

Our next musical interlude was simply magical. Songs “Kilikia” and “Hyots Hovig” were sung by Dr. Lori Panossian, accompanied on piano by Alla Petrosyan. “Kilikia” begins with the stirring words, “When doors of hope are opened wide, and dreary winter flees away. Our beauteous Armenia beams forth in glad and smiling day… I yearn for Kilikia, the land where first I saw the light.”

Krikor Krikorian, leader of the South Bay Commemoration committee and Vice Chairperson of Homenetmen Ani Chapter expressed his thanks to the speakers and participants of the event, noting the dedication of the South Bay committee. “We must never give up and demand rights for our ancestors,” said Krikorian.

The evening concluded with a prayer and the placing of flowers around the Khachkar.

Special thanks to the members of the South Bay Area Commemoration Committee and their representatives, including: St. Andrew Armenian Church, Homenetmen Santa Clara Ani Chapter, AGBU of Silicon Valley, ARS Agnouni Chapter, ARF Sardarabad Chapter, and ANCA Silicon Valley.

Armenia ex-defense minister: These authorities are able to use force inside the country

Bedik Zaminian
NEWS.am
Armenia – May 2 2022
15:01, 02.05.2022

Several of our fellow MPs were detained, but now they are free. Many of our ideologues are now in police stations. Seyran Ohanyan, leader of the opposition “Armenia” Faction in the National Assembly and former defense minister of Armenia, told reporters this on Monday.

“The actions of these authorities are not proportionate; they use brute force. There are many videos of the police troops simply using force with a few people, beating our friends, demonstrators as well—which is not right.

These authorities are able to use force inside the country, but they are not able to use that force within the country’s borders and beyond. If the troops that are stationed in the city of Yerevan today had been stationed at our borders, our borders would have been strong. If these organized troops had been in Hadrut, Shushi [cities of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) during the war in the fall of 2020], had assisted our army, this catastrophic situation would not have happened, we would have achieved success,” Ohanyan added.

Peaceful disobedience actions by the opposition have started in Armenia’s capital Yerevan early Monday morning. Accordingly, a number of streets have been blocked.

Earlier, Armenian News-NEWS.am reported that the opposition forces had set up tents Sunday at France Square in downtown Yerevan and stayed there overnight. Resistance Movement coordinator Ishkhan Saghatelyan—the National Assembly deputy speaker from the opposition “Armenia” Faction and a representative of the Supreme Body of the opposition Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) Dashnaktsutyun Party of Armenia—announced Sunday that peaceful acts of civil disobedience will begin Monday throughout Armenia, especially the downtown Yerevan streets will be closed off. Also, he called for boycotting school classes and holding labor strikes.

To note, it is raining in Yerevan since the morning, and all these peaceful actions of civil disobedience are being held under the rain.

The California Courier Online, April 28, 2022

Bedik Zaminian

1-         Turkey Disgraces Itself by Denying The Genocide

            after Biden’s Acknowledgment

            By Harut Sassounian

            Publisher, The California Courier

            www.TheCaliforniaCourier.com

2-         President Biden Issues Statement on Armenian Remembrance Day

3-         Gov. Newsom Proclaims April 24 as

            Day of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide

4-         Russia, Armenia Vow To Boost ‘Privileged Alliance’

5-         Armenia Continues Fight Against COVID-19

************************************************************************************************************************************************

1-         Turkey Disgraces Itself by Denying The Genocide

            after Biden’s Acknowledgment

            By Harut Sassounian

            Publisher, The California Courier

            www.TheCaliforniaCourier.com

Pres. Joe Biden issued a written statement on April 24, officially
recognizing the Armenian Genocide for the second year in a row.

Here is an excerpt from Pres. Biden’s acknowledgment: “On April 24,
1915, Ottoman authorities arrested Armenian intellectuals and
community leaders in Constantinople. Thus began the Armenian
genocide—one of the worst mass atrocities of the 20th century. Today,
we remember the one and a half million Armenians who were deported,
massacred, or marched to their deaths in a campaign of extermination,
and mourn the tragic loss of so many lives…. Today, 107 years later,
the American people continue to honor all Armenians who perished in
the genocide.”

In his statement, Pres. Biden used the word ‘Genocide’ four times and
once ‘Meds Yeghern,’ an Armenian term used to describe the mass
killings, before Raphael Lemkin coined the term Genocide in the
1940’s. Pres. Biden also identified ‘Ottoman authorities’ as
perpetrators of the Armenian Genocide.

While Armenians appreciate the sympathetic words of Pres. Biden, he
must be reminded that a similar danger of extinction is looming today
over Artsakh. He should not have approved military aid to Azerbaijan,
a country that is intent on wiping out both Artsakh and Armenia.

Pres. Biden should turn his moral acknowledgment of the Armenian
Genocide to actionable foreign policy by pressuring Turkey to
recognize its crime, compensate for the mass murders committed by its
predecessor regime, and return the occupied Western Armenian lands.
Recognition without restitution is meaningless!

Just as Western countries rose to the defense of Ukraine with massive
military and humanitarian assistance, so should they protect Artsakh.
During the 2020 war, Artsakh was subjected to a brutal attack by
Azerbaijan, Turkey, and imported Jihadist terrorists, committing war
crimes and crimes against humanity. But the world remained silent.
There should be no favoritism for the suffering of one people over
another. All human beings deserve the same protection.

In addition to Pres. Biden’s declaration on the anniversary of the
Armenian Genocide, statements were issued by the Speaker of the House
of Representatives Nancy Pelosi, California Governor Gavin Newsom,
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of Canada, Vice President of Argentina
Cristina Fernandez, President of Cyprus Nicos Anastasiades, President
of Greece Katerina Sakellaropoulou, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos
Mitsotakis, and several other leaders. However, the United Kingdom,
Australia and Israel are some of the countries that are still afraid
of Turkey to acknowledge the truth about the mass murders of 1.5
million Armenians.

Turkey, the perpetrator of the genocide, and its vassal state,
Azerbaijan, continue to deny the Armenian Genocide. Armenians around
the world and all people of goodwill continue to hold protests,
exposing their lies and remind the world of the mass murders.

This year, on April 23, when Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu
was in Montevideo, Uruguay, a group of Armenians protested his visit.
Cavusoglu mocked the gathered Armenians by flashing the threatening
hand gesture of the Turkish terrorist group, Gray Wolves. Mehmet Ali
Agca, who shot and wounded Pope John Paul II in 1981, was a member of
the Gray Wolves. Imagine if a German Foreign Minister showed the Nazi
insignia to Jewish Holocaust survivors. The President of Uruguay
condemned the Turkish Foreign Minister’s undiplomatic gesture and the
Uruguayan Foreign Ministry summoned the Turkish Ambassador to explain
the Turkish Foreign Minister’s inappropriate behavior.

Nevertheless, Turkish President Rejep Tayyip Erdogan is beginning to
realize the futility of his denials of the Armenian Genocide. After
years of threatening the United States if it recognized the Armenian
Genocide, Erdogan turned into a mouse after Pres. Biden recognized it
last year. Erdogan had arrogantly announced that he will complain to
the U.S. President about his recognition of the Armenian Genocide.
However, when the two met last June, he did not dare to say a word to
Biden about it. Afterwards when the Turkish press asked Erdogan if he
complained to Biden about the Genocide, he absurdly said, “No, Biden
did not bring it up.” Erdogan was thoroughly humiliated.

In a message to Armenians who had gathered at the Armenian
Patriarchate in Istanbul to commemorate the Armenian Genocide on April
24, Erdogan wrote to Armenian Patriarch Sahak Mashalyan: “I believe
that we should build the future together, inspired by our deep-rooted
unity of up to a thousand years, instead of magnifying the suffering.”
Rather than acknowledging the Armenian Genocide, Erdogan claimed that
Ottoman citizens (both Armenians and Turks) died as a result of World
War I, without distinguishing between the victims of genocide and war.

Furthermore, the Turkish Foreign Ministry announced that it rejected
the statements made on April 24 by various countries: “This includes
today’s unfortunate statement by U.S. President Biden, repeating the
mistake he made in 2021. We reject such statements and decisions that
distort historical facts with political motives, and condemn those who
insist on this mistake.” This is coming from the Turkish Foreign
Minister who made a terroristic hand gesture in Uruguay.

Meanwhile, the Governor of Istanbul banned the commemoration of the
Armenian Genocide, which had been held annually since 2010, except for
the last two years due to COVID-19.

Finally, Garo Paylan, the Armenian member of the Turkish Parliament,
submitted a bold resolution to the Parliament last week demanding that
it recognize the Armenian Genocide, identify those responsible, remove
their names from public places, and grant Turkish citizenship to the
victims and their families. Paylan came under vicious attacks from
Turkish officials. The Speaker of Parliament rejected his motion. The
spokesman of AKP, the ruling party, demanded an apology from Paylan
and threatened to sue him. Furthermore, Pres. Erdogan condemned Paylan
and urged the Parliament “to deal with him.”

If Turkish leaders don’t mind to be humiliated and exposed to the
world for denying that their country committed genocide, Armenians
will continue to expose them as supporters of barbaric actions. The
sooner they come to their senses, acknowledge the Genocide and make
amends, the sooner they will stop being disgraced.

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2-         President Biden Issues Statement on Armenian Remembrance Day

President Biden’s second Armenian Remembrance Day statement—issued on
April 24th, the international day of remembrance of this crime—once
again mourned the Armenian Genocide.

“On April 24, 1915, Ottoman authorities arrested Armenian
intellectuals and community leaders in Constantinople. Thus began the
Armenian genocide—one of the worst mass atrocities of the 20th
century. Today, we remember the one and a half million Armenians who
were deported, massacred, or marched to their deaths in a campaign of
extermination, and mourn the tragic loss of so many lives,” said the
statement.

“As we reflect on the Armenian genocide, we renew our pledge to remain
vigilant against the corrosive influence of hate in all its forms. We
recommit ourselves to speaking out and stopping atrocities that leave
lasting scars on the world. And, as we mourn what was lost during the
Meds Yeghern, let us redouble our efforts toward healing and building
the better, more peaceful world that we wish for our children. A world
where human rights are respected, where the evils of bigotry and
intolerance do not mark our daily lives, and where people everywhere
are free to pursue their lives in dignity and security,” said the
statement.

“This is also a moment to reflect on the strength and resiliency of
the Armenian people. After enduring a genocide, the Armenian people
were determined to rebuild their community and their culture, so often
in new homes and new lands, including the United States. Armenian
Americans are a vital part of the fabric of the United States. They
make our nation stronger and more dynamic, even as they continue to
carry with them the tragic knowledge of what their ancestors endured.
We recognize their pain and honor their story,” said the statement.

“Today, 107 years later, the American people continue to honor all
Armenians who perished in the genocide,” concluded the statement.

Response to the statement was tepid. Armenian National Committee of
America executive director Aram Hamparian said, “In the year since
President Biden first joined Congress in commemorating the Armenian
Genocide, he has approved continued U.S. military aid to Azerbaijan –
U.S. taxpayer-funded assistance that materially strengthens and
morally emboldens an oil-rich dictatorship hell-bent on completing
this crime against the Armenian homeland, a landlocked, blocked
genocide-survivor state. President Biden’s record, sadly, reflects the
letter but not the true spirit of genocide recognition. No sustained
pressure on Turkey to reckon with its present-day responsibilities, no
confrontation of Azerbaijan’s genocidal violence against Artsakh, no
forceful challenge to Ankara’s ongoing denial of this crime, no active
support for U.S. educational programs. He can and must do better.”

In 2021, just one day prior to recognizing the Armenian Genocide,
President Biden waived Section 907 of the FREEDOM Support Act,
allowing continued U.S. military aid to Azerbaijan, an authoritarian
regime that, along with Turkey, launched a devastating 44-day war
against Armenia and Artsakh in 2020. On April 27, Armenian Americans
will join Congressional leaders at the annual Capitol Hill Remembrance
of the Armenian Genocide, at the Rayburn House Office Building “Gold
Room.”

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3-         Gov. Newsom Proclaims April 24 as

            Day of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide

SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom on April 22 issued a proclamation
declaring as “A Day of Remembrance of the Armenian
Genocide” in the State of California.

The proclamation states:

On April 24, 1915, the Ottoman Empire began its systematic genocide of
Armenian people, a minority group that had long been treated as second
class citizens. The Armenian Genocide began with the forced
deportation and murder of hundreds of Armenian intellectuals and
community leaders and ended with the deaths of 1.5 million men, women
and children. It was the first genocide of the 20th Century.

As we remember the victims and survivors of the Armenian Genocide, we
also honor the strength and resilience of the Armenian people. Forced
to build new lives in all corners of the globe, Armenians bravely
forged ahead in the face of unimaginable tragedy. Thousands made their
homes in California, and we are greater for their contributions.

Today and every day, let us recommit ourselves to making certain that
we never forget the Armenian Genocide, and that we always speak out
against hatred and atrocities anywhere they occur.

Now therefore I, Gavin Newsom, Governor of the State of California, do
hereby proclaim , as a “Day of Remembrance of the
Armenian Genocide.”

In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Great
Seal of the State of California to be affixed this 22nd day of April
2022. **********************************************************************************************************************************************

4-         Russia, Armenia Vow To Boost ‘Privileged Alliance’

Russia and Armenia pledged on Tuesday, April 19 to strengthen their
political, economic and security ties despite sweeping Western
sanctions imposed on Moscow over its invasion of Ukraine.

In a joint statement issued after their talks held outside Moscow,
Russian President Vladimir Putin and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol
Pashinyan said the “privileged alliance” of their states will grow
stronger.

“Vladimir Putin and Nikol Pashinyan expressed concern over the use of
unilateral restrictive measures by a number of countries,” they said,
clearly referring to the Western sanctions. “They expressed their
intention to jointly overcome the challenges caused by these measures,
including in the field of food and energy security of the two
countries, logistics, etc.”

In particular, they said, the two sides will continue to “facilitate
the flow of Russian investments in Armenia.”

Visiting Moscow last week, Armenian Economy Minister Kerobian said
that Russian-Armenian trade, which totaled over $2.5 billion last
year, began falling in March. He said the two governments should work
together to “urgently eliminate the causes of the decline and restore
growth.”

Because of its close economic links with Russia, Armenia is expected
to be significantly affected by the Western sanctions. The Central
Bank of Armenia (CBA), the World Bank and the International Monetary
Fund have forecast that the Armenian economy will barely grow this
year.

In another veiled reference to the conflict in Ukraine, Putin and
Pashinyan expressed serious concern over “the aggravating situation in
the field of international security.”

“In this regard, the Parties intend to further strengthen cooperation
in order to counter negative trends in this area,” reads their joint
statement.

“The leaders proceed from the premise that no state, union or
coalition can or should ensure its security at the expense of the
security of other states,” it adds, echoing a Russian argument against
Ukraine’s membership in NATO.
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5-         Armenia Continues Fight Against COVID-19

Armenia continues the fight against COVID-19. The government continues
to promote vaccinations. There were 3,635 active COVID-19 cases in
Armenia as of April 25. Armenia has recorded 422,828 coronavirus cases
and 8,622 deaths; this is the first week since the start of the
pandemic where no new deaths were reported. 410,571 have recovered.

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