Author: Emil Karabekian

The Green Agenda project: Armenia’s roadmap towards sustainability

Emil Karabekian
Sweden – Dec 21 2023

Today, the Stockholm Environment Institute and Sida (the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency), in collaboration with the Government of the Republic of Armenia, have officially initiated the Green Agenda project and its National Steering Committee in Yerevan.

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Press release contacts

Press release contacts

Ulrika Lamberth / [email protected]Ilona Kazaryan / [email protected]

Embarking on a transformative journey, Armenia will align with the European Green Deal and the EU-Armenia Comprehensive and Extended Partnership Agreement (CEPA). This initiative aims to harmonize national policies with leading European standards, propelling Armenia towards a more sustainable and prosperous future.

The project launch and its first Steering Committee meeting, chaired by the Ministry of Environment brought together a diverse group of key stakeholders, Government officials and members of the international community.

The Deputy Minister of Environment, Aram Meymaryan, addressing the attendees, highlighted the project’s significance: “Armenia is on the brink of transformation. Our environmental awareness is expanding, yet we remain confronted by significant challenges, including pollution, waste management, and deforestation. These are the pressing issues we are vigorously striving to address. However, we realize that our approach needs to embrace sustainability. The Green Agenda is a decisive roadmap designed to cultivate a healthier environment for our citizens, administer our natural resources more effectively, and ultimately, lead us towards a more ecologically-friendly Armenia.”

Attendees of the project launch received a message from Patrik Svensson, the Sweden’s Ambassador to Armenia: “The Green Agenda, a key priority for Sweden, aligns with an invaluable opportunity for Armenia, where a greener economy could simultaneously enhance citizens’ quality of life, catalyse sustainable growth, and generate new employment opportunities. Amid these challenging times, steering Armenia’s economy towards greener practices presents not just a prudent policy decision, but also a strategic vision ensuring equitable and inclusive progression towards a sustainable, zero-emission, and environmentally responsible economy.”

In a message addressed to event attendees, Virginijus Sinkevičius, the Commissioner for the Environment, Oceans and Fisheries, at the European Commission, emphasized: “The climate change resistant future is a necessity for which we are laying the background nowadays. By adopting sustainable policies and practices, Armenia aligns its policies with European standards, aiming to enhance the quality of life for its citizens, open up new business opportunities and strengthen trade and economic relations with EU member states.”

Ilona Kazaryan, Senior Communications and Impact Officer, SEI, +46 722 19 96 43, [email protected]

Ulrika Lamberth, Senior Press Officer, SEI, +46 73 801 70 53, [email protected]

Ulrika Lamberth

Senior Press Officer

Communications

SEI Headquarters

Ilona Kazaryan

Senior Communications and Impact Officer at SEI

Communications

SEI Headquarters

Bernardas Padegimas

Team Leader: Environmental Policy and Strategy

SEI Headquarters

The Green Agenda project, implemented in Armenia by partner ADWISE Consulting, is part of a regional initiative to enhance climate policies, environmental governance and renewable energy investment. Focusing on adopting European standards, this project aims to foster a greener economy and stronger environmental governance. Running from 2023 to 2026, its objectives include developing a climate neutrality roadmap, delivering investment-ready projects, raising public awareness about the green economy and enhancing stakeholder capacities for the green transition.

Read more: Green Agenda for Armenia, Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine

Emirates News Agency congratulates Armenpress on 105th anniversary

Emil Karabekian

 13:00,

YEREVAN, DECEMBER 19, ARMENPRESS. Emirates News Agency (WAM) Director General Mohamed Jalal Al Rayssi has congratulated Armenpress News Agency on its 105th anniversary of foundation.

“On the occasion of the ARMENPRESS Agency 105th anniversary of its foundation, the Emirates News Agency-WAM would like to offer its most sincere congratulations. In addition, we would like to extend my congratulations to the leadership and employees of your media organization, as well as to all of those who are in charge, in the expectation that this momentous occasion will serve as a source of inspiration and motivation, resulting in increased innovativeness and achievement in the field of media. In addition, we would like to underline our enthusiasm to continue working together with your esteemed media organization to bring these distinguished relationships to the greatest overall levels and to fulfil our common media objectives,” Mohamed Jalal Al Rayssi said in a letter to Armenpress.

The 105th anniversary of founding of Armenpress was celebrated on December 18 at a reception and photo exhibition titled .

https://armenpress.am/eng/news/1126511.html?fbclid=IwAR2yb1-K51QBnnZ3ExLXw8HigllduabGlfCZsqvGC8qt2Qn3r85MK_QSq0E

Representatives of institutions of Armenian community in Jerusalem visited Patriarch Theophilos

Emil Karabekian
Dec 18 2023
Dec 18, 2023 | 10:53

 

in Carousel Front Page, Patriarchate of Jerusalem

 

Representatives of institutions of the Armenian community in Jerusalem engaged in a momentous visit to the Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem, where, Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem, graciously received them. The meeting served as a platform for community representatives to express gratitude, discuss recent existential challenges, and seek guidance from the Patriarch.

In light of recent adversities stemming from the aggressive actions of Israeli radicals, the Armenian community highlighted the lack of restraint by the Israeli police. The source of contention revolves around an illegitimate land deal concerning Church property, mirroring a situation akin to that of the Orthodox Patriarchate Jaffa Gate properties.

During the meeting, the community representatives extended their gratitude to Patriarch Theophilos and presented an official letter outlining the complexities they face. They passionately appealed for assistance in resolving the issues, acknowledging H.B.’s pivotal role in safeguarding the interests of the Christian community in Jerusalem.

In response, Patriarch Theophilos expressed his awareness of the challenges faced by the Armenian community and assured them of His commitment to providing support. The Patriarch of Jerusalem recommended that the community should collaborate closely with their spiritual leadership, emphasizing the imperative of unity among Christian communities to fortify the Christian presence in the Holy Land.

Patriarch Theophilos extended His blessings to the Armenian community, lauding their courageous initiative in addressing the prevailing challenges. As the meeting concluded, the Patriarch conveyed His heartfelt wishes for a blessed Christmas season, fostering a spirit of hope and solidarity among the Christian brethren in Jerusalem.

This interaction stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment of Patriarch Theophilos to advocate for unity, peace, and justice within the fervent Christian communities of the Holy Land.

Armenpress: Bankruptcy court judge Tigran Poladyan jailed

Emil Karabekian

 11:57,

YEREVAN, DECEMBER 16, ARMENPRESS.  Bankruptcy court judge Tigran Poladyan has been jailed in pre-trial detention on bribery charges, the prosecution announced Saturday. 

Lusine Martirosyan, the Advisor to the Prosecutor-General, said that a court has approved the prosecution’s motion on remanding the judge in pre-trial detention.

Judge Poladyan was earlier stripped of immunity by the Supreme Judicial Council.

Armenian Prime Minister congratulates King, Crown Prince of Bahrain on National Day

Emil Karabekian

 12:26,

YEREVAN, DECEMBER 16, ARMENPRESS. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has congratulated HRH King of Bahrain Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and HRH Crown Prince, Prime Minister of Bahrain Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa on the National Day of the kingdom.

“I convey to you my warmest congratulations and sincere good wishes on the occasion of the National Day of Bahrain,” the Prime Minister said in a letter to King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa published by his office. “On this joyous occasion, I wish robust health and happiness to you, and eternal peace and stability to the friendly people of Bahrain. I am sure that through joint efforts we can achieve deeper Armenian-Bahraini ties, for the benefit and prosperity of our countries.”

In a separate letter to the Crown Prince, the Armenian Prime Minister said, “I convey to you my warmest congratulations on the occasion of the National Day of Bahrain. On this joyous occasion I wish happiness and success to you, and peace and sustainable development to the friendly people of Bahrain. I am sure that through joint efforts we can intensify the Armenian-Bahraini friendly relations.”

Russia accepts violations recorded by Television and Radio Commission of Armenia

Emil Karabekian

 19:07,

YEREVAN, DECEMBER 14, ARMENPRESS.  Bilateral consultations between the Ministry of High-Tech Industry of Armenia and the Ministry of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Media of Russia were held on Dec.14 in Yerevan. The meeting  was held on the issue of maintaining the provisions  outlined in the agreement on cooperation in the field of mass telecommunications signed between the governments of the Republic of Armenia and the Russian Federation.

According to the Ministry of High-tech Industry of Armenia, at the meeting the Armenian side reported that the Commission on Television and Radio of Armenia had recorded violations of the agreement.

Thus, the Russian side accepted the fact of the violations and both parties have reached an agreement to take steps toward proper observance of all points of the agreement.

Armenian American Museum Welcomes Donors to Reception

Emil Karabekian
Glendale News Press, California
Nov 4 2023

The Armenian American Museum and Cultural Center of California hosted a special brunch reception with longstanding donors of the museum at the Chevy Chase Country Club.
The event provided an opportunity for donors to connect with museum leadership and fellow supporters of the cultural and educational center.
Board of trustees co-chair Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America, delivered welcoming remarks to kick-off the reception.
“The Armenian American Museum is going to be a vital center for the preservation and advancement of our culture, history, and heritage,” Derderian said. “We are strengthening the future of our children, our community, and our people by supporting the museum’s benevolent mission and vision.”
Board of governors member Kevon Kevonian delivered the keynote remarks at the reception, featuring an exciting progress report on the museum project.
“The brunch reception was organized to bring longtime supporters of the museum together and express our appreciation for your commitment to the project,” Kevonian said. “As we embark on the next exciting chapter of the museum construction, we welcome your contributions, participation, and feedback to help shape the future of the museum.”
The event was generously sponsored by Kevon and Alexia Kevonian.
Executive Chairman Berdj Karapetian led a Q&A session and provided key updates on the construction, programming and development of the museum project. Young Leaders Council chair Aleen Ohanian invited young professionals to join the museum and contribute to its advancement. Architect Aram Alajajian of Alajajian Marcoosi Architects also provided a walk-through of the museum building with a 3D model at the reception.
The Armenian American Museum is a world-class educational and cultural center that is currently under construction in the museum campus at Glendale Central Park. The first phase of construction featuring the museum parking garage and building foundation has been completed. The second phase of construction features the two-level 50,820 square foot museum superstructure. 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.
To learn more about the museum project, visit ArmenianAmericanMuseum.org.

First published in the December 2 print issue of the Glendale News-Press.


U.S. official to visit Azerbaijan to support peace with Armenia

Emil Karabekian

 10:02, 5 December 2023

YEREVAN, DECEMBER 5, ARMENPRESS.  U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs James C. O’Brien will travel to Baku, Azerbaijan this week to support the peace talks with Armenia, the U.S. Department of State said in a press release.

“While in Baku, the Assistant Secretary will meet with Azerbaijani officials on strengthening bilateral relations and supporting the peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia,” the Department of State said.

Chicago’s Armenian community embarks on a remarkable renovation journey

Emil Karabekian
 Guest Contributor Community News, Diaspora 0

In the tapestry of time, Armenian communities across the globe have woven a narrative of resilience, unity and commitment. The Armenian All Saints Apostolic Church and Community Center in Chicago stands as a symbol of this enduring spirit. Reflecting the need to strengthen bonds within the community, the Chicago “Christapor” Gomideh of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) and the Board of Trustees of the Armenian All Saints Apostolic Church have embarked on a transformative journey—one that goes beyond bricks and mortar.

The renovation project of the beloved church and community center serves as a testament to the commitment of Chicago’s Armenian community to renew, revitalize and fortify its ties to Armenians both within the local community and the broader diaspora, as well as the homelands of Armenia and Artsakh.

Over the past one and a half years, the Chicago Armenian community has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to this cause. The cherished community center, with its rich history spanning more than four decades, became the focal point of an ambitious and much-needed renovation project. The initiative was sparked by a collective recognition of the imperative to reflect on and renew the interconnectedness between the local community, the diaspora and the homelands.

The urgency to address facility-related issues last year served as a catalyst for change. In response, a dedicated building committee was formed, tasked with identifying and managing all aspects of the facilities’ revitalization and repair. The primary goal was not only to address safety concerns but also to enhance the overall usability and rental potential of the space.

As the community progressed through the first two phases of the comprehensive renovation, addressing critical infrastructure needs and internal upgrades, a remarkable transformation unfolded. Aging structural issues were tackled head-on, ensuring the safety and stability of the essential community hub. Now, the community stands at the cusp of Phase 3, which extends to the outdoor space south of the facilities.

The vision of a renewed commitment to each other is not limited to physical improvements alone; it extends to the very fabric of community bonds. The final phase, Phase 4, is a rallying call to the community to come together and secure the financial foundation by paying off the mortgage. The goal is clear: to ensure the ongoing prosperity of the community and leave a legacy unburdened by debt for the generations to come.

Plans for the exterior renovations

Amidst this transformative journey, the community invites its members to participate in shaping the legacy of the Armenian All Saints Apostolic Church and Community Center by contributing through naming rights opportunities. This unique chance to leave an indelible mark is a testament to the collective community effort.

As the Chicago “Christapor” Gomideh of the ARF and the Board of Trustees express their gratitude for the steadfast support received, they extend an open invitation for all Armenians to join hands in this renewal. Through unity and dedication, the Armenian All Saints Apostolic Church and Community Center in Chicago is not only renovating its physical space, but also rejuvenating the bonds that tie Armenians across the community, the diaspora, Armenia and Artsakh. In the heart of Chicago, a renewed home for all Armenians is taking shape—one that resonates with the echoes of a timeless commitment that transcends borders and generations.

For any questions, please contact the Chicago Christapor Gomideh: [email protected]

Newly crowned WBC world cruiserweight champion Noel Mikaelian wants next fight to take place in Armenia

Emil Karabekian

 14:09,

YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 29, ARMENPRESS. The newly crowned WBC world cruiserweight champion Noel Mikaelian has said he’ll likely defend his title sometime in the first months of 2024.

Mikaelian, 33, who has a record of 27 wins and 2 losses, won the vacant WBC cruiserweight title after defeating Ilunga Makabu in Miami earlier in November.

Noel Mikaelian moved from Armenia to Germany with his family when he was four. He then moved to the U.S. to train for his boxing matches.

The WBC champion is now visiting Armenia, and on November 27 he met with the Deputy Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sport Karen Giloyan.

Speaking at a press briefing on November 29, Mikaelian said it’s a great honor for him to be the second Armenian ever to have won the WBC title. The first Armenian to do so is Vic Darchinyan.

He said it’s too early to speak about future fights, but most likely he will defend his title in the first months of 2024.

“We are discussing the issue of organizing a professional boxing event in Armenia, which would make me very happy. I’d be proud to fight in the professional ring in Armenia,” he said.

Mikaelian, who represents Armenia in his fights, has won 12 of his 27 victories by way of knockout.

Speaking about his championship fight with Congolese boxer Ilunga Makabu, the Armenian champion said that organizing the fight wasn’t an easy task.

“Organizing the world championship fight was very difficult, because the boxer who had held the [WBC] title in the past [Makabu] knew that I was a tough opponent for him,” Mikaelian said.