Author: Emil Lazarian

“I should like to see any power of the world destroy this race, this small tribe of unimportant people, whose wars have all been fought and lost, whose structures have crumbled, literature is unread, music is unheard, and prayers are no more answered. Go ahead, destroy Armenia . See if you can do it. Send them into the desert without bread or water. Burn their homes and churches. Then see if they will not laugh, sing and pray again. For when two of them meet anywhere in the world, see if they will not create a New Armenia.” - WS

Zelenskyy to visit Armenia and possibly Azerbaijan at the beginning of next week

February 26, 2024February 26, 2024 Emil Lazarian

UKRAINSKA PRAVDA

Feb 26 2024

EUROPEAN PRAVDA, UKRAINSKA PRAVDA

The information about a possible visit of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to Armenia, which was first reported last week, was confirmed on 26 February by a diplomatic source of Radio Azatutyun.

Source: European Pravda

Details: The source states that Zelenskyy’s visit to Armenia will most likely be held next Monday, on 4 March. If this is true, "will also travel to Azerbaijan," the publication said.

In case the information is confirmed, this will become the first visit of Zelenskyy to the Southern Caucasus not only since the beginning of the Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine, but also since the moment he took office in 2019.

Zelenskyy has met with the leaders of both Azerbaijan and Armenia at international assemblies. For instance, at the beginning of October 2023 Nikol Pashinyan, Prime Minister of Armenia, and Zelenskyy met on the sidelines of the European Political Community summit in Granada for the first time.

The Armenian Foreign Affairs Ministry refused to officially comment on the information about Zelenskyy’s visit, but MPs from the Public Agreement governmental party hinted in a conversation with Radio Azatutyun that it is true.

"We don’t care about how Russia will or will not react [to Zelenskiy’s visit]," said one of the lawmakers, Gagik Melkonian.

A possible visit of Zelenskyy to Armenia will be held amid the deterioration of relations between Yerevan and Moscow.

Armenian PM Nikol Pashinyan stated on numerous occasions that Armenia was not Russia’s ally in its war against Ukraine. Recently he stated that Yerevan "freezed" its membership in the Collective Security Treaty Organisation, a military alliance de-facto headed by Moscow.

Harmony for Humanity: Armenian State Symphony Orchestra’s Concerts Raise $12,000 for Refugee Children

February 26, 2024February 26, 2024 Emil Lazarian

Feb 26 2024

Momen Zellmi

As the crisp air of winter begins to thaw, the warmth of generosity and the power of music have come together in a remarkable act of kindness toward some of the most vulnerable among us. Through a series of seven soul-stirring concerts held from November to December 2023, the Foundation for the Support of the Armenian State Symphony Orchestra, under the baton of Sergey Smbatyan, has orchestrated a significant donation of US$12,000 to UNICEF Armenia. This charitable gesture, aimed at aiding refugee children with disabilities, resonates with the harmony of hope and the melody of compassion.

The concerts, a testament to the orchestra's dedication and talent, were more than just musical performances; they were a call to action for the plight of refugee children in Armenia. Under the leadership of Sergey Smbatyan, the UNICEF Armenia Ambassador and celebrated conductor, these events have successfully translated artistic _expression_ into humanitarian aid. The proceeds from these concerts are earmarked for a noble cause: providing multipurpose pharmacy vouchers, each valued at 25,000 AMD, to refugee children with disabilities. This initiative offers a lifeline to families, allowing them to purchase essential pharmaceutical items tailored to their children's needs.

The donation to UNICEF Armenia is a beacon of light in addressing the immediate healthcare and rehabilitation priorities of refugee children. The timing is crucial, with the advent of winter bringing additional challenges to vulnerable populations. UNICEF's involvement extends beyond this donation; the organization has been pivotal in providing mental health services, medical supplies, and social and child protection services to refugees. Furthermore, funded by the UN's Central Emergency Response Fund and the European Investment Bank, UNICEF, in collaboration with local Armenian organizations, has initiated the distribution of clothing vouchers to all refugee children aged 0-9 and those with disabilities, ensuring they have access to essential clothing and medications during the colder months.

The collaboration between the Armenian State Symphony Orchestra and UNICEF exemplifies how partnerships can amplify humanitarian efforts. Christine Weigand, UNICEF Representative in Armenia, expressed profound gratitude towards all contributors, emphasizing the impact of such collaborations in expanding support for refugee children, particularly those in dire need. This initiative not only addresses the tangible needs of refugee children but also sends a powerful message of solidarity and compassion, underscoring the importance of supporting the most vulnerable groups among us.

In the grand scheme of things, this act of kindness orchestrated by the Armenian State Symphony Orchestra and its partners harmonizes with the broader mission of ensuring that no child, regardless of circumstances, is left without the essentials for a healthy and secure life. As the notes of the concerts fade away, the melody of humanity and compassion continues to resonate, offering hope and support to those who need it most.

https://bnnbreaking.com/world/armenia/harmony-for-humanity-armenian-state-symphony-orchestras-concerts-raise-12000-for-refugee-children

Armenia Hires U.S. Law Firm in Amulsar Arbitration Case; Government Refuses to Reveal Contract Price

February 25, 2024February 25, 2024 Emil Lazarian

Panorama, Armenia

Feb 24 2024

The United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) panel has begun hearing a U.S. investor’s treaty claim against Armenia over the controversial Amulsar gold mining project that has been blocked for years by environmental protesters.

Armenia has hired the services of the prestigious U.S. law firm Foley Hoag, but Pashinyan’s administration refuses to reveal what it’s paying to the firm, arguing “case confidentiality.”

The contract doesn’t appear on ARMEPS, the Armenian government’s online procurement’s ystem.

Hasmik Samvelyan, Press Secretary of Armenia’s Office of the Representative for International Legal Affairs, told Hetq that the Foley Hoag contract has not been published in the Armeps system since the case is being conducted under conditions of confidentiality. When asked to reveal the contract price, she argued this too is confidential.

The Permanent Court of Arbitration (PAC) is providing administrative support in the case “Amulsar Investor Ventures LLC v Republic of Armenia”.

In March 2019, Lydian International, the company that fully owned the mine then, informed the Armenian government that it was launching an arbitration claim for losses incurred due to the “illegal closure” of roads leading to the mine by environmentalists. (The mine site that straddles the Vayots Dzor-Syunik provincial border in southern Armenia.)

The mine has stood idle for years because of conflicting environmental impact studies and public protests. The Pashinyan administration, which came to power in 2018, originally opposed mining at Amulsar A year later, in an about-face, announced that the mine would not harm the environment and ordered police to remove the demonstrators.

Armenian Minister of Economy Vahan Kerobyan, last February, announced that the government has signed a $250 million deal with Lydian Armenia CJSC to restart operations at the controversial Amulsar gold mine.

The deal, a memorandum of understanding signed between the Armenian government Armenia, the Eurasian Development Bank and Lydia Armenia, will pump US$250 million into the Amulsar project to complete construction work and purchase mining equipment. The Armenian government will get a 12.5% stake in Lydian Armenia in return for allowing the mine to reopen.

In 2021, Lydian International was dissolved since its subsidiary, Lydian Armenia, wasn’t meeting its contractual obligations to its senior lenders, funding partners and equipment suppliers. The mine was idle, no money was coming in.

Lydian Canada Ventures, which took over Lydian Armenia, is owned by the U.S. firm Orion Mine Finance, and the Canadian company Osisko Gold Royalties.

Much isn’t known about Amulsar Investor Ventures LLC, the plaintiff in the arbitration case. The company was registered in 2022 in the state of Delaware (U.S.) USA. The demands of the claimant in this case from the Republic of Armenia have not yet been published.

In addition to Foley Hoag, Armenia’s Office on International Legal Matters is also representing the government in Yerevan.

Foley Hoag has represented Armenia in the past in arbitration cases. In 2021, Armenia paid the legal firm US$1.5 million in an arbitration case against the Lebanese company Sanitek over a contractual dispute. The Yerevan Municipality had awarded Sanitek the contract for garbage disposal in the Armenian capital. Sanitek accused the municipality of non-payment and the municipality accused the company of doing a poor job and not fulfilling its obligations.

Lukashenko on Armenia’s supposed withdrawal from CSTO: no need to hurry

February 25, 2024February 25, 2024 Emil Lazarian

SB.BY, Belarus

Feb 25 2024

In particular, the Head of State commented on the statements of Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan on his country's withdrawal from the CSTO. The President said that such decisions are made not by the Prime Minister, but by Parliament. At the same time, no official notifications have been received from Yerevan in this regard so far, and the Belarusian leader said, “I think sensible people prevail in Parliament. There should be no grudges against us, against the CSTO, and this has been voiced more than once. It is necessary to understand that Azerbaijan is not a stranger for us, for all CSTO members.”

Aleksandr Lukashenko commented on the talks related to this issue, “We react absolutely calmly, and we discussed this problem indirectly with the presidents in Kazan. That was an absolutely calm conversation, nobody was going crazy. If Armenia needs to be part of the CSTO, then [it needs to know] that we have not expelled anyone, we have always supported Armenia and we will support it as our ally. If it does not want to stay in the CSTO, then the organisation will not collapse.”

At the same time, the former Armenian authorities did not want to resolve problematic issues with Azerbaijan peacefully for a long time, although the Azerbaijani authorities put a lot of effort into that process. The Head of State repeatedly called for a solution to the conflict, but it caused a nervous reaction on the part of Armenia.

At the same time, the Belarusian leader believes the current solution to the conflict has become the most acceptable for everyone, “Did Armenia want us to get involved in the war between Armenia and Azerbaijan? That war would still be going on and thousands would have died. I think that Azerbaijan and Armenia have eventually came to the right solution – though, unfortunately doing that by means of the war. What was our position supposed to be? Armenians are our close, dear people, but is Azerbaijan a stranger?”

Aleksandr Lukashenko also stated that there had been no reasons for the CSTO’s joining the conflict. “There was absolutely no reason for us. There is no need to be resentful. Hurt people are seldom at ease,” he added.

Speculating on why official Yerevan is making statements about its withdrawal from the CSTO, the Belarusian leader shared his observations. Actually, the Armenian authorities spend a lot of time in France, which has allegedly promised to provide support in the economy and military field. “In short, Yerevan will pick up the burden and carry it… No one will carry anyone! You can see what is happening in France, so the politicians in Yerevan need to wake up. They should not lose what they have,” he noted.

The Head of State mentioned Georgia as an example. This country ‘made an attempt to live with ease in the West’, but it is now establishing normal relations with Russia and Belarus. At the same time, Georgia has already been forgotten in the United States. “It is necessary to draw appropriate conclusions. No one in the West needs them. There are thousands of problems there,” Aleksandr Lukashenko added.

The Belarusian leader advised the Armenian side not to rush and not to make sudden movements, “No need to lose what you already hold in your hands. It is easy to withdraw, but it will be difficult to join later. No need to go out, no need to freeze something. Don’t hurry! Is there any need in these abrupt movements? Time changes a lot, and the situation in the world will change – so such compact states as Armenia, Belarus and others do not need to make sudden movements. There is no need for Armenians to hurry. It seems to me that Nikol Vovaevich [Pashinyan] was in a hurry and made an emotional statement.”

Turkey Threatens to Invade Greece and Armenia

February 25, 2024February 25, 2024 Emil Lazarian

AEI - The American Enterprise Institute

Feb 12 2024

By Michael Rubin

Middle East Forum Observer

February 12, 2024

On January 27, 2024, two days after the Biden administration again urged Congress to greenlight F-16 sales to Turkey, Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said at a public meeting of his ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP), “Our struggle did not end with expelling the enemy [Greeks] from our lands and throwing them into the sea from Izmir.” It was a provocative statement given the massacre at Smyrna, today’s Izmir, killed up to 100,000 and, according to scholars, amounted to genocide against Anatolia’s Greek Christians.

On cue, just over a week later, Turkish analysts on CNN Türk discussed the prospects of Turkey launching Tayfuns, Turkey’s first indigenous ballistic missile, at Greece. “If we fire it from Edirne or Izmir, we can hit Athens,” they concluded.

Pride in “throwing Greeks into the sea” is mainstream among Erdoğan’s government. It is also a popular slogan in Turkey. There are Turkish nationalist songs as well as annual public ceremonies that celebrate the massacre of Smyrna’s centuries-old Christian population as “Izmir’s liberation from enemy forces.” To mark the 100^th anniversary of the massacre in 2022, for example, one of Turkey’s biggest pop stars gave a concert in the city center in Izmir, celebrating the slaughter. Hundreds of thousands attended.

The threat to launch missiles at Athens comes against a backdrop of Turkish revanchism. Turkey’s media repeatedly claim ownership over 152 islands and islets in the Aegean Sea awarded to Greece in the 1923 Treaty of Lausanne, 1932 Convention between Turkey and Italy, and 1947 Treaty of Paris.

Greece is not alone as the target of Turkey’s territorial demands. Hulusi Akar, a former defense minister who today chairs the parliament’s National Defense Commission, threatened Armenia during a January 29, 2024 visit to Azerbaijan, suggesting Turkey could repeat its and Azerbaijan’s ethnic cleansing of Nagorno-Karabakh’s indigenous Armenian population against Armenia proper. With Turkish backing, Azerbaijan continues to occupy several dozen square kilometers of Armenian territory.

As Turkey lobbied for F-16s as part of a quid pro quo to lift its hold on Sweden’s NATO accession, it stopped overflights and harassment of Greek islands. That Erdoğan so quickly violated his agreement after receiving Biden administration endorsement of the F-16 sale suggests tremendous bad faith.

The Biden administration may celebrate Turkey’s agreement to allow Sweden’s NATO accession as a diplomatic win, but the growing risk of an intra-NATO war offset any benefit Sweden might bring. Addressing Erdoğan grievances or augmenting his military will not bring Turkey back into the community of responsible nations. Rather, the problem remains Erdoğan ideology. Ignoring that reality will not bring stability or security, but could rather destroy NATO and force the United States to confront yet another unexpected war in Europe.

Armenia’s CSTO participation ‘frozen’ amid Russia’s open call for government overthrow

February 25, 2024February 25, 2024 Emil Lazarian

DARYO

Uzbekistan – Feb 24 2024

YESTERDAY, 10:00

Pashinyan accused Baku of viewing Armenia as ‘Western Azerbaijan’ and preparing for an invasion of Armenia. “Ilham Aliyev doesn’t want a peace agreement based on mutual recognition of territorial integrity. He wants to take control over new territories in Armenia,” the prime minister stated.

Pashinyan also noted that peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan is currently unattainable.

In mid-February, following a border encounter, Azerbaijan conducted a retaliatory military operation, destroying an Armenian military post near the border. Armenia reported the loss of four military personnel following the operation.

The conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan over Karabakh has persisted for 30 years. In 2020, the long-standing conflict escalated rapidly. After 45 days of intense fighting, Nikol Pashinyan and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev signed a ceasefire agreement, which was also endorsed by Arayik Harutyunyan, the leader of the self-proclaimed Nagorno-Karabakh.

In May 2023, Pashinyan stated that he would officially recognize the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan, including Karabakh if the security of ethnic Armenians was guaranteed. Subsequently, both leaders confirmed the official recognition of each other’s current borders.

On September 9, 2023, the Karabakh parliament elected 45-year-old Samvel Shahramanyan as the new president of the republic. However, the results of this presidential election were not recognized by Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, the EU, Turkey, Moldova, Ukraine, Pakistan, and the UK.

In the same month, Azerbaijan carried out a second military operation in Nagorno-Karabakh to eliminate “the Stepanakert regime.” The operation lasted for just one day. On September 20, both sides agreed to a ceasefire. On September 28, Shakhramanyan signed a decree that effectively dissolved the self-proclaimed republic starting from January 1, 2024. On October 5, 2023, Pashinyan signed a declaration recognizing Nagorno-Karabakh as part of Azerbaijan.

Azerbaijan To Buy JF-17 Thunder Block III Jets In $1.6B Deal; Rival Armenia Boosts Defenses With Indian, French Weapons

February 25, 2024February 25, 2024 Emil Lazarian

Feb 24 2024

Ritu Sharma

Azerbaijan has signed a contract to purchase Pak-Chinese fighter jets, JF-17 Thunder Block III (also known as FC-1 Xiaolong.”

Azerbaijan’s offensive capability augmentation comes as Armenia is bulwarking its defenses via Indian and French equipment like Akash surface-to-air missiles.

Azerbaijan will purchase the fighter jets for US $1.6 billion. The deal encompasses pilots’ training and acquisition of armament. The rumors have been going on for some time, but Azernews said that the export of JF-17 to Baku will take place after the completion of 62 fighter jets to the Pakistan Air Force by 2024.

Pakistani expert Dr. Mehmood ul Hassan Khan said that the deal is confirmed by Pakistani sources. The sale of JF-17 ‘Thunder’ to Azerbaijan is the largest defense export deal in Pakistan’s history. The deal will supply eight fighter jets in the first tranche with a clause for a follow-on order of another 8 JF-17s. Azerbaijan has become the third country after Myanmar and Nigeria to opt for the fighter jet.

The JF-17 Thunder combat aircraft is jointly developed by the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex and China’s Chengdu Aircraft Industry Corp. It has a Chinese airframe and Western avionics, and a Russian engine powers it.

The Block III variant boasts enhanced weapons capability, making it more versatile in different combat scenarios. It can deploy diverse ordnance, including air-to-air, air-to-surface, anti-ship missiles, and guided and unguided bombs. It is equipped with the PL-15 Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missile with a range of up to 300 kilometers.

The older variant has been facing problems with the engines. Technical malfunction forced Myanmar to ground its fleet of JF-17. Block III features a new engine, possibly an enhanced derivative of the RD-33MK (which powers the Russian MiG-35) or the WS 10A. This engine upgrade contributes to improved performance and agility.

The JF-17 Block III can exceed Mach 2 speeds by approximately 2,470 kilometers per hour. Its agility and maneuverability are crucial for air combat.

Block III incorporates an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, enhancing situational awareness and target tracking. It also features a helmet-mounted display (HMD) for improved pilot targeting and engagement. There are reports of an internal infrared search and tracking (IRST) system being considered.

The cost-effectiveness of JF-17 Thunder is its main advantage. It comes at roughly half the cost of the F-16 Fighting Falcon. While expected to be costlier, the Block III variant still offers significant advantages over its competitors.

Despite the brief spell of peace between the two countries, Armenia and Azerbaijan are re-arming themselves to prepare for future conflict. Armenia has purchased Akash surface-to-air missiles from India to fight Azerbaijan’s aerial threat. India’s supply of air defense systems to Armenia has facilitated restraint from the Azerbaijan side.

Akash is a short-range SAM system manufactured by Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) to protect vulnerable areas and points from air attacks. The Akash Weapon System (AWS) can simultaneously engage Multiple Targets in Group Mode or Autonomous Mode.

It has built-in Electronic Counter-Counter Measures (ECCM) features. The entire weapon system is put atop mobile platforms.

It can effectively engage helicopters, fighter jets, and UAVs flying in the range of 4-25 kilometers. It is fully automatic and has a quick response time from target detection to kill.

It is highly immune to active and passive jamming. It can be transported swiftly via rail or road and deployed quickly. The project has an overall indigenous content of 82 percent, which will be increased to 93 percent by 2026-27.

The conflict has created two axes – one comprising Azerbaijan, Turkey, and Pakistan and another of Armenia, India, and France. The latest hostilities will see the use of newly acquired Indian weapons like Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher (MBRL) to Armenia and Bayraktar Akinci ‘Raider’ drones in Azerbaijan’s inventory.

However, this tumultuous peace is under threat as Baku inks deal for JF-17 Block III fighter jets after displaying its latest Bayrakta Akinci ‘Raider’. The possibility of the clash between two systems – the aircraft and the SAMs- is approaching sooner rather than later.

Presently, Azerbaijan’s air force relies primarily on aging Soviet-era fighter jets like the MiG-29 and Su-25. The addition of the JF-17 Block III would provide a substantial leap in technology and firepower. With its advanced weapons capability, improved radar systems, and agility, the JF-17 can enhance Azerbaijan’s air combat capabilities.

It remains to be seen if SAM will prove adequate against the JF-17, which, with its BVR missiles, can strike from well outside the range of the missile. One thing remains sure: the purchase of JF-17 Block III will further fuel the arms race in the region.

File Image: JF-17

The deal could influence the strategic calculus in the South Caucasus and impact regional stability. Azerbaijan has formed a triad with Pakistan and Turkey; soon after the military offensive against Armenia, the three countries conducted a military exercise called ‘Three Brothers.’

However, with the sale of JF-17 Block III, China’s role in the region could be further enhanced.

So far, Russia has been arming both the parties in the conflict. However, as Moscow is tied down in Ukraine, Baku and Yerevan are looking for alternate sources of military hardware. The JF-17 deal is introducing a new player in the regional military landscape.

Turkish Press: France, Armenia agree to deepen bilateral ties

February 24, 2024February 24, 2024 Emil Lazarian

Yeni Safak
Turkey – Feb 22 2024

France, Armenia agree to deepen bilateral ties

Leaders of 2 countries also discuss relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan

France and Armenia agreed Wednesday to deepen bilateral relations in various sectors.

French President Emmanuel Macron and visiting Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan agreed to further improve bilateral ties in the transport, energy, water and defense fields, said a statement by the Elysee Palace.

During their meeting in Paris, Macron also reaffirmed France's unwavering support for Armenia's independence, its territorial integrity and its aspiration for peace, according to the statement.

Macron reiterated his full support for the development of relations between the European Union and Armenia in all dimensions.

The statement said that Macron and Pashinyan also discussed the state of negotiations aimed at normalization between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

Russia threatened French planes in the Black Sea, Paris says

February 24, 2024February 24, 2024 Emil Lazarian

POLITICO

Feb 22 2024

Armed Forces Minister Sébastien Lecornu said it’s a bid to “intimidate” France.

BY LAURA KAYALI

PARIS — Russia directly threatened French planes in the Black Sea recently, French Armed Forces Minister Sébastien Lecornu said Thursday.

"A month ago, a Russian air traffic control system threatened to shoot down French aircraft in the Black Sea, even though we were in the internationally free zone in which we patrol," he told French radio RTL.

Lecornu’s comments come as the war in Ukraine is about to enter its third year, amid growing pessimism about the conflict's outcome.

European governments, however, insist that Russian President Vladimir Putin still doesn't have the upper hand. Moscow's increasingly agressive stance "is explained by the fact that Russia is in trouble on the battlefield in Ukraine," Lecornu said.

"This is as old as the Cold War, but we're seeing the return of a particularly aggressive Russian stance," he said, adding that Moscow was "playing with the thresholds."

A Russian warship also recently anchored in Baie de Seine in northern France at the edge of territorial waters in a bid to "intimidate" France, Lecornu said.

The French minister is set to fly to Armenia later Thursday — the first such visit by a French armed forces minister and a sign of France's deepening defense ties with Armenia.

Armenia is edging away from its historical relationship with Moscow and Paris is seeking to increase its influence with former Russian allies, including Moldova and Central Asian countries.

Defense companies including MBDA, Nexter, Safran, Thales and Arquus are in the delegation flying to Armenia with Lecornu.

MISSAK MANOUCHIAN ENTERS THE PANTHÉON!

February 24, 2024February 24, 2024 Emil Lazarian

Taurillon

Feb 22 2024

22 February, by Antonios Tashejian

Mort Pour la France

On 21 February 1944, 22 members of the French Resistance were shot to death by Nazi Germany, through the collaboration of Vichy France, at Mont-Valérien, in the suburbs of Paris. Exactly 80 years later, France has decided to bestow the highest honor possible on a human being by the state: an interment in the Panthéon in Paris for Missak Manouchian and his partner Mélinée. Manouchian was head of the group known as Francs-tireurs et partisans – main-d’œuvre immigrée (FTP-MOI) from 1943 until his death. It was the “immigrant faction” of the Communist French Resistance.

Missak Manouchian was an Armenian. He becomes the first foreigner to enter the Panthéon. Born in 1906 in the Ottoman Empire, young Manouchian witnessed the death of both of his parents during the Armenian Genocide. In the 1920s, he ended up at an Armenian Orphanage in Lebanon and from there found his way to France where he eventually settled in September 1924. He first lived in Marseille before moving to Paris where he twice applied for naturalization as a French citizen but both applications were rejected. He was therefore killed stateless.

Manouchian was a poet and translator who translated the works of Hugo, Rimbaud and Verlaine, among others, to Armenian. He was an ardent communist since 1934. His political beliefs of anti-fascism were the primary reason he joined the French Resistance.

La Patrie reconnaissante

“[…] I am certain that the French people and all those who have fought for freedom will know how to honour our memory with dignity,” he said in his last letter to his wife, Mélinée.

President Emmanuel Macron announced that Manouchian would be interred in the Panthéon exactly 80 years after he was killed. The ceremony took place on the 21st of February 2024.

For around two weeks prior, museums, cultural centers and media outlets across France honored his memory and that of his companions. For example, the Holocaust Memorial (Mémorial de la Shoah) in Paris is currently holding a temporary exhibit on Manouchian and other “foreigners in the Resistance.”

The ceremony commenced on Rue Soufflot which leads to the entrance of the Panthéon. Named after the prime architect of this grand imposing structure, Jacques-Germain Soufflot, the street was filled with people of all walks of life defying the rain, the wind and the cold to honor a man who fought for our rights to live in a France of freedoms, in dignity and respect.

To the sounds of the duduk, an Armenian musical instrument, and music for Charles Aznavour (Ils sont tombés), Léo Ferré (L’affiche rouge), Gomidas (Grunk) and other French revolutionary songs, the two coffins wrapped in French flags made their way up the Rue Soufflot on the shoulders of members of the French Foreign Legion, marking three symbolic stops: (1) Manouchian’s survival of the Armenian Genocide, (2) his choice to move to France and start a better life for himself, and (3) his activities as head of the “immigrant faction” of the Communist French Resistance and death. Excerpts of poems and letters for Manouchian were also read aloud.

Once in the majestic structure, the Panthéon, President Emmanuel Macron gave a poignant speech in the presence of MPs, Ministers, Ambassadors and even the Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and his wife. He spoke on the lives of the 23 resistance fighters and at the end exclaimed, “Missak Manouchian […], a grateful France welcomes you.”

An excerpt from Missak Manouchian’s last letter to Mélinée:

“[…] Bonheur à ceux qui vont nous survivre et goûter la douceur de la liberté et de la paix de demain. […] Au moment de mourir, je proclame que je n’ai aucune haine contre le peuple allemand et contre qui que ce soit, chacun aura ce qu’il méritera comme châtiment et comme récompense. Le peuple allemand et tous les autres peuples vivront en paix et en fraternité après la guerre qui ne durera plus longtemps. Bonheur à tous ! […]”

The translation:

“[…] Happiness to those who will survive us and taste the sweetness of the freedom and peace of tomorrow. […] At the time of my death, I proclaim that I have no hate towards the German people nor against anyone else; each will merit the consequences that they deserve. The German people and all other peoples will live in a spirit of peace and fraternity after the war which will not last long. Happiness to all! […]”

This commemoration must not only be celebrated in France but also across Europe. Manouchian was a stateless immigrant, an orphan of the Armenian Genocide, a working class worker, a poet, a translator, an ardent anti-fascist and communist believing in freedom and dignity for all. He died for France, but it is all of Europe that must now honor his memory.

About the author

Editor-in-Chief (Junior) of The New Federalist. Antonios is a Writer, Researcher and Graduate Student in Geopolitics. He focuses on questions of nationalism, identity and belonging, ethno-political conflicts and mass atrocities, power and memory, and intertwines Jewish and Armenian histories.

https://www.taurillon.org/missak-manouchian-enters-the-pantheon?lang=fr