Narek Apitonyan, Deputy Minister of Economic and Technological Development of Armenia, received George Akhalkatsi, head of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) Armenia office.
According to TKEN, during the meeting, current projects implemented in the energy sector and possible directions of future cooperation were discussed.
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March: 12, 2026
The statement of the Prime Minister of Armenia made in Paris yesterday, according to which “Armenia has made a decision on the use of small modular reactor (SRM) technology”, is a significant political impulse. And the question is not only about the content.
Recently, the Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructures noted that the final choice of the specific model of the nuclear power plant has not yet been made, and modular reactors have not yet gained wide popularity and require additional study. At the same time, in the public sphere, the American diplomat specializing in nuclear energy issues, Thomas Armbruster, urged the Armenian government to carry out public awareness, because the technology of PMRs remains poorly understood by the public and cannot have spontaneous public approval. Against this background, the government’s refusal to discuss the issue publicly is unacceptable.
The construction of a new nuclear power plant is not an “ordinary” infrastructure project. We are talking about a long-term model for ensuring the country’s energy security, large financial commitments, selection of international technology partners, new regulatory norms, waste management and, most importantly, public legitimacy of the country’s energy security roadmap.
Therefore, it is of fundamental importance not only what decision the government makes, but also how it is made. When the Prime Minister orders such a decision to the public with a statement made outside the country’s borders, this proves that the “proud” citizen of Armenia is not acting as a participant in the strategic choice, but merely as a subject to the decision.
Armenia’s interest in the development of nuclear energy is quite legitimate in itself: the operation period of the existing nuclear power plant expires in ten years. However, it does not follow from this that a small modular reactor is the most optimal solution. The international expert discussions about them show that the advantages of PMRs are still theoretical and unverified.
The peculiarity of the technical and economic assessment of small modular reactors is due to the fact that their competitiveness is based on a different economic logic than that of traditional large nuclear power units. The competitiveness of the latter is based on economies of scale. the increase in power unit capacity leads to a decrease in the unit cost of produced electricity.
And in the case of PMRs, the expected economic efficiency, on the contrary, is due to the effect of multiple reproduction of standardized modules (economies of multiples), that is, the serial production and operation of a significant number of similar plants. In other words, the supposed reduction of costs becomes possible only in conditions of mass production and operation.
Therefore, the arguments regarding the economic efficiency of PMR and the cost of electricity produced by them are quite controversial. In practice, the implementation of such projects shows not only their high cost, but also problems related to financial planning, as a result of which the transition from the design stage to implementation is associated with serious financial risks.
Thus, the unexpected significant increase in the project cost was the reason for the suspension of the construction of the PMR in the state of Utah, USA. Such risks are more dangerous for Armenia, because the mistake of choosing a costly technology will become a long-term heavy burden, both for public finances and for the national energy system.
The experts of the Nuclear Energy Agency of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development also emphasize the safety issues of PMRs. Proponents of nuclear reactors often attribute their supposed advantages to the use of passive safety systems, as well as the smaller size of the reactors and the flexibility of deployment.
However, according to experts, it does not follow that the level of safety of PMRs is high compared to powerful reactors. Therefore, in their opinion, at present it is more correct to speak not about the superiority of PMRs in terms of safety, but about certain design expectations that still need empirical confirmation.
The Nuclear Energy Agency of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development also highlights the issue of nuclear fuel. The operation of PMRs implies the use of nuclear fuel with a higher degree of enrichment. Meanwhile, the relevant production and logistics chains are still not sufficiently developed and, as a consequence, supply constraints are considered a factor that will hinder the proliferation of these reactors.
The issue of the future fate of used nuclear fuel is also worthy of attention. Contrary to the intuitive assumption that a smaller reactor size also implies less complexity of the post-operational fuel cycle, the studies do not rule out the possibility of a larger volume of waste per unit of energy produced and more difficult to manage.
The very fact of such discussions proves that there are still no definitive solutions in this regard.
For a country deciding on the future structure of nuclear energy, the issue of waste management is as important as the issues of cost, implementation dates and safety.
The mentioned circumstances, especially in the absence of public discussion, give grounds to question the validity of the criteria by which the Armenian government was guided when making a decision on the construction of a small modular reactor.
Until the issues touched on are properly developed and presented in the public sphere, the Prime Minister’s Paris statement is more reminiscent of a political commitment made on the eve of the upcoming elections than the result of a comprehensive technical and economic analysis.
ARMEN MARTIROSYAN
Deputy of the RA Supreme Council (1990-95)
Deputy of the RA National Assembly (1995-99)
RA Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary
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The destruction of cultural monuments in the territory of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) by the Azerbaijani authorities may be regarded as one of the most significant cases of cultural genocide in the 21st century, aimed at eliminating historical and material evidence of Armenian presence in the region, according to Hovik Avanesov, Ombudsman for Cultural Heritage of Artsakh.
On March 11, a TikTok user operating under the name xanabat muhavizə published a video from the village of Khnapat in the Askeran region of Artsakh, which is currently under Azerbaijani control. The footage shows that a 12th-century Armenian khachkar (cross-stone) located beneath a pear tree in the village was destroyed under the pretext of “construction work.”
According to Avanesov, the incident constitutes further evidence of a systematic policy aimed at erasing Armenian cultural heritage in the region. At the same time, Azerbaijani state propaganda frequently attempts to portray medieval monuments in Artsakh as part of so-called “Caucasian Albanian” heritage, while many of these same monuments are simultaneously being deliberately destroyed.
“This contradictory yet purposeful policy shows that the reinterpretation of historical heritage and its physical destruction are being carried out simultaneously and in a coordinated manner at the state level,” Avanesov noted.
He emphasized that not only propaganda institutions but also Azerbaijan’s armed forces and other security structures appear to be involved in this process, indicating that the destruction of cultural heritage has effectively become part of state policy. Similar cases have been documented both in Artsakh and in Nakhchivan, where Armenian monuments were systematically eliminated in previous decades.
Earlier, on February 2, the Geghard Scientific-Analytical Foundation reported that the St. Mary Church in the village of Vaguhas (Martakert region) had been targeted by Azerbaijani vandalism. According to the foundation, at least one khachkar in the churchyard was broken and religious icons were removed from the church.
Avanesov stressed that the cultural heritage of Artsakh is not only of Armenian importance but also represents heritage of universal value. Its destruction, therefore, constitutes not only an attempt to falsify history but also an effort to erase cultural memory.
He further noted that the Turkish-Azerbaijani approach to the destruction and appropriation of Armenian cultural heritage is not limited to Artsakh or Nakhchivan. Similar patterns have appeared in parts of the Middle East, suggesting a broader methodology toward historical and religious monuments.
From a legal perspective, Avanesov emphasized that such acts cannot be viewed merely as domestic cultural policy. They fall under international legal obligations concerning the protection of cultural heritage.
The destruction of khachkars in particular is prohibited under international law. The “Art of Armenian Khachkars: Symbolism and Craftsmanship of Cross-Stones” has been included since 2010 in UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, recognizing it as a cultural tradition of universal value.
Furthermore, khachkar heritage is protected under the 1954 Hague Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict and its 1999 Second Protocol, which provides enhanced protection for cultural heritage of great importance to humanity. According to Article 15 of the Protocol, serious damage to such protected cultural property constitutes a “serious violation” and may qualify as a war crime subject to international prosecution.
Under Article 12, occupying powers are obligated to ensure the inviolability of protected cultural property and refrain from targeting or damaging it.
Avanesov concluded that the numerous documented cases of destruction of Armenian cultural heritage indicate a coordinated policy aimed at erasing the historical and material traces of Armenian presence in the region.
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Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan delivered a speech at the plenary session of the European Parliament.
The speech, provided by the Prime Minister’s Office, is presented below:
”Madam President of the European Parliament, distinguished Members of the European Parliament,
It is an honor for me to tell you that since my last speech from this rostrum, which was on October 17, 2023, changes have taken place in Armenia and in the South Caucasus in general that are of century-long, if not millennia-long significance.
And only two years and five months have passed since my last speech.
The most remarkable change is the peace established between Armenia and Azerbaijan, which was recorded on August 8, 2025, in the US capital, Washington, when the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and I signed a joint Declaration at the White House, by which we essentially established peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan.
The Declaration was also signed by US President Donald Trump as a witness.
Before that, the Foreign Ministers of Armenia and Azerbaijan had initialed the “Agreement on the Establishment of Peace and Interstate Relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan” in the presence of the US President, the President of Azerbaijan and myself.
The Washington Declaration also resolved the very important and sensitive issue of unblocking regional communications.
In paragraph 3 of the Declaration, it is stated: (I quote) “We reaffirmed the importance of the opening of communications between the two countries for intra-state, bilateral, and international transportation for the promotion of peace, stability, and prosperity in the region and in its neighborhood on the basis of respect for the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and jurisdiction of the States. These efforts are to include unimpeded connectivity between the main part of the Republic of Azerbaijan and its Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic through the territory of the Republic of Armenia with reciprocal benefits for international and intra-state connectivity for the Republic of Armenia.” (end of quote).And already in point 4 of the Declaration it is stated (I quote): “The Republic of Armenia will work with the United States of America and mutually determined third parties, to set forth a framework for the “Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity” (TRIPP) connectivity project in the territory of the Republic of Armenia. We confirm our determination to pursue efforts in good faith to achieve this goal in the most expeditious manner.” (end of quote).
The TRIPP program is currently in the crystallization stage. On January 13, the governments of the United States and Armenia adopted the framework for the implementation of the TRIPP, in the near future a corresponding agreement will be signed between Armenia and the United States and the practical implementation of the project will be launched.
This program, which stems from the “Crossroads of Peace” project of the Government of Armenia, will create new transport opportunities for communication from east to west and vice versa, from south to north and vice versa, which is also an epoch-making change. It is important to emphasize that I first spoke about the “Crossroads of Peace” project on October 17, 2023, from this rostrum of the European Parliament, and the developments described above open up new opportunities for the European Union and Armenia in terms of deepening and concretizing cooperation in the field of transport communications.
Madam President of the European Parliament, distinguished Members of the European Parliament,
The positive picture I have presented is certainly overshadowed by the events taking place right next door, in the Islamic Republic of Iran and in a number of Middle Eastern countries. Iran is our good friend, our thousand-year-old neighbor. You already saw the extent of our relations with the United States. The United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Jordan, Lebanon, Bahrain, Syria are our good partners. We have recently taken a historic step with Saudi Arabia, establishing diplomatic relations. We are pained by what is happening in the Middle East. Against the backdrop of such an international crisis of such magnitude, we are a small, modest state, and we can only pray for the repose of the souls of all the victims and for the wisdom of our partner leaders to find diplomatic solutions as soon as possible.
Distinguished Members of the European Parliament, Madam President of the European Parliament,
For 8 months now, complete peace has been established on the Armenia-Azerbaijan border. 2025 has become the first calendar year since our independence, that is, since 1991, when there were no casualties or injuries as a result of Armenia-Azerbaijani shooting. For months now, residents of the border settlement have not heard the sounds of gunfire.
Moreover, for the first time since independence, in November 2025, a train arrived in the Republic of Armenia through the territory of Azerbaijan, also passing through Georgia. This happened after the President of Azerbaijan announced in October 2025 that he was lifting the restriction on rail transportation through the territory of Azerbaijan to Armenia, and I am grateful to the President of Azerbaijan for such a decision.
We, in turn, have announced that we are ready to ensure transit from Azerbaijan to Türkiye and vice versa right now, because we can do this using our existing roads at the moment. Neither Azerbaijan nor Türkiye have taken advantage of this opportunity yet.
I assume that this is because they think that such a solution might delay the implementation of the TRIPP project. From this rostrum, I officially declare that Armenia has not only no intention, but also no reason to delay the implementation of the TRIPP project, because the project fully meets the short-term, medium-term and long-term interests of the Republic of Armenia and, as you saw from the above-mentioned quote, does not in any way undermine the sovereignty, territorial integrity, or jurisdiction of the Republic of Armenia.Now I also want to say that the Republic of Armenia is ready to provide a road connection between the western regions of Azerbaijan and the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic via the Kornidzor-Goris-Yeghegnadzor-Yeraskh route using the existing infrastructure.
This proposal of ours is not intended to delay, disrupt, or forget the Washington agreements in any way, and I say this officially. We are making these proposals because we ourselves, as I mentioned above, are using the Azerbaijani railway in a slightly alternative way. Just as Azerbaijan is waiting for the establishment of a connection through the territory of Armenia to Nakhchivan, so we are waiting for the establishment of a railway connection between the south and north of Armenia through the territory of Nakhchivan. This railway route has no alternative for Armenia, the mountainous terrain of Armenia does not allow for a railway connection between the south and north of the country in any other way. As you can see, the expectations of Armenia and Azerbaijan do not contradict each other.
We are also going to use the Georgia-Azerbaijan railway for export. I hope that in the near future Azerbaijan will also become an export destination for Armenia. And Armenia is already importing oil products from Azerbaijan, which has caused a decrease in oil product prices in our market and has broken the monopolies established in the oil product market for decades.
I would also like to thank the Prime Minister of Georgia for supporting the railway communication between Armenia and Azerbaijan and the peace process in general.
Dear attendees,
Especially on international platforms, I am often asked why peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan become possible in 2025, while it was not possible before, what is the reason for this, what changed anyway?
First of all, of course, the personal involvement and initiative of the President of the United States, Donald Trump, was essential and turning point.
The second factor that made peace possible was the realization of the interconnectedness of the last 100 years of history of Armenia and Azerbaijan. In 1918, the two countries gained independence on the same day. Two years later, in 1920, they lost their independence with a time lapse of months.
In 1991, Armenia and Azerbaijan gained independence again with a time lapse of months, or one could even say on the same day, when the Alma Ata Declaration recorded the end of the Soviet Union.
The Armenian-Azerbaijani clashes of 1920 were one of the key factors that prevented the two countries from maintaining and developing their independence.
Now, a century later, we live in an equally complex region, and geopolitical floods, like at the beginning of the 20th century, will not spare us now if we do not take care of ourselves, because conflict and enmity are the virus that blinds us, makes our independence and statehood vulnerable, and makes us a tempting target for deadly geopolitical diseases. And so, the realization of the strategic interdependence of our destinies is another essential factor that made peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan possible.
In order not to give room for misinterpretations, I would like to emphasize that this is my personal opinion and in my personal conviction that in March-April 2024 we had reached the brink of Armenia’s statehood and if in April 2024 we had failed to make a decision to launch the process of demarcation with Azerbaijan, the Republic of Armenia would be a territory under foreign rcontrol at best today.
Moreover, making that decision to demarcate was very difficult. With the encouragement of the de facto chief of our church, one of the archbishops had started a movement in Armenia demanding not only not to carry out the demarcation, but also to essentially activate the Karabakh movement, or rather, the conflict.
Tens of thousands of citizens, succumbing to the disinformation campaign carried out by high-ranking clergymen and their supporting opposition forces, who claimed that the Government was preparing to cede the sovereign territories of Armenia and the ancient churches and settlements located in them to Azerbaijan, took to the streets.
You can imagine what this meant for our Government and political team, which came to power through the people’s, non-violent, velvet revolution of 2018.
And how did we solve the problem?
We talked to our employer, the people. And now, the village of Kirants in Tavush region, which the leaders of the church-opposition movement had made their symbol, convincing people that the village would be emptied and abandoned, has had about a 50 percent increase in houses with the support of the Government after the demarcation and today is an absolutely peaceful, safe and colorful settlement. And the ancient churches are being restored or renovated.
I personally organize visits and tours for groups of citizens to the village of Kirants in Tavush region, to show people what we mean by peace, what I mean by Real Armenia, the symbol of which, the image of the internationally recognized territory of the Republic of Armenia, I carry on my chest.
This is also a symbol of peace, because we established peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan by recognizing each other’s territorial integrity, sovereignty, and political independence on the basis of the Alma Ata Declaration of December 21, 1991, according to which Soviet Azerbaijan became independent Azerbaijan, Soviet Armenia became independent Armenia, and this is the outline of the map of the territory of independent Armenia.
I would not have touched upon the topic of the involvement of some clergy in this process against peace, if I had not seen how the emissaries of these clergy and representatives of some lobbying organizations affiliated with them are trying to spread in the European Parliament and other authoritative international structures that the Armenian Government is restricting freedom of conscience, that a dictatorship is being established in Armenia, that there are political prisoners in Armenia.
The reality is that some clergymen, who cynically violated all the rules of spiritual good conduct, thus making themselves vulnerable to foreign special services (by the way, the fact that some of them were agents of the USSR KGB is proven by documents), have assumed the leadership of the war party in the Republic of Armenia, consolidating around them the former leaders of Armenia, some forces associated with them, some pro-Russian and pro-Belarusian oligarchs, and are trying to sacrifice Armenia’s independence to the interests of third countries.
We will not allow a new conflict, a new war, we will not allow the consciousness, peace and independence gained at the cost of thousands of victims to be sacrificed for anti-Christian purposes. In the text of our liturgy of the Armenian Apostolic Holy Church, the word peace is mentioned more than 40 times, and it is not only about the person, the soul, but also about world peace, about which there are dozens of supplications in the canonical text of our liturgy, to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and today some are using the altar of Christ to preach conflict, war and/or intra-Armenian violence, trespassing the boundaries of the legislation of the Republic of Armenia. This cannot be tolerated in any democratic country.Honorable President of the European Parliament, distinguished Members of Parliament, dear guests,
One of our important tasks is also to ensure that the emotions of our Karabakh sisters and brothers who have become refugees are not exploited, giving them false hopes.
Our strategy in this regard is very clear: our Karabakh sisters and brothers must receive Armenian citizenship and be permanently settled in the Republic of Armenia. We have already launched their resettlement program, which has benefited 4,886 families so far. We need the greatest possible support from our international partners to solve this problem aimed at strengthening peace.
Dear guests,
We are criticized that the peace established between Armenia and Azerbaijan is not perfect. Please tell me, where is the peace perfect, where is there perfect peace and where has it been and when?
And on the contrary, it is the will to care for peace that can make it as close to perfect as possible and this is how we approach all issues, including the issue of our compatriots held in prison in Azerbaijan. Recently, Azerbaijan released four more of our compatriots.
The Armenian society, we all experienced happiness on that occasion. But the Government very quickly returned to continuing its silent diplomatic work, for the sake of the return of others, because I am convinced that if we had not previously chosen the style of silent diplomatic work, the return of our four compatriots on January 14 would simply not have taken place.
Honorable President of the European Parliament, distinguished Members of Parliament, dear guests,
The next incredible change that has taken place in Armenia since my previous speech is that in March 2025, the law “On the Launch of the Process of the Republic of Armenia’s Accession to the European Union” was adopted in our country, which entered into force in April 2025.
This is the political crystallization of the statement I made from this podium on October 17, 2023, that the Republic of Armenia is ready to be closer to the European Union, as much as the European Union deems it possible.
Now, after the adoption of this law, many in Armenia are asking when Armenia will become a member of the European Union. Our answer is very clear: no country can become a member of the EU without meeting the standards of the European Union. Therefore, our task is to continue the path of reforms with the support of our European partners and first objectively meet the criteria for EU membership.
When this happens, there will be two ways: either the EU will accept us as a full member, or it will not. I say this because I understand that EU enlargement, the inclusion of a new member, is not a simple matter, and is also a matter of political decision.
Therefore, if the EU accepts Armenia as a full member, it is very good. If it does not, we will still benefit, because we will be a country that complies with EU standards.
I must say frankly, however, that the biggest problem on the path of Armenia’s integration into the EU at the moment is the frozen state of the political dialogue between the European Union and Georgia. Georgia is a path for us to the European Union, and we adopted the law on the launch of the process of Armenia’s accession to the European Union after Georgia received the status of a candidate for EU membership. This made Armenia’s EU membership prospect tangible, and it is our expectation and request that the European Union-Georgia constructive process should develop. This is important for Armenia, just as important as for Georgia.Honorable President of the European Parliament, distinguished Members of the European Parliament, dear guests,
The people’s non-violent, velvet Revolution that took place in Armenia in 2018 was based on the understandings of freedom, democracy, and the rule of law. We kept our democracy viable and developing in conditions of war, but we also understood that it is peace that paves the way for making democracy irreversible. In reality, we have achieved peace thanks to democracy, thanks to our commitment to democratic values, because we were able to overcome the patterns of thinking imposed on Armenia by listening to the people, real, living people who yearn for life and peace.
On June 7, 2026, the next parliamentary elections will be held in the Republic of Armenia, and with these elections, our democracy must make peace irreversible, and then, with peace, democracy will become irreversible. We are going this way, and I say this as a legitimate representative of the people of the Republic of Armenia.
Long live peace, long live democracy.”
Published by Armenpress, original at
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Amid widespread fears of another war with Azerbaijan and Baku’s demands for more Armenian concessions, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian has claimed to have made Armenia much more secure in the past year.
In his New Year’s Eve address to the nation, Pashinian said that his country is “entering 2025 in a significantly more peaceful, significantly more stable, significantly more secure environment, and significantly more independent, significantly more sovereign, significantly more confident than before.”
“The year 2024 has been the most peaceful and calm year for our country in the last twenty years, and this fact really needs to be analyzed deeply and seriously,” he said, adding that his policies will keep Armenia on that trajectory.
In that context Pashinian touted unilateral territorial concessions to Azerbaijan which he made last spring, sparking massive anti-government protests in Yerevan. He described them as a “success story.”
Pashinian’s domestic detractors maintain that the handover of four disputed border areas and Pashinian’s broader appeasement policy will not bring real peace and will only encourage Baku to seek more Armenian concessions.
Following the handover, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev renewed his demands for a change of Armenia’s constitution which he says contains territorial claims to his country. He went on to set other preconditions for an Armenian-Azerbaijani peace treaty. Those include the return of Azerbaijanis who lived in Soviet Armenia until the late 1980s and an end to Yerevan’s arms acquisitions.
Aliyev again demanded an end to those acquisitions in his New Year address to the nation, saying that they pose a security threat to Azerbaijan, the defense budget of which is almost three times higher than Armenia’s.
“I consider it my duty to once again warn the Armenian leadership to avoid this dangerous path,” he said, adding that “Armenia is unable to compete with us either militarily or in any other field.”
Armenian officials said earlier that Baku may be planning to launch another military aggression against Armenia after hosting the COP29 climate summit in November. Pashinian’s administration is anxious to prevent such invasion by negotiating the peace treaty.
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In an electrifying match of the Armenian Premier League's 22nd round, Alashkert Football Club showcased their dominance with a commanding 6-0 win against BKMA. The game, marked by exceptional performances from Haitian forward Jonel Desire and Brazilian forward Gustavo Martini, who netted two goals each, has stirred the league standings and highlighted the competitive spirit within Armenia's top football league.
The match's outcome was significantly influenced by the prowess of Alashkert's forwards. Jonel Desire opened the scoring spree with two consecutive goals in the first half, setting a robust foundation for Alashkert's victory. Gustavo Martini followed suit with another pair of goals in the second half, leaving BKMA's defense struggling to regain composure. An unfortunate auto-goal by BKMA defender Norayr Nikoghosyan further widened the scoring gap, and Portuguese forward Agdon Menezes sealed the victory with a late goal. This collective effort not only exemplifies the team's offensive strength but also positions Alashkert as a formidable competitor in the league.
This remarkable victory has propelled Alashkert to the fourth position in the league standings, now tied in points with the reigning champions and cup winner, Urartu. However, it's worth noting that Urartu holds a game in hand, which could potentially alter the standings once played. On the other end, BKMA finds itself in the seventh spot, facing an uphill battle to climb the league table. The match's outcome not only reflects the individual and collective talents within Alashkert but also underscores the significance of every game in the tightly contested Armenian Premier League.
As the league progresses, the focus now shifts to how teams will adjust their strategies and line-ups in response to the current standings. Alashkert's resounding victory serves as a testament to their potential and ambition in the ongoing season. Meanwhile, for BKMA, the defeat poses a challenge to regroup and strategize for the remainder of the league. The Armenian Premier League continues to captivate football fans with its unpredictability and high level of competition, promising more thrilling matches ahead.
The recent clash between Alashkert and BKMA, highlighted by standout performances and significant implications for the league table, has undoubtedly set the stage for an intense finish to the season. With teams vying for supremacy in Armenia's top football competition, the coming weeks are poised to deliver more action-packed encounters and potential shifts in the league hierarchy.
https://bnnbreaking.com/sports/alashkerts-striking-6-0-victory-over-bkma-desire-and-martini-shine-in-armenian-premier-league
BETHESDA, Md.—The Hamazkayin Armenian Educational and Cultural Association welcomed families, friends and community members from throughout the Greater Washington D.C. area for the first traditional Dyaruntarach/Trndez celebration in the nation’s capital, held at the Soorp Khatch Armenian Apostolic Church’s new “River Road” property on February 18, 2024.
Victoria Penenian jumping over the fire
Hamazkayin of Washington D.C. vice-chair Kayane Kassarjian Tatarian warmly welcomed everyone to the age-old Armenian celebration of the upcoming spring and a bountiful harvest. She welcomed remarks from Soorp Khatch Armenian Apostolic Church pastor, Archpriest Fr. Sarkis Aktavoukian, who offered prayers, invoking blessings upon the gathering and its endeavors.
Hamazkayin of Washington D.C. vice-chair Kayane Kassarjian Tatarian warmly welcoming everyone to the age-old Armenian celebration
Archpriest Fr. Aktavoukian then shared the significance of the Armenian pagan rituals of Trndez, which, upon Armenia’s adoption of Christianity, was renamed Dyaruntarach, meaning “bringing forward of the Lord.” He explained that the ritual of jumping over fire is believed to ward off evil and bring the blessings of children to newly-married couples.
With anticipation mounting, Archpriest Fr. Aktavoukian initiated the lighting of the ceremonial fire, prepared by members of the ARF Sebouh Gomideh. As the flames flickered and danced, filling the air with warmth and light, the atmosphere was charged with excitement and joy.
Archpriest Fr. Sarkis Aktavoukian initiating the lighting of the ceremonial fire
The community then sang a series of traditional Vartanantz songs, voices resonating with pride and unity. Hamazkayin of Washington D.C. Van Dance Group member and AYF DC “Sevan” Juniors chair Meghri Aguilian took a moment to honor the memory of the Armenian traditional dance icon and Artsakh war veteran Gagik Ginosyan, who served as the first dance instructor of the newly-formed Hamazkayin D.C. Van Dance group. They performed the Echmiadzin dance in his honor, paying homage to his legacy and contributions.
Hamazkayin Washington D.C. Van Dance Group performing the Echmiadzin dance in Gagik Ginosyan’s honor, paying homage to his legacy and contributions
As the afternoon progressed, community members young and old eagerly took part in the ancient ritual of jumping over the fire, each leap accompanied by heartfelt wishes for a prosperous year ahead.
Hamazkayin Washington D.C. members offered refreshments and gift lanterns to attendees, ensuring that the sacred fire and its spirit would continue to illuminate their lives long after the event concluded.
Hamazkayin Washington D.C. offered refreshments and gift lanterns to attendees, ensuring that the participants could take the sacred fire back to their homes
The inaugural traditional Dyaruntarach/Trndez in Washington D.C. was a resounding success, thanks to the dedication and vision of Hamazkayin D.C. chapter members and the Van dancers, as well as the unwavering support of Archpriest Fr. Aktavoukian. As the flames of tradition were kindled anew, it was evident that this cherished custom had found a home in the heart of the nation’s capital, promising future celebrations and gatherings filled with joy, community and cultural pride.
In a decisive move that underscores the fluid dynamics of political careers, Gevorg Papoyan, a seasoned member of Armenia's National Assembly, has officially submitted his letter of resignation. This step, dictated by Article 155.1 of the Constitutional Law on the Rules of Procedure of the National Assembly, not only marks a significant pivot in Papoyan's career but also signals a forthcoming change in Armenia's economic leadership. With the backdrop of a nation at a crossroads, Papoyan's transition from lawmaker to potentially steering the country's economic fortunes as the Minister of Economy is both a testament to his political acumen and a beacon of new aspirations for Armenia.
Papoyan's resignation, while a procedural formality, is the precursor to a more significant undertaking. Assuming no retraction within the stipulated one-week period, the Speaker of the National Assembly will formalize Papoyan's departure, clearing the path for his new role. This transition is not merely about changing titles; it's about the weight of expectation now resting on Papoyan's shoulders. As Armenia grapples with economic challenges, including the need for sustainable growth and innovation, the eyes of the nation will be fixed on how Papoyan's strategies and policies will drive economic revitalization.
Papoyan's move comes at a tumultuous time for Armenia, with the resignation of the previous economy minister amidst a corruption investigation. This reshuffling within the ruling Civil Contract party, to which Papoyan belongs, is indicative of broader political realignments and the party's commitment to integrity and reform. Papoyan's appointment is seen as a fresh start, an opportunity to inject new ideas and vigor into Armenia's economic planning and execution. His journey from the parliamentary benches to the helm of the economy ministry encapsulates the fluidity and interconnectedness of governance and economic management.
While Papoyan's resignation and subsequent appointment spotlight the individual's career trajectory, they also reflect broader narratives within Armenia's political and economic landscapes. Transitioning from a lawmaker to overseeing the country's economic direction, Papoyan embodies the hope for a new chapter in Armenia's economic story. With challenges abound and opportunities on the horizon, his strategies, policies, and leadership will be pivotal in steering Armenia towards sustainable economic growth and prosperity.
As Armenia stands at this crossroads, the anticipation of Papoyan's economic stewardship is palpable. The nation watches, hopeful that this transition marks the beginning of an era of economic rejuvenation and progress. With a blend of political experience and a fresh mandate, Papoyan's journey from the National Assembly to the Ministry of Economy is more than a career shift—it's a symbol of Armenia's aspirations for a brighter economic future.
In the heart of Yerevan, a fresh wave of economic optimism is brewing. The National Assembly of Armenia, amidst lively debates, has turned its attention to a substantial financial lifeline offered by the Eurasian Economic Commission. We're talking about a $20 million subsidy program poised to reinvigorate local industries and keep the wheels of Armenia's economy spinning. At the core of this initiative, as unveiled by Narek Teryan, the Acting Deputy Minister of Economy, lies a commitment to bolster businesses with a much-needed infusion of funds, ensuring a brighter tomorrow for Armenia's diverse economic landscape.
The proposed subsidy program is not just about numbers; it's a beacon of hope for businesses across 26 industrial sectors. From the bustling markets of light industry to the innovative realms of renewable energy and energy storage systems, down to the meticulous craftsmen in the jewelry sector, this initiative promises to spread its wings wide. With a generous budget set between $20-22 million for 2024, it's clear that the Armenian government is placing a significant bet on the entrepreneurial spirit of its people. The eligibility criterion is straightforward yet pivotal – businesses must secure loans at interest rates not exceeding +6.5 percent of the Central Bank of Armenia's balance sheet summary percentage, ensuring a level playing field for all.
One of the program's standout features is its emphasis on cross-border collaboration. To qualify, businesses are required to engage with partners in at least three member states of the Eurasian Economic Union. This criterion isn't just bureaucratic red tape; it's a strategic move designed to weave Armenia more tightly into the regional economic fabric. By fostering partnerships across borders, the subsidy program aims to catalyze a synergy that transcends national boundaries, paving the way for a more interconnected and resilient Eurasian economy.
While the subsidy program glimmers with promise, it's essential to navigate the path ahead with eyes wide open. The cap of 3.8 million rubles per business entity per annum, paired with a maximum duration of five years, sets a clear boundary on the extent of support provided. Moreover, the requirement for participation across multiple member states, while advantageous for regional cohesion, may pose logistical and bureaucratic challenges for smaller businesses. Yet, the overarching narrative remains overwhelmingly positive. By laying down these financial rails, Armenia not only aims to empower its local businesses but also to carve out a more influential role within the Eurasian Economic bloc.
In the grand tapestry of Armenia's economic ambitions, the $20 million subsidy program represents a crucial stitch. As the National Assembly of Armenia deliberates its ratification, the eyes of local entrepreneurs and international observers alike remain fixed on Yerevan. In a world where economic fortunes can shift with the wind, Armenia's proactive stance offers a lesson in resilience and strategic foresight. As this story unfolds, it's clear that the nation is not just seeking to weather the storm but to sail ahead, charting a course toward sustained growth and prosperity.
18:59,
YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 22, ARMENPRESS. During a briefing with journalists on Thursday, Armenian Deputy Prime Minister Mher Grigoryan addressed the news concerning the return of Kamil Zeynalli, the Azerbaijani national wanted by Armenia on suspicion of committing war crimes during the 2020 war, to Baku.
"I'm sure there will be actions, but for now, I prefer not to elaborate further because, there should also be a collegial discussion regarding the matter," Grigoryan commented on the situation when asked about the return of Zeynalli to Baku and the reception of him as a hero.
When asked what conclusion should be drawn from all this, the Deputy Prime Minister answered: "Let's not get ahead of ourselves. When there will be the official response, then we will talk."
Kamil Zeynalli is suspected of war crimes committed during the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh war when he fought from the Azeri side against Armenian forces, particularly of killing and beheading an elderly civilian hostage. According to the media reports, Zeynalli is a recipient of Azeri medals for his military service. According to the reports, the man is now a 'blogger' and a ‘fitness trainer’.