Author: Kalantarian Kevo

Armenian National Committee of America
1711 N Street, NW
Washington, DC 20036
Tel. (202) 775-1918
Fax. (202) 775-5648
Email. [email protected]
Internet

PRESS RELEASE
October 30, 2007
Contact: Elizabeth S. Chouldjian
Tel: (202) 775-1918

ARMENIAN AND GREEK AMERICANS PROTEST INTRODUCTION OF
BYRD-SMITH SENATE RESOLUTION COMMENDING TURKEY

— Legislation Praises Turkey for "Constructive
Stabilization Efforts in Northern Iraq"; Ignores
Growing Tensions in U.S.-Turkey Bilateral Ties

WASHINGTON, DC – In a move widely seen as intended to calm Turkish
anger over growing strains in its ties with the United States,
Senators Robert Byrd (D-WV) and Gordon Smith (R-OR) have introduced
legislation which ignores key points of tension in this
relationship and offers unconditional praise to Turkey and its
leaders, reported the Armenian National Committee of America
(ANCA).

"The resolution introduced by Senators Smith and Byrd neither
serves U.S. interests nor advances American values by sugar-coating
Turkey’s record or by ignoring serious tensions in the U.S.-Turkey
bilateral relationship," said American Hellenic Institute Executive
(AHI) Director Nick Laragakis and ANCA Executive Director Aram
Hamparian, in a joint statement issued today. "Any legislation
that the Foreign Relations Committee considers on this issue should
clearly and prominently address Turkey’s threats to invade and
destabilize northern Iraq, its immoral and heavy-handed threats
against the recognition of the Armenian Genocide, military
occupation of Cyprus, continued airspace violations of Greek-
sovereign airspace over the Aegean, blockade of Armenia,
mistreatment of the Kurds, and restrictions on the religious
freedom of the Ecumenical Patriarch and other Christian leaders."

The ANCA and AHI shared their concerns regarding this legislation
today with Members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. In
making the case regarding Turkey’s increasing unreliability, the
ANCA also circulated a recent Los Angeles Times opinion piece by
Graham Fuller, a former Vice-Chairman of the CIA’s National
Intelligence Council, who argued that: "Turkish-American relations
have been deteriorating for years, and the root explanation is
simple and harsh: Washington’s policies are broadly and
fundamentally incompatible with Turkish foreign policy interests in
multiple arenas. No amount of diplomat-speak can conceal or change
that reality."

Introduced on October 29th, S.Res.358 begins by asserting that the
"United States and Turkey share common ideals and a clear vision
for the 21st Century, in which freedom and democracy are the
foundation of peace, prosperity and security." It concludes by
thanking Prime Minister Erdogan for "continued discussions with
officials in the U.S. and Iraq regarding constructive stabilization
efforts in northern Iraq." The resolution makes no mention of
Turkey’s controversial relations with Hamas, its growing ties with
Iran, or its refusal in 2003 to allow U.S. troops to open a
northern front in Iraq.

"It simply makes no sense to thank Turkey for ‘constructive
stabilization efforts’ in Northern Iraq while it is making cross-
border aerial and artillery assaults, amassing troops, and
threatening a full-blown invasion that may very well destabilize
the region and endanger our troops for years to come," said
Hamparian. "Rather than praising Turkey and turning a blind eye to
its threats, the Congress should urge the Administration to explore
ways to free ourselves from Turkey’s blackmail by quickly putting
in place alternate, non-Turkish routes to supply and otherwise
support our regional operations."

The complete text of S.Res.358 is provided below.

#####

SENATE RESOLUTION 358 – EXPRESSING THE IMPORTANCE OF FRIENDSHIP AND
COOPERATION BETWEEN THE UNITED STATES AND TURKEY

Mr. SMITH (for himself and Mr. Byrd) submitted the following
resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Foreign
Relations:
S. RES. 358

Whereas the United States and Turkey share common ideals and a
clear vision for the 21st century, in which freedom and democracy
are the foundation of peace, prosperity, and security;

Whereas Turkey is a strong example of a predominantly Muslim
country with a true representative democratic government;

Whereas for more than 50 years a strategic partnership has existed
between the United States and Turkey, both bilaterally and through
the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, which has been of enormous
political, economic, cultural, and strategic benefit to both
countries;

Whereas the Government of Turkey has demonstrated its opposition to
terrorism throughout the world, and has called for the
international community to unite against this threat;

Whereas Turkey maintains an important bilateral relationship with
Israel and seeks to play a constructive role in Middle East peace
negotiations;

Whereas Operation Enduring Freedom entered its 6th year on October
7th, 2007;

Whereas Turkey commanded the International Security Assistance
Force in Afghanistan twice, from July 2002 to January 2003, and
>From February 2005 to August 2005;

Whereas Turkey has provided humanitarian and medical assistance in
Afghanistan and in Iraq;

Whereas the Government of Turkey has made its base in Incirlik
available for United States missions in Iraq and Afghanistan;

Whereas Secretary of Defense Robert Gates credits United States air
bases in Turkey with handling 70 percent of all air cargo deployed
into Iraq;

Whereas 95 percent of the Mine-Resistant Ambush-Protective vehicles
(MRAPs) deployed into Iraq transit through air bases in Turkey;

Whereas MRAPs protect coalition forces from improvised explosive
devices and roadside bombs;

Whereas the people of Turkey have been victims of terrorist attacks
by Al-Qaeda on November 15, 2003, and November 20, 2003;

Whereas the United States supports Turkey’s bid for membership in
the European Union; and

Whereas the Secretary of State has listed the Kurdistan Workers’
Party, which has taken up arms against Turkey since its founding,
as a Foreign Terrorist Organization in accordance with section 219
of the Immigration and Nationality Act, as amended: Now, therefore,
be it
Resolved, That the Senate –

(1) reiterates its strong support for the strategic alliance
between the United States and Turkey;

(2) urges Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey to
communicate the continuing support of the Senate and of the people
of the United States to the people of Turkey;

(3) condemns the violent attacks conducted by the Kurdistan
Workers’ Party over the last 2 decades;

(4) urges Kurdish leaders in Iraq to deny safe harbor for
terrorists and to recognize bilateral agreements between Iraq and
Turkey for cooperation against terrorism;

(5) encourages the Government of Turkey and the Government of Iraq
to continue to work together to end the threat of terrorism; and

(6) thanks Prime Minister Erdogan and the people and Government of
Turkey for –

(A) assuming command of the International Security Assistance Force
in Kabul, Afghanistan from July 2002 to January 2003, and from
February 2005 to August 2005;

(B) providing humanitarian and medical assistance in Afghanistan
and in Iraq;

(C) their willingness to contribute to international peace,
stability, and prosperity, especially in the greater Middle East
region; and

(D) their continued discussions with officials in the United States
and Iraq regarding constructive stabilization efforts in northern
Iraq.

Kevorkian helps bring HBO movie to life

Reuters/Hollywood Reporter
Friday, October 26, 2007

By Kimberly Nordyke

Jack Kevorkian, the advocate of doctor-assisted suicide who spent eight
years in prison for second-degree murder, is cooperating with HBO Films
for a movie about his controversial practices.

Kevorkian, now 79, assisted in at least 130 suicides and beat the state
court system in Michigan numerous times, but he was convicted in 1999
after he willingly sent a videotape of himself euthanizing a terminally
ill man to CBS’ "60 Minutes."

He received a 10- to 25-year sentence for second-degree murder —
serving his sentence in a maximum-security prison in Michigan — but was
paroled in June.

Executive producer Steve Jones — who has been working on this project
for a few years — noted that it marks the first time Kevorkian has
authorized any media-based project surrounding his life and efforts in
assisted suicide.

"He’s a living icon, and he’s led one of the most unique lives there is;
there’s not a dull moment," said Jones.

"He doesn’t grant interviews readily, but now he wants his story to be
told. Whether or not you agree with his views or actions, one thing is
for sure: His passion is something to be in awe of. He gave up eight
years of his life to make a point."

The script is being written by Adam Mazer, who co-wrote the espionage
thriller "Breach," released this year. Neal Nicol and Harry Wylie’s book
"Between the Dying and the Dead: Dr. Jack Kevorkian’s Life and the
Battle to Legalize Euthanasia" is being used as source material.

Mazer said the project’s aim is not to attempt to change anyone’s views
on euthanasia but is intended to bring to light the many parts of
Kevorkian’s life that people don’t know.

"At the time of his sentence, he was probably the most recognized doctor
in the world," Mazer said. "Most of what we know of him has been told
through the media and headlines, but he’s a very complicated and complex
man, and a lot of things about his personality and background have never
really been shared with the public, including his great intelligence and
terrific sense of humor."

/en_nm/kevorkian_dc_1

AZG Armenian Daily #197, 27/10/2007

Power Engineering

NEW NUCLEAR POWER STATION IN ARMENIA, IF…

If Yerevan decides to build a new nuclear power station, Russia will
participate in the construction, informed First Vice-President of
"Atomstroyexport" Aleksander Glukhov. "We are discussing the issue of
building a new block of 1000 megawatt in the territory of the Armenian
atomic station", he mentioned.

According to Glukhov, Armenia has a unique legislation that lets
foreign companies acquire the shares of the station, which provides
new perspectives for them.

Translated by L.H.

OSCE MG CO-CHAIRS AVOIDED MEETING AZERI MEDIA

PanARMENIAN.Net
26.10.2007 13:44 GMT+04:00

/PanARMENIAN.Net/ Today, the OSCE Minsk Group Co-chairs held
a 50-minute meeting with Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Elmar
Mammadyarov. Afterwards, the mediators refused to furnish any comments
to media and left the Foreign Ministry building through the back door
in order to avoid meeting reporters.

After Baku consultations the OSCE MG Co-chairs will return to Yerevan
to discuss outcomes of the regional visit.

EUROPEAN COMMAND OF THE USA…

Azat Artsakh Tert
Oct 26 2007
Nagorno Karabakh Republic

On October 24th in Baku, Jeny Gala settlement, opening of the next
school took place, which had been built by financial assistance of
European command of the USA embassy and the USA armed forces. It
was built at the expense of the financing of European command of
the USA (regnum agency reported). The USA ambassador to Azerbaijan
Ann Derse participated in the opening ceremony of the school, who
announced, "Investments in the sphere of education are investments in
democracy". According to her, the USA Government would also finance
the construction of the school foreseen for the migrants compeled
from Lachin region. 3 million dollars have been already expended on
schools’ construction.

ARMPRODEXPO 2007 EXHIBITION TO BE HELD IN ARMENIA

ARKA News Agency, Armenia
Oct 25 2007

YEREVAN, October 25. /ARKA/. The 7th international conference
Armprodexpo 2007 is to be held in Yerevan on November 14-17. The
Agribusiness Development Center reports that production enterprises,
local and foreign commercial and advertising organizations will
participate in the exhibition of the best food products.

The exhibition has been organized by the RA Ministry of Agriculture,
RA Foreign Office, Yerevan Municipality, Chamber of Commerce and
Industry and the Agribusiness Development Center.

BRIEFING OF MR. TIGRAN TOROSYAN, PRESIDENT OF THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY OF THE REPUBLIC OF ARMENIA WITH THE JOURNALISTS

National Assembly of RA, Armenia
Oct 24 2007

Question "Mr. Tigran Torosyan how do you comment on IRI president’s
unexpected interruption of his visit?"

President of the National Assembly "In such cases simply necessity
rises for the president to be in his country at the present
moment. Similar situations usually are the results of those cases."

Question "Mr. Tigran Torosyan, do you know what is the situation in
the Islamic Republic of Iran?"

President of the National Assembly "Naturally, such an issue was not
discussed with the representatives of IRI, and it is not acceptable
to discuss such issues, moreover that the invitation of the visit
was not from the National Assembly.

We met with Dr. Mahmoud Ahmadinejad in the morning, after that the
president of the Islamic Republic of Iran should have to leave for
his country."

Question "Mr. Tigran Torosyan, what issues have you discussed?"

President of the National Assembly "I think it is easy to suppose,
first, the results of the visit and second, what prospects are there
for the development of bilateral relations, third, the necessity
of deepening the inter-parliamentary ties for the support of the
development of bilateral relations. Also we have briefly discussed
several issues connected with the visit of the Parliament President
of the Islamic Republic of Iran related to the visit to Tehran."

Question "Mr. Tigran Torosyan, what can you tell us about the mood
of the IRI President?"

Question "Mr. Tigran Torosyan, how has IRI president assessed the
visit to Armenia?"

President of the National Assembly "It was very good, and the
assessment – very productive."

Question "Mr. Tigran Torosyan will you visit the Islamic Republic of
Iran in the nearest future?"

President of the National Assembly "Yes, the President of the Islamic
Republic of Iran invited to visit the Islamic Republic of Iran up
till the end of the year."

ISSUES OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DISCUSSED AT PRESIDENT’S OFFICE

armradio.am
23.10.2007 15:17

Issues concerning the current activities of the Ministry of
Environmental Protection were discussed during President Robert
Kocharyan’s working meeting with RA Minister of Environmental
Protection Aram Harutyunyan.

The interlocutors discussed the geological funds of the republic,
the necessity of listing and digitalizing the mines put up for
auction. Robert Kocharyan instructed to start the work by the end
of the year, simultaneously working out the procedure of using the
fund materials.

Reference was made to issues of decentralization of basin control
and territories under special protection.

AHMADINEJAD: PRECONDITIONS OUR RIGHT

Press TV
Oct 23 2007
Iran

President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad says it is Iran that must set
preconditions in talks over its nuclear issue not the bullying powers.

Speaking among Iranians residing in Armenia, Ahmadinejad said Tehran
favors negotiations but it does not discuss its legitimate nuclear
rights with any country.

The President said the bullying powers will soon realize that they
have to bend to the Iranian nation’s strong will, adding Iran will
not withdraw from its nuclear activities.

"Today, Iran’s nuclear case has returned to the International Atomic
Energy Agency and now the IAEA is fulfilling its duties of supervising
and controlling."

Ahmadinejad called imposing sanctions a futile attempt to hinder
Iran’s progress and said Tehran has overcome the sanctions and made
significant progress in different areas including aerospace industry,
nanotechnology and biotechnology.

TURKEY’S IRAQ THREAT – REAL FEARS ON KURDISH TERROR
By Peter Brookes

Family Security Matters, NJ
Oct 22 2007

"History is littered with the wars which everybody knew would never
happen." – Enoch Powell, British Politician (1967)

This week, the Turkish parliament gave the central government the
go-ahead to undertake cross-border operations into Iraq against the
Kurdish terrorist-separatist group, the Kurdistan Worker’s Party (PKK.)

The good news is that Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Recep Erdogan
insists an attack isn’t imminent. The bad news is that a large-scale
incursion could have serious consequences for U.S. interests in Iraq.

It’s no surprise the Turks are up in arms. PKK forces based in Iraq
have recently attacked both civilian and military targets in Turkey.

PKK rebels reportedly killed at least 15 Turkish soldiers and a
busload of civilians in the last two weeks.

The ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) is under tremendous
domestic pressure to do something about the PKK, which may be
responsible for at least 100 soldiers deaths this year alone.

Indeed, the PKK is responsible for 600 total deaths last year. Since
1984, when the PKK began its armed push for an independent Kurdish
homeland in southeastern Turkey, over 30,000 have died.

And a Turkish incursion into Iraq against the PKK wouldn’t be
unprecedented. Turkish forces have crossed the border a number of
times, sometimes in large numbers, in pursuit of the PKK since the
conflict broke out.

Just this June, Turkey massed ground forces along the Iraqi border,
without the green light it now has from the parliament, after a spate
of PKK killings in Turkey.

For the moment, though, Turkey probably isn’t going to invade. But
in the meantime, the saber rattling serves other purposes.

First, the authorization for the use of force sends a nasty shot
across the bow of both Baghdad and Washington (a NATO ally) to do
something substantive about the PKK, operating out of Iraq.

Ankara understands the last thing Washington or Baghdad wants –
or needs, especially when things seem to be going better in Iraq –
is a problem like Turkish forces pouring across the border.

While U.S. and Iraqi leaders have been cautious about saying what they
might do if Turkey invades, Turkish forces (NATO’s second largest)
could unintentionally attack U.S. troops – or meet fierce resistance
from local Kurds or the Iraqi army.

Such ugly possibilities are a real incentive for the United States
and Iraq to do something. Ankara, is demanding meaningful action and
progress on eliminating the PPK in Iraq , not just more promises.

(Turkey and Iraq recently signed a counterterror cooperation pact.)

In addition, the Turks were furious that our House of Representatives
planned to take up a nonbinding resolution on the massacre of Armenians
in the Ottoman Empire during World War I. Ankara has threatened to
close Incirlik airbase to us – a threat that seems to have lead House
leaders to back off. If Ankara does cut off access, the Pentagon can
reroute the large volume of cargo and fuel bound for U.S. troops in
Iraq – but the possibility of a large-scale military action ratchets
up the pressure astronomically.

Of course, the Turkish threats could be all bluff and bluster,
especially by a ruling party that is looking to boost its sagging
public support with a little jingoism. Then again, why should we take
a chance when so much is at stake?

Now, the PKK isn’t just in Iraq. Ankara has a PKK problem on its
side of the border, too. But Washington and Baghdad must do their
best to close PKK camps in Iraq, eliminating the need for Turkish
cross-border operations.

The United States and the Europeans could also help Turkey with the
PKK through more robust intelligence collection and sharing. (Both
the European Union and the U.S. State Department list the PKK as a
terrorist organization.)

NATO generals can encourage restraint with the powerful Turkish
military brass, too. And Brussels – while doing more itself
to dismantle PKK networks in Europe – should remind Ankara of
repercussions of military action on its long-held goal of joining
the EU.

Hopefully, cooler heads will prevail. But considering Turkish politics,
strained Ankara-Washington relations and the PKK’s relentless terror
campaign, a major Turkish incursion into Iraq could become a reality.

Story originally ran in The NY Post.

# #

FamilySecurityMatters.org contributing editor Peter Brookes is
a Senior Fellow for National Security Affairs at the Heritage
Foundation and is a member of the U.S.-China Economic and Security
Review Commission. He writes a weekly column for the New York Post and
frequently appears on FOX, CNN, MSNBC, CNBC, NPR and BBC. He is the
author of: "A Devil’s Triangle: Terrorism, Weapons of Mass Destruction
and Rogue States." Mr. Brookes served in the U.S. Navy and is now a
Commander in the naval reserves. He has over 1300 flight hours aboard
Navy EP-3 aircraft. He is a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy; the
Defense Language Institute; the Naval War College; the Johns Hopkins
University; and is pursuing a Doctorate at Georgetown University.