Author: Kanayan Tamar

ARMENIAN GRAND MASTER SUFFERS FIRST DEFEAT IN LONDON CANDIDATES 2013

ARMINFO
Tuesday, March 26, 12:56

Armenian grandmaster Levon Aronian has suffered the first defeat in
the London Candidates Round 9 vs. Boris Gelfand (Israel).

A leader emerges – naturally it’s Carlsen. The Norwegian super-star
must count how many lives he has remaining, as he certainly used one
up today to salvage his game against Kramnik. Aronian fell prey to an
emerging Gelfand, which gives Carlsen solo lead. Svidler and Grischuk
wanted the attention all for themselves by playing a spectacular game,
while Ivanchuk ground down Radjabov with technical precision.

The next game is on March 27. Aronian will play vs. Ivanuchuk. The
winner will earn the right to challenge current world champion Vishy
Anand for the title.

SYRIAN ARMENIAN SKILYAN FAMILY PREFERS TO LIVE IN HOMELAND

13:28, 26 March, 2013

YEREVAN, MARCH 26, ARMENPRESS: Syrian Armenian Hrayr Skilyan, who
has been in many countries of the world due to his job character,
currently habits in Homeland. Our compatriot has moved to Armenia
from most Armenian populated, second city of Syria-Aleppo.

Skilyan told in the briefing with Armenpress, he is gratified with the
fact currently he resides in Homeland. “This is the first time I am
in Armenia. I have not been here before. Yet from the early childhood
we have been brought up as patriots. We have been taught Armenian,
we always used to hear “Armenia”, ” Homeland”, ” Sasuntsi Davit”
and similar other patriotic words.

Skilyan is very happy local Armenians hosted their family with open
heart. “When I saw Mount Ararat from my window for the first time I
was paralyzed, after regained the ability to speak.It is comforting
especially after habiting over a year in a war situation. “We lost
much, house, job, fortune” the interlocutor noted. Hrayr Skilyan is
busy with woodworking in Armenia. In his words Armenian and Syrian
customers differ from each other, Syrians were more priggish. No matter
the difference in demand did not hinder Syrian Armenian repatriate
to create a qualified product.

SERJ TANKIAN PRESENTS SONG SPRING AND DEDICATES IT TO THOSE WHO ARE FIGHTING FOR REFORMS IN ARMENIA

ARMINFO
Tuesday, March 26, 13:34

System Of A Down frontman Serj Tankian in cooperation with pianist
Tigran Amasyan have re-recorded the song Spring by Komitas and
dedicated it to those who are fighting for reforms in Armenia.

In a statement Tankian says that the song will be issued this summer
as part of his upcoming record Jazz-Iz-Christ.

“I want to dedicate this song to everyone who is fighting for positive
changes in Armenia. Peace, Serj,” the statement reads.

L’Est Républicain, France
Mardi 19 mars 2013

Soirée arménienne, il reste quelques places
Chaligny

L’association Areve en partenariat avec Les P’tites Fugues organise un
concert-repas arménien le samedi 23 mars, à la salle polyvalente.

L’ouverture de la billetterie aura lieu à 18h pour le concert 18 h 30.
Le repas à 20 h 30 est lui sur réservation. La première partie du
concert sera composée de chants traditionnels, interprétés par Sargis
Haroyan. L’ensemble de cuivres Pentafonia interprétera des oeuvres de
Beethoven, Moussorgski…

Prix du concert avec repas 20 (EURO) pour les adultes et 12 (EURO)
pour les enfants de 5 à 13 ans. Gratuit pour les moins de 5 ans.
Forfait famille 60 (EURO). Concert seul 5 (EURO).

Les réservations pour le repas sont obligatoires, il reste quelques
places. Soit par téléphone au 06.07.73.84.12. Par e-mail :
[email protected] ou :
[email protected]

Democratic Homeland party’s leader does not exclude new surprises from people

TERT.AM
21:04 – 24.03.13

Before the presidential elections the Democratic Homeland party has
stated that no frank elections should be expected and the ruling
authorities’ representative will again become `legitimate’ president,
leader of the party Petros Makeyan said.

`While our people made an unpredictable step we witness know. At
present I do not exclude that the people will again surprise us,’ he
told Tert.am in the Liberty Square. He said the authorities know
better what is going on in the square than any of us.

Speaking about Raffi Hovannisian’s proposals, Makeyan said naturally
the authorities will not agree to all of them. `But they have no
alternative but agree to concessions,’ he said.

The party’s leader said the final decision-maker is the public. `The
life will show. This disease has been enrooted in our public and it is
impossible to immediately decide and suggest a medicine,’ he stressed.

Cumhuriyet, Turkey
March 23 2013

Obama Signals ‘White House Meeting’

column “Analysis” by Utku Cakirozer

There was a surprise development during the phone conversation in
which Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu apologized to Prime
Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan over the Mavi Marmara raid. During the
conversation, US President Barack Obama, who was standing next to
Netanyahu, took the phone and congratulated Erdogan for the compromise
reached and said: “We will discuss this issue in greater detail soon.”
By doing this, he signalled a White House invitation, for which Ankara
has been waiting for a long time.

Signal Came in Denmark

Let us first look at the developments that triggered Israel’s decision
to apologize.

1. President Obama’s pressuring to reinstate the relationship between
Ankara and Tel Avivi was the most important deciding factor.

2. Prime Minister Netanyahu gained some breathing room when Israeli
Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman, who opposed any apologies, was
forced to step down for six months because of certain allegations
against him after recent elections.

3. US Secretary of State John Kerry and Foreign Minister Ahmet
Davutoglu discussed the conditions that would satisfy Turkey in the
several phone conversations they had prior to Obama’s visit to Israel.

4. In an interview with a Danish newspaper at the beginning of this
week, Prime Minister Erdogan said that his comments at the UN meeting
in Vienna were misunderstood and that Turkey has always opposed
anti-Semitism.

Success on Apology, Compensation

After a compromise was formulated by Kerry through shuttle diplomacy,
Netanyahu called Erdogan and used the word “apology” in an unambiguous
and indisputable way. This must be recorded as a diplomatic success
for the AKP [Justice and Development Party] government. The Israeli
side also agreed to pay compensation for the Turkish citizens killed
in the Mavi Marmara raid.

Embargo Not Lifted

Although Turkey’s conditions for an apology and compensation – demands
that were expressed from the outset – were met, no progress was made
on Prime Minister Erdogan’s third demand for “the lifting of the
blockade on Gaza” – which was added later. As the Office of the Prime
Minister has pointed out, Netanyahu did not make any statements to the
effect that “the blockade will be lifted.” Netanyahu did not announce
any new decisions with regard to the blockade.

The blockade on Gaza was effectively eased after the Muslim
Brotherhood rose to power in Egypt. Reports published in the Israeli
press yesterday evening suggest that Netanyahu told Erdogan that “this
situation will continue as long as Israel’s security is not
threatened.”

All Three Countries to Win

The agreement reached yesterday will contribute to the national
interests of all three countries involved, namely Turkey, the United
States, and Israel. Specifically:

1. There will be a big relief in Turkey’s relations with the United
States. The first and most important sign of this is the upcoming
White House appointment Erdogan had been waiting for.

2. The Jewish lobby in the US Congress, which had taken a really harsh
stand after the prime minister’s comments about “Zionism,” will now
soften its position. As a result, Ankara’s requests for its defence
system needs will receive better treatment. In addition, it will be
possible to prevent the Jewish lobby from backing resolutions on the
Armenian genocide.

3. Intelligence cooperation with Israel will be developed to protect
the negotiation process with Imrali for the solution of Turkey’s
Kurdish problem from potential provocations.

4. Israel will be saved from the isolation it has been forced to face
in the Middle East as a consequence of the Arab Spring. In particular,
Israel will expand its cooperation over intelligence and security with
Turkey.

5. Another gain for Israel will be the prevention of the international
lawsuits against soldiers who participated in the Mavi Marmara raid.

6. Having realized reconciliation between two important allies, the
United States will greatly increase its influence in the resolution of
regional crises in the Middle East.

[Translated from Turkish]

HAIGAZIAN UNIVERSITY
Mira Yardemian – Public Relations Director
Rue Mexique – Kantari
P.O. Box 11-1748
Riad El-Solh 1107 2090
Beirut – Lebanon

Tel: 961-1-353011
Web:

Concluding Ceremony of the 500th Anniversary of Armenian Printing:
Launching `The Lebanese Armenian Book 1894-2012: A Bibliographic List’

Under the auspices of the culture ministers of both Lebanon and
Republic of Armenia, Mr. Gaby Layoun and Mrs. Hasmig Boghosian the
concluding event of the Haigazian University ceremonial evenings
dedicated to the 500th anniversary of Armenian printing was held on
Friday, March 22, 2013.
The Haigazian University Committee for the celebration of the 500th
anniversary of Armenian printing held a series of events on that
started on May 6, 2012. These included two exhibitions of Lebanese
Armenian newspapers and publishing houses, an acknowledgment evening
for Lebanese Armenian authors who had published books in 2010 and/or
2011, and a gratitude event dedicated to the current workforce of the
Lebanese Armenian newspapers.
For this concluding event, the Committee had invited the director of
the National Library of Armenia, Dr. Dikran Zarkarian as a key note
speaker to the launching of the book called `The Lebanese Armenian
Book 1894-2012: A Bibliographic list’, prepared by Dr. Antranik
Dakessian and Dr. Armen Urneshlian.
After welcoming the audience, Ms Sonia Sislian, the chairperson of the
Committee, in a retrospective power point presentation briefed the
audience on the previous four events and highlighted the specific
message of them each.
In his Letter of Appreciation, Culture Minister Gaby Layoun put the
ceremony in its pan-Lebanese context and considered it a `thoroughly
Lebanese national celebration’, wishing that the flame of serving to
the Armenian letter is passed on from one generation to the
other. Minister Layoun called on the Lebanese Armenian community and
Haigazian University to continue serving Lebanon and wished them
success in their endeavors. Minister Layoun’s letter was read by
Mr. Michel De Chadarevian (advisor of the Minister of Culture).

Ambassador Ashod Kocharian read the letter of acknowledgment of the
Culture Minister of the Republic of Armenia. In her letter, Minister
Hasmig Boghosian highly appreciated the participation of Haigazian
University and its contribution to the 500th anniversary pan-Armenian
ceremonies which were held worldwide. She considered the volume a
unique expression of respect to the Armenian book and literature, and
to the centuries-old Armenian printing efforts. She expressed hope
that such cultural events organized by Haigazian University would add
thrust to the spiritual elevation of the Diaspora.
Dr. Dikran Zarkarian, considered the 500 year old track of Armenian
printing a history of learning intertwined with love towards the
Armenian language, the fatherland and faith. He added that the track
reflected the inclination of the Armenians towards enlightenment and
the spread of human values, respect towards education and the culture
of other nations. Dr. Zarkarian stressed that the acquisition of
national history in depth is an important means for self recognition
and added that historic memory is best preserved in the book for
centuries. Dr. Zarkarian asserted that `bibliography is a key to
written cultural heritage’ and as such he considered the new book `a
foundational work of research’ and congratulated both the authors of
the book and Haigazian University. Mr. Zarkarian announced the
establishment of a web bank in the National Library of Armenia and
underlined its importance. He assured that this new book will be a
part of that web bank and will serve as a source in providing material
to it.
Eventually, Dr. Zarkarian announced that, considering the very
important input Haigazian University is having in Armenian Culture,
the National Library of Armenia has decided to bestow the University
with its highest ranking medal of `Hagop Meghabard’ and invited
Rev. Dr. Haidostian to receive the honor.
Haigazian University students Alice Ipradjian, Varanta Yacoubian and
Boghos Malian and Nanor Madjarian (on the piano) sang the song `Hayots
Darer’ under the supervision of Mrs. Roubina Artinian. In his
concluding word, Haigazian University President, Rev. Dr. Paul
Haidostian, noted that all ceremonies dedicated to the celebration of
the 500th anniversary of Armenian printing have been satisfactory and
inspirational to the Haigazian University and the Lebanese Armenian
community. Both Armenian alphabet and those behind it were
acknowledged. Through these events culture was under the spotlight
and another opportunity was given to praise God. Rev. Haidostian
considered the Armenian alphabet and Armenian books as life giving
tools if they are worked on, offered and accepted wholeheartedly and
with devotion. He considered the publication of this bibliographic
book a starting point to research the books published by Armenian
authors in other languages as well as the study of the Armenian book
in the Middle East in general.
On another note, he suggested that Armenians should initiate a new
work-track of translating and offering Armenian literature and culture
to non-Armenians. Such an undertaking would enrich the universal
library and world civilization’. In the end, Rev. Haidostian thanked
all those who participated in these jubilee events, especially
highlighting the authors of the book, Drs. Dakessian and
Urneshlian. He thanked Dr. Zarkarian for his acceptance of the
invitation and as a souvenir of this special occasion he presented a
memento to Dr. Zarkarian.
The event came to its closure with cake cutting and a reception.
The audience was delighted with the free copies of the 460-page
bibliography book distributed to all those present.

SPORTS
Arthur Alexanian (96 kg), champion d’Europe de lutte gréco-romaine
il a dédié le titre à l’Arménie et aux Arméniens

Après l’Arménien David Safarian (66 kg) en lutte libre l’Arménie
détient un second titre européen avec Arthur Alexanian (96 kg) en
lutte gréco-romaine. Lors des championnats d’Europe de lutte à
Tbilissi (Géorgie) cet après-midi, l’Arménien Arthur Alexanian a
conservé son titre européen. En finale il s’est imposé facilement sur
le score de 6-0 (3-0, 3-0) face au Bulgare Vladislav Metodiev. Il
avait éliminé un Turc en quart de finale et un Azéri en demi-finale.
Un autre Arménien, Vatchik Yeghiazarian (120 kg) s’est emparé de la
médaille de bronze de sa catégorie en battant le Bulgare Lyoudomir
Dimitrov.

« Je me sens fier de ce deuxième titre européen. Je dédie ma victoire
à l’Arménie et à tous les Arméniens (…) de désire conquérir te titre
de mondial et mon rêve est le titre Olympique » a affirmé le double
champion d’Europe après sa victoire.

Arthur Alexanian a remporté la médaille de bronze lors des 30e Jeux
Olympiques de Londres l’été dernier. Né en 1991, il fut champion du
monde junior et médaille de bronze des championnats du monde. Il a
également remporté une médaille d’argent et une de bronze lors des
championnats d’Europe junior. En senior il disposait également d’un
titre de champion et d’une médaille d’argent.

Krikor Amirzayan

dimanche 24 mars 2013,
Krikor Amirzayan ©armenews.com

Mikheil Saakashvili: “Ilham Aliyev’s presidency in Azerbaijan is a
guarantee of Georgia’s long-term development’

2013-03-23 22:28:57

Presidency of Ilham Aliyev in Azerbaijan is a guarantee of long-term
development of Georgia, Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili said
during the Open Air program on “Imedi” TV.

“Under current leadership, Azerbaijan is clearly in positions closer
to NATO. This country plays a stabilizing role in the region, and our
enemy is well aware of this (he did not specify who the enemy was).
Thus, if Azerbaijan falls as the country oriented towards European
integration, it will be a disaster for Georgia,” he said.

Georgian President said Azerbaijan supplies gas to Georgia for three
times lower prices than to Europe, and invests in the Georgian
economy. “It’s vitally important for Georgia, therefore, any change of
the course of Azerbaijan would mark a catastrophe for us,” he said.

“Azerbaijan is steadily building its statehood and is on its feet. The
longer the country will be ruled by Ilham Aliyev, the more confident
Georgia will feel,” Saakashvili said.

He also confirmed that his statements remain in force on return from
Baku, and there are forces “trying to destabilize” the situation in
Azerbaijan. “Many do not like my statements, but all the information
is confirmed and one needs to be careful,” he said.

Church and President’s swearing ceremony -Video

05:15 PM | TODAY | SOCIAL

With regard to this year’s post-election processes the role of the
Armenian Apostolic Church has been actively discussed again,
particularly in the political processes. Raffi Hovannisian’s appeal
not to participate in the swearing ceremony of Serzh Sargsyan and the
subsequent reaction of the church once again brought public attention
to the question of whether the church should have a role in the
country’s political life, and, if so, what role should it be?

The political role of the church is quite subtle and multilayer.
Should the Church express its position on the disputed elections and
electoral processes?

Journalist Ara Galoyan and PhD candidate in historical sciences
Hovhannes Hovhannisyan.
Details in “Other opinions” video blog of Yerevan Press Club.