Author: Khoyetsian Rose

Pennsylvania recognizes Armenian Genocide
Yerkir
14.05.2004 13:39
YEREVAN (YERKIR) – The Pennsylvania House of Representatives
unanimously passed a resolution designating April 24, 2004 as
“Pennsylvania’s Day of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide of
1915-1923,” reported the Armenian National Committee (ANC) of
Pennsylvania.
The resolution identifies the Ottoman Empire as the perpetrators of
a genocide that claimed the lives of one and a half million Armenian
men, women, and children from 1915 to 1923. It also acknowledges
that modern Turkey continues to deny and distort the facts of the
Armenian Genocide.
In addition to the Pennsylvania House Resolution, the Pittsburgh
City Council passed a proclamation declaring April 24, 2004 “A Day
of Remembrance” for the victims of the Armenian Genocide.

A1 Plus | 19:26:47 | 10-05-2004 | Social |
INTERNET SITE ON NAGORNO KARABAKH
BBC is setting an Internet site in connection with the 10th
anniversary of truce in Nagorno Karabakh. Beginning from May 12 news
and standpoints on NKR conflict will be published in this site. The
visitors of bbcrussian.com Internet site can partake in daily forums
introducing points of view on the conflict settlement.
British Conciliation Resources NGO occupied with regulation of
conflicts finances the site. The project is the part of Consortium
Initiative funded by British Government, aiming to improve the
potentialities for Karabakhi conflict settlement.

Armenian National Committee of America
888 17th Street NW Suite 904
Washington, DC 20006
Tel: (202) 775-1918
Fax: (202) 775-5648
E-mail: [email protected]
Internet:
PRESS RELEASE
May 6, 2004
Contact: Elizabeth S. Chouldjian
Tel: (202) 775-1918
SENATE AND HOUSE MEMBERS COMMEMORATE ARMENIAN GENOCIDE
IN FLOOR SPEECHES
WASHINGTON, DC – Over 25 Senate and House Members joined Armenians
around the world last week in commemorating the 89th Anniversary of
the Armenian Genocide, offering “Special Order” remarks on the House
floor and Congressional statements made in the weeks surrounding
April 24th, reported the Armenian National Committee of America
(ANCA.)
Congressional Armenian Caucus co-chair Frank Pallone (D-NJ)
organized the April 27th House commemoration, providing
Representatives with an opportunity to offer 5-minute statements in
remembrance of the atrocities committed by the Ottoman Turkish
Government from 1915-1923. Senators and House Members also
submitted additional statements in the days surrounding April 24th.
“We want to thank Congressman Pallone for taking the leadership
every year in hosting this Special Order,” said ANCA Executive
Director Aram Hamparian. “We appreciate, as well, all the hard
work by Armenian American organizations and individuals throughout
the U.S., educating their federal, state and local legislators
about the Armenian Genocide and the terrible consequences of its
denial.”
During their statements, many Senate and House members urged
support for legislation marking the 15th anniversary of the U.S.
implementation of the U.N. Genocide Convention. H.Res.193 and
S.Res.164 cite the importance of learning the lessons of the
Holocaust as well as the Armenian, Cambodian and Rwandan genocides
to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The House version of
the measure has 111 cosponsors and was adopted unanimously by the
Judiciary Committee last May. Its Senate counterpart currently has
39 cosponsors.
Excerpts from the Senate and House floor speeches follow.
———————————————–
SENATORS (listed in alphabetical order)
——————————————- —-
Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-CA): This week marks the 89th anniversary of
the Armenian Genocide. Between 1915 and 1923, the Ottoman Empire
conducted the first Genocide of the 20th Century, killing an
estimated 1.5 million Armenians and displacing thousands more. The
campaign was so devastating that at the beginning of World War I,
there were 2.1 million Armenians living in the Ottoman Empire.
Following the Genocide, fewer than 100,000 Armenians remained.
Sen. Russ Feingold (D-WI): The international community has a long
way to go in punishing and especially, preventing genocide. But we
have made the first steps. As we move forward, we must learn the
lessons of Armenia’s genocide. Can we recognize the rhetorical
veils of murderous leaders, thrown up to disguise the agenda at
hand? Have we, the international community, learned that we must
not stand by, paralyzed, as horrors occur, but work collectively to
prevent and stop genocides from occurring? We owe the victims of
the Armenian genocide this commitment.
Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-CA): I am proud to represent an Armenian
community of half a million in my great State of California. They
are a strong and resilient community, taking strength in the
tragedies of the past and the promise of a better tomorrow. This
community is leading the effort to preserve the memory of the
Armenian Genocide not only for future generations of Armenian
Americans, but, indeed, for all Americans and all citizens of the
world. I urge my colleagues to join me in remembering the first
genocide of the 20th century. Through our commemoration of this
tragedy, we make clear that we will not tolerate mass murder and
ethnic cleansing ever again and we will never forget.
Sen. Carl Levin (D-MI): I believe the highest tribute we can pay to
the victims of a genocide is by acknowledging the horrors they
faced and reaffirming our commitment to fight against such heinous
acts in the future. In commemorating the tragedy of the genocide
today, I would also like to recognize the fact that yesterday
Canada’s House of Commons, took the courageous step of officially
recognizing that the events initiated on April 24, 1915, were in
fact a genocide and crime against humanity. It is my hope that all
people of goodwill will join in calling this tragedy by its correct
name–a genocide. I hope that our colleagues will join me in
commemorating this tragedy and vowing to honor and remember the
innocent victims of the Armenian genocide.
Sen. Jack Reed (D-RI): Thus, as we reflect on this atrocity, let us
call for our own country to recognize the Armenian Genocide, just
as my own State of Rhode Island has done, and as the parliaments of
Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, France, Greece, Italy, Lebanon, Russia,
and Sweden have done over the past 6 years. Let us also pledge
never to ignore atrocities by those who claim the legitimacy of
government. We must never ignore and we will never forget.
———————————————–
REPRESENTATIVES (listed in alphabetical order)
——————————————- —-
Rep: Rob Andrews (D-NJ): The senseless crime of genocide is one of
the most reprehensible acts that can be committed by man. To
attempt eradication of an entire population based on a misguided
prejudice is absolutely vile, and the United States should do
everything in its power to try and prevent such atrocities from
happening in the future. Only by explicitly defining genocide and
ensuring that all cases of genocide throughout history are
appropriately identified can we effectively deter this crime.
Particularly at this time of heightened vigilance around the world,
it is absolutely imperative that America take a strong stance
against the most troubling of all terrorist acts, mass killings.
Rep. Joe Baca (D-CA): It is important to recognize the historical
atrocities perpetrated against the Armenians. We must teach our
children about the fear, torture, mass graves, and expulsions of
the Armenian people. Through education and commemoration, our
children can grow up to be better citizens and better Americans.
Rep. John Conyers (D-MI): Mr. Speaker, tonight I rise to remind the
world that the 24th of April marked the 89th anniversary of the
Armenian Genocide, a systematic and deliberate campaign of genocide
of the Ottoman Empire. Also, it marked yet another year with the
U.S. formally not recognizing the atrocities that occurred.
Considering how well documented the genocide is in the U.S.
archives and through an overwhelming body of first-hand,
governmental, and diplomatic evidence, this is nothing less than a
disgrace.
Rep. Jerry Costello (D-IL): The Armenian Genocide is a historical
fact, despite the efforts of some to minimize its scope and deny
its occurrence. Many of the survivors of the genocide came to the
United States, where they and their descendants have contributed to
our society in countless ways. In my district, there is a
significant population of Armenian survivors and their families
that showed heroic courage and a will to survive. With faith and
courage, generations of Armenians have overcome great suffering and
proudly preserved their culture, traditions, and religion and have
told the story of the genocide to an often indifferent world. As
Members of Congress and people of conscience, we must work to
overcome the indifference and distortions of history, and ensure
that future generations know what happened.
Rep Cal Dooley (D-CA): Our statements today are intended to
preserve the memory of the Armenian loss, and to remind the world
that the Turkish government–to this day–refuses to acknowledge
the Armenian Genocide. The truth of this tragedy can never and
should never be denied.
Rep. Rush Holt (D-NJ): Even more disturbing are the governments,
institutions, scholars, and individuals who deny the enormity of
these crimes against humanity. It is inconceivable that individuals
and governments continue to ignore the substantial evidence–
including numerous survivor accounts, photodocumentaries, and
official documents in the archives of the United States, Britain,
France, Austria, and the Vatican–that prove these atrocities took
place. It is also frustrating that some rationalize these crimes or
refuse to recognize this premeditated ethnic cleansing as genocide.
Michael Honda (D-CA): Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask the Members
of the House to join us in recognizing past instances of genocide
and reaffirming our Nation’s commitment to never again allow the
perpetration of such atrocities anywhere on this earth. House
Resolution 193 appropriately reaffirms America’s obligation to
international genocide conventions, and underscores the importance
of recognizing past crimes against humanity, including the
Holocaust and the Armenian, Cambodian, and Rwandan genocides.
Rep. Barbara Lee (D-CA): This genocide is another significant
example of the injustice, torture, pain, and death that grows out
of intolerance, cruelty, and hatred. There are still a great
number of survivors of the genocide in America and many of their
children and grandchildren reside throughout the country. On this
day we join them in remembering and acknowledging the heinous act
that victimized their families. If we let such atrocities be
forgotten, then we are in danger of letting them be repeated.
Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI): Mr. Speaker, for myself and my
constituents, I rise today to urge those who deny this genocide to
accept it as fact. Only then can we move forward and stop these
atrocities from repeating themselves over and over again.
Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-NY): Without recognition and remembrance,
this atrocity remains a threat to nations around the world. I’ve
often quoted philosopher George Santayana who said: “Those who do
not remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” And to
remember, we must first acknowledge what it is–Genocide.
Rep. George McGovern (D-MA): Mr. Speaker, last May, the House
Committee on the Judiciary reported out House Resolution 193. We
have been waiting for nearly 1 year now for the Speaker of the
House to schedule this bill for a debate and for a vote, and I
would urge at this time that the Speaker schedule this bill as
quickly as possible so that the House of Representatives may join
those nations and those scholars who affirm the Genocide Convention
and recognize the Armenian Genocide and Holocaust as genocides of
the 20th century.
Michael McNulty (D-NY): From 1915 to 1923, the world witnessed the
first genocide of the 20th century. This was clearly one of the
world’s greatest tragedies–the deliberate and systematic Ottoman
annihilation of 1.5 million Armenian men, women, and children.
Furthermore, another 500,000 refugees fled and escaped to various
points around the world–effectively eliminating the Armenian
population of the Ottoman Empire.
Rep. Martin Meehan (D-MA): To deny this truth is to tarnish the
memories of the millions of Armenians who lost their lives to
ethnic cleansing. As a member of the Congressional Armenian Caucus,
I have joined my colleagues in sending a letter to President Bush
urging him to acknowledge the Armenian Genocide during his April
24th commemoration address. By drawing attention to the legacy of
this genocide, we can strengthen our resolve to prevent future
human tragedies of this kind.
Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ): Mr. Speaker, the unfortunate thing is,
although so many other countries and so many of our own States have
recognized the Armenian genocide, we in the Congress continue not
to recognize it. I think it is important that we do so. The
gentleman from California (Mr. Schiff) was here earlier, and he
mentioned the House Genocide Resolution, H. Res. 193, which has now
111 cosponsors. The resolution was adopted unanimously by the House
Committee on the Judiciary on May 21, 2003, but it has not been
brought to the floor for consideration. I would urge the Speaker
and the leaders on the Republican side of the aisle to bring this
resolution to the floor. It is important that they do so.
Adam Schiff (D-CA): For those of us who care deeply about the
issue, we must redouble our efforts to ensure that our Nation,
which has championed liberty and human rights throughout its
history, is not complicit in Ankara’s effort to obfuscate what
happened between 1915 and 1923. Worse still, by tacitly siding with
those who would deny the Armenian genocide, we have rendered hollow
our commitment to never again let genocide occur.
Rep. Brad Sherman (D-CA): It is time for Turkey to acknowledge this
genocide, because only in that way can the Turkish government and
its people rise above it. The German government has been quite
forthcoming in acknowledging the Holocaust, and in doing so it has
at least been respected by the peoples of the world for its
honesty. Turkey should follow that example rather than trying to
deny history.
Mark Souder (R-IN): Despite a compelling record proving the
massacre of millions of human beings, there are still individuals,
organizations, and governments that deny what happened 89 years
ago. Given the United States’ longstanding dedication to combating
human rights abuses, it is shocking that the United States
government has not officially recognized the savage butchery of one
of the 20th Century’s worst human rights violations.
Rep. John Tierney (D-MA): I rise today to speak on one of the most
unspeakable acts that ever came to pass. Beginning in 1915,
innocent and unsuspecting Armenians of all ages were led by Ottoman
Empire officials from their villages to their brutal death. Such
atrocities endured for eight years. By 1923, an estimated 1.5
million Armenians were massacred.
Rep. Peter Visclosky (D-IN): Sadly, there are some people who still
deny the very existence of this period which saw the
institutionalized slaughter of the Armenian people and dismantling
of Armenian culture. To those who would question these events, I
point to the numerous reports contained in the U.S. National
Archives detailing the process that systematically decimated the
Armenian population of the Ottoman Empire. However, old records are
too easily forgotten–and dismissed. That is why we come together
every year at this time: to remember in words what some may wish to
file away in archives. This genocide did take place, and these
lives were taken. That memory must keep us forever vigilant in our
efforts to prevent these atrocities from ever happening again
Diane Watson (D-CA): Turkey’s failure to acknowledge the truth is a
burden on the alliance between our two nations. I would say to our
President, it should be called as it is, a crime of genocide. So I
call upon the President of the United States to uphold the
commitment he made back when he was running for President and put
the United States of America on record acknowledging the Armenian
genocide.
Rep. Henry Waxman (D-CA): We must identify ways to facilitate the
lifting of the blockade against Armenia and encourage a peaceful
resolution of the conflict in Nagorno-Karabagh. We must help
Armenia continue to flourish as a burgeoning democracy, extend
Permanent Normal Trade Relations (PNTR) status to strengthen her
economy, and stand ready to help maintain her military strength.
Let us resolve ourselves to ensure that the coming year will be one
that brings full recognition of the genocide that took place, and
peace to the region and the memory of those who perished.
Rep. Anthony Weiner (D-NY): Like communities that survived the
Nazis efforts at extermination, the Armenian community today is
often faced by those who deny the Turkish effort to commit genocide
ever occurred. Despite records and accounts preserved in our own
National Archives, there have been those bent on erasing this
horrible memory from the annals of history. We will not let that
happen. That is why today’s commemoration here in the United States
Congress and those going on this week is so crucial.
#####

UEFA.com, Europe
April 29 2004
Hakobyan tames Turkmenistan
Armenia 1-0 Turkmenistan
Ara Hakobyan underlined his prolific reputation with a 67th-minute
goal to give Armenia victory in their first ever meeting with
Turkmenistan.
Hakobyan goal
Armenia dominated throughout in Yerevan against their fellow former
Soviet republic. Hakobyan, who scored an astonishing 45 goals for FC
Banants in last year’s Armenian Premier League leaving him in the
current top five in the ESM Golden Shoe rankings, hit the post twice
before finally scoring.
Coach happy
Home coach Mikhaj Stoichita and his counterpart Rahim Kurbamamedov
both took the chance to give young players a run-out with one eye on
their forthcoming FIFA World Cup qualifying campaigns. Stoichita,
whose side meet the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, Romania,
Finland. F.Y.R. Macedonia and Andorra in Group 1, said: “I am
satisfied with our display. We were looking the stronger team
throughout the match and could have scored many times. I was able to
see some young players in action.”
Armenia credited
Kurbamamedov, whose team have opened their World Cup campaign with
wins against Sri Lanka and Indonesia in a group also containing Saudi
Arabia, said: “Of course I do not like the result, but the Armenians
deserved this win.”

The Russia Journal
First case of human anthrax reported in Armenia
WORLD/CIS » :: Apr 29, 2004 Posted: 19:49 Moscow time (15:49 GMT)
E-Mail this article Comments to Editor
Discussion Forum Printer-Friendly
YEREVAN – The first case of human anthrax has been registered in a village
in the Shirakskaya region of Armenia. As reported to a Rosbalt correspondent
by the Armenian Health Ministry, the infection originated in cattle, and
health workers do not exclude the possibility that the case will not be the
only one.
As of April 17, tens of cases of anthrax in cattle have been reported in the
region. The cause of the epidemic has been attributed to substandard
vaccine. The area has been quarantined, and health workers have reported
that the epicenter of the contamination has been localized. /Rosbalt/

ANNAN COLLECTS 76% “NO” AS THE REPUBLIC OF CYPRUS ENTERS THE EUROPEAN UNION
April 30, Nicosia (Gibrahayer). Amid bitter disappointment by U.N, E.U and
Anglo-American circles, Greek Cypriots shrugged certain political and
economic repercussions by sending a clear message to the architects of
the notorious Annan Plan that although Greek Cypriots remain committed
to peace and reconciliation with their Turkish Cypriot compatriots, it
cannot accept version five of the Annan Plan.
The modern-day Greek NO at 76% w as not celebrated in the Cyprus
Republic. Across the Green line Turkish Cypriots in the occupied
north threw a solo party for their 67% YES which in effect was not
politically translated either to a united Cyprus entering the EU, nor
did it mark the beginning of a united bizonal, bicommunal, federated
Cyprus.
Perhaps the most important question looming over Cypriots is the
following. Why was a Plan that was destined to collect a certain NO
vote from the Greek Cypriots, ever put to a referendum?
Although future moves by Cypriots and Greek governments remain
uncertain, they are hoping to find new solutions to old problems in
the new environment of the European Union which Cyprus joins midnight
today.
Whatever future prospects of a possible settlement may bring, no plan
will be voted and no plan will ever survive, if it does not address
key issues of security and guarantees by the international community.
——————————————————————
CYPRIOT SURVIVORS OF THE ARMENIAN GENOCIDE COMMEMORATE THE REASON THEY
ARRIVED TO CYPRUS
April 23, Nicosia (Gibrahayer) – With a solemn community gathering at
the Genocide Monument on Armenia street and Sourp Asdvadzadzin Church
the Armenian community of Cyprus commemorated in effect, the reason
they arrived in Cyprus as survivors of the first Genocide of the 20th
century nine decades ago.Â
Due to the Referendum on the Annan Plan scheduled for April 24, the
commemorative gatherings of the community took place on the evening on
April 23, 2004.
After the memorial service, Assadour Devletian took the floor and
delivered the message of the day on behalf of the Organising Commit
tee of the Armenian community of Cyprus.
Assadour Devletian’s speech can be read in its entirety by clicking
here.
The cultural highlight of the evening was the performance of the
Komitas Choir from Ainjar – Lebanon, that impressed with a selection
of Armenian classics of religious and popular songs by Yegmalian and
Komitas under maestro Barkev Taslakian.
This year, the community commemorated the victims of the Genocide
under the shadow of the nation-wide referendum which took place the
following day.
April 24 commemoration gatherings also took place on Sunday April 25,
2004. The students of the Melkonian held a school event, while the
Arme nian Clubof Larnaca held a gathering in the premises of the Club,
to which the Komitas Choir of Ainjar performed.
Due to the overwhelming coverage of local historical events, the
Cypriot media’s coverage of both the community’s commemoration and
efforts for international recognition of the Armenian Genocide, were
for the first timeminimal.
Images of the April 24 events can be viewed at:
Like every year, April 24 was commemorated throughout the
world. Yerevantsiz marched in thousands towards Dzidzernagapert, while
communities in the diaspora organised demonstrations, vigils and
gatherings. April 24 was alsomarked in Karabagh as well as Akhalkalak,
where a Khatchkar was placed in memory of the Armenian Genocide.
In California the demonstration organised by the AYF drew more than
5,000 while hun dreds marched on the Turkish consulate in Thesaloniki
to demand that Ankara recognises the genocide.
In Athens, government and parliamentary officials attended a political
gathering. Public Administration and Decentralisation Minister
Prokopis Pavlopoulos said that the international community should
exercise greater pressure on Turkey’s leaders to accept the genocide
while Greek Parliament speaker Anna Psarouda-Benaki said that
forgetfulness about the issue should be combated, regardless of
whether it stemmed from ignorance or expediency, in order to help
avert other instances.
——————————————————————
ARMENIANS AND AZERIS CLASH IN IRAN ON THE EVE OF APRIL 24
ANS TV Baku – April 25, 2004. On the eve of April 24 commemorations in
Teheran, fights were reported by Iranian media between Azeris and
Armeniansnear the Sourp Sarkis Church and at the intersection of
Kerimkhan and Weyla streets in northern Tehran.
Forty Azeris were arrested and 20 were seriously injured in the fights
which were sparked, on the eve of the April 24 commemorations in
Tehran after unknown provokateurs burned banners and emblems prepared
for April 24 events organised by the Armenian community of Iran.
The head of the Baku office of the National Revival Movement of
Southern Azerbaijan, Huseyn Turkel, said that the names of those
arrested and injured are known. Some of the injured are in hospital
and some in prison. He said that three of the injured were in a
critical condition. One of them was stabbed six times.
Huseyn Turkel said that the Armenians were chanting “Death to Turks!”
and “Damn the Turks!” when large scale fights broke out between
Armenians and Azeris when the latter tried to prevent the Armenians
from setting fire to a Turkish flag outside the Turkish embassy.
——————————————————————
HAY TAD ALERT CANADA RECOGNISES THE ARMENIAN GENOCIDE
Armenian National Committee of Canada – April 21, 2004 – The House of
Commons adopted a motion recognising the Armenian Genocide by a
majority of 153 votes. The motion was presented by Madeleine
Dalphond-Guiral (M.P. Laval Center) and seconded by Sarkis Assadourian
(M.P. Brampton-Center), Jason Kenney (M.P. Calgary-South-East) and
Alexa McDonough (M.P. Halifax). The passing of this resolution was the
culmination of a 25 year process which encompassed similar resolutions
being passed by city councils, provinces, and t he Canadian Senate
(July 13, 2002).
“This is a victory for truth and justice.” stated Dr. Girair
Basmadjian, president of the Armenian National Committee of
Canada. “Implicated in thiscourse of action for over two decades, the
ANCC has constituted the driving force behind the process towards the
adoption of this motion,” commented Dr. G. B asmadjian. “The
accomplishment of this task was made possible through the mobilisation
as well as the implication of our grass roots members who madesure
that all Members of Parliament were aware of the importance of t his
issue for our community. ‘ Canada now joins a long list of nations
including France, Switzerland and Russia which have recognise the
Armenian Genocide of 1915.
For further information please visit the following web site:
——————————————————————
TURKEY SLAMS CANADA OVER ARMENIAN GENOCIDE VOTE
ANKARA (Reuters)–Turkey on Thursday condemned the Canadian
parliament’s decision to recognise the 1915 killing of Armenians by
Ottoman forces as genocide and warned of damage to bilateral ties.
“We strongly condemn the approval by Canada’s Federal Parliament of
this decision which follows (the pressure of) marginal groups despite
our objections,” the Turkish Foreign Ministry said in a statement.
“This decision will benefit neither Canadian Armenians nor Armenia.
Responsibility for all the negative consequences of this decision
belongs to the Canadian politicians,” it added.
The ministry did not say what these consequences might be, but Fazli
Corman, the Turkish embassy councilor in Ottawa, earlier cited the
example of Canadian companies seeking to sign contracts in
Turkey. Canadian Foreign Minister Bill Graham said the motion would
not alter Ottawa’s official policy, that while the events of 1915 were
a tragedy, they did not constitute genocide.
Canada’s embassy in Ankara issued a statement calling for
reconciliation between Turks and Armenians. It also urged their
governments to deal with the issue of the alleged genocide and to work
for greater stability in their “volatile region.”
Turkey’s Foreign Ministry accused “narrow-minded Canadian politicians”
of fomenting ethnic and religious hatred between “people of different
ethnic backgrounds who live in peace.”
DASHNAK WORLD WAR II HERO RETURNS MEDALS TO BRITAIN IN PROTEST
Yerevan April 23, (YERKIR) – Haroutiun Shilkarian, a former British
Air Force serviceman, held a news conference on Friday to announce he
was returning the two medals he was awarded by the British Government
in October of 2003 for his participation in World War II.
Dashnaktsoutiun member said he was returning the awards in protest of
the UK Ambas sador Thorda Abbott-Watt’s remark that the mass killings
of Armeniansin the Ottoman Empire were not a genocide. Shilkarian also
expressed his disappointment with the inadequate reaction the
Armenians showed after the British diplomat’s impertinent statement.
“I thought people would march in peaceful protest against the
embassy,” he complained, adding that Armenians would have done so, had
the incident happened anywhere else in the world.
——————————————————————
LEVON KAZANDJIAN’S BOYS AND GIRLS, HONOUR NAREK COLOURS AT SCHOOL
GAMES
Wednesday 21 April 2004 – Nicosia (Gibrahayer)The boys and girls of
the Narek School honoured the colours of the Armenian elementary
school by winning most of the podium positions in a five-school
athletic meeting organised by the Ministry of Education of Cyprus,
that took place at The Makarion Stadium in Nicosia.
The hard work invested by athletic master Levon Kazandjian in
combination with the support of the Parent’s Association, parents of
the athletes, and the Principle Artin Ayvazian brought a well earned
victory that makes our little Armenian community proud of its young
generatio n, who have been practisingfor months, outside school hours
and holidays.
The results speak for themselves:
75 meters Girl’s Dash
2nd: Talar Torossian,
3rd: Raslyn Gorgorian
75 meters Boy’s Dash
2nd: Mher Mnoyian
Long Jump Girl’s
2nd: Gassia Kassparian
3rd: Natalie Sammonian
Long Jump Boy’s
2nd: Onnik Tatikian
To view the complete picture Gallery of the Makarion Athletic Meeting please
click on the following link:
High Jump Girl’s
1st: Taline Keshishian
2nd: Arda Aynedjian
3rd: Carla Mahdessian
High Jump Boy’s
1st: Arek Taslakian
2nd:Antony Kalfayian
Boy’s Relay 4 x 75 meters
2nd: Narek Elementary School
Mher Mnoyian
Andrew Toffarides
Hratch Hovhanessian
Carlo Genjelian
Girl’s Relay 4 x 75 meters
1st: Narek Elementary school
Talar Torossian
Natalie Gorgorian
Christine Shahbenderian
Alice Kazandjian
At a time when the methods and ethics by which we have administered
our institutions for decades are being challenged, we need to cling on
to everything that we hold dear in our community and nurture it with
love. We have to contribute generously and make them part of our life.
Rather than reacting to unfortunate consequences in the future, we
need to be proactive by making community affairs a priority.
Let us start with these kids. Let us give them our support. Let us en
courage them by telling them that we are watching the progress they
are making.
Let us try to be present at every step of the way. Let us demand their
very best for the very best of our community not only in sports but in
life.
——————————————————————
THE FOLLOWING DAY IS HERE
Phileleftheros – Vassos Lyssarides – 27 April 2004
The people have reached their verdict. And of course it is respected
by everybody. It is natural that the pre-referendum period would have
created disputes and conflicts. But, all this belongs to the past,
despite the fact that there were moves towards foreigners that should
have been avoided. It is unanimous that the accession does not
constitute the end of the efforts, but a step towards a solution
compatible with the acquis communautaire, which by May 1st will
constitute our own family law.
I will not try to analyse the mistakes that belong to the distant past
and that have created an image quite different as compared to the true
essence of the problem. At present, we should focus on:
1. Persuading everybody that our political will for a rapid solution
is more solid than ever.
2. Providing with the skeleton of the desired solution. In other words:
– A solution that will ensure and not jeopardise our state integrity, as it
could be the case with the Annan plan.
– A solution that will put a final end to all guarantor rights and to the
foreign military presence.
– A solution that will ensure human rights and political rights without
permanent derogations.
3. Due to the climate that prevailed, it is natural that there will be a
negative reaction at the rejection of the Annan plan. Thus:
– An immediate briefing campaign within the EU should be launched. All
parties should become involved, not only the government. The base of
the campaign should be the people. The people wants a solution that
ensures the rights of everybody, even the privileges that have been
granted provided that they donot collide with the human rights of all
citizens and they do not hinder the functional operation of the state.
– The campaign should be transferred to the USA as well, and especially the
Congress, with the Greeks abroad operating as the driving force.
– The Greek leadership, irrespective of the parties’ position on the Annan
plan, should support us in this effort. High-level contacts should begin
immediately.
– The contacts with the Turkish Cyp riot parties and organisations
should be intensified. We should show them that we all belong to the
EU together and that our interests do not turn against their
own. After a thorough study, practical measures should be taken
towards this direction.
4. The unity and cooperation of everybody without exception is
necessary for the success of this effort. All Greek Cypriot parties
stated before the referendum that whatever the outcome might be, they
would be a joint actionthe following day. The following day has come
and now, we must live up to the expectations of the people.
—————————————————————–
NEWS IN BRIEF
– The Communist Party of Armenia has marked the 134th birthday of the
Russian Bolshevik Revolution leader Vladimir Lenin (b. April 22, 1870)
by restoringa monument in the southeast Armenian town of Vajk.
– Deputy Federal Chancellor, Foreign Minister of Germany Joschka
Fischer is arriving in Yerevan on Thursday for a one-day official
visit within the framework of his tour of the region.
– More than 10,000 demonstrators marched to demand the resignation of
Armenian President Robert Kocharyan, whom they accuse of rigging his
re-election last year, and to seek a national referendum on his
administration.
– Student of Yerevan Engineering University have initiated an e-mail
campaign dedicated to the victims of Armenian Genocide directed to
90,000 organisations including UNESCO, EU Parliament, Embassies,
foreign press services and NGOs
– Police in Moscow’s Sheremetyevo Airport detained a 39 year old
Armenian citizen who was trying to smuggle over 2.6 kg of uncut
diamonds into Russia.
– Together with about 130 weightlifters from 32 European countries
seven Armenian athletes competed at the 83rd Me n’s and 17th
Womenâ=80=99s European Weightlifting Championships that took place in
Kiev that ended on April 26.
——————————————————————
DECLARATION
    It is with profound indignation that we have read the 16 March 2004
press release of the Central Board of the AGBU in New York regarding the closure
of the Melkonian Educational Institute [MEI] and the sale of its huge estate.Â
The reason given for this decision, based on the argument of the Central Board
that `The MEI no longer justifies its basic mission in the present realities
of Armenian life’, does not convince and remains incomprehensible.
    This irresponsible, short sighted and nationally-harmful decision is a
body blow to our struggle for survival and, by wiping from the face of the
earth a centre of forging Armenian identity, it undermines every hope and prospect
of developing and maintaining the Armenian language in the Diaspora.
We condemn this decision for the following reasons:Â
A – If the Melkonian Educational Institute were not fulfilling its basic
mission, it was up to the Central Board of the AGBU to redefine it instead of
taking a decision to close the MEI.
B – If, by `basic mission’, the Central Board of the AGBU had in mind the
question of providing education to large number of orphans that existed in 1926,
it is true that these do not exist in our days. It remains a fact, however,
that there exist numerous children of needy parents in our days who need an
education and an Armenian upbringing. And, in providing for them, Melkonian has
fulfilled its `mission’ marvellously.
C – If the Melkonian Educational Institute were not fulfilling its mission in
educational terms, it would have been incumbent on the Central Board of the
AGBU to raise its educational level by introducing changes in the staff of the
school instead of thinking about closing down the school.
D – If the Melkonian Educational Institute were facing financia l
difficulties, it would have been incumbent on the Central Board of the AGBUto exploit
the material potential offered by the extensive Melkonian estate and use itto
ensure that Melkonian itself thrived. If necessary, in case the Central Board
of the AGBU considered itself incompetent in the sense of material management,
it could have applied to Diaspora businesspersons outside the AGBU circles or
confer with responsible members of the Melkonian Alumni Associations, instead
of taking a decision all by itself to close down the school. All this,
without mentioning the fact that the AGBU is the wealthiest Union in the Armenian
World and has various and numerous wills and resources at its disposal. In
fact, what on Earth is its `mission’ if not to help those in need and to provide
needy children with an education? The announcement, however, is mute about
the financial reasons for its decision.
    For us, the Melkonian is the education al institute that not only
provides education at a European level but, thanks to being a boarding school, is
the only one in the world that bonds together students from 16 European
countries through the teaching of the Armenian language and culture and forges a solid
Armenian identity in them.
    It is a fact of life in education that all schoolshave their ups and
downs. We have before us the example of the Tbrotsaser school in Paris which,
only a few years ago, appeared to have no way out other than closure; yet,
today, it is a prosperous school with an ever-increasing enrolment. We also have
the case of some Armenian schools in Istanbul which at one time faced the
danger of closure because of the difficulties created by the state; but, thanks to
the capable measures taken by community organisations, they were saved from
closure by merging with other schools. Where there is a will, there will
always be a way.
     That will does exist, not with the Armenian leadership of the Central
Board of the AGBU in New York unfortunately, but with the Greek Government of
Cyprus. The latter has for long provided financial support to the MEI and now
wishes to assist by a sum three times larger than before, assuring that it will
be possible to receive large sums in the future from the European Community
thanks to the imminent accession of Cyprus to Europe. Parallel with these
prospects, and in order to thwart any prospect of selling off Melkonian, the
Government of Cyprus has declared the MEI a `national heritage site’.
    Therefore, with no prospect of the building being sold at present, we
hope that the AGBU revises its decision to close down Melkonian without delay
and announces this very shortly, and the Melkonian Educational Institute gets on
with its historic mission with renewed vigour. If the AGBU considers itself
incapable or incompetent to contin ue its patronage, it can pass it on to a
Board composed of capable persons which can undertake the financial management
of the MEI. This can save both Melkonian and the standing of the Armenian
General Benevolent Union, freeing the latter of charges of making arbitraryuse of
a deed entrusted to it. The Melkonian Educational Institute, with its78
years of magnificent record, has become the symbol of our will to survive.Â
Nobody has the right to destroy it.Â
MASHDOTZ, The Committee of the Union for the Defence of the Armenian
Language, Paris – France.
—————————————————————-
JOURNEY TO ANATOLIA 2004 13th. August 2004Â – 28th. August 2004
– Flights
                 Istanbul -Kayseri (2004-08-13)
                 Kars    - Istanbul (2004-08-28)
Airport Transfers*Boat Transfers*Package of Excursions*All Entrances for
Museums & Sights*Guide Interpreter*Overnight stay in 4 star Hotels with breakfast
(only double rooms)
Price: EUROÂ 1150 – Inquiry: < BR>Alfrant Bedros Tel.: 0049-173 90 26 590
Email: [email protected]
————————————————————————–
RECOMMENDED SITES
st/cuvlm/Armenia.html
ml
————— ————————————————– ————-
—————————-
g i b r a h a y   c a l e n d a r
â=80¢ Sourp Magara Vanki oukhdi orva donagadaroutiun – Sourp Badarak,
Karoz yev Madaghorhnoutiun. Sunday 2 May, 2004. Badrasdoutiun
avantakan Herisayi, dohmik mtnolordi mech, Sourp asdvadzadzin Mayr
Yegeghetsvo pak@, Saturday May 1, 2004 at 4:00 p.m. – Hsgoum at 7:00
p.m.
â=80¢ “Timag” drama group of Hamazkayin Oshagan chapter proudly
presents its 5th annual production on Saturday 8th May 2004 at the
PASIDY auditorium in Nicosia. A hilarious comedy by the Fr ench author
Francis Webber, titled “Entrik Himari Hed” (Dinner With an Idiot) will
be presented under the direction ofMs. Janna Tahmizian. Taking part
are Nazaret Adourian, Harout Tahmazian, Aram Tavitian, Natasha
Tavoukdjian, Alidz Sarkissian, Arto Tavitian, Ardash Der
Bedrossian. Tickets on sale as from next week at 6.00 (3.00 for
minors)
â=80¢ A Tour to Armenia is being organised by the Central Executive of
Hamazkayin from August 20-September 3, 2004 with the participation of
members and friends from Armenian diaspora communities. Trips to
Karabagh are also scheduled. To receive more info and to apply for the
trip please contact the Cyprus Hamazkayin committee members until
April 31, 2004.
â=80¢ HAMAZKAYIN FORUM 2004 The 10th Forum, Lebanon:From July 12-18
(Opti onal) Armenia:From July 19-31, 2004.
Thought provoking lectures, trips to historic and amazing destinations, and
nights of dancing and entertainment are only some of the Forum highlights. For
many Armenian students across the globe, the Hamazkayin Summer Forum is oneof
the most anticipated events of the year.
Those interested should visit the website for more details on how to apply.
â=80¢ AGBU – Ararat became champions for the fourth year running in
Futsal for the 2003-2004 season scoring a decisive win over Parnassos
6-1, six games before the end of the season. Their win gains increased
importance as it was achieved without Ararat’s star players Yi annos
Kammouyaros and Costas Polyviou who were punished with red cards.
â=80¢ Invitation to AGBU Nicosia Chapter’s 70th General Meeting on
Wednesday May 12, 2004 at 6:00 p.m. at the club premises.
â=80¢ The Armenian Prelature of Cyprus announces that the next permit
for the Armenian Cemetery visitation at Ayios Dhometios on the Green
line, is scheduled for Sunday May 16, 2004.
———————————————————————–
Dear List user thank you for your interest in Gibrahayer.
Gibrahayer is an independent electronic environment, now in its fifth year,
disseminating news & posting upcoming events about the Armenian community of
Cyprus, Armenia, Artsakh and the Diaspora. The list also promotes the discussion
of issues brought forward by its members. The subscription to this service is
free. To subscribe to Gibrahayer e-newsletter, follow the instructions at
To contact the listmaster send an email
to [email protected]
This service to Gibrahayer is provided by GAP Vassilopoulos E-Media Ltd
()
GAP Vassilopoulos E-Media Ltd is not responsible for the database and
newsletter contenet of its customers but has a stict Opt-in/Opt-out policy,this
protects the subscriber and enforces the policy to which the newsletter publisher
has agreed to abide.
If this newsletter has no unsubscribe link, or the link does not work. please
report it and it will be dealt immediately.
Include this code in your report LATROBA123 (GIBRAYER6).

ITAR-TASS, Russia
April 30 2004
Azerbaijan to open its military office in Russia soon

BAKU, April 30 (Itar-Tass) – Azerbaijan will open its military
office in Russia in a few days time, Azerbaijani Defence Minister
Safar Abiyev said in Baku on Friday at a meeting with Russian
Ambassador Nikolai Ryabov and new Russian military attaché, Rear
Admiral Vladimir Lomakin.
Abiyev noted `traditionally good relations between the two countries
and a high level of intergovernmental cooperation.’
`Azerbaijani-Russian relations have historic traditions; we have
always tried to preserve them,’ he said.
The defence minister also pointed to Russia’s `great opportunities’
as a co-chairman of the OSCE Minsk group on the settlement of the
Karabakh conflict.
`Azerbaijan pins great hopes on Russia in resolving this problem,’
Abiyev said.
At the meeting, the parties discussed prospects for the development
of cooperation between the two countries’ defence ministries and
exchanged views on a military and political situation in North
Caucasus, a source at the Azerbaijani Defence Ministry’s press
service said.

Edicom, Suisse
25 Avril 2004
L’Arménie commémore le 89e anniversaire du génocide de 1915
EREVAN, Arménie (AP) – Des centaines de milliers d’Arméniens ont
convergé samedi vers un mémorial dressé sur une colline d’Erevan, la
capitale arménienne, pour commémorer le 89e anniversaire du génocide
arménien de 1915 à l’époque de l’empire ottoman.
L’arrestation de l’élite intellectuelle et politique arménienne
d’Istanbul, le 24 avril 1915, et sa déportation en Anatolie, marquent
le début des premières rafles et déportations suivies de massacres de
la population arménienne de l’empire ottoman. Les tueries dureront
jusqu’en 1917 et feront au moins un million de morts selon les
historiens.
L’Arménie affirme que la campagne menée entre 1915 et 1919 pour
chasser les Arméniens de l’est de l’Anatolie a causé la mort de 1,5
millions de personnes et qu’elle constitue un génocide planifié sous
l’égide de l’empire ottoman.
Des affirmations sont niées par la Turquie pour qui ces chiffres sont
exagérés. Ankara rejette la thèse du «génocide» prémédité et évoque
des massacres dans le contexte troublé de la première guerre mondiale
qui auraient fait des victimes des deux côtés.

CBC Canada
April 23 2004
Martin criticized for missing genocide vote in Commons

OTTAWA – Foreign Affairs Minister Bill Graham is defending the prime
minister’s decision to skip a controversial vote in the House of
Commons this week. Paul Martin was absent when MPs passed a motion
recognizing the Armenian genocide of 1915.
Armenians blame the Turks for killing 1.5 million of their people
between 1915 and 1923.
Armenian Canadians hold a vigil on Parliament Hill
For decades consecutive Canadian governments have dodged the
sensitive issue by calling what happened in eastern Turkey a
“tragedy,” stopping well short of referring to the events as
“genocide.”
In 1915, during the First World War, Turkish troops put down an
Armenian uprising. Armenians say about 1.5 million people were killed
by the Ottoman Turks, during a brutal eight year campaign.
Turkey has always fought attempts by Armenians and international
human rights organizations to have the events declared a genocide.
Previously, Ankara has warned countries contemplating similar action
that there would be negative consequences. In some cases business
contracts have been held up or denied.
Wednesday night’s vote has put a strain on diplomatic relations
between Canada and Turkey and divided the Liberal caucus.
Martin allowed Liberal backbenchers a free vote on the motion
recognizing the Armenian genocide. But Martin ordered his cabinet to
vote against it.
The government had warned beforehand that if the motion passed it
would anger Canada’s NATO ally.
The motion said: “That this House acknowledges the Armenian genocide
of 1915 and condemns this act as a crime against humanity.”
When it came time for MPs to vote Martin wasn’t in the House. The
vote passed easily, 153-68.
NDP foreign affairs critic Alexa McDonough accused the prime minister
of ducking a tough issue. “I think it’s the same gutlessness. I think
it’s a screaming absence of leadership,” she said.
But Graham came to Martin’s defence. “It quite often happens that the
prime minister can’t be present in the House for votes. He was
otherwise occupied that night,” he said.
Martin wasn’t the only minister to miss the vote.
In spite of the order that cabinet oppose the motion Justice Minister
Irwin Cotler and International Trade Minister Jim Peterson left the
House before the vote. Public Works Minister Stephen Owen was there,
but abstained.
“I was not comfortable with the Bloc (Quebecois) resolution. I
certainly wasn’t going to vote for it but I was uncomfortable voting
against it,” said Owen.
The Turkish government has already expressed its anger over the
outcome of the vote. Graham says he wants to speak to Turkey’s
foreign minister to explain that Canada’s official position hasn’t
changed.

The Gazette (Montreal, Quebec)
April 23, 2004 Friday Final Edition
National Assembly marks anniversary of Armenian genocide
by MIKE DE SOUZA
QUEBEC
For a 25th consecutive year, the National Assembly has marked the
April 24 anniversary of the 1915 Armenian Genocide.
“Respect for human life is primordial, and we must ban all forms of
intolerance, and racism based on ethnic, religious or sexual
origins,” said Yvan Bordeleau, the Liberal MNA for Acadie who tabled
a motion adopted unanimously on Tuesday.
In 1915, 600 notable Armenians were exterminated in Constantinople
(now Istanbul) on April 24 by the ruling Turks, Bordeleau said. Over
the next eight years, he said more than 1.5 million Armenians either
fled or disappeared.
Not everyone agrees with that view of history.
“There was a tragedy, but it wasn’t a genocide,” said Osman Akyol,
president of the Montreal Turkish Cultural Association. Akyol said
the politicians only got one side of the story behind a war that
happened nearly 100 years ago. “Both sides lost a lot of people,” he
said.
In Ottawa this week, the House of Commons also adopted a motion
recognizing the genocide, much to the dismay of the Turkish
government, which strongly condemned Canadian politicians.
Canada is the 16th country to label the killings as genocide, a step
previously taken by Switzerland, France, Argentina and Russia.
The Quebec motion reads:
“That on the occasion of the 89th anniversary of the Armenian
Genocide, the National Assembly of Quebec commemorate, with respect,
the memory of the Armenian citizens who were lost in the events of
1915 and extend its deepest sympathy and compassion to our fellow
countrymen of Armenian origin.”