12:00,
YEREVAN, JANUARY 27, ARMENPRESS. Azerbaijan has received Armenia’s new proposals regarding the peace treaty, Azeri Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov has said.
Bayramov said that Azerbaijan will send its response during the ‘coming weeks.’
He said he believes the two countries will continue contacts in 2024 regarding the peace treaty.
Armenia handed over to Azerbaijan a new set of proposals on the peace treaty on January 4.
FRESNO—A book signing event was held for “The Dignity of Being American,” a recently published book, on January 10 at the Armenian Museum of Fresno, located at the University of California Center in Fresno, California.
Co-authored by Varoujan Der Simonian and Sophia Mekhitarian, the book records never before published stories of 14 Displaced Persons and their families who settled in Fresno after World War II, tracing the DPs’ paths and the trials they endured. The book highlights the extensive involvement of George Mardikian, the founder of the American National Committee to Aid Homeless Armenians, Brigadier General Haig Shekerjian and attorney Suren Saroyan.
“It’s been our mission to focus on the accomplishments of our ANCHA leaders and affiliates for their magnanimous undertaking and to preserve our history for future generations. Heroes they were, and so shall remain,” said Sophia Mekhitarian, co-author of the book, who herself was once labeled as a displaced person.
Co-authors Varoujan Der Simonian and Sophia Matewosian-Mekhitarian at the the book signing event
Extensive coverage of the role of the Unsung Heroes, including Dr. Artasches Abeghian, Generals Drastamat Kanaian (Dro) and Garegin Nejdeh, Arsen Taplatsian, Misak Torlakian, Vahan Papazian, Garo Kevorkian and others, who saved thousands of POWs and untold number of Armenians — to some estimation 600,000 Armenians under Nazi-controlled Europe during World War II, are presented in the book.
“This is a significant part of our history that often has been overlooked,” said Varoujan Der Simonian of the Armenian Museum of Fresno and co-author of the book. “It is our duty to recognize the role that these men and women played before, during and following WWII in saving thousands of Armenian lives. I wonder where we would be now if it weren’t for unsung heroes’ patriotism, dedication, and commitment — their call to serve their own people, who were far away from their homeland,” he added.
Varoujan Der Simonian presenting a copy of “The Dignity of Being American” to Joan Schoettler, author of “The Honey Jar”
The 260-page book includes over 300 photos highlighting the life of the Armenians at Funkerkaserne DP Camp near Stuttgart, Germany. It covers the ANCHA Monument in Fresno, all six panels placed on the monument’s pedestal, that was appropriately placed next to the Sunday School Building entrance at the Holy Trinity Church in Fresno. It also covers an oral history interview with George Mardikian; and, an essay by Mr. Mardikian titled: “Tree Meals for the Chief” — providing detailed explanations of what, and how he would prepare three meals – breakfast, lunch and dinner, for his friend, President Herbert Hoover. The essay is being published for the first-time courtesy of Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum
Almost all the copies of this limited-edition of the recently published book were sold. The book signing was scheduled from 1 to 3 p.m., however the Museum’s galleries were packed with an enthusiastic crowd that lasted past 5:30 pm. Contributors to the Fresno ANCHA Monument received a complimentary copy.
A photographic exhibition titled: “The Saga and the Triumph of the Displaced Persons” complimenting the content of the book is currently on display at the Armenian Museum of Fresno. Copies may be purchased or ordered from the Armenian Museum of Fresno at $60 per copy, pending availability.
Author: Vahagn Khachaturyan, President of Armenia, Office of the President of Armenia
As President of Armenia, I am serving a nation that has weathered historical storms, emerged resilient: adapted to reality and learned to survive.
In the context of today’s complex geopolitical shifts and the globally fragmented policy landscape, Armenia envisions a world strengthened by global cooperation in the framework of renewed and effective multilateralism.
Here I outline Armenia’s strategic initiatives, including the Crossroads of Peace project, which addresses the importance of acknowledging the cost of crises, advocates for building peace through trust, and explores how genuine democracy and technological innovation can be transformative and how mutually they protect and embolden each other.
Furthermore, it emphasizes the significance of economic cooperation and shared values in the new world order. Drawing inspiration from the biblical tale of Noah’s Ark, Armenia’s metaphor serves as a reminder to humanity of the importance of peaceful coexistence, hope, and joint efforts to confront global challenges, including poverty, inequality, climate change, armed conflicts and humanitarian crises.
Economic cooperation stands as a linchpin for global stability, security and prosperity. Armenia, with its skilled workforce and commitment to sustainable development is well-positioned to play an instrumental role in the emerging economic landscape.
Recognition of the importance of fostering economic ties that go beyond national borders – from regional to global, promoting responsible business practices, and contributing to worldwide economic growth is a key for global stability.
In the spirit of cooperation, we actively seek opportunities for trade, investment and partnership with other nations worldwide. By aligning economic interests with shared values, we aim to contribute to a more interconnected and agile world by prioritizing sustainability, innovation and inclusivity, fostering economic relationships that benefit not only our nation but also the global community.
In the evolving world order, liberty, democratic institutions and innovation emerge as powerful tools to address global challenges and navigate geopolitical shifts.
Democracy, with its emphasis on inclusivity and consolidated decision-making, provides a framework for nations to come together. Technological innovation, when wielded responsibly, has the potential to empower individuals and nations to overcome challenges and foster positive change.
Armenia is committed to upholding democratic values and leveraging innovation as tools for positive change. Recognizing the potential of “liberation technology”, we aim to empower citizens, promote their social and economic rights, enhance good governance, transparency and promote accountability.
By harnessing the power of digital innovation, Armenia seeks to create an environment where democracy flourishes, and technology becomes a force for good in addressing global challenges.
The 21st century has seen the world grapple with crises, from pandemics to environmental challenges, and the recognition of the cost of crisis is not merely economic; it is also human and environmental.
In the times of the current polycrisis and in light of unprecedented interdependence and evolving changes of the world order, one nation’s crisis is a challenge for all. As we navigate these challenges, building peace through trust becomes paramount.
Acknowledging the cost of crises and the importance of addressing them with resilience and determination must become an imperative. The recent conflict and forced displacement of persons in the South Caucasus serves as a stark reminder of the impact of geopolitical shifts on civilians.
Principles of Armenia’s Crossroads of Peace project. Image: The Government of Armenia
However, Armenia is committed to turning the aftermath of the crisis into an opportunity for building lasting peace and promoting regional cooperation.
The Crossroads of Peace project, initiated by the Government of Armenia, places a significant emphasis on building mutual trust as the foundation for peace. By actively engaging with neighbours and international partners, Armenia seeks to rebuild new cooperation in the region and foster understanding among nations.
Through diplomatic initiatives, dialogue, and cultural exchange, we aspire to bridge divides and create an environment where nations can work together to confront global challenges.
Armenia, with its rich history and strategic location, has launched the Crossroads of Peace project as a testament to its commitment to global cooperation.
This visionary initiative aims to transform the region into a hub for a political dialogue, cultural exchange and international cooperation. It seeks to transcend traditional geopolitical divisions, fostering an environment where nations can converge to jointly address common challenges.
The Crossroads of Peace has the potential to transform a fragmented region with closed borders into a macro-regional cooperation hub, to unleash the whole potential of the Caucasus, tout court.
The biblical tale of Noah’s Ark serves as a powerful metaphor for our collective journey in the face of global challenges, including climate change. Armenia, with its legacy of resilience and hope, aligns with the spirit of Noah’s Ark, symbolizing a modern-day ark for humanity.
The ark is a timeless symbol of survival, peaceful coexistence, and renewal. Armenia, too, envisions itself as a symbol of hope by fostering global cooperation, acknowledging the cost of crises, building peace through trust, championing democracy and innovation, and promoting value-based economic cooperation.
Armenia strives to be a beacon of hope in a multipolar world. At the crossroads of history, we urge for strengthened global cooperation as we navigate geopolitical shifts in an evolving world order.
The Crossroads of Peace project, inspired by our commitment to peace and partnership, exemplifies Armenia’s vision for a more interconnected world where nations are united in the face of global challenges.
In the spirit of Noah’s Ark, let us embark on this collective journey, keeping hope alive and working together for a sustainable and harmonious future.
15:26,
YEREVAN, JANUARY 11, ARMENPRESS. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has congratulated the new French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal on his appointment.
“I cordially congratulate you on your election as Prime Minister of the French Republic, and I wish you success in your high mission,” PM Pashinyan said in a letter to PM Attal. “Citing the Armenian-French age-old friendship and special relations, I am sure that during your tenure our governments will cooperate with new vigor to further deepen the multi-sectoral partnership between Armenia and France. Certainly, the 2021-2026 Armenian-French Economic Cooperation Roadmap is an effective instrument for that goal, and I am hopeful that we will utilize all existing opportunities to secure its successful implementation. I’d like to underscore that Armenia highly appreciates France’s important, consistent efforts in the process of resolving the geopolitical challenges that our country is withstanding and establishment of lasting peace and stability in the region. I am deeply grateful for your constant attention towards Armenia-related issues and your warm, friendly attitude towards the Armenian people. I’d be happy to host you in Armenia on an official visit, which will intensify our highest-level commitment to enhance our bilateral cooperation. I once again congratulate you on assuming the office of the Prime Minister of the French Republic and I wish you good luck in your initiatives. Please accept, honorable Prime Minister, the assurance of my highest consideration.”
ANI
Gandhinagar (Gujarat) [India], January 10 (ANI): Vahan Kerobyan, Minister of Economy for Armenia, took centre stage at the inauguration of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024, emphasising the growing significance of trade and investments between India and Armenia.
Minister Kerobyan underscored the robust bilateral investment landscape as evidence of the strengthening of economic bonds between the two nations.
Kerobyan said, "A pivotal aspect of our economic narrative is the increasing movement of trade and investments between India and Armenia. This bilateral investment floor is a testament to the deepening economic ties between our nations. It's heartening to see Armenian investments finding fertile ground in India and likewise, Indian investments are flourishing in Armenia."The Minister's remarks shed light on the encouraging trend of reciprocal investments, with Armenian investments finding fertile ground in India and, reciprocally, Indian investments flourishing in Armenia.
This two-way economic engagement not only reflects mutual trust and confidence but also signifies a commitment to fostering sustainable economic growth and development.
India and Armenia share friendly relations rooted in historical ties between the people of the two countries. India recognized Armenia on 26 December 1991. With an aim to strengthen business relations and develop reciprocal cooperation, Investment Support Centre of the Republic of Armenia and Invest India signed an MoU on 28 June 2021. The objective of this MoU is to provide business solutions for stakeholders of both sides to promote the investment climate in Armenia and India and establish a practical framework for the development of stronger business relations between the two sidesAs the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit serves as a catalyst for international collaboration, Minister Kerobyan's address highlighted the importance of such platforms in facilitating meaningful discussions and partnerships.
The Armenian Minister's positive sentiments about the deepening economic ties align with the broader theme of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit- fostering economic growth through international collaboration.
The summit provides an opportunity for leaders and representatives from diverse nations to explore avenues for cooperation and investment.
The emphasis on bilateral investments as a crucial aspect of the economic narrative reinforces the commitment of nations to explore and strengthen economic relations for mutual benefit.
As discussions unfold during the summit, the focus on India-Armenia economic ties adds a unique dimension to the diverse array of partnerships being discussed.
Minister Kerobyan's words resonate with the spirit of collaboration and mutual prosperity, underscoring the positive trajectory of economic relations between India and Armenia. (ANI)
https://www.malaysiasun.com/news/274090540/indian-investments-are-flourishing-in-armenia-armenian-minister-vahan-kerobyan
12:31,
YEREVAN, JANUARY 10, ARMENPRESS. Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan on Wednesday said that he presented to his visiting Greek counterpart George Gerapetritis the situation in the South Caucasus after the forced displacement of the Armenians of Nagorno-Karabakh, and the peace process.
“Certainly, I comprehensively presented to my colleague and his delegation the situation in the South Caucasus after the forced displacement of the Armenians of Nagorno-Karabakh and also the peace process and the details and problems of that process,” Mirzoyan said at a joint press conference with Gerapetritis.
FM Mirzoyan said he also presented the Crossroads of Peace project.
He added that Armenia is committed to continue the peace talks and establish peace in the South Caucasus despite all challenges and difficulties, as well as Azerbaijan’s destructive conduct in some cases.
“We believe that in case of displaying mutual constructive approach, in case of political will, we will be able to reach a tangible destination in the issue of establishing peace in the nearest future,” Mirzoyan said.
The Ghazanchetsots Cathedral in Shushi was dismantled by Azerbaijanis
The United States on Thursday added Azerbaijan to a watchlist on religious freedom, following fears for Christian heritage after the country seized control of Nagorno-Karabakh.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken, releasing an annual index of designations, maintained all 12 countries that had been on the previous year’s blacklist, including China, Iran, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
In the sole change, Blinken added Azerbaijan to the watchlist, meaning it will join the blacklist, which carries potential sanctions, without improvements.
In a recent recommendation to the State Department, the US Commission on International Religious Freedom pointed to concerns for the preservation of Christian religious sites in Nagorno-Karabakh, where virtually the entire population of 100,000 ethnic Armenians has fled to Armenia.
The commission also voiced alarm over regulations on all religious practice in the Shiite Muslim-majority but largely secular country under strongman President Ilham Aliyev, including a requirement that all religious groups be registered and their literature approved by an official body.
“Governments must end abuses such as attacks on members of religious minority communities and their places of worship,” Blinken said.
The “countries of particular concern” on the blacklist are China, Cuba, Eritrea, Iran, Myanmar, Nicaragua, North Korea, Pakistan, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan.
Besides Azerbaijan, countries on the watchlist are Algeria, the Central African Republic, Comoros and Vietnam.
In an unprecedented development, the Armenian Interior Ministry announced that nearly 50% of its police officers failed to pass the general knowledge test during the attestation process. This detail emerged as part of the results from the comprehensive attestation process that was conducted amongst the officers towards the end of December 2023.
In total, 1,123 officers underwent this rigorous attestation process. However, a mere 190 officers managed to successfully navigate through all the stages. An additional three officers are currently awaiting their attestation results.
The attestation process is a comprehensive examination of an officer’s capabilities, divided into four distinct stages. It begins with an electronic test of general knowledge, colloquially referred to by the officers as an ‘IQ test’. This is followed by a two-stage physical and firearms training test, an electronic test of professional competencies, and lastly, an interview for main and higher group police positions.
(Read Also: Azerbaijan Police Unearth Extensive Weaponry in Khankendi Clearance Operation)
The results revealed a surprising lack of general knowledge amongst the officers. A total of 454 officers failed to clear the general knowledge test. Physical training posed another significant hurdle, with 192 officers failing in this stage. Firearms training saw 279 officers falling short of the required standards. Finally, a minuscule 8 officers were unsuccessful in demonstrating their professional competence.
(Read Also: France Condemns Violence Against Armenian Community in Jerusalem)
The general knowledge test, often dubbed the ‘IQ test’, forms a major part of the attestation process. This test is divided into two parts. The first part assesses the officer’s general development, while the second part tests the professional skills of the officer. The high failure rate in this stage raises questions about the overall competence of the Armenian police force.
https://bnnbreaking.com/breaking-news/education/armenian-police-force-faces-general-knowledge-crisis-interior-ministry-report/
Armenian Christmas 2024: The Armenian Christmas holiday is annually observed on January 6. Commemorating this occasion in the same manner since its inception, it has been an integral part of Armenian customs for over 1700 years. Although the date of the commemoration may seem peculiar to the majority, it is consistent with Christian traditions.
Armenians observe the Epiphany of Christ, the revelation of Jesus Christ as the son of God, as opposed to Christ’s birthday, in contrast to Catholics. Following a period of fasting, Armenians partake in lavish feasts that consist of rice, nuts, sweets, and chocolates.
Armenia’s history dates back to approximately 3500 B.C. Remains have been unearthed by scientists, providing evidence of the Armenians’ existence throughout the Stone Age. During the second century A.D., Pompey ruled Armenia. The reign came to an end with the establishment of the Armenian Arsacid Dynasty. The Armenian Apostolic Church established Christianity in Armen in 301 A.D., marking the nation’s historic adoption of Christianity as its official religion and the first to do so globally.
The Armenian Apostolic Church operated autonomously from both the Catholic and Orthodox faiths. People throughout Europe observed the Roman holiday known as Solis Invicti. Solis Invicti was a winter solstice observance that was specifically devoted to the monarch Helios. To prevent a conflict between Christmas and Solis Invicti, Catholics have chosen to reschedule the celebration of the two festivals.
Consequently, the 25th of December was designated as Christmas, and the 6th of January was designated as the Feast of the Epiphany. In Armenia, on the other hand, Solis Invicti was not observed, so there was no necessity to alter the dates. The Armenians continued their Christmas celebrations that began on January 6. Christmas in Armenia has been observed on January 6 ever since that time.
A week before Armenian Christmas, several Armenians observe a fast. Following it are celebrations with a Christmas theme that take place all over the world on December 25. Gathering for family dinners, preparing traditional Armenian dishes, engaging in activities, and exchanging gifts are all components of the festivities.
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Yes. Soorp Dznoont is the name given to Armenian Christmas in several Eastern nations. The nocturnal structure is known as Tonatsar. Soop Stepanos Day is a holiday that some Armenians celebrate on December 25.
On January 5, Armenians used fire carried from the church to illuminate candles in their homes. It is believed that this bestows good fortune and prosperity upon them, symbolically banishing the shadow of darkness from their existence.
Certain Armenians fast for one week before Armenian Christmas in the belief that they ought to partake in the feast of Epiphany with a pristine stomach.
It is now time to demonstrate your culinary prowess, so hon your knives and utensils. Attempt to prepare traditional Armenian dishes such as ‘Ishli Kufta,’ ‘Blinchik,’ ‘Ghapama,’ and ‘Dolma.’ Enjoy these delectable dishes with family and friends.
Inform all individuals of your celebration for this day. Post photographs of your Armenian Christmas celebrations to social media. Also acceptable are articles concerning Armenian Christmas.
As your research into the origins of Armenian Christmas and Armenian history progresses, you will come across numerous intriguing anecdotes and facts. Make an effort to increase your general knowledge today.
In Armenian Christmas, Dzmer Pap, the winter godfather, is the Armenian equivalent of Santa Claus.
During antiquity, Dzmer Pap exclusively offered counsel and discouraged the exchange of tangible presents.
Certain individuals transport fire from churches into their residences in the hope that it will bestow blessings upon them.
That year, whoever discovers a coin in gata (the traditional delicious bread of Armenia) will have the greatest good fortune.
It is customary for Armenians to pay visits to relatives and neighbors at midnight to extend festive greetings.
https://newsd.in/armenian-christmas/
Norik Y. Astvatsaturov
Norik Yegishevich Astvatsaturov passed away peacefully at the age of 76 in Wahpeton, North Dakota on December 30, 2023, at 5:45 am from a long battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his loving family. His last words on this earth were, “I’m not afraid.”
A celebration of Norik’s life will be held at Evergreen United Methodist Church on Tuesday, January 23, 2024, at 10:30 a.m., at 1120 Evergreen Court Wahpeton, North Dakota with visitation starting at 9:30 a.m. A funeral service for Norik will be held in Yerevan, Armenia later in the spring.
Everyone who met Norik knew him as he was—soul of the party, jokester, teaser, family toastmaster, Armenian barbecue aficionado, U.S. and Armenia’s national treasure, jaw-droppingly talented award-winning artist, grandchildren’s giggle-instigator and the best advice and hug-giver in the world. He loved sitting outside at the lake, carving wood and creating beauty all around him. Norik was never without candy in his pocket and a newsboy hat on his head. He loved keeping in touch with family spread around the world and maintained a network for decades, ensuring that his children had a connection to family in Armenia. Norik loved a good, loud laugh, good quality tools and a big dinner party. Above all else, he spent his life dedicated to his children and his grandchildren, who he was so proud of. He was a strong, simple, yet such a complicated man, and the world is so much dimmer without him.
Norik was born in Baku, Azerbaijan, former USSR, on December 22, 1947, to his parents Yegishe and Tamara, the oldest of three. From an early age, Norik loved visual art and expressed himself through wood carving and drawing. After returning from compulsory Soviet military service in 1968, he became an apprentice to a metal repoussé artist in Baku, soon becoming a master himself. The metal art he produced, although rooted in traditional and often religious Armenian art history, was mostly based in commercial and Soviet themes. Even under the fear of prosecution, Norik produced customary and traditional decorative metal items such as crosses, family Bible covers and wedding jewelry boxes with precious and semi-precious metals and stones.
During his time as a master in Baku, Norik met Irina Adamyan, and they married in 1977. Norik and Irina had two children: Anna born in 1978 and Mikhail born in 1984. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, the Soviet Union collapsed, and simmering ethnic hatred toward minority Armenians in Azerbaijan resurfaced. Ethnic violence ensued against Christian Armenians by the predominantly Muslim Azerbaijanis that echoed the Armenian Genocide of 1915 and massacres of Armenians of 1918, which his family survived over and over again. Norik and his family fled Baku in 1989, settling in blockaded, cold and hungry Armenia for three years, trying to survive.
Norik worked as a machinist in a crystal factory, under extreme conditions and stress. There was no food or electricity during the war between Armenia and Azerbaijan and not many prospects for the future. The family took a chance at a better life and applied for refugee status, and after 2.5 years were settled in Wahpeton, North Dakota in 1992. While they were forced to leave most of their possessions behind, Norik brought his art tools: his hammer and nail punches. He said, “A good artist is one who can carry all the tools he needs in his pocket.”
To support his family, Norik worked as a machinist in Wahpeton at the Primewood factory for two decades, while also continuing his art, making items cherished by the Armenian Diaspora in the United States. His work is known not only for extraordinary technique with simple tools but for the meaning and feeling he infuses into his art. He once said, “Technique without meaning is lifeless.”
During his life, Norik demonstrated love and deep respect for his adoptive United States and instilled the same in his children toward their ancestral homeland of Armenia. He worked tirelessly to teach and share his Armenian art and its message with Americans and the Armenian diaspora nationally and internationally. He taught, gave workshops, presented at festivals and universities, exhibited and was a recipient of fellowships from the North Dakota Council on the Arts, the Fund for Folk Culture, the Bush Foundation and the prestigious U.S. National Endowment for the Arts “National Heritage Fellowship.” In 2017, Norik was awarded an “Arshile Gorky” medal from the President of Armenia that recognizes achievement in the arts within the Armenian Diaspora.
Norik is preceded in death by his parents, Yegishe and Tamara Astvatsaturov. He is survived by his wife, Irina Astvatsaturova; his daughter, Anna Astvatsaturian Turcotte, her husband John Turcotte and their children Armen and Evangeline of Westbrook, Maine; his son, Mikhail Astvatsaturov, his wife, Cassandra Astvatsaturova and their children Nicholai, Alexander, Artem and Ruben of Williston, North Dakota; and his sister Nora and brother Novik and his family, both of Boston, Massachusetts.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to Norik’s favorite charitable organization Anna Astvatsaturian Foundation at www.astvatsaturian.org to support Armenian children and indicate “for Norik” in your donations.