Author: Nalbandian Albert

ARMENIA SUBMITS A DRAFT RESOLUTION ON REGIONAL COOPERATION
Arthur Sahakyan

"Radiolur"
18.04.2008 17:48
Strasbourg

During today’s plenary sitting of the spring session of the
Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) the Armenian
side proposed a draft resolution on issues of regional cooperation.

Member of the Armenian delegation, representative of the Prosperous
Armenia Party Avet Adonts told "Radiolur" that the draft he proposed
mainly refers to the issues of development and deepening of regional
cooperation.

The question particularly refers to the regions where tension and
conflicts exist. "The text is very simple. There is no reference to
the Nagorno Karabakh conflict. Generally, no country is mentioned
in the draft – neither Azerbaijan, nor Armenia," the author said. In
his words, the resolution simply states the facts, their importance
and necessity.

Avet Adonts informed that the draft resolution was signed by
representatives of 20 PACE participating states. The document was
put into circulation today, but Avet Adonts noticed some interesting
pattern. "The interesting thing is that when suggested to sign the
draft resolution, the delegates of Azerbaijan and Turkey refused
to do it. I think that this once again speaks about the latter’s
so-called "constructive" way of action within the framework of
regional cooperation," member of the Armenian delegation noted,
once again stating the fact that such attitude was demonstrated,
when the question referred to a very simple draft resolution that
simply reflects the importance of deepening and developing regional
cooperation in the framework of resolution of existing conflicts.

ALIYEV REITERATES POSSIBILITY OF RESOLVING KARABAKH CONFLICT BY USE OF FORCE

PanARMENIAN.Net
18.04.2008 16:10 GMT+04:00

/PanARMENIAN.Net/ Azerbaijani President said that "his country is
not going to put up with the unfair attitude of the international
community about the Nagorno Karabakh conflict."

"We are not going to put up with the current state of affairs,"
Ilham Aliyev said at the opening ceremony of five settlements for
Azeri refugees in Fizuli region.

"Azerbaijan will not be diverted from its positions.

We are called for compromise. But what should we do?

Should we cede Karabakh?"

He voiced hope that Armenia and international mediators will understand
"uselessness of occupation policy."

"All international organizations recognize righteousness of our
cause. The mediators know that Armenia is insincere and drags out the
talks but they turn a blind eye to this," Aliyev said, reminding that
"14 years of talks produced no effect."

"Baku is still participating in talks because there is hope for a
fair resolution. But our patience can give away," he said.

He emphasized that Azerbaijan will build up its military might,
with a $2 billion military budget.

"The Azeri army in the strongest in the region," he said, Izvestia
reports.

NKR POLICE CELEBRATED ITS SPECIAL HOLIDAY

Azat Artsakh Daily
Published on April 17, 2008
NKR Republic

The NKR Police is 6 years old. In 2003, March NKR government passed a
resolution about celebrating the Day of Police on April 16th. The range
of arrangements devoted to the special holiday began with solemn rank.
The NKR President Bako Sahakian congratulated the workers of the
Police. Then the participants of the celebration put the flowers on
the khachkar perpetuating the memory of 42 Police workers. At the
commemorative cross-stone a solemn vow of new workers of the Police
took place. The continuation of the arrangement devoted to the Police
Day moved to the sessions’ hall.The deputy chief of NKR Police,
major genaral Robert Shaferian performed with thorough talk.In the
last period noticable positive developments were fixed in the sphere
of police.According to R.Shaferian, one of the main problems of the
system is self-clearing, which has begun for a long time and will
take a continuous character.Addressing to the NKR President Bako
Sahakian, the deputy chief of Police congratulated him in connection
with special holiday of NKR Police and expressed gratitude, that
in conditions of heavy innerpolitical developments he had led the
above-mentioned structure. Then the head of the NKR President’s
Stuff Marat Moussaelian represented the decree of the NKR President
about appointing R.Shaferian in the post of the chief of NKR Police
relieving him of the post of the first deputy chief of NKR Police.The
decrees of the NKR President were also represented about giving titles
of a colonel of the Police.The NKR President Bako Sahakian performed in
the solemn meeting and estimated positively the works of the Police.In
connection with the special holiday, NKR Attorney General A.Gharamian,
the chief of NKR National Security Service V.Kocharian, the chief of
RA Police H.Harutyunian sent addresses.They were represented to the
participants of the meeting.

ROUNDTABLE ON ARMENIA’S POLICY ON EUROPEAN INTEGRATION CONVENED IN YEREVAN

armradio.am
17.04.2008 17:47

The Armenian Center for National and International Studies (ACNIS)
today convened a foreign policy roundtable to examine Armenia’s policy
on European integration and the country’s commitments made and actions
taken to that end. The meeting brought together MPs, foreign embassy
and mission personnel, leading analysts, policy specialists, public
and political figures, and media representatives.

ACNIS research coordinator Syuzanna Barseghian welcomed the audience
with opening remarks. "The current analytical observations carry the
objective of shedding light on the challenges that are dependent on
today’s geopolitical realities," Barseghian said. "These observations
seek to provide answers to the key questions concerning the political
course Armenia has chosen on its road to integration into Europe and
the priority measures planned for that purpose."

The day’s first speaker, Chairman Karen Bekarian of the "European
Integration" NGO, reflected on the policy of European integration in
terms of its real and demonstrative manifestations. He drew attention
to the fact that there is no clear-cut and common view in Armenia
regarding this process and therefore European integration has no
societal demand in our country.

"All the political players are simply exploiting the notion of European
integration, making it serve their individual interests. They are
disregarding the true interests of the state and the people," Bekarian
stated. In his viewpoint, Armenia’s current coalition government is
a prime example that bespeaks the absence of a shared outlook with
respect to the country’s European integration prospects. Bekarian
argued that two of the political parties in power consider EU
membership as an ultimate goal, whereas according to the other two
ruling coalition parties–who even though place a huge emphasis on
partnership with the European institutions–accession to the European
Union is not a final objective for Armenia.

In his intervention, member of the Armenian National Assembly Armen
Ashotian examined the priority measures for Armenia’s integration into
Europe. In his view, the need for European integration is primarily
dependent on the factors which secure a rapid progress in Armenia
with respect to democracy, human rights and fundamental freedoms,
poverty reduction, and reforms within state governance. According
to Ashotian, this need also heavily depends on the expectation of a
peaceful resolution to the Karabakh conflict, regional integration,
financial support, and adaptation of a civilized value system.

"The prospects for Armenia’s European integration, and specifically
our involvement in the ‘European Neighborhood Policy,’ allows us a
wonderful opportunity to implement those qualitative and systemic
reforms that are fixed in the government’s and the newly elected
president’s agenda," Ashotian maintained.

In his turn, Member of Parliament Stepan Safarian explored Europe’s
reaction to the electoral processes in Armenia and looked at the
priorities of the political course to be adopted by our country. In
his opinion, the imperative for European integration demands on the
flawless execution of the commitments that are assumed in line with
the international accords, treaties, and other formal documents. As
Safarian argued, despite the fact that in their evaluations the
European institutions mostly encourage and rarely criticize the
electoral processes in Armenia while in terms of relations between
the authorities and the opposition they uphold a balanced approach,
during the recent presidential elections, this picture was quite
different. "Today the main target of European criticisms are the
authorities and this, in my opinion, is because of the concern toward
strengthening the divided political opposition and as a result of a
more approving demeanor by the opposition," Safarian said, not ruling
out this time the possibility of European sanctions against Armenia.

The policy roundtable concluded with an exchange of opinions and
policy recommendations among political scientist Edward Antinian;
Vahe Gevorgian from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; independent
analyst Manvel Sargsian; Suren Movsisian of the Noravank Foundation;
ACNIS analyst Hovhannes Manukian; and several others.

Untitled DocumentPress Release
Eastern Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church of America
138 East 39th Street
New York, NY 10016
Tel: (212) 689-7810
Fax: (212) 689-7168
Email: [email protected]
Website:
Contact: Iris Papazian

APRIL 17, 2008

ARCHBISHOP OSHAGAN WILL PARTICIPATE IN
ECUMENICAL SERVICE FOR POPE BENEDICT
His Eminence Archbishop Oshagan will represent the Armenian Apostolic
Church of America, at a special Ecumenical Prayer Service at Saint Joseph
Parish in the Yorkville section of Manhattan on the occasion of the first
visit to the United States of His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI, tomorrow,
Friday, April 18. The service will be followed by a dinner reception.
The Pope’s New York itinerary includes an address to the United Nations,
a Mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, visit to Ground Zero, Youth Rally, and
Mass at Yankee Stadium.

PASSING OF YERETZGEEN MARIE GHAZARIAN
Archbishop Oshagan expressed his sympathy on the passing of Yeretzgeen
Marie Ghazarian, who died this week in Montreal. She was the yeretzgeen of
Archpriest Fr. Vahan, of blessed memory, and the sister of Archbishop Khajag
Hagopian, Prelate of Canada. The wake will take place tomorrow, Friday,
April 18, at St. Hagop Church in Montreal. The funeral service will take
place at St. Asdvadzadzin Church in Toronto on Saturday, followed by
interment. She is survived by her three children, Haroutune, Christine,
Vartouhi, and their families.

BISHOP ANOUSHAVAN IN ARMENIA
Bishop Anoushavan is in Armenia where he is participating in the
meetings of the Committee for Canonizing the Armenian Martyrs, at Holy
Etchmiadzin, which began on Tuesday and will continue through tomorrow,
Friday, April 18. Bishop Anoushavan is representing the Catholicosate of
Cilicia, together with Archbishop Sebouh Sarkissian, Prelate of Tehran, and
Bishop Papken Charian, Prelate of Isfahan.

PRELATE ORDAINS ACOLYTES IN NORTH ANDOVER
Last Sunday Archbishop Oshagan visited the parish of St. Gregory the
Illuminator of Merrimack Valley, in North Andover, Massachusetts, where he
presided over the Liturgy on Sunday, ordained seven acolytes, and
consecrated a new painting for the church.
The newly ordained acolytes are: John Mahlebjian, Nicholas Kulungian,
Matthew Kochakian, Nicholas Kochakian, Denis Teague, Jacob Gostanian, and
Timothy Kublbeck. The oil painting of Vartan Mamigonian is the work of the
artist Marlen from Armenia; it was donated to the church by Eliza Krikorian.
Photos: Archbishop Oshagan delivers the sermon. Archbishop Oshagan and Rev.
Fr. Vartan Kassabian with the newly-ordained acolytes.

PRELATE WILL PARTICIPATE IN MARTYRS DAY COMMEMORATIONS
Archbishop Oshagan will participate in a number of commemorations on the
occasion of the 93rd anniversary of the Armenian Genocide.
On Wednesday, April 23, the Prelate will travel to Washington, DC, where
he will participate in observances on Capitol Hill organized by the
Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues.
On Thursday, April 24, the Prelate will preside at a Divine Liturgy in
memory of the Martyrs at St. Sarkis Church, Douglaston, New York. The
celebrant will be Rev. Fr. Mesrob Lakissian, pastor of St. Illuminator’s
Cathedral. The service will begin at 7 pm.
On Friday, April 25, Archbishop Oshagan will participate in ceremonies
at New York’s City Hall, organized by the Armenian National Committee of New
York.
On Sunday, April 27, the Prelate will participate in the Times Square
Gathering, organized by the Knights and Daughters of Vartan, and supported
by all Armenian religious groups and major Armenian organizations.

GROUNDBREAKING FOR FOUNDERS’ HALL AT
ST. GREGORY CHURCH IN PHILADELPHIA TAKES PLACE
Last Sunday, April 13, Bishop Anoushavan celebrated the Liturgy and
presided over the groundbreaking of Founders’ Hall at St. Gregory the
Illuminator Church in Philadelphia.
The expansion will provide new and larger Sunday school rooms, a more
up-to-date kitchen, a new general purpose room, a new larger main hall, and
storage space.
Photo: Bishop Anoushavan Tanielian and Archpriest Fr. Nerses Manoogian, with
Bill Arthin, chairman of the Board of Trustees, and Mr. and Mrs. Richard
Stepanian, major benefactors to the expansion project. To view more photos
click eaking1.pdf.

EPISCOPAL ORDINATIONS IN ANTELIAS
His Holiness Aram I will officiate over the Episcopal consecration of V.
Rev. Fr. Norair Ashekian and V. Rev. Fr. Shahe Panossian, this Sunday, April
20, in the Cathedral of St. Gregory the Illuminator in Antelias, Lebanon.
Father Norair serves as the director of the Holy See’s publishing house.
Father Shahe is well-known to the Eastern Prelacy community. He has served
the South Florida community, All Saints Church in Glenview, Illinois, St.
Asdvadzadzin in Toronto, and most recently Sts. Vartanantz Church in
Ridgefield, New Jersey. Currently he is the dean of the Cilician Theological
Seminary in Bikfaya, Lebanon.

EXECUTIVE AND RELIGIOUS COUNCILS WILL MEET THIS WEEKEND
The Executive and Religious Councils of the Prelacy will convene their
monthly meeting beginning tomorrow, Friday, April 18, through Saturday,
April 19, at the Prelacy offices in New York City.

BISHOP ANOUSHAVAN’S BOOK TO BE PRESENTED
Archbishop Oshagan is hosting a book presentation and celebration of the
recently published book, "Archbishop Nerses Labronaci: Commentary on the
Wisdom of Solomon," by Bishop Anoushavan Tanielian, on Friday, May 2, at 7
p.m., at St. Sarkis Church in Douglaston, New York. The book, which will be
introduced by Professor Peter Cowe of UCLA, arose from his doctoral
dissertation. Bishop Anoushavan received his PhD from Columbia University in
2003 after successfully defending his doctoral dissertation and was awarded
the degree with distinction at the unanimous recommendation of the examining
committee.

PLG MOTHERS DAY LUNCHEON
The Prelacy Ladies Guild’s popular Mothers Day Luncheon will take place
on Monday, May 5, at The St. Regis, Fifth Avenue and 55th Street, New York
City. Reception is at 11:30 a.m., followed by the luncheon at 12:30. Mrs.
Mary Mardoian will be honored as the Mother of the Year. For reservations
contact the Prelacy office, 212-689-7810.

MAJOR RENOVATION UNDERWAY AT ST. ILLUMINATOR CATHEDRAL;
PRELATE WILL PRESIDE THIS SUNDAY AT TEMPORARY LOCATION
Major renovation of St. Illuminator’s Cathedral in New York City has
begun. Until the renovation is completed the Divine Liturgy will be offered
every Sunday at 10:40 a.m. at the Armenian Center, 69-23 47th Street,
Woodside, New York. This Sunday Archbishop Oshagan will attend and preside
over the Liturgy at the Cathedral’s temporary location.

NATIONAL REPRESENTATIVE ASSEMBLY
The Eastern Prelacy’s National Representative Assembly will be hosted by
St. Stephen’s Church, Watertown, Massachusetts, May 8-10. Information for
delegates, including hotel reservations, meal plans, and airport shuttle
service are on the Prelacy web page. In addition to the NRA, the National
Association of Ladies Guilds (NALG) will be meeting and celebrating its 25th
anniversary; and a conference of Yeretzgeens will take place. To get to the
NRA site click

CATH OLICOS ARAM AND PATRIARCH PAULOS ADDRESS
INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE IN ANTELIAS
His Holiness Aram I and Patriarch Paulos of the Ethiopian Orthodox
Church addressed the international conference convening at the headquarters
of the Cilician See. Patriarch Paulos, who is one of the presidents of the
World Council of Churches, came to Antelias for one day to visit Catholicos
Aram and express his gratitude to him for his key role in the reconciliation
of the Coptic and Ethiopian churches.
Patriarch Paulos emphasized the importance of the conference and
stressed the essential role of religion in accomplishing an adequate
standard of living for society.

YEAR OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION
His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia, has
designated the year 2008 as the "Year of Christian Education."
To read His Holiness’ message in Armenian click
Pontifical%20Messages/messages58.htm.
To read His Holiness’ message in English click
.

2008 DATEV SUMMER PROGRAM
Plans are underway for the 22nd annual St. Gregory of Datev Institute
Summer Program, for youth ages 13-18. Sponsored by the Armenian Religious
Education Council (AREC), the program will take place at St. Mary of
Providence Center in Elverson, Pennsylvania, June 29 to July 6, 2008. By
popular demand, this year the Institute will extend the Summer Program by a
weekend retreat (optional) June 27-29. For details click

BLESSI NG OF MURON
The Catholicosate of the Holy See of Cilicia announced that His Holiness
Catholicos Aram I will consecrate the Holy Muron (Holy Oil) on June 7, 2008.
The Holy Muron, symbol of the grace of the Holy Spirit, is traditionally
blessed every seven years. Only the Catholicos can consecrate the oil which
is then distributed to the various dioceses for distribution to the
parishes. The oil consists of 48 different herbs, flowers, and oils which
are combined in a special vessel and mixed with some of the old Muron, thus
creating an unbroken chain with the past. The preparation of the Holy Muron
is a long process and each stage is accompanied with special prayers. Prior
to its blessing, the Muron remains for forty days on the altar of the
Cathedral. The Muron Blessing is expected to attract a large number of
pilgrims from various parts of the world.
During this same period the World General Assembly of the Catholicosate
of the Great House of Cilicia will convene in Antelias beginning on June 3
through to June 5.
The Prelacy is organizing a pilgrimage to Antelias for the Muron
blessing. For details click

INTERNATIONAL YOUTH GATHERING
An international gathering of youth is being organized by the Holy See
of Cilicia. His Holiness Aram I is inviting the youth, 18 years and older,
to attend this gathering from August 13 to 20, 2008, coinciding with the
annual pilgrimage during the Feast of the Assumption of the Holy Mother of
God.
Plans are underway for the Catholicosate, the Prelacy, and our Parishes
to facilitate the travel of the young adults to the gathering by assisting
with a portion of the travel expenses. For information contact your local
parish.

DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Bible readings for today, Thursday, April 17 are: Luke 10:25-42; Acts
15:1-29; 2 Peter 2:9-22; John 6:22-38; Matthew 13:1-23; Mark 6:1-6
The next day the crowd that had stayed on the other side of the sea saw
that there had been only one boat there: They also saw that Jesus had not
got into the boat with his disciples, but that his disciples had gone away
alone. Then some boats from Tiberias came near the place where they had
eaten the bread after the Lord had given thanks. So when the crowd saw that
neither Jesus nor his disciples were there, they themselves got into the
boats and went to Capernaum looking for Jesus. When they found him on the
other side of the sea, they said to him, "Rabbi, when did you come here?"
Jesus answered them, "Very truly, I tell you, you are looking for me, not
because you saw signs, but because you ate your fill of the loaves. Do not
work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures for eternal
life, which the Son of Man will give you. For it is on him that God the
Father has set his seal." Then they said to him, "What must we do to perform
the works of God?" Jesus answered them, "This is the work of God, that you
believe in him whom he has sent." So they said to him, "What sign are you
going to give us then, so that we may see it and believe you? What work are
you performing? Our ancestors are the manna in the wilderness; as it is
written, ‘He gave them bread from heaven to eat.’ " Then Jesus said to them,
"Very truly, I tell you, it was not Moses who gave you the bread from
heaven, but it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven. For
the bread of God is that which comes down from heaven and gives life to the
world." They said to him, "Sir, give us this bread always." Jesus said to
them, "I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and
whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. But I said to you that you
have seen me and yet do not believe. Everything that the Father gives me
will come to me, and anyone who comes to me I will never drive away; for I
have come down from heaven, not to do my own will, but the will of him who
sent me. (John 6:22-38)
For listing of the week’s Bible readings click

AP PARITION OF THE HOLY CROSS
This Sunday, April 20, the Armenian Church commemorates the Apparition
of the Cross (Yerevoumun Sourp Khatchi). The Apparition of the Holy Cross is
the third feast of the Holy Cross in the Armenian liturgical calendar. It is
celebrated on the fifth Sunday of Easter, in remembrance of the apparition
of the sign of the cross that appeared over the city of Jerusalem in 331
A.D. The apparition, which extended from Golgotha to the Mount of Olives,
was brighter than the sun and seen by all of Jerusalem. This event is
celebrated by the Armenian and Greek churches. The Greeks observe it on a
fixed date of May 7th; the Armenians observe it on the fifth Sunday of
Easter (which is the fourth Sunday after Easter).

REMINDER OF MARTYRS’ DAY COMMEMORATIONS
Wednesday, April 23-Martyrs’ Day commemoration on Capitol Hill, organized by
the Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues.
Thursday, April 24-Divine Liturgy in memory of the Martyrs, celebrated by
Rev. Fr. Mesrob Lakissian, at St. Sarkis Church, 38-65 234th Street,
Douglaston, New York, 7:00 pm, under the auspices of Archbishop Oshagan
Choloyan.
Friday, April 25-Commemoration at City Hall Chambers, New York City, with
New York City Council members and New York Congress members. Buses will
depart at 4:45 pm from St. Sarkis Church, Douglaston; Holy Martyrs Church,
Bayside; Baruir’s Grocery, Sunnyside; Armenian Center, Woodside. For
information 718-423-7010.
Sunday, April 27-Times Square Gathering (43rd and Broadway, NYC), at 2 pm,
sponsored by the Knights and Daughters of Vartan, with the co-sponsorship of
all major Armenian organizations, and the participation of all Armenian
churches. Buses will depart from all Armenian churches in New York and New
Jersey; Baruyr’s Grocery, 40th Street & Queens Boulevard, Sunnyside; and
>From Brooklyn from the corner of Coney Island Ave. and Brighton Beach Ave.
For information: 516-352-2587.

>From THE BOOKSTORE THIS WEEK..
This week we call your attention to a pioneering publication: Who’s Who
of Outstanding Athletes, Coaches and Sports Personalities, 1906-1989,
featuring Armenian American and Armenian Canadian sports personalities. The
book was compiled by Richard N. Demirjian. It covers all of the major sports
like football, track, basketball, baseball, soccer, water sports, tennis,
volleyball, and much, much more. The 500-page oversize volume is interesting
reading even for the non-sports enthusiast. $39.95, plus shipping and
handling.
For shipping and handling charges call the Prelacy Bookstore, 212-689-7810.

FOR INFORMATION ABOUT THESE AND OTHER ITEMS AT THE BOOKSTORE VISIT THE
PRELACY’S WEB SITE () OR CONTACT THE BOOKSTORE BY
EMAIL ([email protected]) OR BY TELEPHONE (212-689-7810).

KEEP CHECKING YOUR ATTICS AND BASEMENTS..
This year, as many of you know, we are marking a dual anniversary: the
110th anniversary of the establishment of the Armenian Church in America by
Catholicos Mgrditch (Khrimian Hairig), and the 50th anniversary of the
Prelacy under the Holy See of Cilicia. We are seeking any type of
memorabilia and photographs, especially during the tenures of Archbishop
Hrant Khatchadourian (1958-1973) and Archbishop Karekin Sarkissian
(1973-1977). Anything you have will be returned to you safe and sound after
we scan them for use in a forthcoming book. Please contact us by email at
[email protected] or by telephone 212-689-7810, Extension 23.
We received a great deal of enthusiastic response to the historic photo
we posted in last week’s Crossroads. Several of you caught the mistaken
identification of V. Rev. Fr. Bedros Bozabalian; of course it should have
read V. Rev. Fr. Nersess Bozabalian (later Archbishop). The first email we
received-minutes after Crossroads was transmitted-was from ever-faithful and
knowledgeable Deacon Allan Jendian from Fresno, California.
Because of your enthusiastic response to this photograph we will include
photographs from our archives starting next week during this anniversary
year.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

April 20-Third lecture in a series presented by St. Sarkis Church,
Douglaston, New York, 1:15 pm. With participation of Samvel Jeshmaridian,
PhD and Elize Kiregian, M.A. Information: church office 718-224-2275 or Dr.
Arthur H. Kubikian 718-786-3842.

April 24-Divine Liturgy in memory of the Martyrs of the 1915 Genocide, at 7
pm at St. Sarkis Church, Douglaston, New York, under the auspices of the
Prelate, Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan. The Liturgy will be celebrated by Rev.
Fr. Mesrob Lakissian, pastor of St. Illuminator’s Cathedral.

April 27-Armenian Genocide Commemoration at Times Square, New York City, 2
pm. Sponsored by the Knights and Daughters of Vartan. Co-sponsored by the
AGBU, Armenian Assembly of America, ANCA, ADL-RAG and S.D. Hunchagians. With
the participation of the Diocese of the Armenian Church, Prelacy of the
Armenian Church, AMAA, Armenian Presbyterian Church, Armenian Evangelical
Church and Armenian Catholic Eparchy for U.S. and Canada, and Armenian youth
organizations. Free bus transportation from Armenian churches in New York
and New Jersey; Baruyr’s, 40th & Queens Boulevard, and Hovnanian School, New
Milford, New Jersey. For information: Sam: 516-352-2587; Leo: 201-746-0409;
Ara: 973-759-7518; John: 718-631-2247.

May 2-Presentation of the recent publication of Bishop Anoushavan Tanielian’s
Archbishop Nerses Lambronaci: Commentary on the Wisdom of Solomon, 7 pm, at
St. Sarkis Church, 38-65 234th St., Douglaston, New York.

May 5-Mothers’ Day Luncheon, sponsored by the Prelacy Ladies Guild, St.
Regis, New York City. Reception at 11:30 followed by luncheon.

May 8-10-National Representative Assembly of the Eastern Prelacy, hosted by
St. Stephen’s Church, Watertown, Massachusetts.

May 8 and 9-National Association of Ladies Guild (NALG) conference in
conjunction with the National Representative Assembly, celebrating the 25th
anniversary of the NALG, will take place at St. Stephen Church, Watertown,
Massachusetts.

May 9-Mothers Day banquet hosted by ARS Mayr Chapter, New York, at Armenian
Center, 69-23 47th Ave. Woodside, New York. For information and reservations
contact Sonia 718-961-9550.

June 3-5-World General Assembly of the Catholicosate of the Great House of
Cilicia will convene in Antelias, Lebanon.

June 7-Blessing of Holy Muron in Antelias, Lebanon.

June 24-Holy Trinity Armenian Church, Worcester, 5th annual Golf Outing,
Juniper Hill Golf Course, Northboro, Massachusetts. For information
508-852-2414.

June 27 to July 6-St. Gregory of Datev Institute, Summer Christian Studies
Program for youth ages 13-18 at St. Mary of Providence Center in Elverson,
Pennsylvania, organized by the Armenian Religious Education Council.

July 19-"A Hye Summer Night 3," dance hosted by Ladies’ Guild of Sts.
Vartanantz Church and ARS Ani Chapter, Providence, Rhode Island. For details
401-434-4467.

August 3-Sts. Vartanantz Church, Providence, Rhode Island, Blessing of the
Grapes picnic. Camp Haiastan, Franklin, Massachusetts, noon to 6 pm, rain or
shine.

August 10-Holy Trinity Armenian Church, Worcester, Massachusetts. Annual
picnic on church grounds. Free admission; free parking.

August 15-17-International Gathering of Youth and Pilgrimage to Der Zor,
organized by the Catholicosate of Cilicia. Details will follow.

September 21-Holy Trinity Armenian Church, Worcester, Massachusetts, annual
church banquet. Details to follow.

September 25-Sixth annual golf outing hosted by Sts. Vartanantz Church,
Ridgefield, New Jersey, at River Vale Country Club, River Vale, New Jersey.
For information contact Richard Krikorian 201-784-2236 or church office
201-943-2950.

September 26-28-National Youth Conference at Holy Virgin Mary Spiritual
Vineyard, Charlton, Massachusetts.

September 29-30-Clergy conference at the Holy Virgin Mary Spiritual
Vineyard, Charlton, Massachusetts.

October 25-Gala celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Prelacy of the
Armenian Apostolic Church of America under the jurisdiction of the Great
House of Cilicia and the 110th anniversary of the establishment of the
Armenian Church of America. Marriott at Glenpointe, Teaneck, New Jersey.
Details to follow.

November 21 and 22-Holy Trinity Armenian Church, Worcester, Massachusetts,
Fall Food Festival.

AZERBAIJAN TO RAISE MILITARY SPENDING BY OVER 50 PER CENT – PRESIDENT

Azertag
April 14 2008
Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan is going to boost its military spending by over 50 per
cent this year as the country is technically at war with neighbouring
Armenia, the state-run news agency Azartac has quoted President Ilham
Aliyev as saying.

Speaking at a Cabinet meeting on 14 April, Aliyev said that the
military spending would be increased from the current 1.3bn dollars
to nearly 2bn dollars.

"We should consider that we are at a state of war [with Armenia].

Although [the current military budget of] 1.3 bn dollars is a large
amount, I think and I am sure that we should increase it further,"
Aliyev was quoted as saying. "Now calculations are under way. I think
that this year’s military spending should be close to 2bn dollars."

INVESTIGATION OF MARCH 1 EVENTS REMAINS ARMENIA’S COMMITMENT
By A. Haroutiunian

AZG Armenian Daily
16/04/2008

Human Rights

During the yesterday session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the
Council of Europe, among numerous other issues, was discussed the
2007 report on human rights. The report was represented by Human
Rights Commissioner Thomas Hammerberg.

In a later interview the Commissioner said that the Council of Europe
expects the Government of the Republic of Armenia to answer if it is
willing to cooperate with the CE in the investigation of the March
1 events.

The Council of Europe had suggested Armenia to start an independent
and transparent investigation of the matter. "I don’t think that the
international public can force Armenia to hold such investigation. We
can only suggest and give advice. The authorities of Armenia are
expected top give a certain answer, what kind of contribution they
expect from the Council of Europe. We can offer expert assistance,"
said Human Rights Commissioner Hammerberger.

The CE representative also said that he can make no professional
statement about the detentions after March 1. He only reminded that
the position of the Council of Europe remains the same: no one must
be detained for his/her political ideas.

STORM INTERNATIONAL INVESTS 43MLN IN SHANGRI LA CASINO RECONSTRUCTION

ARKA
April 15, 2008

YEREVAN, April 15. /ARKA/. Storm International, the second largest
Russian casino holding, has invested $3mln in reconstruction of
Cleopatra, the largest gambling house in Armenia, which been renamed
into Shangri La, President of Storm International Michael Bottcher
told reporters at the casino presentation event.

Storm International purchased Cleopatra owned by Multi Group last
September to reconstruct and rename it into Shangri La.

With the size of total investments initially set at $3mln the company
is going to make them $7mln by the end of year.

The casino currently occupying a total territory of 2,400 cubic metres
will expand on 800 additional cubic metres comprising 12 gambling
tables and 85 gambling machines.

Armenia is the first CIS country in which the company opens a casino.

President of Multi Group Concern Gagik Tsarukyan is an experienced
partner in gambling business, Bottcher said. Shangri La ownership is
equally shared by Multi Group and Storm International.

Storm International was founded in 1992. It owns 23 Super Slot,
Shangri La and Jazz Town gambling houses.

The company owns gambling houses in Venezuela and Tunis. Storm
International is planning to expand in other CIS countries, namely
in Ukraine.

RUSSIANS’ EXODUS FROM AZERBAIJAN HAS PRACTICALLY STOPPED – BAKU

Interfax News Agency
April 14 2008
Russia

The number of Russians leaving Azerbaijan has fallen drastically,
head of the Russian Community in Azerbaijan, Azeri MP Mikhail Zabelin,
told Interfax.

"The exodus of Russians from Azerbaijan has decreased significantly.

Only those who have found themselves in dire straits or those who
want to reunite with their families are leaving," Zabelin said.

"As of today, only ten or fifteen applications to leave for Russia have
been filed. And they [people who filed these applications] are still
thinking. We expected that there would be hundreds of applications,"
Zabelin said.

There are cases when Russians who earlier lived in Azerbaijan but
left the country want to return and have asked the Russian Community
in Azerbaijan for assistance, he said. "But it is impossible to help
in securing housing in present-day conditions. Only seven of the 15
families that turned to me were able to remain in Azerbaijan. Eight
families were forced to return back to Russia," Zabelin said.

Azerbaijan is home to the largest Russian diaspora in the region,
he said. Some 168,000 Russians live in Azerbaijan; about 10,000,
in Georgia; and about 5,000, in Armenia.

ARMENIA APPOINTS ENVOY TO FRANCE AS NEW FOREIGN MINISTER

Agence France Presse — English
April 14, 2008 Monday

Armenia has appointed its ambassador to France Eduard Nalbandian as
the ex-Soviet republic’s new foreign minister, the president’s press
office said Monday.

Nalbandian, a career diplomat who also served as the country’s
ambassador to Israel, Andorra and the Vatican, will replace Vardan
Oskanian, who resigned following Armenian President Serzh Sarkisian’s
inauguration on Wednesday, the office said in a statement.

Sarkisian has also appointed the chief of Armenia’s armed forces,
Seiran Oganian, as the country’s new defence minister, the statement
said.

Oganian is a veteran of Armenia’s war with neighbouring Azerbaijan
over the disputed region of Nagorny Karabakh and served as defence
minister in Karabakh’s Armenian-controlled administration.

He replaces Mikayel Harutunian, who served less than a year as defence
minister after taking over from Sarkisian when he became prime minister
in mid-2007.

Sarkisian is forming a new government following his election on
February 19 in a disputed vote that sparked violent clashes between
opposition supporters and security forces.

Armenia’s health ministry announced Monday that the death toll from the
clashes had reached 10 following the death on Friday of an opposition
protester seriously injured during the unrest.