Category: 2019

Primate of Artsakh Diocese presents upcoming plans to FM Mnatsakanyan

Mary Lazarian
Panorama, Armenia
July 6 2019
Politics 16:45 06/07/2019 Armenia

Armenia’s Foreign Minister Zohrab Mnataskanyan met on Saturday with Primate of the Diocese of Artsakh Archbishop Pargev Martirosyan. The meeting came in the scope of the minister’s working trip to Stepanakert.

As the press department at the foreign ministry reported, the Armenian FM and Archbishop discussed issues concerning the Armenia-Artsakh-Diaspora triumvirate and the spiritual life of Armenians.

FM Mnatsakanyan noted that issues of Artsakh Armenians concern every Armenian despite their place of residence, as Artsakh in its entirety symbolizes the preservation of our identity for all of us. Archbishop Pargev Martirosyan presented the upcoming programmes of the Artsakh Diocese, the source said. 

Drone VIDEO takes you up close to giant abandoned Soviet radio telescope in Armenia

Kalashian Nyrie
Russia Today [RT]
July 6 2019
Drone VIDEO takes you up close to giant abandoned Soviet radio telescope in Armenia

Published time: 6 Jul, 2019 09:43 Edited time: 6 Jul, 2019 11:03
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<img src=””https://cdni.rt.com/files/2019.07/xxs/5d206c90dda4c8ef568b4603.png” class=”media__item ” alt=”Drone VIDEO takes you up close to giant abandoned Soviet radio telescope in Armenia” />
© Ruptly
A gigantic abandoned Soviet-era telescope nestled high in the Armenian mountains has been revealed in stunning detail in epic drone footage.

The massive Herouni Mirror Radio telescope is located about 1,700 meters above sea level near the town of Orgov, Armenia. Built between 1981 and 1985, it was thought to be one of the most powerful radio telescopes in the world at the time. 

The impressive telescope is surrounded by abandoned buildings that were used to take radio measurements and conduct research. A peek inside reveals curious relics of that bygone age, intricate panels and control desks used to operate the then-state-of-the-art site.

<img src=””https://cdni.rt.com/files/2019.07/original/5d207f9cdda4c84a568b4640.png” />

© Ruptly

Outside, decaying structures serve as an austere monument to the destructive forces of time as the environment increasingly batters and erodes the site.

<img src=””https://cdni.rt.com/files/2019.07/original/5d207fb3dda4c84f568b467c.png” />

© Ruptly

The Herouni Mirror Radio telescope fell into disrepair after the end of the Soviet Union, but the National Institute of Metrology of Armenia, which now owns it, is currently looking for an investor to restore it. 


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Political League organization addresses Armenia government for new Constitution

Hambardsumian Paul
News.am, Armenia
July 6 2019
Political League organization addresses Armenia government for new Constitution Political League organization addresses Armenia government for new Constitution

23:53, 05.07.2019
                  

Established by journalist Narine Mkrtchyan, the Political League organization is addressing the authorities of the Republic of Armenia with the proposal to convene parliamentary hearings on and hold political debates over the Constitution and engage groups of professionals for development of the Constitution.

The organization’s statement reads as follows:

“Today, on July 5, Armenia is celebrating Constitution Day at the national level. Observance and enforcement of the universal norms of justice underlying the Constitution are the source of power of the Constitution for the State and society. The role and significance of the Constitution in the life of the country and public life are unforgettable. The fundamental law of the country must enjoy the respect and trust of members of society and be highly legitimate.

However, the existing Constitution of Armenia lacks all this. The Constitution was adopted and later amended through referenda based on electoral fraud, and the results were publicly disputed. In essence, all constitutional referenda have served as a referendum of confidence in the authorities, and the public has always said “no”.

After the victory of the Armenian velvet revolution, the defective political system collapsed, and the new political system — the formation of new State-society legal relations based on freedom, justice and democracy — should have been built with a new Constitution, which the new authorities were promising.

However, a year after the revolution, those promises have been forgotten. The authorities not only fail to be enterprising to change the Constitution, but are also trying to overlook the requirements for the adoption of a new Constitution.

On the occasion of Constitution Day (July 5), the Political League addresses the authorities of the Republic of Armenia once again to:

Convene parliamentary hearings on the Constitution

Broadcast political debates on Armenian Public Television

Engage professional groups and interested public and political figures for development of the draft Constitution

A year ago, our society set a new demand, that is, to reshape a fair, active and powerful state. The Political League organization is certain that it is necessary to refuse the old Constitution and adopt a NEW FUNDAMENTAL LAW arising from the sacred aspirations of citizens of the Republic of Armenia.”

A new library and auditorium named after Artsakh hero Robert Abajyan opened at Rehab centre

Khoyetsian Rose
Panorama, Armenia
July 6 2019
Politics 12:48 06/07/2019 Armenia

A solemn ceremony of opening a new auditorium and library named after Artsakh hero Robert Abajyan took place on Saturday at the rehabilitation center for wounded soldiers in Yerevan which is affiliated with the State Medical University of Armenia.

Abajyan’s grandpa, Gevorg Abajyan, was present at the ceremony, who told reporters the family accepted the suggestion to name the facilities after his grandson with condition the name will symbolize the memory of all the soldiers fallen during the April Four-Day war in 2016.

Rector at State Medical University Armen Muradyan addressed the attendees of the ceremony, stressing the date is significant as the centre building meets its 100th anniversary with a new library and auditorium. “The first auditorium opened is named after Robert Abajyan who sacrificed his life, yet defended the dignity of his nation,” Muradyan said in his welcome remarks, adding the initiative came to life due to the generous support of the Armenian American Medical Society of California.

The newly opened library will be enriched with books soon. As Muradyan informed the first 50 books were donated by the Ambassador of India to Armenia. The event as attended an Indian student of the medical university who performed as a tribute to the Armenian nation and its culture.

Deputy Minister of defense Gabriel Balayan, present at the event, stressed the role of the Diaspora in protecting the motherland. “I feel great pride to stand by servicemen treated at this centre,” he said, noting the initiatives taken at the Rehab centre serve to the benefit of the state.

To note, Abajyan fought for several hours against special forces groups of the Azerbaijani Armed Forces during the April Four-Day war in 2016. After finding himself alone and against larger enemy numbers, he showed as if he was giving up, however when Azeri groups were approaching he pulled out a grenade and blew up the approaching Azeri soldiers with himself.
Abajyan was posthumously awarded with “Hero of Artsakh” which is the highest honorary title of the Artsakh Republic. Abajyan is the youngest person to be awarded the title at 19 years old.

Amen to Armenia

Emil Lazarian
Philippine Star
July 7 2019


Amen to Armenia

                         

Traveling gives us a whole new perspective of what really is. The magical beauty of a place suddenly comes alive before our very eyes. Just like this recent trip to Armenia.

Armenia is the country where Noah’s Ark is believed to have found its resting place. It is also said that the Holy Lance that pierced the body of Christ was kept in a cave in this country.

A landlocked country with Turkey to the west, Georgia to the north, and Azerbaijan to the east, Armenia boasts a history longer than most European countries.

Together with my traveling companions from Adams Express Travel led by the gracious Nema Ocon, we discovered a whole new world of magical ambience in Tatev Monastery via the longest cable car ever built in only one section called “The Wings of Tatev.” The Tatev Monastery, which was built in the 9th century, was considered the wealthiest medieval monastery in Armenia. In the 10th century, the region’s best school was created at Tatev — it became a mecca for scholars in the arts over the years. Paired with spectacular designs and breathtaking scenery, Tatev Monastery has a diverse historical significance.

Then we proceeded to Khor Virap (Armenian for “deep dungeon”), the most sacred pilgrimage destination in Armenia, not only because it’s the only place in the country where you’ll get the best view of the biblical Mount Ararat (standing high at 5,165 meters), but this is also where Saint Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for 13 years by King Tiridates III for preaching Christianity. When the King found out that Grigor Lusavorich (Saint Gregory before canonization) survived after all these years, he told his men to find and release him thinking that Lusarovich could cure his illness. When Lusavorich cured him, the King begged for his forgiveness and their monarch system was subsequently converted into Christianity. What makes Khor Virap such a special and sacred destination is its mark in the start of Christianity.

Ararat is also believed to be the resting place of Noah’s Ark. Guided by the remote majesty of biblical Mount Ararat we explored the site, its underground chambers and elegant chapels, and were captivated by ascetic atmosphere. As you observe the beauty of such creation, it makes you feel connected to God.

Moving to the heart of Armenia’s own Vatican City, we enjoyed a day at Holy Echmiadzin with its world’s earliest Christian churches included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In this religious center proudly stands the Echmiadzin Mother Cathedral (4th century), the world’s oldest official Christian church; and St. Hripsime Church (7th century), a true masterpiece of early medieval Armenian architecture. Strolling around this monastery feels like walking in the past, a marvelous area filled with sacred objects.

In the west of Yerevan and also within sight of the Ararat mountains are the ruins of the unusual Zvartnots Temple. It was built at a time when much of Armenia was under Byzantine control or influence and during the early invasions of Armenia by the Muslim Arabs. The 7th century temple area was excavated in the 20th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its architecture and location is a feast for the eyes; the temple was believed to be a sacred place dedicated to angels. Zvartnots is not huge but truly spectacular nonetheless.

We were delighted with the main highlights of Yerevan. The Cascade, the huge white stairway that links the downtown area of Yerevan to the monument neighborhood, was built in the 1970s, comparable to a natural cascade in a river or stream. This monument is composed of a succession of escalators and exterior stairs that “cascade” down to the lower Kentron district.

We also admired Victory Park (Haghtanaky Zbosaygi) where a striking Soviet-era statue commands an incredible panoramic city view. Mayr Hayastan, the statue well known as the female personification of Armenia, symbolizes strength and is a tribute to motherhood. It’s such a stern figure, considering how cheery and amiable Armenians are.

About 20 kilometers to the east of Yerevan is the Garni pagan temple (Temple of the Sun God Mithra), dating back to 77 A.D. Located in an amazing natural setting, it was the summer residence of the Armenian kings. The complex also includes royal palace ruins and Roman Baths with a well-preserved mosaic. The structure can be seen as a depiction of the cosmos, with a raised platform on top of nine steps leading to the main entrance. There are 24 columns in the temple representing the hours of the day with six in front and the back, and eight on the sides, which is the symbol of life. Visitors will leave in awe, as the monument is the only still-standing Greek temple in the former Soviet Union.

We continued our discovery of Armenia until we reached the Geghard cave monastery, an outstanding medieval masterpiece, partly carved out of a mountainside that is remarkably well preserved. It is said that the “Holy Lance” that pierced the body of Christ was kept here. The complex was introduced in the 4th century as a sacred spring inside a cave. Today it is included on the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites.

We traveled, too, to the Gegharkunik province for Lake Sevan. Despite being landlocked, Armenia can still boast its “blue pearl,” the majestic Lake Sevan, which is the world’s second greatest high-altitude fresh-water lake. We visited Sevanavank Monastery with its St. Atakelots and St. Astvatsatsin churches, located on the peninsula. From the monastery you can marvel at the beautiful view of Lake Sevan, the “blue-eyed” bride of Armenia.

We left Armenia with memories to cherish for a lifetime. Come and visit Armenia and experience it on your own.

* * *

Email the author at [email protected].

For inquiries on Iran to Armenia, call Adams Express Travel at 521-1651/1638/1698. Fax 521-2255. Email [email protected]www.adamsexpresstravel.com. Departure for Iran, Armenia and Georgia is on Sept. 7.

https://www.philstar.com/lifestyle/travel-and-tourism/2019/07/07/1932507/amen-armenia



Armenia’s ambassador to UK and Northern Ireland Arman Kirakosyan passed away

Khondkarian Raffi
Aysor, Armenia
July 6 2019

Armenia’s ambassador to United Kingdom and Northern Ireland Arman Kirakosyan passed away today at the age of 63, Armenia’s Ministry Of Foreign Affairs reports.

In the statement the ministry described his contribution to the development of Armenia’s diplomacy as invaluable and expressed deep condolences to the family and friends of the Armenian top diplomat.

Putin, Pashinyan discuss arrangements for EAEU summit scheduled for October 1

Chmshkian Vicken
ITAR-TASS, Russia
Friday 10:36 AM GMT
Putin, Pashinyan discuss arrangements for EAEU summit scheduled for October 1
 
MOSCOW July 5
 
HIGHLIGHT: Russian President Vladimir Putin and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan have discussed over the phone bilateral cooperation in the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), the Kremlin press service reported on Friday.
 
 
 
MOSCOW, July 5. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan have discussed over the phone bilateral cooperation in the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), the Kremlin press service reported on Friday.
 
“[The two sides discussed] pressing issues related to cooperation in the Eurasian Economic Union in light of Armenia’s current Presidency in the association, in particular, preparations for a meeting of the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council scheduled to be held in Yerevan on October 1 and prospects for expanding the EAEU’s external ties,” the Kremlin said.
 
“Besides, they delved into cooperation in the Collective Security Treaty Organization,” the press service added.
 
Putin and Pashinyan also agreed to continue contacts.

Archbishop Aram Ateshyan elected chair of Spiritual Council of Istanbul’s Armenian Patriarchate

Markos Nalchajian

Archbishop Aram Ateshyan elected chair of Spiritual Council of Istanbul’s Armenian Patriarchate

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15:14, 5 July, 2019

YEREVAN, JULY 5, ARMENPRESS. The Spiritual Council of Istanbul’s Armenian Patriarchate held a meeting on July 5 chaired by patriarchal locum tenens Bishop Sahak Mashalian, the Patriarchate told Armenpress.

A decision was made to elect Archbishop Aram Ateshyan as chair of the Spiritual Council.

Previously, Bishop Sahak Mashalian was serving as chair of the Spiritual Council, but on July 4 he was elected as patriarchal locum tenens, therefore, this position remained vacant.

After the election of Mashalian as locum tenens, the process of electing a new patriarch has officially launched in the Armenian Patriarchate of Istanbul.

Patriarch Mesrob II died in March 2019.

Edited and translated by Aneta Harutyunyan




Pashinyan assesses his meeting with PM of Vietnam as productive

Emil Lazarian

Pashinyan assesses his meeting with PM of Vietnam as productive

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16:06, 5 July, 2019

YEREVAN, JULY 5, ARMENPRESS. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan met with Prime Minister of Vietnam Nguyen Xuan Phuc on July 5.

“I had a practical and productive meeting with Prime Minister of Vietnam Nguyen Xuan Phuc”, Pashinyan said on Facebook, posting a respective photo.

Armenian PM Nikol Pashinyan is in Vietnam on an official visit together with wife Anna Hakobyan. Official dinner on behalf of the PM of Vietnam will be served in honor of the Armenian PM and his wife.

Edited and translated by Aneta Harutyunyan




President Sarkissian visits Meghri Free Economic Zone

Emil Lazarian

President Sarkissian visits Meghri Free Economic Zone

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16:58, 5 July, 2019

MEGHRI, JULY 5, ARMENPRESS. Armenian President Armen Sarkissian is in Syunik province on a two-day working visit, Armenpress correspondent reports from Meghri.

Firstly, President Sarkissian visited the Meghri free economic zone, toured the area and got acquainted with the ongoing activities.

Director of Meghri Free Economic Zone Ashot Zarbabyan said the Free Economic Zone has been established on December 15, 2017. At the moment they still face some problems, connected with lands and entry-exit regime. “As it is a border zone, entry and exit are certainly restricted, therefore, we face problems”, he said.

The President asked whether these issues have not been discussed before 2017, whether they have not been solved before its launch, the staff of the Free Economic Zone stated that the project should have been implemented at two stages. The first stage was its launch and the next stage was to solve the remaining issues. The President was informed that a working group has been formed by the Prime Minister’s instruction which deals with these issues.

Thereafter, President Armen Sarkissian will visit a military position and the regional medical center of Meghri.

Edited and translated by Aneta Harutyunyan