Category: News

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres at a press conference in Yerevan on Oct. 15

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who is in Yerevan to attend a COP17 Biodiversity Conference, prioritized the implementation of a peace deal between Armenia and Azerbaijan when he was asked to comment about Baku’s refusal to free Armenian prisoners.

At a press conference ahead of the COP17 conference, Guterres was asked about the fate and plight of the 19 prisoners of war being held in Baku.

“I am a strong supporter of the peace agreement,” Guterres said. “I hope all the provisions set out in it will be implemented and that implementation will accelerate. I hope for more rapid progress so that we conclude the peace agreement and settle those outstanding issues.”

“We call on all parties to implement all provisions of the peace agreement as quickly as possible, which naturally also includes detained persons,” Guterres said, commenting on a lack of UN pressure on Baku.

When asked by News.am after the news conference whether the UN could take concrete steps to try to secure the prisoners’ release, he only said: “It’s a matter of great interest to us.”

The framework for peace that was finalized in Washington last year by Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan does not contain a provision for Baku to free the Armenian hostages. This has been a point of contention for human rights activists, legal experts and opposition lawmakers who contend that peace would be difficult to come by when Armenians are being held captive in Baku.

During a presentation at the UCLA Promise Institute for Human Rights last month, Siranush Sahakyan, a human rights attorney who represents the Armenian captives at the European Court of Human Rights, said the proposed peace deal between Armenia and Azerbaijan is one of the few such accords that does not compel the release of hostages and POWs as a precondition for peace.

Joe Manganiello’s “Bloodlines“ Brings Armenian Family History to Life, with Contributions from Pulitzer Prize Winner Peter Balakian and System of a Down’s Serj Tankian

LOS ANGELES — For generations, Armenian families have passed down extraordinary stories of survival, sacrifice, displacement, and resilience. Now, acclaimed actor and author Joe Manganiello explores his own remarkable family history in his new memoir, “Bloodlines,” connecting the experiences of his Armenian ancestors with the personal journey that has shaped his life.

Known to audiences worldwide for his work in film and television, Manganiello offers readers an intimate look beyond Hollywood, examining his Armenian ancestry, his own life-threatening health challenges, and the powerful influence of family history on his understanding of identity and survival.

Central to the memoir is the story of his Armenian great-grandmother, a survivor of the Armenian Genocide, whose extraordinary journey forms part of his family’s enduring legacy.

For Armenian-Americans, family history is often inseparable from cultural identity. Stories of grandparents and great-grandparents who survived unimaginable hardship, rebuilt their lives, and preserved their heritage continue to shape generations born far from their ancestral homeland.

In “Bloodlines,” Manganiello explores the profound connections between these inherited histories and the challenges of his own life, examining what it means to understand where we come from and how the experiences of our ancestors continue to influence who we become.

The memoir has earned praise from Pulitzer Prize-winning Armenian-American poet and author Peter Balakian, who describes “Bloodlines” as, “An astonishing story of courage and spiritual resilience.”

Balakian, whose acclaimed literary work has explored the Armenian Genocide, historical memory, and intergenerational trauma, offers a particularly meaningful endorsement. His praise underscores one of the memoir’s most compelling themes: how the extraordinary survival story of Manganiello’s Armenian great-grandmother becomes a source of strength and spiritual awakening as he confronts his own life-threatening challenges.

The audiobook edition of “Bloodlines” offers an especially meaningful listening experience, incorporating elements of Armenian spirituality and music into Manganiello’s deeply personal storytelling.

Narrated by Manganiello himself, the audiobook features the “Armenian Guardian and Hope Prayer for Protection,” bringing a spiritual dimension to the narrative and reflecting the enduring role of faith and tradition in Armenian cultural identity.

The audiobook also includes “Snow on Ararat” by Serj Tankian, the Grammy Award-winning Armenian-American musician, activist, and lead vocalist of System of a Down.

Named for Mount Ararat, one of the most enduring symbols of Armenian identity and heritage, Tankian’s musical contribution adds another powerful cultural connection to the audiobook.

Together, these elements weave Armenian spirituality, music, and cultural identity into a listening experience that extends beyond the traditional memoir format.

Manganiello’s exploration of his Armenian heritage extends well beyond the pages of his memoir.

In 2024, he embarked on a deeply personal pilgrimage to Armenia, reconnecting with his ancestral homeland and gaining a deeper understanding of its history, culture, and people.

The journey strengthened his connection to his Armenian roots and reflected a desire shared by many members of the Armenian diaspora: to understand the sacrifices of previous generations while developing a meaningful relationship with the Armenia of today.

During his visit, Manganiello also experienced firsthand the work of the Children of Armenia Fund, an organization dedicated to creating opportunities for children and families in rural Armenia.

His commitment to Armenia continues through his service as a member of COAF’s Board of Directors, supporting the organization’s mission to expand educational opportunities, strengthen communities, and empower the next generation.

His involvement reflects a dedication not only to honoring his ancestral heritage but also to helping shape a brighter future for Armenia.

While “Bloodlines” chronicles Manganiello’s individual journey, its themes extend far beyond one family or community.

For Armenian-American readers, the memoir offers a powerful connection to shared experiences of survival, cultural preservation, and the transmission of family history.

For readers of all backgrounds, it is a reminder that the stories of those who came before us often shape our lives in ways we are only beginning to understand.

Through “Bloodlines,” Manganiello invites readers to reflect on their own family histories, the strength inherited from previous generations, and the importance of preserving the stories that connect past, present, and future.

“Bloodlines” is a memoir by Joe Manganiello, published by Avid Reader Press, an imprint of Simon & Schuster.

The book explores Manganiello’s personal experiences, family ancestry, and the enduring connections between survival, identity, and resilience.

The audiobook, narrated by Manganiello, features the “Armenian Guardian and Hope Prayer for Protection” and “Snow on Ararat” by Serj Tankian.

The book is available now in hardcover, eBook, and audiobook formats.

Visit the Simon & Schuster website for book information and purchasing options.

Joe Manganiello is an American actor, author, and producer known for his work across film and television. A proud Armenian-American, he has publicly embraced his ancestral heritage and traveled to Armenia in 2024 to deepen his connection to his family’s history. He serves on the Board of Directors of the Children of Armenia Fund.

LOS ANGELES — Los Angeles City Councilmember Adrin Nazarian today celebrated October as Armenian Heritage Month in the City of Los Angeles and welcomed Domingo Hindoyan, the new Richard Seaver Music Director of LA Opera, to City Hall.

The presentation honored Armenian history, culture, identity, and celebrated the role of the arts in carrying that legacy across generations.

“A nation’s memory lives in the words its people speak, the stories they tell, the music they compose, and the art they create,” said Councilmember Nazarian. “Heritage is something we continue to build, express, and share with the world. We could not be prouder to have Maestro Hindoyan making his artistic home in Los Angeles.”

Councilmember Nazarian presented Maestro Hindoyan with a City Certificate for his extraordinary career and his new role. His arrival marks an exciting new chapter for one of the nation’s leading opera companies and an opportunity to further strengthen Los Angeles’s reputation as a global center for artistic excellence, innovation, and cultural exchange.

Born in Caracas, Venezuela, to a family with Armenian roots, Maestro Hindoyan represents the remarkable ways cultural heritage travels across generations and finds new _expression_ around the world. His journey from Venezuela’s renowned El Sistema music education program to the stages of some of the world’s most prestigious opera houses reflects a lifelong dedication to music and its ability to bring people together across languages, backgrounds, and borders.

As he begins his tenure at LA Opera, Maestro Hindoyan brings an international artistic perspective and a wealth of experience leading world-class orchestras and opera productions. His appointment is a moment of pride for Los Angeles’s Armenian-American community and an opportunity to celebrate the enduring influence of Armenian heritage in the world of performing arts. 

“I am deeply honored by this recognition from the City of Los Angeles, and especially grateful to Councilmember Nazarian for honoring the Armenian heritage that is part of my own story. Music has always been a way for me to connect with people across cultures and traditions,” said Maestro Hindoyan. “Los Angeles is a city of extraordinary diversity and creativity, and I am thrilled to make it my artistic home as we begin this exciting new chapter together at LA Opera.” 

The Councilmember also highlighted the Los Angeles Armenian American Historic Context Statement, a two-year project supported by his office. A collaboration between Los Angeles City Planning, the USC Dornsife Institute of Armenian Studies, and Environmental Science Associates, the project will tell the story of Armenian Americans in Los Angeles through the political, social, and cultural life of the community and the institutions it has built. It will create a framework for identifying and preserving the places that matter to the Armenian American experience in the city, and for recognizing the individuals, groups, and organizations that helped shape it.

“The Armenian American experience is deeply woven into the historic and cultural fabric of Los Angeles. Through this project, we are establishing a comprehensive framework to safeguard the landmarks, organizations, and individuals that defined our neighborhood hubs and community institutions,” stated Vince Bertoni, Los Angeles City Planner Director. 

The celebration featured a performance by Allen Dishigrikyan of the Lark Musical Society, who played Prelude No. 19 in G minor by Armenian composer Eduard Abrahamyan. Dedicated to preserving and sharing Armenian music, the Lark Musical Society introduces audiences to the richness of Armenia’s musical and cultural heritage.

Barekamutiun International Dance Studio also performed Armenian folk dance, celebrating a living tradition that preserves the customs, stories, and collective memory of the Armenian people through movement and music. “Dance is more than an art form; it is a powerful _expression_ of our history, identity and heritage. For over 25 years, Barekamutiun International Dance Studio has been dedicated to preserving Armenian culture in Los Angeles and passing our traditions on to future generations,” remarked Lusine Gevorgyan, Founder and Artistic Director of the studio. “It was an honor to share our heritage at Los Angeles City Hall, and we are grateful to Councilmember Nazarian for this meaningful opportunity.” 

“Our arts institutions are strongest when they reflect the diversity of our communities and invite more people to see themselves in our cultural life,” said Councilmember Nazarian. “Today we celebrated the enduring bond between heritage and art, and the way our traditions inspire the next generation.”

Merit-Based Scorecards Rate Legislators Across More Than 70 Metrics; New ANCA Election Hub Spotlights Key Races in California, Michigan, New Hampshire, Texas, and Across the U.S.

WASHINGTON – With Election Day twenty days away, the Armenian National Committee of America has released its 2026 Congressional Report Cards and endorsements. The Report Cards grade every U.S. Senator and Representative across more than seventy pro-Armenian legislative metrics. The ANCA has also launched the ANCA Election Hub, to track the highest-profile races for Armenian American voters.

The ANCA Election Hub brings together the ANCA’s merit-based Report Cards, its endorsed candidates, and its target races. These are the contests where the ANCA is mobilizing to defeat candidates with records of corruption or who actively undermine Armenian American priorities. The Hub carries the latest news from key contests nationwide, offers access to the ANCA’s 2026 Congressional Questionnaire, and lets voters sign up for election updates.

“Our message to every candidate is simple: stand with Armenian Americans, and we will stand with you – enable Aliyev and Erdogan, and you will be held to account at the ballot box,” said ANCA Executive Director Aram Hamparian. “We’re prioritizing key races, including our campaign to unseat Henry Cuellar, a corrupt Congressman charged with taking Azerbaijani bribes to work against Armenian Americans, spared by a presidential pardon, and now asking voters to send him back to Washington. From New Hampshire to Michigan, South Texas to California, Armenian American voters will help decide close races this November – and we intend to make every one of those votes count.”

The ANCA has endorsed sixty-three candidates for the U.S. Senate and House this cycle. Each endorsement is backed by a detailed, merit-based Report Card. In a handful of races, the ANCA is mobilizing Armenian American voters where the stakes for U.S. policy toward Armenia and Azerbaijan are highest.

Demanding Transparency in New Hampshire
In one of the closest Senate contests in the country, the ANCA has endorsed Rep. Chris Pappas (D-NH). Pappas earned an “A” grade from the ANCA for his consistent support of enforcing Section 907 of the FREEDOM Support Act, which restricts U.S. military aid to Azerbaijan. He has also supported humanitarian aid for displaced Artsakh Armenians, accountability for Azerbaijani war crimes, and a stronger U.S.-Armenia partnership.

His opponent, former Sen. John E. Sununu, faces unanswered questions about his family’s financial ties to Anglo Asian Mining. The company operates mines on Artsakh lands from which Armenians were forcibly displaced, including the Kashen copper mine in the Martakert region. In a financial disclosure filed in May, Sununu reported a personal stake in Sununu Holdings LLC, the company’s second-largest shareholder, as well as Anglo Asian Mining stock worth up to $5 million.

ANCA National Grassroots Director Gev Iskajyan and Programs Director Michael Tatevossian wrote in NH Journal that Granite State voters deserve answers about a company whose fortunes “have risen alongside Azerbaijan’s conquest of Armenian lands.”

Defending a Pro-Armenian Senate Seat in Michigan
For more than a decade, Michigan’s Armenian American community has had a champion in Sen. Gary Peters (D-MI). Peters authored the Armenian Protection Act (S.3000), led the bicameral push to enforce Section 907, and traveled to the Lachin Corridor during Azerbaijan’s blockade of Artsakh. He is retiring.

The ANCA has endorsed Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, the Democratic nominee for the open seat, who has pledged to stand with Michigan’s Armenian Americans. “The Trump administration’s blank check for military aid to Azerbaijan in the face of ongoing atrocities is a blatant violation of international law,” said El-Sayed.

Holding Cuellar Accountable in South Texas
Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-TX-28), graded “F,” tops the ANCA’s list of targets. A federal indictment unsealed in May 2024 charged Cuellar with accepting at least $598,000 in bribes from an oil company wholly owned and controlled by the Government of Azerbaijan, and from a Mexican bank. According to the indictment, Cuellar “promised to influence U.S. foreign policy in favor of Azerbaijan,” including on legislation relating to Azerbaijan’s conflict with Armenia.

President Trump pardoned Cuellar and his wife in December 2025, before the case went to trial. The ANCA condemned the pardon and continues to call for Cuellar’s expulsion from Congress at anca.org/expel. The ANCA has endorsed his opponent, Judge Tano Tijerina (R-TX-28).

Standing with Champions Across the Aisle in California
The ANCA’s endorsements reach across party lines. In California’s Central Valley, Rep. David Valadao (R-CA-22), graded “A+,” faces a competitive race. Valadao, a leader of the Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues, co-led the Armenian Genocide Education Act and the 87-member Congressional letter calling for the safe return of Armenians to Artsakh.

California’s new Congressional map has also produced a member-versus-member contest in the 40th District. The ANCA has endorsed Rep. Young Kim (R-CA-40), graded “A-,” over fellow Republican Rep. Ken Calvert, graded “B-.”

Grading Every Member of Congress
The ANCA’s 2026 Report Cards rate each legislator across more than seventy criteria. They focus heavily on holding Azerbaijan accountable for the genocidal ethnic cleansing of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh), securing the release of Armenian hostages held in Baku, defending Armenia’s sovereignty and security, and bolstering U.S. recognition of the Armenian Genocide through nationwide education about that crime.

The Report Cards track cosponsorship of three key bills: the Azerbaijan Sanctions Review Act (H.R.5369), the ARMENIA Security Partnership Act (H.R.6840), and the Armenian Genocide Education Act (H.R.2585). They also track support for ANCA-backed Congressional letters, including:

• the bicameral, bipartisan Peters-Schiff-Bilirakis-Pallone letter, signed by 101 Members of Congress (26 Senators and 75 Representatives), urging Secretary of State Marco Rubio to withhold U.S. military aid to Azerbaijan;
• the Lawler-Pallone-Bilirakis-Amo letter demanding full enforcement of Section 907;
• the Titus-Smith letter calling for Global Magnitsky sanctions on Azerbaijani officials;
• the Markey-Whitehouse letter, signed by 27 Senators, demanding the release of Armenian hostages;
• the Armenian Caucus letters on hostage release and on the safe return of Armenians to Artsakh.

The grades also weigh several other factors:

• membership in the Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues;
• April 24th statements marking the Armenian Genocide;
• participation in the Capitol Hill Armenian Genocide Observance and the ANCA’s September Artsakh Genocide commemorations;
• engagement with Armenian American constituents;
• public statements, including on social media.

Each Report Card shows the legislator’s 2026 grade alongside grades from past cycles and a point-by-point record on legislation, letters, and events. It also includes a social media section spotlighting pro-Armenian statements and a Congressional Bio link with contact information for the legislator’s office. ANCA Report Cards are prepared in close consultation with ANCA regional and local stakeholders across the country.

Armenian American voters can review their legislators’ ANCA Report Cards online. The full list of ANCA-endorsed candidates is at the ANCA Election Hub website. To follow the latest on key races and sign up for election updates, click here. To register to vote, visit the ANCA voter registration page.

Two lists are provided below:

• ANCA-endorsed candidates for the U.S. Senate and House, including incumbents and candidates, listed by state and by the district in which each is running in 2026.
• ANCA Congressional Grades for the 119th Congress (2025-2026), listed by state. Members are listed under the district they currently represent, and vacant seats are noted.

ANCA 2026 CONGRESSIONAL ENDORSEMENTS

U.S. SENATE

Sen. Chris Coons (D-DE)
Sen. Edward Markey (D-MA)
Candidate Abdul El-Sayed (D-MI)
Candidate Rep. Chris Pappas (D-NH)
Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ)
Sen. Jack Reed (D-RI)

U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

California
Rep. Tom McClintock (R-05)
Rep. Lateefah Simon (D-12)
Rep. Kevin Mullin (D-15)
Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-18)
Rep. Vince Fong (R-20)
Rep. Jim Costa (D-21)
Rep. David Valadao (R-22)
Rep. George Whitesides (D-27)
Rep. Judy Chu (D-28)
Rep. Luz Rivas (D-29)
Rep. Laura Friedman (D-30)
Rep. Gil Cisneros (D-31)
Rep. Brad Sherman (D-32)
Rep. Jimmy Gomez (D-34)
Rep. Ted Lieu (D-36)
Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-37)
Candidate Hilda Solis (D-38)
Rep. Young Kim (R-40)
Rep. Linda Sanchez (D-41)
Rep. Dave Min (D-47)
Rep. Mike Levin (D-49)

Delaware
Rep. Sarah McBride (D-AL)

Florida
Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-12)

Illinois
Rep. Delia Ramirez (D-03)
Rep. Mike Quigley (D-05)
Rep. Brad Schneider (D-10)
Rep. Nikki Budzinski (D-13)

Maine
Rep. Chellie Pingree (D-01)

Massachusetts
Rep. James McGovern (D-02)
Rep. Lori Trahan (D-03)
Rep. Jake Auchincloss (D-04)
Rep. Katherine Clark (D-05)
Rep. Stephen Lynch (D-08)

Michigan
Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-12)

Missouri
Rep. Wesley Bell (D-01)

Nevada
Rep. Dina Titus (D-01)
Rep. Susie Lee (D-03)
Rep. Steven Horsford (D-04)

New Jersey
Rep. Donald Norcross (D-01)
Rep. Christopher Smith (R-04)
Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-05)
Rep. Frank Pallone (D-06)
Rep. Rob Menendez (D-08)

New York
Rep. Grace Meng (D-06)
Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-11)
Rep. George Latimer (D-16)
Rep. Mike Lawler (R-17)
Rep. Paul Tonko (D-20)

Ohio
Rep. David Taylor (R-02)
Rep. Warren Davidson (R-08)
Rep. Mike Carey (R-15)

Pennsylvania
Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-01)

Rhode Island
Rep. Gabe Amo (D-01)
Rep. Seth Magaziner (D-02)

Texas
Rep. Joaquín Castro (D-20)
Candidate Judge Tano Tijerina (R-28)

Virginia
Rep. Don Beyer (D-08)

ANCA CONGRESSIONAL GRADES, 119TH CONGRESS (2025-2026) *ANCA Endorsed in 2025-26

Alabama
Sen. Katie Britt (R) – C
Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R) – C
Rep. Barry Moore (R-01) – B-
Rep. Shomari Figures (D-02) – C
Rep. Michael Rogers (R-03) – C+
Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-04) – F
Rep. Dale Strong (R-05) – C
Rep. Gary Palmer (R-06) – D
Rep. Terri Sewell (D-07) – C

Arizona
Sen. Ruben Gallego (D) – A
Sen. Mark Kelly (D) – C+
Rep. David Schweikert (R-01) – C+
Rep. Eli Crane (R-02) – C
Rep. Yassamin Ansari (D-03) – C+
Rep. Greg Stanton (D-04) – B
Rep. Andy Biggs (R-05) – C+
Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-06) – C
Rep. Adelita Grijalva (D-07) – C
Rep. Abe Hamadeh (R-08) – F
Rep. Paul Gosar (R-09) – C

Arkansas
Sen. John Boozman (R) – C
Sen. Tom Cotton (R) – C
Rep. Rick Crawford (R-01) – C
Rep. French Hill (R-02) – D+
Rep. Steve Womack (R-03) – D+
Rep. Bruce Westerman (R-04) – C

California
Sen. Alex Padilla (D) – A
Sen. Adam Schiff (D) – A+
Rep. James Gallagher (R-01) – C+
Rep. Jared Huffman (D-02) – B-
Rep. Kevin Kiley (I-03) – C+
Rep. Mike Thompson (D-04) – B-
Rep. Tom McClintock (R-05) – B+*
Rep. Ami Bera (D-06) – B-
Rep. Doris Matsui (D-07) – C+
Rep. John Garamendi (D-08) – B-
Rep. Josh Harder (D-09) – B
Rep. Mark DeSaulnier (D-10) – C+
Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-11) – A
Rep. Lateefah Simon (D-12) – A*
Rep. Adam Gray (D-13) – C
Vacant (CA-14)
Rep. Kevin Mullin (D-15) – A*
Rep. Sam Liccardo (D-16) – B-
Rep. Ro Khanna (D-17) – B
Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-18) – A-*
Rep. Jimmy Panetta (D-19) – B-
Rep. Vince Fong (R-20) – A-*
Rep. Jim Costa (D-21) – A+*
Rep. David Valadao (R-22) – A+*
Rep. Jay Obernolte (R-23) – C+
Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-24) – B-
Rep. Raul Ruiz (D-25) – B
Rep. Julia Brownley (D-26) – B
Rep. George Whitesides (D-27) – B+*
Rep. Judy Chu (D-28) – A+*
Rep. Luz Rivas (D-29) – A*
Rep. Laura Friedman (D-30) – A+*
Rep. Gil Cisneros (D-31) – A-*
Rep. Brad Sherman (D-32) – A+*
Rep. Pete Aguilar (D-33) – C
Rep. Jimmy Gomez (D-34) – B+*
Rep. Norma Torres (D-35) – C+
Rep. Ted Lieu (D-36) – A*
Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-37) – B+*
Rep. Linda Sanchez (D-38) – B+*
Rep. Mark Takano (D-39) – C+
Rep. Young Kim (R-40) – A-*
Rep. Ken Calvert (R-41) – B-
Rep. Robert Garcia (D-42) – B
Rep. Maxine Waters (D-43) – C
Rep. Nanette Diaz Barragan (D-44) – B
Rep. Derek Tran (D-45) – C+
Rep. Lou Correa (D-46) – C+
Rep. Dave Min (D-47) – A*
Rep. Darrell Issa (R-48) – D-
Rep. Mike Levin (D-49) – A*
Rep. Scott Peters (D-50) – B
Rep. Sara Jacobs (D-51) – C+
Rep. Juan Vargas (D-52) – C

Colorado
Sen. Michael Bennet (D) – A
Sen. John Hickenlooper (D) – C+
Rep. Diana DeGette (D-01) – C
Rep. Joe Neguse (D-02) – C+
Rep. Jeff Hurd (R-03) – C
Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-04) – C
Rep. Jeff Crank (R-05) – C
Rep. Jason Crow (D-06) – B
Rep. Brittany Pettersen (D-07) – C
Rep. Gabe Evans (R-08) – C

Connecticut
Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D) – A
Sen. Christopher Murphy (D) – C+
Rep. John Larson (D-01) – B-
Rep. Joe Courtney (D-02) – C
Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-03) – B-
Rep. Jim Himes (D-04) – C
Rep. Jahana Hayes (D-05) – C+

Delaware
Sen. Lisa Blunt Rochester (D) – A-
Sen. Chris Coons (D) – A-*
Rep. Sarah McBride (D-DE-AL) – B+*

Florida
Sen. Ashley Moody (R) – C+
Sen. Rick Scott (R) – B
Rep. Jimmy Patronis (R-01) – C
Rep. Neal Dunn (R-02) – C
Rep. Kat Cammack (R-03) – C
Rep. Aaron Bean (R-04) – C
Rep. John Rutherford (R-05) – C
Rep. Randy Fine (R-06) – F
Rep. Cory Mills (R-07) – C
Rep. Mike Haridopolos (R-08) – C
Rep. Darren Soto (D-09) – B-
Rep. Maxwell Frost (D-10) – C
Rep. Daniel Webster (R-11) – C
Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-12) – A+*
Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-13) – F
Rep. Kathy Castor (D-14) – C
Rep. Laurel Lee (R-15) – C
Rep. Vernon Buchanan (R-16) – C+
Rep. Greg Steube (R-17) – C
Rep. Scott Franklin (R-18) – C
Rep. Byron Donalds (R-19) – C-
Vacant (20)
Rep. Brian Mast (R-21) – C-
Rep. Lois Frankel (D-22) – B-
Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D-23) – B-
Rep. Frederica Wilson (D-24) – D+
Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-25) – C+
Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart (R-26) – C
Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar (R-27) – C+
Rep. Carlos Gimenez (R-28) – B-

Georgia
Sen. Jon Ossoff (D) – C+
Sen. Raphael Warnock (D) – A
Rep. Buddy Carter (R-01) – C-
Rep. Sanford Bishop (D-02) – C+
Rep. Brian Jack (R-03) – C
Rep. Hank Johnson (D-04) – B-
Rep. Nikema Williams (D-05) – B-
Rep. Lucy McBath (D-06) – C
Rep. Rich McCormick (R-07) – C
Rep. Austin Scott (R-08) – D+
Rep. Andrew Clyde (R-09) – C
Rep. Mike Collins (R-10) – C
Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R-11) – C
Rep. Rick Allen (R-12) – C
Vacant (13)
Rep. Clay Fuller (R-14) – C

Hawaii
Sen. Mazie Hirono (D) – C
Sen. Brian Schatz (D) – B-
Rep. Ed Case (D-01) – C
Rep. Jill Tokuda (D-02) – C

Idaho
Sen. Mike Crapo (R) – C+
Sen. Jim Risch (R) – D
Rep. Russ Fulcher (R-01) – C+
Rep. Mike Simpson (R-02) – C

Illinois
Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D) – A
Sen. Richard Durbin (D) – A-
Rep. Jonathan Jackson (D-01) – B-
Rep. Robin Kelly (D-02) – C+
Rep. Delia Ramirez (D-03) – A*
Rep. Jesus Garcia (D-04) – B-
Rep. Mike Quigley (D-05) – A*
Rep. Sean Casten (D-06) – B
Rep. Danny Davis (D-07) – B-
Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-08) – B+
Rep. Janice Schakowsky (D-09) – A
Rep. Brad Schneider (D-10) – A*
Rep. Bill Foster (D-11) – B
Rep. Mike Bost (R-12) – C+
Rep. Nikki Budzinski (D-13) – A-*
Rep. Lauren Underwood (D-14) – C
Rep. Mary Miller (R-15) – C
Rep. Darin LaHood (R-16) – C+
Rep. Eric Sorensen (D-17) – B-

Iowa
Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA) – C
Sen. Charles Grassley (R-IA) – C
Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA-01) – B
Rep. Ashley Hinson (R-IA-02) – C
Rep. Zach Nunn (R-IA-03) – C
Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-IA-04) – C

Kansas
Sen. Roger Marshall (R) – C
Sen. Jerry Moran (R) – C
Rep. Tracey Mann (R-01) – C
Rep. Derek Schmidt (R-02) – C
Rep. Sharice Davids (D-03) – C
Rep. Ron Estes (R-04) – C

Louisiana
Sen. Bill Cassidy (R) – A-
Sen. John Kennedy (R) – C+
Rep. Steve Scalise (R-01) – C
Rep. Troy Carter (D-02) – C
Rep. Clay Higgins (R-03) – C
Rep. Mike Johnson (R-04) – C
Rep. Julia Letlow (R-05) – C
Rep. Cleo Fields (D-06) – C

Maine
Sen. Susan Collins (R) – C-
Sen. Angus King (I) – A
Rep. Chellie Pingree (D-01) – A*
Rep. Jared Golden (D-02) – C

Maryland
Sen. Angela Alsobrooks (D) – A
Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D) – A
Rep. Andy Harris (R-01) – D+
Rep. Johnny Olszewski (D-02) – C+
Rep. Sarah Kelly Elfreth (D-03) – C+
Rep. Glenn Ivey (D-04) – C
Rep. Steny Hoyer (D-05) – C+
Rep. April McClain-Delaney (D-06) – C
Rep. Kweisi Mfume (D-07) – C+
Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-08) – B

Massachusetts
Sen. Edward Markey (D) – A+*
Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D) – A
Rep. Richard Neal (D-01) – B-
Rep. James McGovern (D-02) – B+*
Rep. Lori Trahan (D-03) – A-*
Rep. Jake Auchincloss (D-04) – A*
Rep. Katherine Clark (D-05) – B+*
Rep. Seth Moulton (D-06) – C+
Rep. Ayanna Pressley (D-07) – C+
Rep. Stephen Lynch (D-08) – B+*
Rep. William Keating (D-09) – B

Michigan
Sen. Gary Peters (D) – A+
Sen. Elissa Slotkin (D) – A
Rep. Jack Bergman (R-01) – D-
Rep. John Moolenaar (R-02) – C+
Rep. Hillary Scholten (D-03) – C+
Rep. Bill Huizenga (R-04) – C+
Rep. Tim Walberg (R-05) – C+
Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-06) – B-
Rep. Tom Barrett (R-07) – C+
Rep. Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-08) – C+
Rep. Lisa McClain (R-09) – C+
Rep. John James (R-10) – C
Rep. Haley Stevens (D-11) – B
Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-12) – A-*
Rep. Shri Thanedar (D-13) – B-

Mississippi
Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith (R) – C
Sen. Roger Wicker (R) – B
Rep. Trent Kelly (R-01) – C
Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-02) – D+
Rep. Michael Guest (R-03) – C
Rep. Mike Ezell (R-04) – C

Missouri
Sen. Josh Hawley (R) – C+
Sen. Eric Schmitt (R) – C+
Rep. Wesley Bell (D-01) – B+*
Rep. Ann Wagner (R-02) – C+
Rep. Bob Onder (R-03) – C
Rep. Mark Alford (R-04) – C
Rep. Emanuel Cleaver (D-05) – C+
Rep. Sam Graves (R-06) – C+
Rep. Eric Burlison (R-07) – C
Rep. Jason Smith (R-08) – D

Nebraska
Sen. Deb Fischer (R) – C
Sen. Pete Ricketts (R) – C+
Rep. Mike Flood (R-01) – C
Rep. Donald Bacon (R-02) – D
Rep. Adrian Smith (R-03) – C

New Hampshire
Sen. Maggie Hassan (D) – C+
Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D) – C-
Rep. Chris Pappas (D-01) – A*
Rep. Maggie Goodlander (D-02) – B

New Jersey
Sen. Cory Booker (D) – A*
Sen. Andy Kim (D) – A
Rep. Donald Norcross (D-01) – B+*
Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-02) – C
Rep. Herb Conaway (D-03) – B
Rep. Christopher Smith (R-04) – A*
Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-05) – A*
Rep. Frank Pallone (D-06) – A+*
Rep. Tom Kean (R-07) – B
Rep. Rob Menendez (D-08) – A-*
Rep. Nellie Pou (D-09) – C+
Rep. LaMonica McIver (D-10) – B-
Rep. Analilia Mejia (D-11) – B-
Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-12) – B-

New Mexico
Sen. Martin Heinrich (D) – A-
Sen. Ben Lujan (D) – C
Rep. Melanie Stansbury (D-01) – C
Rep. Gabe Vasquez (D-02) – C
Rep. Teresa Leger Fernandez (D-03) – C

New York
Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D) – C+
Sen. Charles Schumer (D) – A
Rep. Nick LaLota (R-01) – B-
Rep. Andrew Garbarino (R-02) – C
Rep. Tom Suozzi (D-03) – B+
Rep. Laura Gillen (D-04) – B-
Rep. Gregory Meeks (D-05) – B-
Rep. Grace Meng (D-06) – A*
Rep. Nydia Velazquez (D-07) – B-
Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (D-08) – C-
Rep. Yvette Clarke (D-09) – D+
Rep. Dan Goldman (D-10) – A-
Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-11) – A-*
Rep. Jerrold Nadler (D-12) – B
Rep. Adriano Espaillat (D-13) – C
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-14) – C
Rep. Ritchie Torres (D-15) – C
Rep. George Latimer (D-16) – A-*
Rep. Mike Lawler (R-17) – A-*
Rep. Patrick Ryan (D-18) – C+
Rep. Josh Riley (D-19) – C
Rep. Paul Tonko (D-20) – A*
Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-21) – C
Rep. John Mannion (D-22) – C
Rep. Nick Langworthy (R-23) – C
Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-24) – C
Rep. Joseph Morelle (D-25) – B
Rep. Tim Kennedy (D-26) – C

North Carolina
Sen. Ted Budd (R) – C+
Sen. Thom Tillis (R) – C+
Rep. Don Davis (D-01) – C+
Rep. Deborah Ross (D-02) – C+
Rep. Greg Murphy (R-03) – C
Rep. Valerie Foushee (D-04) – B-
Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-05) – D
Rep. Addison McDowell (R-06) – C
Rep. David Rouzer (R-07) – B-
Rep. Mark Harris (R-08) – C+
Rep. Richard Hudson (R-09) – D+
Rep. Pat Harrigan (R-10) – C-
Rep. Chuck Edwards (R-11) – C
Rep. Alma Adams (D-12) – D+
Rep. Brad Knott (R-13) – C
Rep. Tim Moore (R-14) – C

Ohio
Sen. Jon Husted (R) – C+
Sen. Bernie Moreno (R) – C+
Rep. Greg Landsman (D-01) – C
Rep. David Taylor (R-02) – A-*
Rep. Joyce Beatty (D-03) – B
Rep. James Jordan (R-04) – C
Rep. Robert Latta (R-05) – D+
Rep. Michael Rulli (R-06) – C
Rep. Max Miller (R-07) – B
Rep. Warren Davidson (R-08) – B+*
Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D-09) – B
Rep. Michael Turner (R-10) – F
Rep. Shontel Brown (D-11) – C
Rep. Troy Balderson (R-12) – C
Rep. Emilia Sykes (D-13) – C
Rep. David Joyce (R-14) – B-
Rep. Mike Carey (R-15) – B+*

Oklahoma
Sen. Alan Armstrong (R) – C
Sen. James Lankford (R) – C
Rep. Kevin Hern (R-01) – C
Rep. Josh Brecheen (R-02) – C-
Rep. Frank Lucas (R-03) – C
Rep. Tom Cole (R-04) – D
Rep. Stephanie Bice (R-05) – C

Oregon
Sen. Jeff Merkley (D) – C+
Sen. Ron Wyden (D) – C
Rep. Suzanne Bonamici (D-01) – C
Rep. Cliff Bentz (R-02) – C
Rep. Maxine Dexter (D-03) – C
Rep. Val Hoyle (D-04) – C+
Rep. Janelle Bynum (D-05) – C
Rep. Andrea Salinas (D-06) – C

Pennsylvania
Sen. John Fetterman (D) – A
Sen. David McCormick (R) – B-
Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-01) – A-*
Rep. Brendan Boyle (D-02) – B-
Rep. Dwight Evans (D-03) – B-
Rep. Madeleine Dean (D-04) – C+
Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon (D-05) – C+
Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (D-06) – C
Rep. Ryan Mackenzie (R-07) – D
Rep. Rob Bresnahan (R-08) – C
Rep. Dan Meuser (R-09) – C
Rep. Scott Perry (R-10) – C-
Rep. Lloyd Smucker (R-11) – C
Rep. Summer Lee (D-12) – C
Rep. John Joyce (R-13) – C
Rep. Guy Reschenthaler (R-14) – D+
Rep. Glenn Thompson (R-15) – D
Rep. Mike Kelly (R-16) – C
Rep. Christopher Deluzio (D-17) – C

Rhode Island
Sen. Jack Reed (D) – A+*
Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D) – A+
Rep. Gabe Amo (D-01) – A+*
Rep. Seth Magaziner (D-02) – A*

South Carolina
Sen. Darline Graham (R) – C
Sen. Tim Scott (R) – C+
Rep. Nancy Mace (R-01) – D+
Rep. Joe Wilson (R-02) – F
Rep. Sheri Biggs (R-03) – D-
Rep. William Timmons (R-04) – C
Rep. Ralph Norman (R-05) – C
Rep. James Clyburn (D-06) – C
Rep. Russell Fry (R-07) – C+

South Dakota
Sen. Mike Rounds (R) – D-
Sen. John Thune (R) – C
Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-SD-AL) – C

Tennessee
Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R) – C+
Sen. Bill Hagerty (R) – D+
Rep. Diana Harshbarger (R-01) – C
Rep. Tim Burchett (R-02) – D
Rep. Charles Fleischmann (R-03) – B-
Rep. Scott Eugene DesJarlais (R-04) – C
Rep. Andy Ogles (R-05) – C
Rep. John Rose (R-06) – C
Rep. Matt Van Epps (R-07) – C
Rep. David Kustoff (R-08) – C
Rep. Stephen Ira Cohen (D-09) – F

Texas
Sen. John Cornyn (R) – B
Sen. Ted Cruz (R) – C+
Rep. Nathaniel Moran (R-01) – C
Rep. Dan Crenshaw (R-02) – C
Rep. Keith Self (R-03) – D-
Rep. Pat Fallon (R-04) – C+
Rep. Lance Gooden (R-05) – C-
Rep. Jake Ellzey (R-06) – D+
Rep. Lizzie Fletcher (D-07) – B
Rep. Morgan Luttrell (R-08) – C+
Rep. Al Green (D-09) – D+
Rep. Michael McCaul (R-10) – C-
Rep. August Pfluger (R-11) – D+
Rep. Craig Goldman (R-12) – C
Rep. Ronny Jackson (R-13) – D-
Rep. Randy Weber (R-14) – D
Rep. Monica De La Cruz (R-15) – C
Rep. Veronica Escobar (D-16) – C
Rep. Pete Sessions (R-17) – F
Rep. Christian Menefee (D-18) – C
Rep. Jodey Arrington (R-19) – C
Rep. Joaquín Castro (D-20) – A*
Rep. Chip Roy (R-21) – C
Rep. Troy Nehls (R-22) – C
Vacant (TX-23)
Rep. Beth Van Duyne (R-24) – C
Rep. Roger Williams (R-25) – C
Rep. Brandon Gill (R-26) – C
Rep. Michael Cloud (R-27) – C
Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-28) – F
Rep. Sylvia Garcia (D-29) – B-
Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-30) – B-
Rep. John Carter (R-31) – C+
Rep. Julie Johnson (D-32) – C+
Rep. Marc Veasey (D-33) – D+
Rep. Vicente Gonzalez (D-34) – C+
Rep. Greg Casar (D-35) – B-
Rep. Brian Babin (R-36) – C
Rep. Lloyd Doggett (D-37) – B-
Rep. Wesley Hunt (R-38) – B

Utah
Sen. John Curtis (R) – C
Sen. Mike Lee (R) – D+
Rep. Blake Moore (R-01) – C
Rep. Celeste Maloy (R-02) – F
Rep. Mike Kennedy (R-03) – C
Rep. Burgess Owens (R-04) – F

Vermont
Sen. Bernard Sanders (I) – A
Sen. Peter Welch (D) – A
Rep. Becca Balint (D-VT-AL) – C

Virginia
Sen. Tim Kaine (D) – A-
Sen. Mark Warner (D) – C+
Rep. Robert Wittman (R-01) – C
Rep. Jennifer Kiggans (R-02) – C+
Rep. Robert Scott (D-03) – C
Rep. Jenn McClellan (D-04) – C+
Rep. John McGuire (R-05) – C
Rep. Ben Cline (R-06) – C
Rep. Eugene Vindman (D-07) – B-
Rep. Don Beyer (D-08) – B+*
Rep. Morgan Griffith (R-09) – C
Rep. Suhas Subramanyam (D-10) – B-
Rep. James Walkinshaw (D-11) – B-

Washington
Sen. Maria Cantwell (D) – C+
Sen. Patty Murray (D) – C+
Rep. Suzan DelBene (D-01) – D+
Rep. Rick Larsen (D-02) – B
Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-03) – C
Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-04) – D+
Rep. Michael Baumgartner (R-05) – C+
Rep. Emily Randall (D-06) – C
Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-07) – C+
Rep. Kim Schrier (D-08) – C
Rep. Adam Smith (D-09) – B-
Rep. Marilyn Strickland (D-10) – C

West Virginia
Sen. Shelley Capito (R) – C
Sen. Jim Justice (R) – C
Rep. Carol Miller (R-01) – C-
Rep. Riley Moore (R-02) – C

Wisconsin
Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D) – A
Sen. Ron Johnson (R) – C
Rep. Bryan Steil (R-01) – C+
Rep. Mark Pocan (D-02) – C+
Rep. Derrick Van Orden (R-03) – F
Rep. Gwen Moore (D-04) – C
Rep. Scott Fitzgerald (R-05) – C
Rep. Glenn Grothman (R-06) – C
Rep. Tom Tiffany (R-07) – C+
Rep. Tony Wied (R-08) – C

Wyoming
Sen. John Barrasso (R) – B-
Sen. Cynthia Lummis (R) – B-
Rep. Harriet Hageman (R-WY-AL) – C+

District of Columbia
Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D) – A

American Samoa
Del. Amata Coleman Radewagen (R) – D

Guam
Del. James Moylan (R) – C+

Northern Mariana Islands
Del. Kimberlyn King-Hinds (R) – C

Puerto Rico
Res. Comm. Pablo Jose Hernandez Rivera (D) – C

U.S. Virgin Islands
Del. Stacey Plaskett (D) – D+

Ishkhan Saghatelyan with members of the European Parliament in Brussels on Oct. 14

Ishkhan Saghatelyan, a member of Armenia’s Parliament and Chair of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation Supreme Council of Armenia, held a series of meetings with members of the European Parliament during a working visit to Brussels on Tuesday.

He was accompanied by Kaspar Karampetian, President of the European Armenian Federation for Justice and Democracy.

Saghatelyan and Karampetian met with European Parliament members Hana Jalloul Muro, who is Vice-Chair of the European Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs and Vice-President of the Socialist International, and Nacho Sánchez Amor, who has been involved in various European Parliament initiatives aimed at strengthening relations with Armenia.

The discussions focused on Armenia’s European integration process, domestic political developments, external security challenges, and the steps necessary to establish a just, stable, and lasting peace in the region.

Saghatelyan presented the ARF’s positions on these issues, emphasizing the importance of European institutions in safeguarding the rule of law and guaranteeing the full exercise of political freedoms in Armenia. He also stressed the need for European institutions to play a role in restraining what he described as unlawful actions by Armenia’s authorities.

The participants also discussed the developing relationship between the ARF and various European socialist political organizations, reaching understandings aimed at further deepening cooperation.

The discussions additionally addressed the prerequisites and concrete measures necessary to achieve a fair, stable, and lasting peace in the region.

In a separate meeting, Saghatelyan and Karampetian met with Greek member of the European Parliament, Yannis Maniatis, Vice-Chair of the European Parliament’s Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats Group.

The meetings highlighted the ARF’s continued engagement with European political institutions and socialist organizations on Armenia’s political developments, regional security, democratic freedoms, and European integration.

While in Brussels, Saghatelyan and Karampetian held a meeting on Thursday with Yonnec Polet, Deputy Secretary-General of the Party of European Socialists.

The Party of European Socialists is the largest alliance of socialist, social-democratic, and labor parties in Europe. The ARF is the only political party from the South Caucasus represented within the organization.

The participants expressed satisfaction with the high level of political understanding established between PES and the ARF, their regular dialogue, and the ARF’s active involvement in PES activities.

Saghatelyan expressed his gratitude for the adoption of an ARF-proposed resolution at the most recent PES Congress.

He emphasized the importance of continuing to raise these issues, noting that sustained international attention could have a significant impact on securing the immediate and unconditional release of Armenian prisoners of war held in Baku, the withdrawal of Azerbaijani forces from occupied territories of the Republic of Armenia, the protection of the comprehensive rights of the Armenians of Artsakh, and respect for political freedoms in Armenia.

Saghatelyan also provided an overview of Armenia’s domestic political situation, the challenges facing the ARF, the party’s positions on Armenia’s European integration, and its efforts to promote social-democratic values in Armenia.

Saghatelyan’s visit to Europe kicked off on Monday in Paris where he met with French Socialist Party leader and National Assembly member Olivier Faure at the French National Assembly. Saghatelyan was accompanied by ARF Bureau member Mourad Papazian.

ARF representatives from France and Armenia also took part in the meeting.

Saghatelyan thanked Faure for his longstanding support for Armenian issues and highlighted the decades-long close and fraternal relationship between the French Socialist Party and the Armenian Revolutionary Federation.

Faure reaffirmed his commitment to continuing efforts to keep issues of vital importance to Armenians on the French political agenda.

The sides also exchanged views on the challenges facing their respective parties and agreed to further deepen political dialogue and cooperation in a number of areas.

The meeting included discussions on advancing international attention to the right of return of the Armenians of Artsakh, the release of Armenian prisoners held in Azerbaijan, and the protection of Armenian cultural heritage.

The ARF statement noted that Faure has consistently played an important role in advocating for these issues.Ishkhan Saghatelyan, a member of Armenia’s Parliament and Chair of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation Supreme Council of Armenia, held a series of meetings with members of the European Parliament during a working visit to Brussels on Tuesday.

He was accompanied by Kaspar Karampetian, President of the European Armenian Federation for Justice and Democracy.

Saghatelyan and Karampetian met with European Parliament members Hana Jalloul Muro, who is Vice-Chair of the European Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs and Vice-President of the Socialist International, and Nacho Sánchez Amor, who has been involved in various European Parliament initiatives aimed at strengthening relations with Armenia.

The discussions focused on Armenia’s European integration process, domestic political developments, external security challenges, and the steps necessary to establish a just, stable, and lasting peace in the region.

Saghatelyan presented the ARF’s positions on these issues, emphasizing the importance of European institutions in safeguarding the rule of law and guaranteeing the full exercise of political freedoms in Armenia. He also stressed the need for European institutions to play a role in restraining what he described as unlawful actions by Armenia’s authorities.

The participants also discussed the developing relationship between the ARF and various European socialist political organizations, reaching understandings aimed at further deepening cooperation.

The discussions additionally addressed the prerequisites and concrete measures necessary to achieve a fair, stable, and lasting peace in the region.

In a separate meeting, Saghatelyan and Karampetian met with Greek member of the European Parliament, Yannis Maniatis, Vice-Chair of the European Parliament’s Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats Group.

The meetings highlighted the ARF’s continued engagement with European political institutions and socialist organizations on Armenia’s political developments, regional security, democratic freedoms, and European integration.

While in Brussels, Saghatelyan and Karampetian held a meeting on Thursday with Yonnec Polet, Deputy Secretary-General of the Party of European Socialists.

The Party of European Socialists is the largest alliance of socialist, social-democratic, and labor parties in Europe. The ARF is the only political party from the South Caucasus represented within the organization.

The participants expressed satisfaction with the high level of political understanding established between PES and the ARF, their regular dialogue, and the ARF’s active involvement in PES activities.

Saghatelyan expressed his gratitude for the adoption of an ARF-proposed resolution at the most recent PES Congress.

He emphasized the importance of continuing to raise these issues, noting that sustained international attention could have a significant impact on securing the immediate and unconditional release of Armenian prisoners of war held in Baku, the withdrawal of Azerbaijani forces from occupied territories of the Republic of Armenia, the protection of the comprehensive rights of the Armenians of Artsakh, and respect for political freedoms in Armenia.

Saghatelyan also provided an overview of Armenia’s domestic political situation, the challenges facing the ARF, the party’s positions on Armenia’s European integration, and its efforts to promote social-democratic values in Armenia.

Saghatelyan’s visit to Europe kicked off on Monday in Paris where he met with French Socialist Party leader and National Assembly member Olivier Faure at the French National Assembly. Saghatelyan was accompanied by ARF Bureau member Mourad Papazian.

ARF representatives from France and Armenia also took part in the meeting.

Saghatelyan thanked Faure for his longstanding support for Armenian issues and highlighted the decades-long close and fraternal relationship between the French Socialist Party and the Armenian Revolutionary Federation.

Faure reaffirmed his commitment to continuing efforts to keep issues of vital importance to Armenians on the French political agenda.

The sides also exchanged views on the challenges facing their respective parties and agreed to further deepen political dialogue and cooperation in a number of areas.

The meeting included discussions on advancing international attention to the right of return of the Armenians of Artsakh, the release of Armenian prisoners held in Azerbaijan, and the protection of Armenian cultural heritage.

The ARF statement noted that Faure has consistently played an important role in advocating for these issues.