Category: News

PRESS 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
e-mail: [email protected]
Website:
Contact: Iris Papazian
CROSSROADS E-NEWSLETTER August 26, 2004
HIS HOLINESS ARAM IN KOREA
His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia, is in South
Korea to chair the meeting of the WCC Executive Committee of the World
Council of Churches. His Holiness, the Moderator of the WCC, arrived August
20 and will remain until this Saturday, August 28.
Topics that were considered during the meetings included, the vitality of
the churches and the Ecumenical Movement in Korea; Peace and Reconciliation
in the divided Korea; Preparations for the WCC 9th General Assembly, which
will take place in Brazil in 2006; Review of the work of the WCC Pacific
office; and Progress report on relations with partner organizations.
The Executive Committee meeting is being hosted by the National Council of
Churches of Korea (NCCK), and the four WCC member churches in the country:
the Anglican Church of Korea, the Korean Methodist Church, the Presbyterian
Church in the Republic of Korea, and the Presbyterian Church of Korea.
Last Sunday, August 22, His Holiness addressed the Presbyterian Church of
Korea. The focus of his sermon was that the Christian Church must take the
Gospel to the world. Describing the Church as a missionary reality, the
Catholicos said: Being Christian means being a witness, and being a witness
means taking the whole Gospel to the world. We are sent by God in Christ to
become missionaries in a world where the Gospel values are in decline, in a
world dominated by injustice, violence, in a world which is in dire need of
meaning. As Christians we are empowered by the Holy Spirit to become the
witnesses of the Gospel values.
RECEPTIONS FOR PILLARS OF THE PRELACY
ARE PLANNED IN VARIOUS AREAS
The Pillars of the Prelacy is an annual giving program which since its
inauguration last year has been growing. The money raised through this
program goes to important programs like clergy recruitment and training and
the various Prelacy youth programs. This year the Pillars program is
reaching out into various communities outside the New York metropolitan
area. Thus far three receptions are scheduled as follows:
St. Stephens Church, Watertown, Massachusetts, Friday, September
10.
Sts. Vartanantz Church, Providence, Rhode Island, Sunday,
September 12.
St. Sarkis Church, Dearborn, Michigan, Sunday October 10.
As one individual stated when joining the ranks of the Pillars
last year: The Prelacy is not just a local entity; it is for the collective
good of all the parishes that together comprise the Prelacy.
BISHOP NAREG ALEMEZIAN
VISITS PRELACY OFFICE
Bishop Nareg Alemezian, the Chief Ecumenical Officer of the Catholicate of
Cilicia, visited the Prelacy office today. His Grace has been in the United
States and Canada the past few weeks and will begin his return trip to
Antelias, Lebanon, tomorrow.
During his visit Nareg Srpazan granted an interview with the Director of
Communications which will be published in a forthcoming issue of Outreach.
Nareg Srpazan spoke candidly about his work, as well as his hopes and
aspirations for the Christian churches in their quest for solidarity and
union.
Incidentally, Nareg Srpazan was quoted in the recent (August 24) issue of
Christian Century in a story about the attacks on churches in Iraq. His
Grace is quoted, Christians are an integral part of the society they are
living in, they are not newcomers, they are not there for any superficial
reasons. Middle Eastern Christians are the people of the land where Christ
was born.
CAMP IS OUT; SCHOOL IS IN
The camping season is coming to an end and the start of the new school year
will begin soon. Actually, in some parts of the country, school is already
in full session. But, for most of our school districts, the 2004-2005 school
year will begin after Labor Day.
Deacon Nishan Baljian has spent a good part of the summer working with
campers in Camp Haiastan in Franklin, Massachusetts, providing spiritual
leadership and learning. Some of our area priests have joined him from time
to time in fulfilling this important mission to our young people.
FACING THE HEARTBREAKING TRUTH OF HISTORY
The August 19th issue of the International Herald Tribune ran an article
written by Jay Bushinsky emphasizing the importance of the recognition and
commemoration of the Armenian Genocide and noting that historical truth must
be faced regardless of how heartbreaking it may be.
The author, a freelance writer living in Israel, writes: Israelis, Jews,
Zionists and their supporters should comfort the Armenians in their national
sorrow and the Turks should accept the photographs, documents and above all
testimony, which commemorates the Armenian genocide, instead of insisting
that it never happened.
Mr. Bushinsky begins his article with a story about Franz Werfl, a story we
had not heard before. He writes: When the writer Franz Werfl, visiting this
majestic city [Jerusalem] in the early 1930s, sought a shoemaker, he was
told that there was a very competent one on Jaffa Road. His wife, the former
Alma Mahler, had lost one of her shoes abroad ship en route to Palestine and
was desperate to have the missing one replaced. The showmaker’s name was
Garabidian, an Armenian name. Werfl was surprised to discover Armenians in
Jerusalem. When he found out that the Old City had an Armenian Quarter and
that most of its inhabitants were survivors of the first genocide of the
20th century, he was overwhelmed with emotion.
According to Mr. Bushinsky, that encounter led to Werfls interest in the
Armenian story and his book, The Forty Days of Musa Dagh.
E-MAIL, PUNCTUATION AND GRAMMAR
We here at Crossroads love the internet and email. How can we not love it
when it gives us the opportunity to come into your life each week with bits
and pieces of news about the Armenian Church and related topics!
However, we here at Crossroads have always maintained that the internet,
email and tex msgs have been major contributors to sloppy English. Sentence
structure often disappears. Punctuation is often not used at all. And
perhaps saddest of all, the art of letter writing is lost.
We are horrified to have to confess that we at Crossroads are often
offenders. We try not to use apostrophes; and sometimes in order to do so
we have to form some awkward and bad sentences. We do not use quote marks,
but rather put quoted material in italics. We do this, dear readers, because
in some email services (i.e., AOL, for one) the apostrophes and quotes
become other points of punctuation (i.e., question marks), resulting in some
very strange looking copy. To all the pedants of grammar out there, we offer
our apologies for our minor transgressions, which to us, at least, appear to
be better than the alternative.
Speaking of pedants, we highly recommend a new book that has been on the
bestseller list for the past few months, Eats, Shoots & Leaves by Lynne
Truss. Do not be put-off by its sub-title: The Zero Tolerance Approach to
Punctuation. Yes, it surely is about punctuation, but it is one of the most
enjoyable and funniest books we have read in a long time.
Visit our website at

Armenian Assembly of America
122 C Street, NW, Suite 350
Washington, DC 20001
Phone: 202-393-3434
Fax: 202-638-4904
Email: [email protected]
Web:
PRESS RELEASE
August 26, 2004
CONTACT: Christine Kojoian
E-mail: [email protected]
ILLINOIS CONGRESSMAN JOHN SHIMKUS JOINS ARMENIAN CAUCUS
Washington, DC – The Armenian Assembly welcomed the official announcement
today that Congressman John Shimkus (R-IL) has joined the Congressional
Caucus on Armenian Issues, bringing the total Caucus membership to 136.
“I am very pleased to join the Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues,”
said Congressman Shimkus. “Armenian-Americans in my district have always
been passionate, dedicated and informed advocates for the need for stronger
and better relations between our two nations. I am honored to help them to
achieve that goal by being a member of the Caucus.”
Congressman Shimkus currently co-chairs the House Baltic Caucus, which
assists the Baltic States of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania in strengthening
their democracies and free market economies.
“The Assembly is delighted that Congressman Shimkus will continue supporting
Armenian issues through his membership to the Caucus,” said Assembly
Executive Director Ross Vartian. “During his tenure in Congress,
Representative Shimkus has repeatedly called for reaffirmation of the
Armenian Genocide. The Assembly looks forward to working with him on this
and other issues facing the community.”
Last year, Congressman Shimkus signed on as cosponsor of H. Res. 193, a
resolution which ensures that the lessons of the Holocaust and the Armenian
Genocide, as well as those in Cambodia and Rwanda are not forgotten. In
addition to his support of Genocide reaffirmation, Representative Shimkus in
April backed a congressional letter sent to House Foreign Operations
Subcommittee Chairman Jim Kolbe (R-AZ), outlining funding priorities for
Armenia and Nagorno Karabakh in Fiscal Year 2005.
Congressman Shimkus, currently serving his fourth term in office, represents
the 19th congressional district which spans from Springfield to Metropolis,
which borders Kentucky. He serves on the House Energy and Commerce
Committee and is vice chairman of its Subcommittee on Energy and Air
Quality. He is also a member of three additional Energy and Commerce
Subcommittees: Telecommunications and the Internet; Environment and
Hazardous Materials; and Commerce, Trade, and Consumer Protection.
The Armenian Caucus was formed in 1995 to provide a bipartisan forum for
legislators to discuss how the United States can better assist the peoples
of Armenia and Nagorno Karabakh. It is co-chaired by Representatives Joe
Knollenberg (R-MI) and Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ.)
The Armenian Assembly of America is the largest Washington-based nationwide
organization promoting public understanding and awareness of Armenian
issues. It is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt membership organization.
NR#2004-078
Photograph available on the Assembly’s Web site at the following link:
Caption: Congressman John Shimkus (R-IL.)

ARMENTEL INTERVENES IN HOME POLICY OF ARMENIA, CHAIRMAN OF
NON-REGISTERED PARTY DECLARES
YEREVAN, August 26 (Noyan Tapan). ArmenTel intervenes in home policy
of Armenia. Ruben Mnatsakanian, the Chairman of the “Free Hayk
Mission” non-registered party, declaring this at the August 26 press
conference mentioned that because of 7-day breaking of telephone
communication of the party office the party wasn’t able to inform the
representatives of territorial and regional structures of the party
about the special general meeting that was to be organized for the
purpose of registration of the party. On August 24, a representative
of ArmenTel objected to the suit of the party in the court of first
instance of the Kentron and Nork-Marash Yerevan communities mentioning
that according to the acting law, the “Free Hayk Mission” should have
declared about the congress a month ago through mass media, so
breaking of the telephone communication has nothing to do with
non-registration of the party. According to R.Mnatsakanian, this
objection is means of influencing the home policy of Armenia and “a
regular attempt of avoiding responsibility by means of abusing the
monopoly position on the market.” To recap, the “Free Hayk Mission” is
among 51 parties included into the list of the parties subject to
dissolution, which were submitted to the court by the State Register.
From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress

ASBAREZ ONLINE
TOP STORIES
08/26/2004
TO ACCESS PREVIOUS ASBAREZ ONLINE EDITIONS PLEASE VISIT OUR
WEBSITE AT <;HTTP:// 1) Aram I Meets with South Korea President 2) ANCA Eastern Region to Expand Operations to New York City 3) US-Educated Officer Promoted To Head Georgian General Staff 1) Aram I Meets with South Korea President SEOULReceiving His Holiness Aram I Catholicos of the Holy See of Cilicia, members of World Council of Churches (WCC) executive committee and Korean church leaders in Seoul on 24 August, South Korean president Roh Moo-hyun expressed his strong appreciation to the World Council of Churches (WCC) and the ecumenical movement for its "fundamental assistance" in support of human rights and democratization in his country. He has also welcomed the contribution of the churches to promoting a peaceful reunification of divided Korea. The president, who worked as a human rights lawyer defending pro-democracy and labor rights activists before taking up political office, was involved in the National Council of Churches (NCCK) human rights program. The contact with NCCK and the churches "opened my eyes to human rights and justice issues," he stated. WCC moderator Catholicos Aram I underscored how the Christian understanding of reconciliation was closely linked to unification and the overcoming of division. "We are called by God in Jesus Christ to strive for reconciliation and unity in all its forms. The WCC is committed to working with all people of goodwill to overcome the barriers which divide our societies," he said. The commitment of the WCC to the reunification of Korea was echoed by the organization's general secretary Rev. Dr Samuel Kobia. "WCC stands for de-nuclearization and disarmament in the Korean peninsula based on a negotiated agreement by all parties as a foundation of peace, and will continue to promote a policy of dialogue and exchange," he said. During an exchange with executive committee members, president Roh Moo-hyun also expressed his support for the invitation of the Korean churches and of NCCK to host a future WCC assembly in Korea. The WCC general secretary thanked the president and said that the "WCC hopes and prays that an assembly would be possible in a united Korea in the near future." The WCC executive committee will issue a statement on Korea at the end of the week that will express its serious concern about the human rights and humanitarian situation in North Korea, and will outline ongoing ecumenical efforts for the peaceful reunification of the divided country. The WCC executive committee is meeting in Seoul between August 24-27 on the invitation of NCCK and the Korean churches. 2) ANCA Eastern Region to Expand Operations to New York City WATERTOWNThe Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) Eastern Region Board of Directors announced the establishment of a new office in New York City and the hiring of ANC activist Doug Geogerian as the region's new Executive Director. "With close to 20 local ANCs and working with countless activists in 31 states on the East Coast, we feel it is important for us to expand our operations to give the Armenian American community additional resources to rely on," stated ANCA Eastern Region Chairman Dikran Kaligian. "With New York City being the media and financial center of the world, an important hub for academia and culture, and home to the headquarters of the United Nations, various NGO's and several Armenian-American institutions, we feel that this is an important and necessary step." "We are also excited to have Doug joining our staff. As an active and committed member of the Armenian American community, he brings experience, energy, and dedication to his position as Executive Director," continued Kaligian. "Doug will greatly assist the ANCA continue its work to further promote important issues of concern to Armenian Americans," concluded Kaligian. "I am thrilled to have the opportunity to begin working at the Armenian National Committee of America," stated Geogerian. "The task ahead promises to be exciting and, at the same time, challenging. I look forward to working with our local chapters and activists to help advance our interests at the local, state and federal level." Geogerian earned a Bachelor of Arts in Classical Languages and Literature at the University of Chicago in 1990 and was awarded a Masters of Education at Harvard University in 1992. After pursuing advanced study at Teachers College of Columbia University, Geogerian joined the faculty of a leading progressive New York City high school whose mission was to engender critical thinking skills in the minds of underprivileged youth. He has been a teaching professional in the New York City public school system for the last twelve years. A prominent activist in the New York ANC, Geogerian has facilitated various public forums, planned Genocide commemorations, met with members of Congress, and organized demonstrations for the advancement of the Armenian Cause. Current ANCA Eastern Region Director Arin Gregorian will be stepping down at the end of August to pursue career interests in the Boston area. "Arin has served as Director for three years, and his dedication and commitment have contributed immensely to the success of the work we do in the Armenian American community," stated Kaligian. "We wish him great success in his endeavors." The Watertown, Massachusetts ANCA Eastern Region office will remain open and active. 3) US-Educated Officer Promoted To Head Georgian General Staff TBILISI (Combined Sources)--Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili told a government meeting on Wednesday that he had promoted deputy chief of the General Staff Vakhtang Kapanadze to head the General Staff. Kapanadze's predecessor, Givi Iukuridze, "has done his best," Saakashvili said. "He graduated from the Frunze Academy in Russia. However, we are creating a new army which must meet NATO's standards and so appointing US-educated people to key positions in the General Staff," he said. Mamuka Nikolaishvili and David Nairashvili have been appointed deputy chiefs of the General Staff, Saakashvili said. President Saakashvili also said that Georgia is to establish a reserve army comprised of part-time soldiers. "These forces will comprise all Georgian citizens who are physically fit to perform these duties," Saakashvili told a Cabinet session held in Batumi on Wednesday. Georgia, whose relations with neighbor Russia have deteriorated recently over the breakaway region of South Ossetia, already has a conscription army like in Russia. But it was unclear as to whether Saakashvili's plans include mandatory terms of service in the new reserve army for the wider population or for those who have already completed their initial conscription service in the regular army. Georgia does not want a war and is not preparing for it, but "the need to protect the country is relevant today and will be relevant in a decade or a century," he said. "As a state we are ready to provide all people with uniforms and weapons, should it prove necessary. But they will be kept at police stations. Every reservist will undergo training once or twice a year in order to put on a uniform and study the mobilization plan," the president said. Reservists will be trained to deal "with both defense issues and emergency situations that might take place in the country," Saakashvili said. Russia's Foreign Ministry describes Georgian leaders' statements saying Tbilisi is on the verge of war with Russia as irresponsible. The ministry said in a statement on Wednesday, "Tbilisi's recent statements contain militarist rhetoric. But their latest statements are lack a sense of proportion and irresponsibility at any level--personal or state one." "The absurdity of these statements is obvious. Recently the entire world has been promised to expose bodies of dead Cossacks. But these confirmations have become groundless," the statement says. "Due to the failure of the military adventure in South Ossetia Georgia's social and economic problems have become more evident. It would be necessary to concentrate efforts on the solution to this problem and not to aim them at searching for a 'non-existing external enemy' or upsetting the work of the Russian Embassy in Tbilisi," the ministry stressed. Moscow "is seeking to help the Georgian people improve normal life." The Foreign Ministry urges Georgia "to react on constructive initiatives, which have been recently presented to Georgia's leadership in order to improve relations." "There is no reaction on these initiatives. Any talks on helping hand of friendship cannot replace it," the statement says. In related news, the Interior Department deputy chief in Tskhinvali, Nodar Dzagoyev, was killed on Wednesday, and authorities have opened an investigation to discover if foul play was behind the death. "Investigators are looking into all possible murder scenarios, including a terrorist act," said Robert Guliyev, Interior Minister of the unrecognized South Ossetian republic. The minister also told Interfax that two Tskhinvali residents were detained and heavily beaten in the Georgian village of Kekhli last night. All subscription inquiries and changes must be made through the proper carrier and not Asbarez Online. ASBAREZ ONLINE does not transmit address changes and subscription requests. (c) 2004 ASBAREZ ONLINE. All Rights Reserved. ASBAREZ provides this news service to ARMENIAN NEWS NETWORK members for academic research or personal use only and may not be reproduced in or through mass media outlets.

Boca Raton News, FL
Aug 26 2004
Protesters demand halt to Sudan `genocide’
Boca Raton religious leaders

by Dale M. King
Death is rampant in the Sudan.
And South County religious leaders want it to stop.
Some 40 people, many carrying signs, gathered at noon Tuesday in
front of Boca Raton City Hall to demand an end to the senseless
carnage and to pray for the victims.
`We are gathering out of moral imperative,’ said Rabbi Richard Agler,
senior rabbi and spiritual leader of Congregation B’nai Israel in
Boca Raton.
`The world has seen entirely too much of this,’ he said. `We know
that such evils are most likely to occur when people are either
unaware or looking away. We are doing our part to make sure that
people are both aware and informed.’
Leaders from several congregations joined the demonstration held one
day before the `Sudan Day of Conscience’ on Wednesday.
`In situations like this, it is incumbent upon all decent human
beings to make their voices heard,’ said the Rev. Henry Willis,
pastor of Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church in Boca Raton.
`Whether mass murder of the innocent is taking place in Europe, Asia
or Africa, it cannot be tolerated,’ he said. `This time, it is
Africa. Next time, it may be somewhere else. But as religious leaders
of conscience, we say that is something the world cannot tolerate.’
The Very Rev. Nareg Berberian of St. David Armenian Church in Boca
Raton added his voice, saying that humanity cannot `stand idly by
while another genocide takes place.’
`Given the history of the 20th century, which has included so many
genocides,’ he said, a genocide in the 21st century `cannot be
tolerated.’
While demonstrators massed at City Hall, the International Committee
of the Red Cross this week airlifted supplies to Sudan’s troubled
Darfur region which has been scourged by a war between African rebel
troops and Arab militia known as the Janjaweed.
The United Nations reports that more than 30,000 people have been
killed and 1.4 million were forced from their homes during the past
18 months of fighting.
In a passionate address, Rabbi Agler said `organized mass murder of
the innocent, state-sponsored or at least state-aided murder of the
innocent’ is happening `before our very eyes.’
Organizers of the event said they will call on the government of the
Sudan to halt all activity that is causing the mass murder, rape and
plundering of villages in the Darfur area.

AzerNews, Azerbaijan
Aug 26 2004
Danish Consulate opens in Baku

The visit by the Danish Foreign Minister Per Stig Moller to
Azerbaijan on August 23-24 was signified by the inauguration of the
Danish Consulate in Baku. On Monday Foreign Minister Elmar
Mammadyarov and Minister Moller discussed cooperation between the two
countries, the situation in the South Caucasus region
and around the world. “We have held useful discussions and considered
many facets of Azerbaijani-Danish collaboration in the political,
economic and humanitarian fields”, Mammadyarov told a news briefing
following the meeting. He said that also discussed were issues
related to the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict over Upper Garabagh.
Mammadyarov added that over the past seven years the government of
Denmark has provided assistance worth $14 million to Azerbaijani
refugees and displaced persons. Danish Foreign Minister, in turn,
pointed out the strengthening ties between Denmark and Azerbaijan. He
said the two countries are collaborating in fighting international
terrorism and weapons of mass destruction and added that his visit to
Azerbaijan further proves this. With regard to possible facets of
bilateral cooperation, Moller spoke of interaction in the oil and
energy sectors, the use of Danish experience in environmental
protection in oil production on the Caspian Sea, developing
democratic entities and ensuring the rule of law in social life.
Denmark supports Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity
The Danish official also said that with the current tensions around
the world, Azerbaijan and Denmark stand side by side and collaborate
in Afghanistan, Iraq and Kosovo, and in the area of combating weapons
of mass destruction and terrorism. “We (Denmark) are very interested
in this”, he said. Moller said that the Danish Honorary Consulate,
which opened in Azerbaijan on August 24, will be turned into an
embassy in the foreseeable future. Touching upon the Garabagh
conflict, the Danish Minister said that in general, the European
Union supports the efforts of the OSCE Minsk Group in resolving the
problem. “The OSCE Minsk Group will find ways to settle the conflict
suitable for both sides”, he said. Moller stated that as an EU
member-state, Denmark has always supported Azerbaijan’s territorial
integrity in international organizations. “Denmark opposes forceful
occupation of land and supports a peace settlement of the conflict”,
he underlined. On Tuesday, Moller attended the opening ceremony of
the Danish Consulate. Moller completed his visit to Azerbaijan after
touring the Atashgah (fire worshippers site) in the Surakhany
district of Baku.
`Azerbaijan has great future’
President Ilham Aliyev said in a meeting with Minister Moller on
Monday that Azerbaijan is integrating into European organizations.
Aliyev said that Azerbaijan has been a full-fledge member of the
Council of Europe for over three years and noted that his country is
closely cooperating with influential international organizations,
including the European Union. The President underlined that
Azerbaijan has tremendous opportunities for expanding the relations
with Denmark and voiced a hope that the Danish minister’s visit to
Baku would further promote the EU-Azerbaijan relations. President
Aliyev stated that Azerbaijan is a country representing geo-strategic
importance in the region. He said that Armenia’s aggression against
Azerbaijan is a serious threat not only to his country but also for
peace and stability in the entire region. Moller, in turn, said his
first visit to Azerbaijan is of great importance for bilateral
relations. He expressed satisfaction with the meetings he held in
Baku and noted that Azerbaijan’s economic progress is important for
improving the nation’s welfare. “I believe that great future is in
store for Azerbaijan,” he said. The Danish official said that some
Danish companies are operating in the energy sector of Azerbaijan and
voiced his confidence that these companies will contribute to
developing the country’s economy. Moller also thanked President
Aliyev for Azerbaijan’s support for Denmark’s admission to the UN
Security Council.

Novinite, Bulgaria
Aug 26 2004
Bulgaria’s Nazaryan Advances to Semi-Finals

Bulgaria’s Armen Nazaryan won yet another wrestling battle in the
Olympics, making it to the semi-finals. Photo by
armennazaryan.tripod.com

Sports: 26 August 2004, Thursday.
Bulgarian wrestler Armen Nazaryan advanced to the semi-finals in the
Olympic Games in Athens.
Nazaryan, 22, overpowered Japan’s Macoto Sasamoto (5:3) in Pool C of
men’s Greco-Roman 60kg pool elimination.
The Armenia-born athlete, who is married to a Bulgarian, is two times
World and Olympic champion.

Interfax
Aug 26 2004
Iran to provide Armenia with pipeline credit
Yerevan. (Interfax) – Iran is to provide Armenia with a credit of $30
million to build the Armenian section of the Iran-Armenia gas
pipeline, Armenian Energy Minister Armen Movsisian told journalists
on Wednesday.
He said that the funds would be used to finance the construction of a
pipeline from the border town of Agarak to Kajaran.
The credit will be provided for 7.5 years at 5% per year.
“These conditions are acceptable to Armenia,” Movsisian said. He said
that the credit would be paid back with supplies of electricity.
He also said that construction of the Armenian section of the
pipeline should begin before the end of 2004 and that work on the
reconstruction and replacement of parts of the Kajaran-Yerevan
pipeline would be financed by the Armenian side.
He said that Iran has already started building its section of the
pipeline.
Final agreement between the two countries on this pipeline was inked
in Yerevan on May 13. The document provides for shipments of 20
billion cubic meters (bcm) of Iranian gas over twenty years in
exchange for electricity produced in Armenia.
The 700-mm diameter pipeline will run 141 kilometers and cost an
overall $210-$220 million to build. It will initially pump 1.1 bcm
per year, and that will steadily increase to 2 bcm. The gas will be
used by Armenian power plants to make and export electricity to Iran
and Georgia.

Messenger.com.ge, Georgia
Aug 26 2004
A bear in bear’s clothing
On Tuesday Georgian mass-media and the political establishment
shuttered to see amateur video footage showing a huge concentration
of Russian armed-forces, including soldiers, tanks, armed vehicles,
helicopters, and artillery allegedly in North Ossetian territory
immediately bordering the Roki Tunnel into South Ossetia – the only
artery in the separatist region connecting Georgia to Russia.
The chair of the Defense Committee of the Georgian Parliament Givi
Targamadze stated that from now on Georgia must be prepared to defend
itself from Russian intervention being planned by ‘Russian
imperialists.’ Speaker of Parliament Nino Burjanadze openly asked the
Russian administration to explain the appearance of Russian military
forces so close to the Georgian border without any obvious reason.
The Russian newspaper Kommersant confirmed a large military presence
in Sernovodsk (North Ossetia) where a training of Russia’s 57th army
is underway. According to the paper, it involves more than 2,000
personnel and more than 100 units of tanks and armored vehicles.
At the same time there are preparations underway for another training
with more than 5,000 reservists are expected. Elsewhere in Armenia
Russian and Armenian forces are planning a joint training, that
includes fighter and bomber aircraft and in the Abkhazian conflict
zone Russian peacekeepers are also conducting trainings.
It is important to note, especially after the mysterious crashes of
two Russian passenger jets late Tuesday, that Russia nervously is
watching events before and after the August 29 elections scheduled
for Chechnya. With such a jittery stance, Russia is more likely to
react with unbridled brute force than with a thought-out plan if it
encounters disturbances anywhere in the Caucasus.
Several Georgian politicians mentioned that although full-scale war
most probably has been avoided in the Tskhinvali region, the
prospects of Russian intervention are still very serious. They add
this could be done if not directly through implementing Russian
regular troops, then otherwise by sending military forces into the
region under a guise.
In his statement late on Tuesday, President Saakashvili highlighted
that the direct confrontation has been avoided in the region and
although Georgia should be very cautious towards the developments
with Russia, there should be no possible way for the further
escalation of the confrontation and in particular there should be no
comparison with the events ongoing in Chechnya.
Saakashvili mentioned that Georgia respects the territorial integrity
of Russia and it is not part of Georgia’s intentions to think of a
confrontation with Russia. However, Russia should itself realize and
respect the territorial integrity of Georgia and prove this in deed.
Saakashvili also stressed upon the fact that he is in permanent
contact with President Putin of Russia but it was likely that
President Putin sometimes does not control the entire situation in
his country.
President Saakashvili’s next decision to attend the government
session which had been moved to Adjara gave confidence to the
Georgian population that things are not that dramatic. However,
Georgian law-enforcement is on alert in particular around the
conflict zone.
All Georgian leaders and political figures and political analysts are
unanimous that only through the internalization of the peacekeeping
process in the region could Georgia avoid future complications in the
conflict zone. Therefore Georgia tries to attract as much attention
from international organizations such as the European Union, the
Council of Europe, OSCE and friendly countries including neighboring
Turkey and of course the United States.
Several times Saakashvili mentioned a deeper and full-scale
involvement of the OSCE in monitoring the conflict zone and even
conducting a peacekeeping mission. The headlines of Georgian
newspapers on Wednesday clearly stated that the conflict has not been
resolved yet and the current situation is very far from a peaceful
settlement.
Unlike twelve years ago, it is difficult to turn a blind eye to
events in Georgia, particularly interference by political groups and
officials based in Russia. The Rose Revolution made it impossible for
countries to turn the other way as they did in the early 1990’s and
throughout the crisis in Chechnya. Moreover, with numerous
achievements under its belt, the young Georgian government has earned
the backing of supporters in Europe and beyond.
From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress

Azer Tag, Azerbaijan State Info Agency
Aug 26 2004
JOINT PRESS CONFERENCE OF PRESIDENT ILHAM ALIYEV AND CHANCELLOR
GERHARD SCHROEDER
[August 26, 2004, 13:06:29]
On the end of ceremony of signing of the documents, President of
Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and the Federal Chancellor of Germany Gerhard
Schroeder have held a news conference. Head of the government of
Germany and the President of Azerbaijan have made statements.
STATEMENT OF THE FEDERAL CHANCELLOR OF GERMANY GERHARD SCHROEDER
– Dear ladies and gentlemen!
I want to note that I am very glad to welcome here the President of
Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev. It is pleased because Mr. Aliyev after
election as the President has arrived here with the first official
visit. Political relations between Azerbaijan and Germany are at a
fine high level. I think, that Mr. President is very much interested
in creation in Azerbaijan of a lawful state, makes huge efforts for
this purpose and has achieved successes. Therefore, I regard him with
the deep respect. Due to the reforms, which are carried out in the
country by Mr. Ilham Aliyev, surprising results have been achieved,
in good sense. And it gives a strong pulse to development of economy,
and all this will go to the blessing of the Azerbaijan society.
As of political question, I can tell, that Germany, as before, and
today is the partner of Azerbaijan, has recognized and will recognize
territorial integrity of Azerbaijan. We concern to this with huge
respect. Mr. President, and I count, that the Armenia-Azerbaijan,
Nagorny Karabakh conflict should be settled only by peace way.
Germany will make its contribution and make efforts within the
framework of activity of the OSCE Minsk Group.
Today, all of us became witnesses of signing of the contract
concerning purchase of four airbuses that serves as display of our
economic relations. Azerbaijan also counts the given contract
extremely serious. Certainly, the purpose consists in integration
into Europe. At the same time, the question is realization of the EU
New Neighborhood Policy. It follows great purposes.
I want to note also activity of the German companies in Azerbaijan.
At our meeting Mr. President has noted, that there are fine
conditions for cooperation and interactions with the German companies
in power and infrastructure spheres, and he welcomes them in
Azerbaijan!’ For example, such companies, as “Siemens”, is interested
in realization there of some projects.
Within the framework of negotiations we came to an agreement that in
the coming autumn or in the beginning of the next year to carry out
in Berlin a conference with participation of representatives of the
German economy in connection with investments in Azerbaijan. In the
conference, discussed were real opportunities existing in Azerbaijan,
particularly, concrete projects so that we have started close
economic cooperation. I am absolutely confident, that visit of Mr.
president to Germany is useful to both sides and will do well for
both sides.
STATEMENT OF THE PRESIDENT OF AZERBAIJAN ILHAM ALIYEV
– Dear ladies and gentlemen!
First of all, I want to note, that it is my first official visit to
Federal Republic of Germany, and I am very glad, that it passes at
very high level. Within the framework of visit today in the morning I
have met the President of Germany. Besides my meeting with Mr.
Federal Chancellor today has taken place. I want to note, that the
wide exchange of opinions has been carried out. The German-Azerbaijan
mutual relations were discussed.
Relations of Azerbaijan with the European Union promptly develop. It
satisfies both the European Union and us. Germany is one of the
leading countries of Europe and the world and possesses very powerful
economic potential.
Due to the carried out in the last years in Azerbaijan economic
reforms, our country, too, has got stronger, our economic potential
every year grows. The authority of Azerbaijan on our region both with
economic, and from the political point of view grows and its
positions become stronger. Certainly, taking into account it, we
hope, that after present visit cooperation existing between the two
countries in all areas becomes even wider. We very much hope, that
connections between Germany and Azerbaijan in political, economic and
in all other spheres became even wider, more strong, and that two
countries became closer each other.
We also had exchange of views on concrete projects. Today, the
contract about purchase of airbuses has been signed. Mr. Chancellor
has noted, that this contract is extremely important both for
Azerbaijan, and for the European countries. It is confident, that
henceforth our cooperation with Europe will develop even more
promptly and in other branches.
We are very pleased with the position of the government of Germany in
the question of the Armenia-Azerbaijan, Nagorny Karabakh conflict.
Today, Mr. Chancellor has noted that Germany always has faithfully
concerned and nowadays concerns the territorial integrity of
Azerbaijan. I hope, that being guided by the mentioned principle, it
will be shortly possible to achieve peace settlement of the conflict
between Armenia and Azerbaijan.
There is a fine ground for the even greater development of mutual
relations, and the present visit has defined new directions of the
future cooperation. I want to express confidence, that we and
henceforth shall cooperate successfully in all areas.
***
Then, the Presidents answered questions of media representatives.
Q: Mr. Chancellor, you have noted that economic relations between
Azerbaijan and Germany are at a high level. And what situation in the
field of culture? If it is necessary to develop connections and in
this area, what you for this purpose would undertake?
GERHARD SCHROEDER: I always considered, that it is impossible to
differentiate the relations between the countries. Irrespective of,
whether there is a speech about policy or economy, it is necessary to
concern with respect to each sphere as it makes a basis of fruitful
cooperation and friendship. Also cultural cooperation with
Azerbaijan, therefore, is extremely important. Unfortunately, in this
case I cannot tell, what particularly it means in this area. But if
in this sphere this or that initiative will be put forward, I am
ready to support it. I think, that we can approach with optimism to
the mentioned question as your possession of German language at so
high level testifies to how far we have promoted in the field of
culture.
Q: Mr. President, you have noted, that the Nagorny Karabakh conflict
can be settled in the political way. What means are necessary for
this purpose?
ILHAM ALIYEV: The first means consists that international legal norms
should be observed. Armenia has occupied the Nagorny Karabakh region
and adjacent to it our seven regions of Azerbaijan, and occupation
continue already long years. Until the armed forces of Armenia will
not be pulled back from the occupied lands, the conflict cannot find
its settlement. Therefore, first of all, international legal norms
should be observed. National minorities worldwide live, however, it
does not mean at all, that they should follow the road of separatism.
The various nations live in Azerbaijan, and the Armenians, too, can
live in Nagorny Karabakh. If international legal norms will find
realization and if the Azerbaijan lands will be released from
occupation, Azerbaijan and Armenia can come nearer to the peace
agreement. The thesis, which is put forward by the Armenian side,
consists that the Armenians living in Nagorny Karabakh should gain
independence. I want to state that the Armenian people has already
gained independence, there is a state of Armenia. Their policy has no
future; it contradicts processes proceeding in the world. I hope,
that the management of Armenia shortly will understand it and will
remove the armed forces from the lands not belonging to them.
Q: Southern Caucasus integrates into the European family, it is
already counted a part of Europe, and however the European Union has
not stated concrete position in connection with conflicts on Southern
Caucasus, including the Nagorny Karabakh conflict. Germany is one of
the leading states of the world, with a notable weight in the
European Union, the European parliament. What role in this sense
Germany can play?
GERHARD SCHROEDER: If the European Parliament will directly interfere
with the given question it can regard as intervention in the policy
of the said states. I during conversation with Mr. President have
noted, that we always recognized territorial integrity of Azerbaijan,
and our position remains unchanged. I think, that such position is
held not only by us, but also by the European parliament.
Q: Did You have exchange of views on combat against the international
terrorism? What can you tell in connection with last air crashes in
Russia?
GERHARD SCHROEDER: Unfortunately, I have no exact information on the
air crashes, and investigations, probably, are conducted, therefore,
I would not like to suppose discrepancies. The reasons of accidents
will be known after investigations.
***
On August 25, President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has received in
his residence members of the Bundestag of Germany.
This very day in the evening, the Company “Siemens” arranged a
banquet in honor of the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev. During
the banquet, there were heads of the leading German companies and
concerns.
Official visit of the President of Azerbaijan to Germany continues.