Category: News

IRNA, Iran
March 12 2004
Georgian armenians take part in Iranian armenians spring games
Isfahan, March 12, IRNA — Head of Isfahan`s Ararat Sports Club
Robert Shyjanian told IRNA of Friday the the Georgian armenians will
take part at the 13th Athletic Competitions of the Iranian armenians.
Shyjanian added, “The Georgian armenian athletes will participate
with one five-member team at the Iranian armenians` spring games,
competing only in track and field competitions.”
The five-day 13th Athletic Competitions of the Iranian armenians,
sponsored this year by Isfahan`s Ararat Sports Club will begin on
March 18th.
The games, also known as the Iranian armenians spring athletics,
are held in two main sections of men and women`s athletes, in which
the athletes compete in football, basketball, field and track,
volleyball, and table tennis contests.
The men`s games include football, basketball, table tennis and
field and track events, and the women`s games include basketball,
volleyball and field and track competitions.

IRNA, Iran
March 17 2004
EP praises reforms in Turkey, but says not enough
Brussels, March 17, IRNA — Turkey has made many important reforms
since last year in order to meet the political criteria to join the
EU
but still needs to go considerably further, said the European
Parliament`s Foreign Affairs Committee on Wednesday when it adopted a
report on Turkey`s progress towards EU accession.
The report asked the Commission, as part of the Pre-Accession
Strategy, to systematically address the shortcomings in the rule of
law and the democratic deficit in Turkey, according to an EP press
release.
The Committee stressed that settlement of the Cyprus conflict was
an essential condition for progress on Turkey`s EU membership
application.
MEPs praised the strong motivation and political will demonstrated
by the AKP government in favor of making reforms that are
revolutionary for Turkey, but they said that such reforms can only be
judged on the basis of how they are put into practice at all levels
of
the judicial and security system and the civil and military
administration.
MEPs criticized the continuing influence of the army in politics,
business, culture and education, continuing torture practices and
mistreatment, the intimidation and harassment of human rights
defenders, the discrimination of religious minorities and the fact
that trade union freedom is not fully guaranteed.
Turkey should also speed up the implementation of certain cultural
rights that allow the education in and use of languages other than
Turkish in the media, especially Kurdish, said the report.
The EU itself must also be prepared for Turkey`s possible
accession and the consequent new geo-political situation for the EU,
MEPs said.
They said Turkey would significantly enhance European security and
give EU policy in the region greater authority and effectiveness.
MEPs said it will be up to Turkey to decide whether it wants, or
will be able, to accept the political principles and values of the EU
as appropriate for Turkey`s state and society.
The EP report also called on Turkey to reopen its borders with
armenia and promote good neighborly relations with that country.

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
March 19, 2004
CONTACT: Christine Kojoian
E-mail: [email protected]
SENATOR SARBANES TO ADDRESS ARMENIAN ASSEMBLY’S NATIONAL ADVOCACY CONFERENCE
Washington, DC – The Armenian Assembly announced this week that longtime
Armenian issues supporter Senator Paul Sarbanes (D-MD) will be the
Democratic keynote speaker at the Assembly’s National Conference and
Banquet, April 18-20, in Washington, DC.
Sarbanes will join Republican keynote speaker Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY)
during a Monday night banquet that is part of a three-day event being held
in cooperation with the Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU) and the
Eastern and Western Diocese of the Armenian Church.
“We’re delighted to have Senator Sarbanes, a staunch supporter of our
community, take the time to brief conference participants,” said National
Conference and Banquet Chair Annie Totah.
In August of last year, McConnell and Sarbanes introduced S. 1557, which
would extend permanent normal trade relations (PNTR) status to Armenia. If
enacted, the legislation would allow Armenian goods easier access to the
U.S. by eliminating a 30-year-old provision governing levy of duty and
taxes.
More recently, the senator joined five of his colleagues in sending a letter
to President Bush urging him to ask Turkey to lift its damaging blockade of
Armenia during his recent meeting with Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip
Erdogan. In addition to his support on this letter, the senator is a
cosponsor of the genocide resolution (S. Res. 164), which would ensure that
the lessons of the Holocaust and the Armenian Genocide, in addition to those
in Cambodia and Rwanda, as well as others, are not forgotten.
Additionally, Sarbanes has repeatedly led the fight to maintain Section 907
of the Freedom Support Act, which places reasonable restrictions on U.S.
assistance to Azerbaijan while it continues to immorally block Armenia and
Nagorno Karabakh. In 2001, he and McConnell led the successful Senate floor
debate in defeating an attempt to rescind this crucial measure.
Organized by the Assembly’s Armenian American Action Committee (ARAMAC), the
three-day event is a prime opportunity for anyone interested in honing their
advocacy skills and brainstorming issues with some of Washington’s most
influential policymakers. Participants will have the opportunity to gain
deeper insight into the inner-workings of Congress during advocacy workshop
sessions, panel discussions and meetings with elected officials.
The conference agenda will include a panel discussion on “Secrets to
Advocacy.” Panel participants include: Former Congressman James Rogan
(R-CA), New Hampshire State Representative Harry Haytayan (R-NH),
legislative assistant for Senator Paul Sarbanes (D-MD) Joanne Berry and
Assembly Board of Directors member and one-time aide to former Governor
Wilson (R-CA), Lisa Kalustian. The panel will be moderated by Assembly
Board of Directors Vice Chair Lisa Esayian.
The conference will open with an ecumenical service at the National
Cathedral marking the 89th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. From
there, guests will attend a welcoming reception at the Kennedy Center for
the Performing Arts. The next day, conference attendees will take part in a
full-day of advocacy workshops and panel discussion, followed by a reception
and banquet that evening. The conference will close Tuesday with a farewell
breakfast after which time activist will head to Capitol Hill for meetings
with their elected officials.
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#2004-030
Photograph available at the following link:
Caption: Senator Paul Sarbanes (D-MD)

ASBAREZ ONLINE
TOP STORIES
03/19/2004
TO ACCESS PREVIOUS ASBAREZ ONLINE EDITIONS PLEASE VISIT OUR
WEBSITE AT <;HTTP:// 1) ARS West Celebrates 20th 2) `Cultural Genocide: Turkey' Exhibit Slated for Late April 3) Kocharian Pushes for Increased Local Management 4) EU Parliament Presses Turkey on Human Rights 5) 20th Annual KAHAM Games Closing Ceremonies at Glendale College Stadium 6) ANCA Capitol Hill Genocide Observance Gathers Great Congressional Support 1) ARS West Celebrates 20th GLENDALE--Hundreds gathered at the Glendale Hilton on March 13 to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the founding of the Armenian Relief Society (ARS) Western Region. The event's sponsor was Dr. Alber Karamanoukian, president of St. Mary's Adult Day Health Care center in Glendale. A large circle of ARS members, friends, and supporters were present to honor and celebrate the ARS Western Region's two decades long contribution to the community and the homeland. Honored guests included Armenia's Consul General in Los Angeles Gagik Kirakossian, representatives of the ARF West Central Committee, The ARS Central Executive (CE), sister organizations, as well as elected officials. Soprano Anahid Nersisian, along with pianist Armen Aharonian, performed the national anthems of the United States and the Republic of Armenia, followed by the ARS anthem. Opening remarks were presented by the chairwoman of the Twentieth Anniversary committee Sonia Peltekian, who also served as the evening's emcee. Blessings were offered by Western Prelate Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian. The Armenian Women's Traditional Instrument Ensemble, conducted by Roupen Haroutunian, presented a sampling of beautiful Armenian melodies. The Regional Executive's remarks were delivered in English by chairwoman Nova Hindoyan, who introduced the philanthropic activities undertaken by the region throughout the years, and outlined current and future programs. Presenting the ARS CE's message, Anahid Meymarian briefly presented ARS International's activities both in the homeland and the Diaspora. The ARF CC's message was delivered by Vahe Bozoian. Glendale Mayor offered warm remarks and presented Glendale City Council's Certificate of Achievement to the ARS Western Region for its community contribution. Chairman of the Armenian National Committee-Western Region Board of Directors Raffi Hamparian conveyed the ARS certificates of accomplishment from California Assemblymember Dario Frommer, State Senator Jack Scott, and Los Angeles Supervisor Mike Antonovich. US Congressman Adam Schiff personally delivered a Congressional Certificate of Appreciation to the ARS, and presented heartfelt remarks. Keynote speaker from Canada ARS member Professor Chake Der Melkonian-Minassian recounted the days of establishing and structuring the ARS Western Region. Numerous guests and ARS members participated in the candle lighting ceremony, followed by the symbolic cutting of the cake by the day's sponsor and consistent ARS benefactor Dr. Alber Karamounkian, a cherished member of the Armenian community who has always stood ready to provide financial support to organizations and projects, specifically assisting the schools and hospitals of Ghapan. Closing remarks and blessing were given by Archbishop Mardirossian who applauded the ARS, and explained the symbolism behind its emblem. The celebrations ended with the announcement of a unique donation by the Der Hovanesian and Hindoyan families, the children of longtime Pasadena ARS member Nvart Der Hovhanesian and husband Goriun. An ARS regional office will be dedicated to Mr. and Mrs. Der Hovhanesian. 2) `Cultural Genocide: Turkey' Exhibit Slated for Late April YEREVAN (Armenpress)--A photo exhibit of destroyed Armenian cultural and architectural monuments in the territory of modern Turkey will open in Yerevan in late April, to coincide with the 89th anniversary of the Armenian genocide. The exhibit, Cultural Genocide: Turkey, will display photos depicting the current condition of monuments, alongside those of the monuments intact and in their original condition. Hundreds of Armenian monuments in Western Armenia (now eastern Turkey), have been photographed for the exhibit. Samvel Karapetian, chairman of a non-governmental organization studying Armenian architectural monuments, said the exhibit serves to expose Turkey's destructive policy towards cultural values, as it strives to join civilized countries of the European Union. 3) Kocharian Pushes for Increased Local Management YEREVAN (Armenpress)--President Robert Kocharian visited Yerevan's Kentron community to review implementation of legislative amendments that call for local governments to take on a greater role in managing regional affairs. The Kentron community, he explained, is better prepared to handle the reforms and effectively implement the undertaken commitments because the community's budget doubled in 2003, and is expected to double again in 2004. Kocharian explained that the country must go in the direction of decentralization so that the government is not burdened with common problems of the population. `We must attract grants to solve water supply, local heating, and other similar issues, but the implementation of the programs must be transferred to local self-governing bodies.' Among problems revealed during his visit to the Kentron municipality was the unwillingness of various departments to transfer regulatory powers to local self-governing bodies. Kocharian said that he will take up the issue soon with department leaders. `If there is a public service problem somewhere, people must not think about the president, the prime minister, or the government,' Kocharian said. `There can be no stability in such a country.' The president is expected to visit other Yerevan communities, as well as villages to review the reform process. 4) EU Parliament Presses Turkey on Human Rights BRUSSELS (Reuters)--Turkey must improve its record on human rights and the rule of law before European Union member states start talks with Ankara on adopting EU laws, the European Parliament said on Wednesday. Turkey has been trying to join the EU for decades, and has faced consistent calls to remedy human rights abuses. The bloc is due to decide by the end of this year whether to set a date when accession negotiations may begin. The entry of any new member state requires the approval of the parliament, but the assembly's Foreign Affairs Committee made clear Ankara had a long way to goeven though the Union is committed to its eventual membership. Deputies "criticized the continuing influence of the army in politics, business, culture, and education, continuing torture practices and mistreatment, the intimidation and harassment of human rights defenders, the discrimination of religious minorities, and the fact that trade union freedom is not fully secured," they said in a statement. Deputies noted Turkey had made many important reforms since last year to meet the membership criteria, and praised the government's political will to improve conditions, while saying reforms could only be judged by how they were implemented. Members of the parliament called on the EU's executive Commission to press Ankara on these issues. "The Commission should, as part of the pre-accession strategy, systematically address the shortcomings in the rule of law and the democratic deficit," the statement said. The Foreign Affairs Committee insisted that settlement of the Cyprus conflict was "an essential condition for progress" in Turkey's membership bid, and also urged Ankara to open its borders with Armenia. Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when troops from Turkey occupied the north of the island in response to a coup in Nicosia engineered by the junta then ruling Greece. The United Nations is brokering reunification talks bringing together Greece, Turkey, and Greek and Turkish Cypriots, to try to unite the island before it joins the EU on May 1. Turkey has no diplomatic relations with Armenia, independent since the break up of the Soviet Union in 1991. 5) 20th Annual KAHAM Games Closing Ceremonies at Glendale College Stadium After two months of exciting competitions, Homenetmen's Western Regional Executive Committee hosted the 20th Annual California Armenian Student Athletic Games (KAHAM) closing ceremonies on March 14 at Glendale College Stadium. Proud parents, children, principals, athletic directors, and faculty from eleven Southern California Armenian schools assembled to close another memorable KAHAM tournament. Homenetmen TV broadcaster Nora Chaparian, was the event's master of ceremonies for. She welcomed the dignitaries present, who included Homenetmen Central Executive Committee members Mher Tavitian and Manuel Marselian, Prelate Moushegh Mardirossian's representative rev. Ashod Kambourian, Glendale City Council member Dave Weever, Chair of the Glendale College Board of Directors Dr. Armine Hagopian, Glendale School District Board member Greg Krikorian, and all of the principals present from the respective participating schools. Chaparian also welcomed all who were present, stating that the spectators on hand represented the spirit and support that drives the Armenian student. Following the welcoming, the color guard represented by Homenetmen's Cresenta Valley "Shant" Chapter's scouts, entered the stadium followed by the Homenetmen Western Region Marching Band. Once in place, the marching band played the American, Armenian, and Homenetmen anthems. Immediately following the anthems, the ten schools represented in this year's KAHAM games paraded into the stadium. Fervor arose in the crowd as each school was introduced. The athletes and faculty from each school, proudly wearing their school athletic uniforms, and lead by their school flags and banners, marched into and around the stadium. Students waved to the crowd, especially to their parents, in their spotlight victory lap. The schools represented at this year's KAHAM games were Alex Pilibos, Ari Giragos Minassian, Armenian Sisters Academy, Mesrobian, Merdinian, Mekhitarian, Hovsepian, Chamlian, Sahag Mesrob, and Ferrahian. Homenetmen Western Regional Executive Committee member Shake Zohrabian conveyed the Executive Committee's message to all present, thanking especially the parents and volunteers who helped make this event successful for the Southern California Armenian community. She stated that without the parents and their tireless efforts to bring their children to competitions over the past eight weeks, the KAHAM games could not have been a success. "Over 500 athletes between the ages of 6-12 years old competed in these games over the past eight weeks. Homenetmen is very proud to help facilitate these games which included competitions in basketball, volleyball, soccer, track and field, and table tennis." Representing all of the participating schools and their principals, Mesrobian principal, Hilda Saliba, thanked and praised Homenetmen for its efforts not only in putting together this year's KAHAM games, but also in the perpetual work it performs to maintain and protect the Armenian identity within our school children. "Today you see an excellent example of what KAHAM is all about. I would like to thank all those individuals who participated in these games." Saliba continued, "The mission for all our schools is to help foster the Armenian youth in today's society. To actually teach our students whit it means to be Armenian, along with the community's involvement to help maintain that Armenian spirit within our youth. Through the KAHAM games, it is evident that Homenetmen's mission is also the same." She also thanked the parents, the teachers, as well as her fellow principals that commit their school's resources to these games as the benefits are evident to all those that were present. Again with enthusiasm, this time not only within the spectators, but also with the assembled students, Western Regional Executive Committee Chairman Viggen Davidian, along with Regional Executive Committee Athletic Director Vicken Apelian, as well as the ten school principals met to announce and distribute trophies and medals to this year's KAHAM champions. As each event and division winner was announced, the pride and spirit in each of the winning team's members became evident as the hurried to the main platform to accept their accolades. After the athletic trophies and medals were all given out, the Homenetmen Western Regional Committee awarded each of the school principals a plaque of appreciation for their involvement and participation in this year's KAHAM games. Speaking on behalf of Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Rev. Ashod Kambourian stated that since its inception, Homenetmen has always been the venue that allows the Armenian youth to come together and grow spiritually, mentally, and physically. "We also know that Homenetmen's ideals and teaching are not only an internal mechanism, but also a means to assist the community with its needs with the Armenian Youth, as we have seen here through Homenetmen's duty to the local Armenian Schools. Of course, there are winners here; however, there are no losers. All of the athletes take back with them the memories of their competitions, as well as the new friends they have made. Homenetmen's spirit is now embedded in the hearts of all of these athletes," stated Rev. Kambourian. Commenting on the successful tournament after the ceremony, Regional Athletic Director Vicken Apelian, stated that, "It is through the Regional Athletic Committee, the teachers, parents, as well as the other volunteers that make this tournament the success that the community has come to expect it being over the past 20 years." The following is a list of the competitions and the associated overall winners. 6) ANCA Capitol Hill Genocide Observance Gathers Great Congressional Support WASHINGTON, DC--A growing bipartisan list of over 65 Senate and House members--including several key Committee leaders--have joined the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) in co-hosting the tenth annual Armenian Genocide Observance on Capitol Hill, at the historic Cannon Caucus room on Wednesday, April 28, from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM. The Senate co-hosts include Finance Committee Chairman Charles Grassley (R-IA), Government Affairs Committee Chairwoman Susan Collins (R-ME), Agriculture Committee Chairman Thad Cochran (R-MS), Veterans Affairs Committee Chairman Arlen Specter (R-PA), Armed Services Committee Ranking Democrat Carl Levin (D-MI), as well as Senators George Allen (R-VA), Barbara Boxer (D-CA), Elizabeth Dole (R-NC), John Ensign (R-NV), Tim Johnson (D-SD), Barbara Mikulski (D-MD), and Jack Reed (D-RI). In the House, co-hosts include Congressional Genocide Resolution lead cosponsors George Radanovich (R-CA), Adam Schiff (D-CA), and Congressional Armenian Caucus Co-Chairs Frank Pallone (D-NJ) and Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) as well as House Financial Services Committee Ranking Democrat Barney Frank (D-MA) and Representatives Robert Andrews (D-NJ), Gresham Barrett (R-SC), Shelley Berkley (D-NV), Howard Berman (D-CA), Michael Bilirakis (R-FL), Benjamin Cardin (D-MD), Dennis Cardoza (D-CA), Jerry Costello (D-IL), Joseph Crowley (D-NY), Vernon Ehlers (R-MI), Eliot Engel (D-NY), Anna Eshoo (D-CA), Chaka Fattah (D-PA), Mike Ferguson (R-NJ), Bob Filner (D-CA), Mark Foley (R-FL), Raul Grijalva (D-AZ), Maurice Hinchey (D-NY), Rush Holt (D-NJ), Michael Honda (D-CA), Steve Israel (D-NY), Patrick Kennedy (D-RI), Gerald Kleczka (D-WI), Dennis Kucinich (D-OH), Barbara Lee (D-CA), William Lipinski (D-IL), Zoe Lofgren (D-CA), John Lewis (D-GA), Edward Markey (D-MA), Jim McDermott (D-WA), James McGovern (D-MA), Grace Napolitano (D-CA), Richard Neal (D-MA), Devin Nunes (R-CA), Dana Rohrabacher (R-CA), Steven Rothman (D-NJ), Loretta Sanchez (D-CA), H. James Saxton (R-NJ), Christopher Shays (R-CT), Mark Souder (R-IN), John Sweeney (R-NY), Bennie Thompson (D-MS), John Tierney (D-MA), Christopher Van Hollen (D-MD), Henry Waxman (D-CA), Anthony Weiner (D-NY), Joe Wilson (R-SC), Frank Wolf (R-VA), and Lynn Woolsey (D-CA). `We are pleased to see so many legislators from across the nation joining together with the Armenian American community in this solemn remembrance,' said ANCA Executive Director Aram Hamparian. `Armenian Americans value their principled support and appreciate their commitment to ensuring that the lessons of the Armenian Genocide are used to prevent future crimes against humanity.' The ANCA's Annual Capitol Hill Observance provides Members of Congress the opportunity to commemorate the Armenian Genocide with members of the Armenian American community. This year, the ANCA will be honoring New York Times Best Selling Author Peter Balakian, who, over the past decade, has emerged as an exceptionally powerful, eloquent, and effective voice against Armenian Genocide denial, most recently through the publication of `The Burning Tigris,' his landmark study of the US humanitarian response to the Armenian Genocide. Joining Armenian Americans and elected officials at the observance will be survivors of the Armenian Genocide, members of the diplomatic community, and leaders of civil and human rights organizations. The Armenian National Committee of America Eastern Region, Western Region and Washington headquarters cordially invite community members from across the US to participate in the Capitol Hill Genocide Observance. For further information, contact the Armenian National Committee of America Washington office at (202) 775-1918 or the Eastern or Western Region headquarters at (617) 923-1918 and (818) 500-1918 respectively. 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.

European Armenian Federation
for Justice and Democracy
Avenue de la Renaissance 10
B – 1000 BRUXELLES
Tel./Fax : +32 (0) 2 732 70 27
E-mail : [email protected]
Web :
PRESS RELEASE
March 19th, 2004
Contact: Talline Tachdjian
Tel.: +32 (0)2 732 70 27
OOSTLANDER REPORT REAFFIRMS EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT RESOLUTIONS ON THE GENOCIDE
ISSUE
The report:
– references the resolution of 18 June 1987
– calls on Turkey to reopen the borders with Armenia
Brussels, Belgium – The European Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs,
Human Rights, Common Security and Defence Policy (AFET) adopted on March
17th, 2004, the report `on Turkey’s progress towards accession,’ written by
Dutch Christian Democrat Representative, Mr. Arie Oostlander (PPE), by a
vote of 39 for, 2 against and 7 abstentions.
This vote came after 199 amendments to the report had been proposed and
considered by members and political parties.
During the Committee meeting the day before, Mr. Oostlander has presented 21
compromise amendments to the report, of which two amendments directly
concerned Armenia and the Armenian Genocide.
The adopted report `requests Turkey to reopen the borders with Armenia and
to promote good neighbourly relations with Armenia, to work together to
promote equitable solutions to the regional conflicts and not to take any
action that would stand in the way of a historic reconciliation.’
In another compromise amendment adopted by the Committee, the report wishes
for `the establishment of a dialogue between Turkish and Armenian academics,
social and non-governmental organisations in order to overcome the tragic
experiences of the past as has been expressed in its earlier resolutions (of
18 June 1987, 15 November 2000, 28 February 2002 and 26 February 2004)’.
`We hail the European Parliament’s affirmation of previous resolutions on
the recognition of the Armenian Genocide,’ declared Hilda Tchoboian,
Chairperson of the European Armenian Federation. `After many years of
intense perseverance, we have succeeded in resurfacing the resolution of
1987 and having it reaffirmed in several European Parliament reports.’
The Federation reminds that in his initial text, Mr. Oostlander had
deliberately evaded the genocide issue, citing as a pretext in its
explanatory statement, the Turkish sensitivities regarding this issue.
`Though a reasonable dialogue between peoples is always desirable, Mr.
Oostlander’s report fails to recognize that Turkey is still today far from
demonstrating the slightest serious intention to conduct dialogue with
Armenia and Armenians. Consequently, it is not possible to camouflage the
crime suffered by the Armenian people with well-meaning wishes,’ stated
Tchoboian.
Arie Oostlander’s report will be submitted to European Parliament vote
during its plenary session in the coming weeks.
#####

The Georgian Messenger
19 March 2004
Abkhaz authorities
eliminate right to mother-tongue
Regretting the fact that the local de facto government has repeatedly
refused to open a branch of the UN Human Rights office in Gali, the
head of the UN Human Rights Office in Abkhazia, Ivar Vikki, said
there many other barriers to human rights protection in the breakaway
republic. “The situation is precarious,” he said on Thursday,
explaining that the lack of effective law enforcement, the
infiltration of criminal groups, the lack of a mechanism to file
complaints and the recent reform of language curriculum all impede
human rights.
Currently the United Nations Observer Mission in Georgia operates a
human rights office in Sukhumi where locals can come and state
violations.
“And they do have complaints,” noted MR. Vikki.
Most issued relate to property disputes within the region.
The UN office also conducts regular visits to pretrial detention
centers. Speaking with the Deputy Special Representative of the
Secretary-General for Georgia Roza Otunbayeva, Mr. Vikki also
criticized the de facto authorities for language reform that
eliminates the right to study in the mother tongue.
Currently there are 41 official Armenian schools and 10 unofficial
Georgian schools in the region.

Azeri foreign minister, Canadian official discuss Karabakh, ties
Sarq, Baku
16 Mar 04
Text of Zulfuqar report by Azerbaijani newspaper Sarq on 16 March
headlined “Vilayat Quliyev received David Preston” and subheaded “They
discussed the Nagornyy Karabakh problem”
Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Vilayat Quliyev yesterday received David
Preston, director general of the Central, East and South Europe
Department of Canada’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International
Trade, the Azerbaijani ministry’s press service has reported.
The meeting discussed the Nagornyy Karabakh conflict between Armenia
and Azerbaijan and ways to resolve it, bilateral relations between the
two countries and other subjects of mutual interest. Quliyev said that
this visit will strengthen friendly relations between Azerbaijan and
Canada and will contribute to the development of fruitful cooperation
within international organizations. The visit will also expand
economic relations and will benefit the prospects for further
Azerbaijani-Canadian cooperation. Quliyev said that he supports the
purpose of the visit.
He also briefed Preston on the Nagornyy Karabakh conflict, on efforts
to resolve it and the harsh living conditions of refugees. It is
important that the international community steps up its efforts to
resolve the conflict as soon as possible and in line with
international legal norms and principles, he said.
In turn, Preston said that the purpose of the visit was to expand
relations between Canada and Azerbaijan in various spheres. Canada
attaches great importance to the comprehensive development of
relations with Azerbaijan and desires closer cooperation in
international organizations.
Speaking about the Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict, Preston expressed
the hope that this problem will soon be resolved in a peaceful way
with the efforts of the international community.

Closure of nuclear plant to stimulate Armenia’s energy sector
Haykakan Zhamanak, Yerevan
19 Mar 04
Excerpt from unattributed report by Armenian newspaper Haykakan
Zhamanak on 19 March headlined “”A draft law on the closure of the
Armenian Nuclear Power Station”
The government yesterday approved a draft law “On saving energy and
restoring the energy sector” that will be submitted to the National
Assembly for ratification. In fact, this law may also be called a bill
“On the closure of the Armenian Nuclear Power Station”. During
yesterday’s news conference on the submission of the draft law, Deputy
Energy Minister Areg Galstyan said that it is planned to raise the
level of Armenia’s energy system through the ratification of this
draft law.
According to Galstyan, in order to solve this problem, it is necessary
to stimulate the development of domestic energy resources, i.e. the
development of energy production in hydroelectric and wind power
plants. According to the deputy energy minister, this new law
specifies the government’s steps in this sector. It is to increase
energy produced with the help of domestic energy resources.
During the news conference, Galstyan listed several figures. Last year
Armenian consumed about 5.5bn kW/h of electricity, and 2bn kW/h of
this amount were produced by hydroelectric power plants.
Passage omitted: Other figures

Georgian Armenians appeal to Council of Europe over “violation” of rights
Arminfo, Yerevan
19 Mar 04
AKHALKALAKI
The political and socioeconomic crisis in Georgia is a result of
problems that have not been resolved for many years, A-Info news
agency has quoted representatives of the public organizations of
Samtskhe-Javakheti as saying in a message to Council of Europe
Secretary-General Walter Schwimmer.
The representatives of the public organizations point out that at
present, human rights and the rights of ethnic minorities are being
violated in Georgia and the country’s commitments to the Council of
Europe are, in fact, not being fulfilled. The state is not following
the principle of self-government established by the constitution,
which has a negative impact on the development of the country’s
regions.
In this connection, such a situation is particularly topical in
Samtskhe-Javakheti, the message said. The current
administrative-territorial structure and governing policy do not take
into account the peculiarities of the region and do not meet the
people’s needs. In fact, Samtskhe-Javakheti has been pushed out of the
process of governing the country, the letter says.
Programmes on the socioeconomic development of the region, which would
meet the interests of the population, are not being implemented in the
region and the population’s poverty is approaching a threatening
scale.
The authors of the message believe that in order to extricate the
region from the crisis, it is necessary to delineate the
administrative borders of the region and endorse its autonomous status
in the country’s constitution. The representatives of the public
organizations also expressed a desire to discuss regional issues with
Walter Schwimmer.

Lithuania can regain regional leadership – foreign minister
Veidas, Vilnius
18 Mar 04
Lithuania is capable of regaining its status as regional leader
despite its continuing domestic political problems, the Lithuanian
foreign minister, Antanas Valionis, has told the magazine
Veidas. Valionis said that Lithuania’s mission was to serve as a model
for other post-Soviet countries, and that it would be helping these
countries in the future. The following is an excerpt from an interview
with Valionis, conducted by Audrius Baciulis, entitled “We have to
prove first that our democracy is strong” and published on 18 March;
subheadings inserted editorially:
Lithuania’s political isolation continues
Lithuania has been living in mild isolation for some time
already. Leaders of neighbouring countries pass Lithuania and
agreements normally signed by the presidents are signed by foreign
ministers. Estonia is aiming at taking over the position of the
region’s front-runner. The magazine Veidas discussed with the foreign
minister, Antanas Valionis, whether it was possible to regain the lost
positions.
Question More than six months ago, there was talk that, after the
completion of the second round of NATO expansion, a summit of the
Vilnius Ten group of countries which are joining NATO or seek its
membership will be held in Lithuania. Is the summit still on the
agenda?
Valionis No, it isn’t. The initiative was suspended in spite of some
support we received from several countries. Unfortunately, bearing in
mind the current internal political situation, this is not
realistic. The initiative was taken over by Slovakia. The summit of
the Vilnius Ten and the leaders of several other countries will be
held in Bratislava on 19 March . The Lithuanian prime minister will go
to the summit.
Question Is this not an example of how the presidential scandal
impedes Lithuania’s foreign policy?
Valionis You see, it is difficult to present this as an example
because the whole initiative to organize a conference of the Vilnius
Ten was abandoned at the stage of discussions. This is not an
initiative which was fully agreed and then recalled.
However, it can be seen in that light as well. Until the impeachment
process has not been completed, we will be treated differently from
before.
Neighbours benefit from political turmoil
Question Perhaps this is why the Estonian foreign minister told his
Ukrainian counterpart, arrived in Estonia from Vilnius, that Estonia
would be Ukraine’s advocate in its aspirations to join the EU. If am
not mistaken, Lithuania was engaged in this for several years until
now.
Valionis The most important instrument in our foreign policy, the
heavy artillery of sorts, has not worked in Lithuania for some months
already. Thus, understandably, Lithuania’s possibilities decreased
accordingly. The fate of Ukraine is one of the most important European
geopolitical factors, and I think that Ukraine must become a member of
the European Union and NATO. Lithuania will be Ukraine’s advocate in
any case.
Question The former president, Valdas Adamkus, said that it was
possible to regain Lithuania’s leadership in the region if we try hard
enough.
Valionis It is certainly possible. And, undoubtedly, we shall have to
make efforts. First of all, we will have to prove to ourselves and to
our partners abroad that democracy in our country is strong enough and
capable of coping with such serious challenges as the presidential
scandal.
Our regional leadership will materialize through our strategic
partnership with Poland, and through our active policy on Kaliningrad
Region, and this will enhance our role in the European Union.
Question How long could this take?
Valionis It is difficult to say. The task of the Foreign Ministry is
to do everything in order to make this happen as soon as possible. It
should not take too long because we are showing initiative and we are
persistent.
Lithuania’s presence in Transcaucasus justified
Question In spite of all the scandals, Lithuania decided to open its
embassy in Georgia. Who needs that?
Valionis There are reasons for this. This is a matter of Lithuania’s
strategic decision. The Caucasus is a very sensitive and a very
important region and, until now, we did not have an embassy there. A
resident ambassador in Georgia can represent Lithuania in Armenia and
Azerbaijan.
What our partners in Europe and the United States have been saying is
true – Lithuania can be a good expert on former Soviet countries. The
contacts we have maintained until now have shown that we are capable
of carrying out this task successfully. This is consistent with
Lithuania’s interests because, apart from the EU market of 450m
people, we are also interested in the markets of Ukraine, Moldova,
Russia and the Transcaucasus countries. The more so that Lithuania has
long-standing cultural links with these countries.
Finally, having established strong democracy in this country (the test
of impeachment will prove this), we could be a model for the
Transcaucasus countries. We feel it is our moral duty to help them as
the European Union helped us some time ago.
Having liberated ourselves from the Soviet Union we all started on the
same level. But our actions, which were more efficient, helped us to
achieve such results that these countries look at Lithuania with
admiration. Therefore, our objective now is to help them by showing
how we did it.
Political crises last long
Question Do our diplomats explain to our partners abroad what is
currently going on in Lithuania and, most importantly, why this is
taking such a long time?
Valionis We can recall the Watergate scandal – the process until the
resignation of the US president, Richard Nixon, lasted for seven
months. The impeachment process against Bill Clinton also lasted for
several months. The drawback of democracy is that all procedures take
a long time. However, there is no other way out. Otherwise, Lithuania
could hardly be described as a democratic country.
Question Journalists of neighbouring Poland wonder what will happen if
Lithuania accedes to NATO and the European Union with a “lame-duck”
president.
Valionis Not only Polish journalists ask me this question. I do not
know either how the European Union and NATO would treat a president
who has been handed down a ruling by the Lithuanian Constitutional
Court.
Question However, a certain international isolation does exist. It
will be the prime minister and not the president who will go to the
ceremony of signing NATO entry documents.
Valionis There will be no signing of documents. The Seimas parliament
has ratified the North Atlantic Treaty and it will be deposited at the
US State Department on 29 March. From that moment, Lithuania will be a
member of NATO and the prime minister, Algirdas Brazauskas, will
attend the festive membership inauguration ceremony, which will bear a
symbolic rather than legal significance. Like hoisting the Lithuanian
flag at the NATO headquarters in Brussels on 2 April. Passage omitted
Agreement on EU constitution to be reached soon
Question What is the situation with regard to the EU constitution? As
of 1 May Lithuania will be an EU member, yet the internal rules
regulating the EU’s internal life still do not exist.
Valionis This only demonstrates the existence of internal democracy in
the European Union. This is not the first or the last case when EU
members failed to agree . This proves that there is no diktat in the
EU, and that each member state has its voice and its point of
view. Moreover, this demonstrates the importance of the search for
compromise in the EU.
I think that the matters related to the EU constitution will start
moving forward in the near future. In principle, all the issues have
been resolved, except the issue of defining the qualified majority
voting. Germany has tabled a new proposal which is similar to
Lithuania’s proposal and we discussed it at the conference of foreign
ministers in Naples. The proposal concerns linking the percentage of
votes given to countries and their population. It is beneficial to
Lithuania. The reaction of Spain is not known yet because of the
recent elections there after which a new government came to power ,
and it is not yet clear how France will react to the proposal. Poland
was a strong opponent of the new voting procedure as defined in the
draft EU constitution and it is still not known how it will react to
the new proposal.
In any event, this is a step towards a compromise. I think that the
agreement will be reached.
NATO security guarantees in real terms
Question And what about the split inside NATO that surfaced last year?
It has been patched up by smooth talk so far.
Valionis I would not say it was patched up by words. We must recall
the history of NATO – many things happened in the past. We must not
forget that some time ago NATO’s headquarters had to be moved from
France to Brussels. However, the willingness to talk and to reach
agreement prevailed. What is important for us is what is taking place
now. After Lithuania ratified the North Atlantic Treaty, political
security guarantees stipulated in its paragraph five will evidently
turn into defence guarantees in real terms.
Question Military bases were also mentioned.
Valionis The talks about military bases are some kind of
misunderstanding which stems from our mentality problems. We have been
saying “We and NATO”, as if some sort of a military base is moving
from NATO to Lithuania. NATO does not have military bases outside its
territory that would not be subject to the laws of the country on the
territory of which they are set up. Lithuania is NATO. If we are
talking about airspace policing, the aircraft will be deployed at
Lithuanian military bases. This must be understood. Therefore, talks
about amending some article in the constitution presumably to allow
NATO bases is some kind of misunderstanding.
Apart from this, there are no reasons to think that we live in a
conflict region. On the contrary, our NATO membership will further
increase stability in the region.
Russia does not pose military threat
Question Is it possible to live peacefully in Russia’s neighbourhood
when we see that not much democracy is left in that country?
Valionis We watch closely the processes in Russia because we cannot be
indifferent to them. We are prepared to cooperate and we have proved
this more than once, and the example of this can be the solution of
the Kaliningrad transit issue or discussing the issues of the transit
of goods and delivering supplies to Kaliningrad Region after we join
NATO.
Concerning the political situation in Russia, it is better to leave
this to political analysts to discuss. Ministers should be rather
careful about what they say. However, we do not see any signals
indicating a military threat. Passage omitted
As a member state of NATO and the European Union, we will feel more
secure and will be therefore able to be more open in cooperation with
Russia.