Iran, Armenia Sign Seven MoUs
Fars News Agency, Iran
July 6 2006
TEHRAN (Fars News Agency)- Iran and Armenia signed up seven Memoranda
of Understanding (MoU) in the fields of energy, economic and
industrial infrastructures, legal and cultural heritage cooperation
here Wednesday evening.
The MoUs were signed by officials in the presence of President Mahmoud
Ahmadinejad and his Armenian counterpart Robert Kocharian.
For one document, Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki and his
Armenian counterpart Vartan Oskanian signed an MoU concerning Iran’s
development aids in the field of industrial and economic infrastructure
for Armenia.
In another MoU, Energy Minister Parviz Fattah and Armen Movsisyan
signed a cooperation agreement in the field of energy.
The two countries agreed in another document to cooperate in the
field of legal issues.
Iran’s Justice Minister Jamal Karimi-rad and Armenian Foreign Minister
Vartan Oskanian inked an agreement about extraditing criminals.
Dissemination of information in the field of cultural heritage was
another MoU signed up by officials from Iran’s Cultural Heritage
Organization and Armenian Ministry of Culture and Youth Affairs.
Also agreement about financing electricity power line project was
signed.
In the last MoU, the two countries agreed on the implementing program
of the third electricity power line between Iran and Armenia.

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WEBSITE AT <;HTTP://WWW.ASBAREZ. COM 1) Kocharian Wraps Up Iran Visit 2) Bryza Jumps The Gun, Again! 3) US, Turkey Sign 'Strategic Vision' Document 4) Karabakh Urges Inclusion Conflict Resolution Process 1) Kocharian Wraps Up Iran Visit TEHRAN (RFE/RL, Armenpress)President Robert Kocharian Thursday ended a two-day visit to Tehran during which he and his Iranian counterpart Mahmoud Ahmadinejad called for the strengthening of the already close economic and political links between Armenia and Iran, reported Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty. The two men met twice and presided over the signing of seven Iranian-Armenian agreements covering a broad range of areas on Wednesday. One of the agreements paves the way for the construction of a third transmission line that will connect the power grids of the two neighboring states. The high-voltage line will allow for a substantial increase in exports of Armenian electricity to Iran after the construction of a pipeline which is due to start pumping Iranian natural gas into Armenia next year. Yerevan borrowed $34 million from Tehran to finance the ongoing work on the first Armenian section of the pipeline and will repay the loan with electricity supplies. Ahmadinejad and Kocharian were widely expected to discuss the under-construction pipeline and, in particular, Russia's desire to control it. However, they were not reported to have mentioned the issue at their joint news conference. The two leaders only stressed, in general terms, the need for their nations to bolster their relationship which Ahmadinejad said has a "huge potential." "The Islamic Republic of Iran welcomes and supports the development of ties with Armenia in various areas, particularly in energy fields as well as transportation, sports, and tourism," The Tehran Times daily quoted Ahmadinejad as saying. "I hope the Armenian president's trip to Iran would serve as an important step toward the development of all-out ties between the two countries." Kocharian, for his part, reportedly welcomed "noticeable progress" in the development of Iranian-Armenian ties, while calling for unspecified "new steps" to implement bilateral agreements signed in the past. He also threw his weight behind an extremely ambitious idea to build a rail link between Armenia and Iran. It is not clear whether mounting international tensions over Iran's controversial nuclear program were also on the agenda of Kocharian's separate talks with Ahmadinejad and Iranian Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki. Armenian officials have repeatedly expressed hope for a "diplomatic" solution to the dispute. Yerevan fears that possible US military action against Iran could thwart the implementation of Armenian-Iranian energy projects and have other unpredictable consequences. Kocharian highlighted Iran's significance for Armenia by choosing to publicly shake hands with Ahmadinejad and invite him to Yerevan at a time when Tehran's nuclear standoff with the West is coming to a crunch. The Iranian president is facing Western ostracism for his hard line on the issue and public denials of the Holocaust. Before wrapping up his trip, Kocharian met with the Armenian community of Iran to hear their ideas about how to boost cooperation between Armenia and the community and other Armenia-Diaspora related issues, reported the Armenpress news agency. The Armenian-Iranian community commended the "One Nation-One Culture" festival organized and held for the third consecutive time by Armenian authorities, suggesting that this festival may be taken beyond Armenia to the countries with strong Armenian communities. The community members pledged active participation in the third Armenia-Diaspora conference scheduled for September in Yerevan. During the meeting president Kocharian awarded the Armenian medal of Mkhitar Heratsi to prominent Iranian-Armenian psychiatrist Harmik Davtian. Armenian Foreign Minister Vartan Oskanian positively assessed the results of Kocharian's visit to Iran. He said the visit was important taking into consideration the fact that after the election of the new president a new team has been formed in Iran. "Today the two countries aim to expand relations. In this respect we have executed quite positive changes," the foreign minister said, while underscoring the importance of the meeting of the two presidents. Oskanian also emphasized the political importance of the visit, saying that quite serious developments are taking place in the region, in which Iran is fully and actively involved and therefore, it is useful for the Armenia to be aware of Iran's posturing on regional issues. It is important that Iran, as a regional country, learns about the developments in the ongoing Nagorno-Karabakh peace process directly from Armenia, explaining that Kocharian informed his Iranian counterpart about the developments in that realm. 2) Bryza Jumps The Gun, Again! YEREVANThe US co-chair of the OSCE Minsk Group Matthew Bryza told the Haykakan Zhamanak newspaper Wednesday that US Ambassador-designate to Armenia Richard Hoagland will assume his post in some two weeks, immediately after his formal confirmation by the US Senate. The Senate Foreign Relations Committee, however, held delayed Hoagland's confirmation following a controversial and often heated hearing process last week when he failed to provide satisfactory answers to inquiries from key committee members on US policy on the Armenian Genocide and the dismissal of the current US Ambassador to Armenia John Evans, who characterized the events of 1915 as "a Genocide." Both Houses of Congress are on their annual July 4 recess and will returned to Washington next week. When the Senate committee hearing resume, Hoagland faces a new set of questions submitted late last week regarding the aforementioned issues. Late last month, in his capacity as co-chairman of the OSCE Minsk Group, Bryza leaked confidential principles of a peace plan, sending the diplomatic community in a furor over the disclosure of sensitive information regarding the Nagorno-Karabakh peace process. . "Hoagland is a very attentive person and he is perfectly aware of the history of the Caucasus. As for incumbent Ambassador Evans, he is an excellent personality and Ambassador. It's not true to sat that he is recalled and even removed from diplomatic service," Bryza said. "Ambassadors serve the President and they are obliged to follow his policy. President Bush's policy as it regards the mass killings of Armenians is precise and he mentions it in his annual statement. Certainly if somebody doesn't agree with the president's policy, he can take his own decisions, however they should not be announced publicly. We all serve the President and our job is to contribute to his policy. We should also give him advice but when matter concerns public statements we should support the President's policy," Bryza said. Evans' recall is said to be caused by his statement on the Armenian Genocide. On February 19, 2005, during his public presentation at the University of California, Berkeley, hosted by Armenian Studies Program Executive Director, Prof. Stephan Astourian, Evans announced, "I will today call it the Armenian Genocide." The Ambassador, who has studied Russian History at Yale and Columbia universities and Ottoman History at the Keenan Institute, argued that, "we, the US government, owe you, our fellow citizens a more frank and honest way of discussing this problem. Today, as someone who's studied it... There's no doubt in my mind what happened." 3) US, Turkey Sign 'Strategic Vision' Document WASHINGTON (Anatolia News Agency) Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul and US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice stated that they have agreed on common vision document between Turkey and the United States. Following their meeting at US State Department on Wednesday, Gul and Rice held a joint news conference. Gul said, "we have discussed Iraq, Iran, the PKK and Middle East problem as well as energy issues and Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan oil pipeline project which will be implemented soon. We would like to host a US representative during the inauguration ceremony of the pipeline." When asked why Turkey and the United States needed a strategic vision document, Gul said that the strategic vision document reflects the shared values of the two countries like democracy, human rights and free market economy as well as the close cooperation, adding that they thought it would be beneficial to put these things down on paper and accept as a reference. On the other hand, US Secretary of State Rice expressed pleasure about Turkey's initiatives in the region, and said that they discussed the problems in the Middle East and the situation in Iran. She stressed that Iran should meet the demands of international community and show that it is sincere in this issue. Rice thanked Gul for the support he gave for extension of democracy in the region. Rice said the strategic vision document underscores the mutual trust that exists between the two countries. The document is a reminder that the relationship is broad and deep and based on shared values and interests, Rice said. Stressing that Turkey-US relations continue on basis of strong friendship, strategic relation and dependence on common values, Rice noted that the vision document will have great contribution to regional and global stability. Upon a question about PKK terrorism, Rice said that the United States defines PKK as a terrorist organization, and she made specific reference to the joint US-Turkish stand against the violence employed by PKK. No one wants the PKK to carry out attacks anywhere, especially from north of Iraq, Rice said. Upon a question, Rice praised the diplomatic efforts of Turkey with the Syrian government to ease accelerating tension between Israel and Palestine. Rice noted that Turkish envoys have told Syrian authorities, as directly as possible, that they should use their leverage to secure the release of the Israeli soldier detained by Palestinians. Rice called the Turkish role very helpful. She urged Israel and Palestine to show restraint in order to prevent a further deterioration of the situation. The situation in Gaza is very tense, she said. Rice noted that the United States exerts efforts for humanitarian aid to Palestine, adding that Hamas should fulfill its responsibilities as well. Upon a question about Iran's nuclear program, Rice warned Iran not to delay talks aimed at ending its nuclear program. If indeed Iran is trying to stall, it's not going to work, Rice said. She added, we need to know if the path of negotiation is open or not. Rice said a substantive response from Iran was needed before the Group of Eight leaders meet later this month. 4) Karabakh Urges Inclusion Conflict Resolution Process YEREVAN (YERKIR) Nagorno-Karabakh Republic foreign minister Georgi Petrossian Wednesday emphasized that the country's position on the conflict resolution process remained unchanged and urged the inclusion of a Karabakh side in the peace process. "Nagorno-Karabakh took part in the establishment of the cease-fire, thus it is entitled to participate in talks that will decide its fate," Petrossian emphasized. He emphasized that Karabakh would not like to see the elimination of the results of the conflict, but rather concrete solutions to resolve the issue. He also reported that during their visit to the US, Karabakh representatives voiced their concerns over publicizing the principles of a peace plan drafted by the OSCE Minsk Group. Late last month, the Minsk Group US co-chairman Matthew Bryza leaked the confidential details of a peace plan being negotiated for the last two years. "The latest developments in the conflict resolution process have created a new situation and it is not yet how the talks will resume," said Petrossian. Meanwhile, Nagorno-Karabakh Republic Parliament Speaker Ashot Ghulyan told a press conference Wednesday that the latest proposals by the OSCE Minsk Group can serve as a basis to continue the peace talks and the conflict resolution process. Ghulyan said that not all provisions proposed by the Minsk Group are acceptable to the leadership of both Armenia and Karabakh. "Publicizing the principles of the OSCE-proposed peace plans by the mediators is aimed at launching public discourse among the parties to the Nagorno- Karabakh conflict." said Ghulyan. "In doing so, the Minsk Group co-chairs provide an opportunity to the parties to find a solution to the problem on their own," added Ghulyan. The speaker expressed optimism that the resolution to the conflict would be comprehensive, citing recent statements by the Minsk Group co-chairmen. In discussing a possible resolution by this year, Ghulyan emphasized the political situation in Azerbaijan, as well as the posturing by the Azeri leadership as reasons that Baku was not willing settle conflict as soon as possible. "An agreement by Azerbaijan to engage in dialogue with Nagorno-Karabakh will signal Azerbaijan's willingness to resolve the conflict," Ghulyan said. 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) 2006 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.

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WEBSITE AT <;HTTP://WWW.ASBAREZ. COM 1) Gul Thanks Rice For Interfering In Genocide Bill Passage 2) Victory Ball a True Victory for Homenetmen 3) Minister Says Karabakh Recognition a Priority 4) Bryza Speaks of Territorial Integrity of Karabakh 5) Honhanessian Says One Day Karabakh Will Be Represented At PACE 6) Armenian, Georgian Prime Ministers Meet in Batum 7) Senior Karabakh Officials Highlight Progress During US Visit and Call for Greater American Engagement 8) 10,000 Attend Navasartian Closing Ceremony 1) Gul Thanks Rice For Interfering In Genocide Bill Passage WASHINGTONDuring a meeting with Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice Thursday, Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul thanked her US counterpart for her efforts to impede the passage of an Armenian Genocide resolution in Congress. At a press conference following the meeting, Gul told the attendees that the passage of a Genocide recognition resolution by Congress would greatly hinder Turkish-American relations. "Turkey urges the US government to continue its efforts to deter the Congress from recognizing the Armenian Genocide and should take all steps to not allow such a development," Gul told reporters. 2) Victory Ball a True Victory for Homenetmen UNIVERSAL CITYHundreds of Homenetmen member and supporters gathered at the Universal Hilton ballroom last Saturday for the 31st Navasartian Games Victory Ball and to pay tribute to this year's Honorary Chairman Mr. & Mrs. Hovsep and Elizabeth Boyadjian for their contribution to the organization. Welcoming remarks were presented by Victory Ball committee member Arsho Beylerian, who outlined the importance of Homenetmen in our community. She then invited Master of Ceremonies Ardashes Kassakhian, who praised the Homenetmen for the service and education it provides to the Armenian youth. In his remarks, Kassakhian, who is the Glendale City Clerk, also praised Homenetmen's global reach with its 99 chapters and 30,000 members. Joining the Boyadjians, the honorary guests included Western Prelate Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Los Angeles Consular representative Armine Balian, Homenetmen Central Executive members Manuel Marselian and Mheir Davtian, Armenian Revolutionary Federation Western Region Central Committee member Hagop Tufenkchian, Glendale Mayor Dave Weaver and LA City Councilman Eric Garcetti's field representative Baidzar Tovmassian, as well as representatives of the Armenian Relief Society Western Regional Executive and representatives of Pacific Western and Bank of America. A representative of Congressman Brad Sherman presented an America flag that flew over the White House to the Honorary chairman and his wife. 3) Minister Says Karabakh Recognition a Priority STEPANAKERT (Pan Armenian)"We are not going to return territories, which serve as a security zone for Nagorno-Karabakh," Karabakh Defense Minister, lieutenant general Seyran Ohanyan stated at a news conference in Stepanakert. Ohanyan remarked that Karabakh exclusively supports a peaceful settlement of the conflict. "Azerbaijan imposed a war on us and we had to solve the problem by force. Territories controlled by Nagorno-Karabakh are not an end in itself, but serve as security zone," he added. The defense minister emphasized that the question of territory and deployment of peacekeeping forces will only be considered at the final phase of the settlement, after the core issuedetermination of the Nagorno-Karabakh statusis solved. "If there is no decision over the core issue, return of territories is out of question," he said. Commenting on statements made by the Azeri president regarding a military solution of the conflict and hostilities resuming in the region, the minister stated that the Azeri party does not wish to launch a war. In his opinion, militant rhetoric is aimed at testing public opinion. He added that the Nagorno-Karabakh Defense Army has counter measure plans that focus on defense. 4) Bryza Speaks of Territorial Integrity of Karabakh BAKU (PanARMENIAN.Net, Armenpress)OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chair Matthew Bryza, in an interview with the Azeri Service of BBC, said that the Minsk Group's statement, which says "there is nothing more to be achieved for determination of the peaceful principles of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict," does not mean that the talks have reached a deadlock. Bryza commented that the statement means creative capabilities of the mediators have been exhausted and there is a need for new initiatives. "This is not a deadlock. This is a moment when co-chairs say 'now the leaders should make a decision on what they want,'" he said. In his opinion, both leaders have the political will and wish cooperation, "but do not know whether they are ready to conclude the basic principles of the framework agreement." "It is a time now, when the leaders should explain to their people the use of the peace plan, show the way of progress by concessions," Bryza added. "These are the best proposals proposals put so far. I'd say that we are as close to peace now as ever before. However, I cannot guarantee that the presidents, using their sovereign rights, will accept these proposals and will make changes that will fit both parties." According to the co-chair, statements by the United States supporting the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan and the principle of self-determination for Nagorno-Karabakh do not contradict each other. "If you pay close attention to the statements by the co-chairs, they refer to both principles. The most important is to find contacts between these principles at the negotiation table," he said. Late last month, Bryza leaked confidential principles of the OSCE proposed plan. 5) Honhanessian Says One Day Karabakh Will Be Represented At PACE STRASBOURG (Pan Armenian)When addressing the Parliamentary Assembly of Council of Europe (PACE) session, the head of the Armenian delegation parliament vice-speaker Vahan Hovhannesian stated that a Nagorno-Karabakh representative will one day appear at the PACE forum. Drawing parallels between Montenegro and Nagorno-Karabakh, Hovhannesian attracted the attention of the PACE parliamentarians to Serbia's civilized approach in a similar issue. Armenian Embassy official in Belgium Tigran Balayan told Pan Armenian agency that members of the Assembly were given booklets detailing the vandalism of Azeri authorities toward Armenian cultural monuments. The Azeri representatives only focused on the fires near the border of Nagorno-Karabakh and Azerbaijan. Armenian parliamentarian Artashes Geghamian presented facts proving Azerbaijan's guilt in initiating the fire. The Azeri deputy accused the Armenian side of not actively extinguishing the fire. 6) Armenian, Georgian Prime Ministers Meet in Batum YEREVAN (Armenpress)Armenian Prime Minister Andranik Margarian paid a three-day official visit on July 7 to Batum, the capital of Ajaria, Georgia to participate in the fifth session of the Armenian-Georgian economic cooperation intergovernmental commission. The Armenian delegation, headed by Prime Minister Margarian, comprised of Armenian Finance and Economy Minister Vardan Khachatrian, Deputy Foreign Minister Gegham Gharibjanian, head of the Armenian State Tax Committee Armen Avetisian, Deputy Energy Minister Areg Galstian, aide to the prime minister Stepan Margarian, executive director of the Armenian Railway company Ararat Khrimian, as well as other officials, businessmen and members of parliament. In Batum, the Armenian prime minister met with his Georgian counterpart Zurab Noghaideli. Both sides noted the high level of relations and cooperation between the two countries and expressed conviction that during the session of the economic commission, they will discuss a wide-range of bilateral relations issues and develop new proposals directed toward the furthering of economic ties between the two countries. The prime ministers also noted that all the decisions approved at the 4th session of the commission have been completely implemented, including the opening of Yerevan-Tbilisi-Batumi-Yerevan railway. After expressing satisfaction over the decision of the Georgian authorities connected with the restoration of infrastructures of Samtshkhe-Javakheti, the Armenian prime minister noted that in order to smooth the tension of the local population, it would be purposeful to involve local businessmen and the local population in the construction work. He also confirmed the readiness of Armenian authorities to support the restoration of Javakhk infrastructures. During the meeting the two prime-ministers also spoke about the necessity of establishing an Armenian-Georgian university and about issues on re-opening regional railway communication. The prime ministers agreed to create a joint working group which will survey the opportunity and effectiveness of the restoration of Kars-Gumri-Tbilisi railway. After their meeting, the two prime-ministers co-chaired the 5th session of the Armenian-Georgian economic cooperation intergovernmental commission. In his opening speech, Prime Minister Margarian said he is sure the session will promote the continuation of constructive dialogue between the two countries. In his turn, Prime Minister Zurab Noghaideli talked about the increase of the volume of trade-turnover between the two countries, and the necessity of encouraging investments, which may give new impetus to bilateral economic cooperation. During his visit, the Armenian prime minister also visited a Batum shipbuilding factory, the university and an airport, where he got acquainted with the reconstruction work. 7) Senior Karabakh Officials Highlight Progress During US Visit and Call for Greater American Engagement WASHINGTONNagorno-Karabakh Parliament Speaker Ashot Ghulian and Foreign Minister Georgi Petrosian have successfully concluded a series of meetings and public engagements during their June 23-30 visit to the US. The visit aimed to rally stronger US support for Karabakh's democratic and economic development, and to help end Azerbaijan's aggressive policies toward Nagorno-Karabakh. While in Washington, Ghulian and Petrosian met with the newly-appointed United States envoy for the Karabakh peace process, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Matthew Bryza, key senate and congressional leaders, policy experts, media representatives and senior staff of Armenian-American advocacy organizations. In their June 26 meeting with Bryza, Karabakh officials provided an assessment of the most recent developments in the peace process, while highlighting the lawful nature of the establishment of Karabakh and its government's strong adherence to peace and security in the region. Bryza is expected to tour the region later this month. Nagorno-Karabakh officials held separate meetings with Senators Lincoln Chafee (R-RI) and Jack Reed (D-RI), House foreign assistance appropriators Chairman Jim Kolbe (R-Ariz.) and Ranking Member Nita Lowey (D-NY), and Co-chairs of the Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues US Representatives Joe Knollenberg (R-Mich.) and Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ). In those meetings, Ghulian and Petrosian highlighted the democratic and economic gains made by Nagorno-Karabakh during 15 years of independence, and called for increased US assistance to help make further progress. They also discussed Azerbaijan's military build-up and called for the US to undertake the necessary steps to preserve regional stability. Members of the US Congress have pledged their continued attention and support for Nagorno-Karabakh. On June 28, Speaker Ghulian and Foreign Minister Petrosian also spoke at a US Capitol reception organized in their honor. In addition to the Armenian Caucus Co-chairs, Representatives Carolyn Maloney (D-NY), Edward Royce (R-CA), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Brad Sherman (D-Calif.) and George Radanovich (R-Calif.), as well as Armenian Ambassador to the US Dr. Tatoul Markarian and Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan of the Eastern Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church, also spoke at the reception attended by congressional staff, journalists and Armenian community members. Ghulian and Petrosian also addressed a capacity audience at a June 28 public event jointly organized by the US Institute of Peace and Washington-based German Marshall Fund and attended by government officials, policy experts and media. Nagorno-Karabakh officials discussed Azerbaijan's continued effort to exclude Nagorno-Karabakh from the peace process and misrepresent the nature of the Karabakh conflict. Parliament Speaker Ashot Ghulian stressed that "Nagorno-Karabakh's legal existence is completely in conformance with international law." Foreign Minister Petrosian noted that "the Karabakh conflict is fundamentally an issue of the right of our people to live free. But Azerbaijan seeks to paint it as an inter-state, ethnic or even a religious conflict. This only helps postpone the conflict's peaceful resolution...Our main goal is to be able to conduct normal relations and live normal lives and we will defend that right with all possible means." The officials' visit to Washington concluded with a reception at the Embassy of the Republic of Armenia hosted by Ambassador Markarian and attended by US and foreign diplomats, members of the Armenian community and others. Speaking at the reception, Nagorno-Karabakh Parliament Speaker Ghulian stressed that "Nagorno-Karabakh's determination to remain free and independent is as strong as ever. This visit is just another step towards international recognition of this fact." As part of their US trip, Karabakh officials also visited New York and Boston, where they met with state officials, media and Armenian community representatives. At the conclusion of the visit, Nagorno-Karabakh Representative in the US Vardan Barseghian remarked: "It's time for the US and the international community to recognize Karabakh's progress in building a free, democratic and economically viable society in the strategic South Caucasus. Karabakh is a serious and reliable partner when it comes to bringing about greater stability, long-term peace, democracy and prosperity to the region." Barseghian also express his appreciation to Karabakh's supporters in the United States and those who helped to make this visit a success, in particular Rita Balian, Hirair Hovnanian, Hratch Kaprielian, Raffi Megerian, Carolyn Mugar, Annie Totah, as well as the Armenian Embassy, the Armenian Assembly of America, and the Armenian National Committee of America. The Office of the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic in the United States is based in Washington and works with the US government, academia and the public representing the official policies and interests of the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic. 8) 10,000 Attend Navasartian Closing Ceremony VAN NUYS, CaliforniaMore than 10,000 community members flocked to the Birmingham High School field Tuesday for the closing ceremonies of the 31st annual Homenetmen Navasartian Games, which culminated in a parade of athletes and scouts and an impressive display of fireworks. The athletic field and the entire high school was filled with Homenetmen members, supporters and community members who chose to mark the July 4 holiday at what has become a California-Armenian community tradition. The program began with announcers Nora Tchaparian (Armenian) and Patyl Kasparian (English) officially declaring the commencement of the parade and the closing ceremonies. The Homenetmen Regional Scouting Council members escorted the procession of honored guests led by Western Prelate Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, 31st Navasartian honorary chairs Mr.& Mrs. Hovsep and Elizabeth Boyadjian, "Exemplary Homenetmen Member" Samuel Megerdichian and Homenetmen Regional Executive chairman Raffi Ispendjian. Among the guests attending the ceremonies were Armenia's Deputy Consul General Arthur Madoyan, Homenetmen Central Committee member Mheir Davtian and Manuel Marselian, Armenian Revolutionary Federation Western Region Central Committee member Hagop Tufenkian, Glendale School Board member Greg Krikorian, Burbank School Board member and the Democratic nominee for the 43rd Assembly district Paul Krekorian, as well as representatives of community organizations. The spectators were treated to two dance numbers by the Hamazkayin "Nairi" dance troupe led by Catherine Hairapetian. With the blessing of Honorary Chairman Boyadjian and a command by Homenetmen Regional Scout leader Hrair Boyadjian the ceremonies were officially underway. In his welcoming remarks, Master of Ceremonies Simon Manucharian welcomed all the guests and spectators. He continued by highlighting the role of the Homenetmen in the education of the Armenian youth, and emphasized the importance of the Navasartian Games, which brings together thousands of young Armenians under one umbrella and strengthens the spirit of athletic competition and organizational life within them. "During the last two months, the hundreds of teams competing in the games have led from one victory to another," said Homenetmen Regional Executive chairman Raffi Ispenjian. "After all, what is Homenetmen if not a victory, which was borne 88 years ago? A victory that is eternal for the Armenia people~E A victory, which continues today~E" Ispenjian added that Homenetmen was established 40 years ago on the Western Region with a mission to bring together Armenian youth under one banner and lead them toward victory. "From day one, with a firm belief in Homenetmen's mission, the Armenian community supported it. That same belief continues today. Your presence here today is proof of that firm belief. You should feel proud of your faith you have toward the Homenetmen. Your continued trust and endless support has enabled us to maintain our Armenian identity and to serve our youth. Through our and your efforts we achieved a new victory: the 31st Navasartian Games," added Ispenjian. In conclusion, Ispenjian thanked the Honorary Chairman and his wife, as well as all Homenetmen members, committees, volunteers who worked diligently to make the 31st Navasartian Games a success. In his remarks, Homenetmen Central Executive member Manuel Marselian described the two months leading up to the closing ceremonies as a period of competition, where wins and losses within a healthy competitive environment, lead to the victorious ceremonies, which have become a staple for the California-Armenian community for 31 years. "Homenetmen is now 88 years young. In fact, Homenetmen is the ever young organization growing and expanding every year," said Marselian, adding that today the international family of Homenetmen boasts 99 chapters and more than 30,000 members. He added that three new chaptersStockholm, Sweden; Marseilles, France; and Mosul, Iraqjoined the growing Homenetmen family in the past year. "It is true; as the famous saying goes, the sun never sets on Homenetmen's family." "Homenetmen has always been proud to be recognized as a volunteer-based organization. Our growth is undoubtedly largely thanks to the hard work of thousands of such volunteers; for example, this year's Exemplary Homenetmen Member Samuel Megerdichian, as well as the voluntary support and generosity of individuals such as Mr. and Mrs. Hovsep Boyadjian, the Pilavdjian family and countless others who do believe in Homenetmen's cause, and have been proud to offer their moral and financial backing to ensure the ongoing success of Homenetmen," added Marselian In conclusion, Marselian congratulated the Western Region of the Homenetmen, which will be represented by 700 scouts at the 8th Pan-Armenian Homenetmen Jamboree in Armenia later in July. After offering his blessing and congratulating the "Exemplary Homenetmen Member," the Honorary Chairman and the Western Regional Executive, Western Prelate Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian praised Homenetmen for educating and elevating Armenian youth for generations. He stressed that His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of the Holy See of Cilicia has declared this year as the "Year of the School." "Today we elevate the role of the Homenetmen-school in our Armenian reality," emphasized the Archbishop. The program continued with a performance by the Homenetmen Glendale Ararat Chapter choir, directed by Arik Gevorkian. Finally, the parade of athletes and scouts began becoming a powerful display of the Homenetmen family in the Western Region with its 18 chapters and hundreds of members. The Los Angeles chapter's large banner congratulating its members Mr. & Mrs. Boyadjian and Samuel Megerdichian was an impressive display of fraternal camaraderie that is the cornerstone of Homenetmen. After the parade, the medals and cups were distributed the winning chapters and athletes. On hand were the Archbishop Mardirossian, Honorary Chairman, Ispenjian, Marselian, Davtian and Homenetmen's Regional Athletic Director Viken Apelian. The annual scholarship presentations followed, with Sevag Ohanian of the Ararat chapter and Sevan Shrigian of the Shant chapter receiving the "Kevork Andonian" scholarship while Nairi Mikaelian of the Ani chapter walked away with the "Sako Dadoyan" scholarship. The festival continued long after the closing parade and ceremonies ended, as the community marked yet another successful Navasartian Games. 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) 2006 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.

RADIO FREE EUROPE/RADIO LIBERTY, PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC
_________________________________________ ____________________
RFE/RL Iran Report
Vol. 9, No. 24, 7 July 2006
A Review of Developments in Iran Prepared by the Regional Specialists
of RFE/RL’s Newsline Team
******************************************** ****************
HEADLINES
* NEW FOREIGN POLICY COUNCIL COULD AFFECT IRAN-U.S RELATIONS
* SUPREME LEADER QUESTIONS USEFULNESS OF TALKS WITH U.S
* TEHRAN CRITICIZES U.S. AND U.K. ON HUMAN RIGHTS
* AHMADINEJAD HEADS FOR GAMBIA
* WORLD AWAITS IRAN’S RESPONSE TO NUCLEAR PROPOSAL
* TEHRAN DENIES INTERFERING IN IRAQ
* WORLD NARCOTICS SUPPLY REDUCED, BUT IRAN AND AFGHANISTAN STILL SUFFERING
* HIV/AIDS RATE IN IRAN EXCEEDS PREDICTIONS
* IRAN COMPLAINS OF INSUFFICIENT COUNTERNARCOTICS ASSISTANCE
* RELIGIOUS OFFENSES RESULT IN SIX EXECUTIONS IN SOUTHEAST
* TURKISH FOREIGN MINISTER VISITS TEHRAN…
* …AS FIGHTING ERUPTS IN NORTHWESTERN IRAN
* IRANIAN KURDS RECEIVE DISCIPLINARY SUMMONS
* MORE IRANIAN ARABS FACE EXECUTION
* OFFICIAL FALLOUT CONTINUES OVER AZERI PROTESTS
* RELUCTANCE TO USE OIL AS WEAPON
* IRAN REFUTES FOOD-IMPORT CLAIMS
******************************************* *****************
NEW FOREIGN POLICY COUNCIL COULD AFFECT IRAN-U.S RELATIONS. The
creation in Iran this week of a foreign policy council connected with
the Supreme Leader’s Office may reflect a desire to balance the
brash and inexperienced foreign affairs apparatus of President Mahmud
Ahmadinejad with the more measured input of elder statesmen. It also
could be a sign of the Iranian leadership’s outright
dissatisfaction with the Ahmadinejad team. A third possibility is
that the new council will serve as a back-channel foreign policy
instrument. Coming on the heels of Washington’s willingness to
take part in multilateral talks with Tehran on the nuclear issue, the
creation of this council could have profound implications on
Iran-U.S. relations.
The new Strategic Council for Foreign Relations (Shora-yi
Rahbordi-yi Ravabet-i Khareji) was created by a June 25 decree from
Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The council is supposed to
facilitate the country’s decision-making process, find new
foreign policy approaches, and make use of foreign policy experts,
according to the decree.
Vast Experience On Council
The council’s membership reflects a search for practical
expertise. Kamal Kharrazi, who served as foreign minister from
1997-2005, will head the council. Other members are Ali Akbar
Velayati, who preceded Kharrazi as foreign minister and who currently
serves as Khamenei’s foreign affairs adviser, and former Islamic
Revolution Guards Corp admiral Ali Shamkhani, who served as defense
minister from 1997-2005. These three officials have experience in the
highest levels of foreign policy.
Two other council members — Mohammad Shariatmadari and
Mohammad-Hussein Taremi-Rad — are not as well known.
Shariatmadari’s whole career, it seems, has been spent in the
Commerce Ministry, and he served as minister from 1997-2005.
Taremi-Rad is the only cleric on the council. An alumni of the
hard-line Haqqani Seminary, he has headed the Iranian Center for
Historical Studies since May 1997 but, more significantly, has served
as ambassador to China and Saudi Arabia.
The cumulative experience of this council surpasses that of
the youthful and inexperienced foreign policy team under President
Ahmadinejad. Foreign Minister Manuchehr Mottaki is a relatively young
53 years old, although he has served as a foreign envoy (ambassador
to Turkey from 1985-1989 and ambassador to Japan from 1994-1999) and
also as a legislator. Individuals named to ambassadorial postings
have been criticized for their relative inexperience, furthermore,
and the replacement by Ahmadinejad of some 60 envoys in important
posts such as Berlin, Brussels, London, and Paris, is viewed as
disruptive.
Unhappy With The President…
The creation of the new foreign relations council is the most
recent indication that Supreme Leader Khamenei is concerned about
Ahmadinejad’s confrontational approach as well as his management
style. Shortly after the president’s August 2005 inauguration,
Khamenei tasked the Expediency Council with overseeing the
system’s policies by supervising the executive, legislative, and
judicial branches of government and reporting on their performance to
him.
This development was followed by the addition of old foreign
affairs hands — former Supreme National Security Council Secretary
Hojatoleslam Hassan Rohani and former President Hojatoleslam Mohammad
Khatami — to the Expediency Council’s Strategic Research Center.
The Expediency Council must consider any issue submitted to it by the
supreme leader, according to the Iranian Constitution (Article 112),
so it appeared that he was turning to it for foreign policy advice.
This coincided with speculation that responsibility for the
nuclear account no longer rested with the Supreme National Security
Council, which is chaired by the president. Expediency Council chief
Ayatollah Ali-Akbar Hashemi-Rafsanjani, however, rejected such claims
and observed that decisions on this subject are reached collectively.
Collective decision-making almost certainly continues to be
the case. Last autumn, however, there were calls for the creation of
a foreign-policy guidance team. The new Strategic Council for Foreign
Relations appears to fulfill that role. The leadership is keen to
preserve the illusion of unity within the governing system, so it
will not publicly chastise or shunt aside the executive branch of
government. Behind the scenes — where real power is wielded — it
could be that this is what has happened.
…Or A Means To Talk To The U.S.?
The third possible explanation for the creation of this
foreign relations council rests in Supreme Leader Khamenei’s
repeated disavowals of any interest in holding talks with the U.S.
Most recently, during a June 27 meeting in Tehran, he said, “Talking
with America does not have any benefits for us; and we do not need
such talks,” state television reported. Nevertheless, it was Khamenei
who in March defended Tehran’s willingness to discuss Iraqi
affairs with Washington bilaterally. He may not favor talks with
Washington, but he or his advisers recognize that they are necessary
if the nuclear impasse is to be resolved.
The Strategic Council for Foreign Relations could conduct
such talks away from the limelight that an official diplomatic
delegation would attract. Indeed, one of the council members,
Velayati, has been used for such communications in the past. He
established an office in Dubai to facilitate clandestine contacts
with U.S. officials in the run-up to Operation Iraqi Freedom,
“Al-Sharq al-Awsat” reported in August 2002. More recently, he was in
Riyadh to relay a direct message from Khamenei to the Saudi monarch.
Some observers hope the new foreign relations council will
supplant the executive branch in foreign affairs. An enthusiastic
“Sharq” on June 27 described this as the return of the “moderates” to
foreign relations. The pro-reform daily noted that the council has
the makings of a presidential cabinet — a military person
(Shamkhani), a commerce person (Shariatmadari), and a political and
cultural person (Velayati), working along with the head of the
council (Kharrazi).
At this early stage it is difficult to determine if this will
be the precise role of the new council. Executive branch spokesman
Gholam-Hussein Elham put on a brave face, saying on June 26 that the
council will add new views on foreign policy, but it is not empowered
to interfere with the Foreign Ministry or Supreme National Security
Council, the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) reported. Kharrazi,
the head of the council, was more blunt, suggesting that the
executive branch has failed to implement national strategies. He said
on June 27 that Supreme Leader Khamenei “sensed a deficiency” in
which there was no strategy for the implementation of his policies,
IRNA reported. He said the council will devise appropriate strategies
and present them to Khamenei. If he approves the strategies, Kharrazi
continued, the relevant foreign policy bodies will act accordingly.
(Bill Samii)
SUPREME LEADER QUESTIONS USEFULNESS OF TALKS WITH U.S. Supreme Leader
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said during a June 27 meeting with
Senegal’s President Abdoulaye Wade that talks with the United
States would be of no benefit to Iran, state television reported.
However, Khamenei did not appear to rule out the suspension of some
aspects of Iran’s controversial nuclear program. “We shall not
negotiate with anyone over our absolute right to acquire nuclear
technology and to benefit from this technology,” Khamenei was quoted
as saying. “However, if they were to recognize this right of ours, we
are ready to talk about controls, supervision, and international
guarantees. And grounds have been paved for such talks, too.”
Khamenei ascribed Iran’s technical and scientific
accomplishments to necessity that resulted from “resistance in the
face of the arrogant powers’ conspiracies and excessive demands.”
Khamenei added that President Mahmud Ahmadinejad will
participate in the upcoming Organization of African Unity (OAU)
meeting as an observer. The OAU should meet in Banjul, Gambia, in
early July, according to the organization’s website. Khamenei
discussed Islamic unity and claimed that the United States and the
“Zionist regime” oppose the emergence of a powerful global Muslim
community.
Khamenei told Justice Ministry and judiciary officials on
June 28 that national officials are expected to strengthen the
country against “hegemonic powers” by promoting “responsibility and
national solidarity,” IRNA reported. Khamenei said popular support
serves as security for the government. (Bill Samii)
TEHRAN CRITICIZES U.S. AND U.K. ON HUMAN RIGHTS. Foreign Ministry
spokesman Hamid Reza Assefi said on June 27 that the United States
cannot credibly criticize any other country’s human rights
record, Fars News Agency reported. Assefi was reacting to
Washington’s critical comments about the Iranian delegation at
the previous week’s United Nations Human Rights Council meeting.
State Department spokesman Tom Casey said on June 23, “We join the
government of Canada in deploring the presence of Tehran general
prosecutor Said Mortazavi at the inaugural meeting of the Human
Rights Council in Geneva,” AFP reported the next day. Assefi referred
to the military prison for terrorism suspects at Guantanamo Bay,
Cuba, and added, “America is the main culprit for violating human
rights in the world.” U.S. support for Israel is another example of
the lack of U.S. respect for human rights, Assefi claimed.
The Iranian Foreign Ministry protested on June 26 against
human rights violations in the United Kingdom, IRNA reported. In a
note to the Foreign Office, Tehran referred to alleged “systematic”
violations of human rights in the guise of counterterrorism, and it
noted the early-June raid on the London home of a Muslim family, as
well as last year’s killing of a Brazilian who appeared to flee
from police.
Also on June 26, Mahmud Ahmadinejad accepted the credentials
of the British ambassador to Iran, Geoffrey Adams, Mehr news agency
reported. Adams arrived in Tehran on April 1. Ahmadinejad told Adams
that the United Kingdom must take practical steps to compensate for
its past policies toward Iran. Ahmadinejad also called for calm
regarding the nuclear issue. According to state television, Adams
responded, “Britain intends to improve its relations with Tehran on
the basis of mutual respect and the principles of international
relations; and is prepared to learn a lesson from history and lay the
foundations of new ties.” (Bill Samii)
AHMADINEJAD HEADS FOR GAMBIA. President Mahmud Ahmadinejad left
Tehran on June 29 to attend the Organization for African Unity
conference in Banjul, Gambia, Iranian news agencies reported.
Ahmadinejad met with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei before his
departure, IRNA reported, and the cleric prayed for the
president’s success. Iran has observer status at the conference,
and Ahmadinejad is scheduled to give a speech at the event — Iran is
making strenuous efforts to enlist the backing of developing
countries in the controversy over its nuclear program. Ahmadinejad
said before his departure that he will spend 36 hours in Gambia,
state television reported, and most of his time will be committed to
discussing bilateral relations. (Bill Samii)
WORLD AWAITS IRAN’S RESPONSE TO NUCLEAR PROPOSAL. Tehran has
repeatedly denied seeking nuclear weapons. Iran could, however, build
an atomic bomb by 2009 if it prepares for the production of highly
enriched uranium this year, American physicist David Albright writes
in the July-August edition of the “Bulletin of the Atomic
Scientists,” Reuters reported on June 29.
The international community, meanwhile, is encouraging Iran
to respond a proposal it received in early June that calls for the
implementation of certain measures — such as the suspension of
uranium enrichment and greater cooperation with nuclear inspectors —
while the peaceful nature of its nuclear program is ascertained.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said in Moscow on June
29 that G8 foreign ministers expect Iran to reply “soon,” RIA-Novosti
reported. France’s Philippe Douste-Blazy said in Moscow on June
29 that Tehran must respond to the proposal “by 15 July,” AFP
reported. U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said in Kabul on
June 28 that the world awaits an authoritative response from Tehran,
the State Department reported (usinfo.state.gov). She added,
“We’ve made very clear that we need an answer soon,” and referred
to “weeks, not months.”
Supreme National Security Council Secretary Ali Larijani said
on June 29 that Iran will not submit to pressure on the nuclear
issue, state television reported. “As we have said, a harsh approach
to Iran’s nuclear case would not yield any results. Iranian
people would not forfeit their irrefutable rights,” Larijani said.
The international community’s proposal, which Larijani received
from visiting EU foreign policy chief Javier Solana on June 6, “was a
positive step forward.” Larijani spoke optimistically about his talks
with Solana in the coming week. Larijani denied that Iran is facing a
deadline, IRNA reported. (Bill Samii)
TEHRAN DENIES INTERFERING IN IRAQ. Foreign Ministry spokesman Hamid
Reza Assefi denied on June 24 that Iran is interfering in Iraqi
affairs, IRNA reported. The previous week, Ambassador David
Satterfield, currently the senior adviser for Iraq to U.S. Secretary
of State Condoleezza Rice, and General George Casey, the top
commander of U.S. forces in Iraq, ascribing to Iran support for
insurgent activities. Assefi said such accusations are meant to hide
alleged U.S. failings in Iraq, and he added that Washington wants a
weak Iraqi state in order to justify its occupation. (Bill Samii)
WORLD NARCOTICS SUPPLY REDUCED, BUT IRAN AND AFGHANISTAN STILL
SUFFERING. As the United Nations marks its International Day against
Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking today, there is some good news:
according to the UN’s latest World Drug Report, global opium
production fell last year. Though it is a welcome development, the
head of the UN’s counternarcotics office says Afghan opium
production could increase this year. That will have a strong impact
on Iran, which has the world’s highest drug-seizure rate but also
suffers from drug crime and abuse problems. While the UN believes a
reduction in demand for drugs is the most important aspect of
counternarcotics, the Iranian government continues to emphasize
supply interdiction.
Global opium production is estimated to have reached 4,620
tons in 2005 — 5 percent less than the previous year, according to
the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime’s (UNODC) World Drug
Report 2006, which was released on June 26.
UNODC Executive Director Antonio Maria Costa gave an overview
of which countries are growing the opium.
“By and large, 90 percent is from Afghanistan,” he said.
“There is still a certain amount of cultivation — I think over
30,000 hectares but going down rapidly — in Myanmar (eds: Burma). On
the 14th of February this year we certified Laos as opium free; there
is practically nothing from… Thailand; about 5,000-6,000 hectares
were detected over time in Colombia — to some extent eradicated but
some is still there — and the Colombia crop goes to the United
States while the Afghanistan crop goes basically to Europe, China,
and Russia.”
Overall cultivation figures from Afghanistan have fallen, but
cultivation in some areas of the country has increased. There are
indications, furthermore, that opium poppy planting increased this
year, particularly in the south.
Some 24 percent of all the opiates produced annually are
eventually seized by security forces. Afghanistan produced some 4,100
tons of opium in 2005, so it is natural that its neighbors — Iran,
Pakistan, and China — accounted for the highest seizure rates.
But Costa says it is not enough to interdict drugs or even to
eliminate opium crops. Costa recommended aggressive measures be made
to reduce demand for narcotics.
“We can consider drugs as an addiction problem and therefore
a behavioral problem,” he said. “We can consider drugs as a
cultivation [and] an economic problem; but by and large it’s a
market, with a demand and a supply. An illicit market — an
‘evil’ market, if you wish — but still it has a demand and a
supply. Like for any other product, if you cut the supply the demand
persists. Something is going to happen. First of all the price will
skyrocket.”
Costa added that more people will enter the drug business as
it becomes more lucrative, and therefore more land will be devoted to
drug production. It is also possible that heroin addicts will turn to
other drugs that could be more dangerous.
“Therefore, my plea is indeed to forcefully act on curbing
the cultivation, and also, and perhaps even more forcefully, acting
on reducing demand, namely abuse, namely consumption.”
According to the UN report, narcotics trafficking to Central
Asia and Pakistan has decreased, whereas trafficking towards Iran has
increased. Almost 60 percent of Afghan opiates go to or through Iran
and, according to the UNODC, this figure will rise. But UNODC chief
Costa also pointed out that Africa is playing an increasingly
important role in drug trafficking as interdiction efforts make it
more difficult for traffickers to use traditional routes.
“Africa is under threat. Nobody suspects transhipment of
narcotics from Africa into Europe,” Costa said. “Therefore,
traffickers are using Africa to transship cocaine coming from
Colombia and the [Andes mountain region] and heroin coming from South
Asia and Afghanistan, in particular.”
The amount of narcotics entering Iran is having a profound
impact on public health. Dr. Mohammad Mehdi Gooya, the chief of the
Iranian Health Ministry’s disease-management center, said in
April that approximately 3.7 million Iranians abuse drugs, “Mardom
Salari” reported on April 18. He said there are 2.5 million addicts,
and that some 137,000 inject drugs occasionally.
Gooya said that research conducted five years earlier in six
cities in Tehran Province found that many addicts are female sex
workers.
He added that, “Some 94.8 percent of AIDS patients are men,
and 64.3 percent of them caught the disease through the use of
infected and shared syringes, while only 7.3 percent caught AIDS
through sexual intercourse.”
The impact of narcotics on the Iranian penal system is
noticeable as well. More than 60 percent of the country’s
convicts, Iranian officials say, have been imprisoned for
drug-related crimes. And more than 10,000 narcotics traffickers and
drug users have been executed over the past few decades, while
hundreds more face the death penalty.
Ali Akbar Yesaqi, the head of Iran’s Prisons, Security,
and Corrections Organization, said some 50,000 people go to prison
every month, “Aftab-i Yazd” reported on June 14. Yesaqi said that the
prison population increased by 1.7 percent in the last year. He added
that some 70 percent of the prisoners seek drugs, and he admitted
that it is difficult to prevent drugs from getting into prisons.
Another prison organization official, Mohammad Ali Zanjirei,
said drug-related crimes are the most common in 19 of Iran’s 30
provinces, “Aftab-i Yazd” reported on June 20.
The narcotics trade is not just having an impact on the
public-health sector and the penal system. The Iranian government
says more than 3,000 security officers have lost their lives fighting
drug trafficking, and Tehran asserts that it has spent billions of
dollars creating static defenses along its 1,800 kilometer border
with Afghanistan and Pakistan. As most of the drugs smuggled into
Iran are destined for Europe, Iranian officials say Western states
should be greater financial support to their efforts.
Fada Hussein Maleki, the secretary-general of Iran’s Drug
Control Headquarters, addressed these issues in a speech before the
June 23 Friday Prayers sermon at Tehran University. He criticized
American and British efforts in Afghanistan because of the failure to
stop drug trafficking, and he accused them of wanting to legalize
opium cultivation, IRNA reported. Maleki added that the prevalence of
crystal methamphetamine, Ecstasy, and other synthetic drugs is
complicating the situation in Iran.
Expediency Council Chairman Ayatollah Ali-Akbar
Hashemi-Rafsanjani dedicated a great deal of his June 23 sermon in
Tehran to counternarcotics as well. In countries like Iran, he said,
synthetic drugs are more dangerous than opium, state television
reported.
Hashemi-Rafsanjani failed to discuss Iranians’ demand for
drugs, and he focused instead on the supply side, for which he blamed
other countries. He referred to “traces of colonialism” and added:
“We realize that the leaders of all these major trafficking bands
that we arrest are supported by colonial countries.” The West could
wipe out opium in Afghanistan by using chemical sprays,
Hashemi-Rafsanjani continued, and if it can track down terrorists
hiding in caves, why can’t it deal with narcotics dealers in the
streets and heroin-manufacturers?
Iran’s Expediency Council is revising current laws,
Hashemi-Rafsanjani told the congregation, but the police, Ministry of
Intelligence and Security, and legislature must work together as well
to help combat drug use and trafficking. Public awareness is
important, too, he said. “After all, if we can change the destiny of
a young addict, be it a boy or a girl, and give proper guidance to a
household where an addicted person was brought up, we can help
prevent others from falling into this dangerous trap.”
Hashemi-Rafsanjani called on all citizens to work against drugs: “We
should all join hands and act together to tackle the problem.”
It is notable that for UNODC chief Costa reducing the demand
for drugs is the most important issue, whereas Iran’s leaders
seem to continue to focus on reducing the supplies of drugs. More
than a year ago the Iranian government said that greater attention
needs to be given to reducing demand, but with the election of
President Mahmud Ahmadinejad the old yet unsuccessful prioritization
of law and order and interdiction have been reinstated. (Bill Samii)
HIV/AIDS RATE IN IRAN EXCEEDS PREDICTIONS. Deputy Health Minister
Seyyed Muayyed Alavian said on June 27 that the number of HIV/AIDS
cases in Iran exceeds earlier estimates and ascribed the trend to
intravenous drug use, AFP reported. “About 40,000 of the total number
of intravenous drug addicts are infected with HIV,” Alavian said. He
warned that the number could rise to 100,000 by March 2008. Alavian
said the rate of drug addiction is rising by 8 percent annually.
(Bill Samii)
IRAN COMPLAINS OF INSUFFICIENT COUNTERNARCOTICS ASSISTANCE. The head
of Iran’s Drug Control Headquarters, Fada-Hussein Maleki,
provided details on drug-seizure rates on June 25, one day before the
UN-sponsored International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit
Trafficking, Mehr News Agency reported. Maleki said Iran confiscated
360 tons of illegal drugs in the year from March 2005-March 2006.
Some 955 gangs of smugglers were broken up during this time frame, he
added. Maleki complained that the international community is not
supporting the Iranian counternarcotics effort. The United States
provided the UN with $700 million to spend on counternarcotics in
Latin America in 2002, Maleki noted, while in the same year the UN
provided Iran with $10 million. Maleki said Iran has asked the UN for
$500 million in counternarcotics assistance.
Provincial officials, meanwhile, described some of their
efforts. Ahmad Kavandi, an adviser to the governor-general of western
Iran’s Hamedan Province, said on June 25 that demand for
narcotics is plaguing 90 percent of Iranian society in different
ways, Fars News Agency reported. Kavandi said the trade in illegal
drugs is demand driven, and this is why there is a supply. Demand
reduction is necessary, he said.
In Urumiyeh on June 25, a police official said 439 kilograms
of drugs were seized in the first three months of the Iranian year
(which began on March 21), Fars News Agency reported. Qasem
Rashidnejad, the deputy-chief for counternarcotics in West Azerbaijan
Province, said 2,945 people were arrested in the same period for
smuggling, dealing, or being addicted to drugs.
Other security efforts are under way, as well. Interior
Minister Mustafa Pur-Mohammadi said in Tehran on June 27 that
authorities so far have identified 10 gangs responsible for
kidnappings, smuggling, terrorism, and vandalism in the eastern part
of the country, IRNA reported. Not all of the gangs have links to
foreigners, he added.
General Ismail Ahmadi-Moghaddam, chief of the national police
force, said the previous week that domestic security issues are a
priority this year, “Aftab-i Yazd” reported on June 22. Seven of
those responsible for May killings along the Kerman-Bam highway have
been arrested and six others were killed, he said. Pur-Mohammadi said
that security in the eastern part of Iran, as well as southwestern
Khuzestan Province, has increased due to a strengthening of military
bases in those regions, “Aftab-i Yazd” reported. Pur-Mohammadi said
violent crime has decreased by 30 percent, although he did not say
over what period. (Bill Samii)
RELIGIOUS OFFENSES RESULT IN SIX EXECUTIONS IN SOUTHEAST. Mohammad
Ebrahim Nikunam, director of the justice administration in the
southeastern Sistan va Baluchistan Province, has said six people have
been executed locally for violating religious laws, “Mardom Salari”
reported on June 22. He did not say when the executions took place,
nor did he identify the alleged violations of religious law. Nikunam
noted local problems and said there are efforts under way to overcome
them: “The administration and judicial system of the province are
inefficient. There are many system blockages. But despite all these
problems, we will use all our power in order to solve them. There is
no doubt that, with the attention of the [head] of the Judiciary
[Ayatollah Mahmud Hashemi-Shahrudi] and the eminent leader [Ayatollah
Ali Khamenei] to this province, the religious orders will be executed
as fast as possible.” (Bill Samii)
TURKISH FOREIGN MINISTER VISITS TEHRAN… On June 25, the second day
of his visit to Iran, Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul met with
his counterpart, Manuchehr Mottaki, Expediency Council Chairman
Ayatollah Ali-Akbar Hashemi-Rafsanjani, Supreme National Security
Council Secretary Ali Larijani, and parliament speaker Gholamali
Haddad-Adel, IRNA reported. At a joint press conference with Mottaki,
Gul said Ankara wants to see the Iranian nuclear crisis resolved
peacefully and through diplomacy, as this would help the region and
the world. (Bill Samii)
….AS FIGHTING ERUPTS IN NORTHWESTERN IRAN. Two members of the
Kurdish Pejak group were killed and two others were wounded and
arrested in a clash with Iranian police in Salmas, West Azerbaijan
Province, Fars News Agency reported on June 25. Pejak is affiliated
with the PKK (Kurdistan Workers Party). Four soldiers were killed and
three others were wounded during Turkish and Iranian military
operations against PKK-affiliated People’s Defense Forces (HPG)
guerrillas on June 23, the Kurdish Roj television reported on June
24. The clash, in which one guerrilla was killed, took place in the
Ozalp District of Van (see “RFE/RL Newsline,” 1 December 2004.) (Bill
Samii)
IRANIAN KURDS RECEIVE DISCIPLINARY SUMMONS. Three Kurdish students —
Asu Saleh, Asad Baqeri, and Shuresh Moradi — were summoned by the
Kurdistan University disciplinary committee on June 17, the Iranian
Labor News Agency (ILNA) reported. The summonses followed a protest
against the “cultural situation” on campus and against the closure of
the Islamic Students Association, ILNA reported. One day after that
demonstration, some 18 of the participants were not allowed on
campus, prompting 1,200 students to sign a petition. (Bill Samii)
MORE IRANIAN ARABS FACE EXECUTION. Iraj Amirkhani, the
prosecutor-general in Ahvaz, said on June 25 that the “charge sheet”
for people accused of having a role in bombings in Ahvaz was issued
the same day, the Iranian Students News Agency (ISNA) reported.
Twenty-two people are accused of crimes, he said, 19 of whom are
still in prison. Amirkhani did not say when the bombings took place
— such incidents have occurred in June 2005, October 2005, and
January 2005.
Human Rights Watch (HRW) said on June 23 that the judiciary
should overturn the death sentences against at least 10 Iranian-Arabs
who were convicted of plotting against the state. HRW reported that a
lawyer who represents the accused said the trials were held in camera
and that defense lawyers had no chance to discuss the case with their
clients beforehand. The defense lawyers said that on June 7 the
Revolutionary Court sentenced Zamel Bawi, Jafar Sawari, Raisan
Sawari, and Abdolreza Navaseri to death. (Bill Samii)
OFFICIAL FALLOUT CONTINUES OVER AZERI PROTESTS. Said Muganli, editor
in chief of “Yashmaq” magazine, said on June 20 that three of his
staff members arrested in connection with protests in May remain in
jail, APA news agency reported. The three men — Sirus Husseininejad,
Yunes Fakhtari, and Ali Reza Qulunju — were arrested over their
roles in protests in Tehran over the publication of a cartoon that
offended many ethnic Azeris. Muganli said Azeri-language media face a
hostile atmosphere, and he said his magazine might be suspended.
Meanwhile, APA news agency reported on June 19 that Saleh
Kamrani, the attorney representing several imprisoned Iranian-Azeris,
has been arrested. Said Naimi, who chairs a committee for the
protection of Azeri political prisoners, told APA that Gholamreza
Amani, Abbas Lisani, Ayat Mehralibayli, and many others were jailed
in connection with a march to the Babak Castle near the East
Azerbaijan Province town of Kelidar. The Iranian central government
normally responds to this annual commemoration of Babak Khorramdin,
one of the first popular Persian leaders to oppose the imposition of
Islam and Arab rule, with repressive measures (see “RFE/RL Iran
Report,” July 12, 2004).
Agri Qaradagli, public relations chief for the National
Revival Movement of Southern Azerbaijan, said on June 29 that the
annual march to the Babak Castle has commenced, APA news agency
reported. According to Qaradagli, Iranian security forces detained 20
of the march’s organizers and their whereabouts are unknown. He
added that on the morning of June 29 seven other participants were
detained after a clash with police. (Bill Samii)
RELUCTANCE TO USE OIL AS WEAPON. Iranian Petroleum Minister Seyyed
Kazem-Vaziri-Hamaneh said on June 25 that Iran will use oil as a
weapon — presumably restricting oil exports — only “if the
country’s interests are jeopardized,” Fars News Agency reported.
Vaziri-Hamaneh said that under normal conditions this is not an
issue, and, furthermore, Iran would like to enjoy normal relations
with other countries. The imposition of sanctions, he said, would
lead to oil price hikes, with the price for a barrel of oil reaching
$100. (Bill Samii)
IRAN REFUTES FOOD-IMPORT CLAIMS. Iranian Commerce Ministry official
Mohammad Sadeq Mofatteh said on June 26 that Iran does not need to
import 800,000 tons of Thai rice, Mehr News Agency reported. Mofatteh
added that Iranian rice imports amount to only 650,000 tons annually,
and 350,000 tons have been imported since March 21. Mofatteh was
reacting to a report earlier in the “Bangkok Post” which cited the
head of the Thai Foreign Trade’s Grain and Conformity Bureau,
Pranee Siripan, who was quoted as saying the Iranians are driving a
hard bargain, and added that Iran has imported roughly 60 percent of
the total rice it agreed to buy from Thailand.
In May there were reports from Thailand that Iran is
importing a surplus of rice as it prepares for the possibility of
economic sanctions (see “RFE/RL Iran Report,” May 12, 2006).
Regardless of the amount of rice being imported, domestic
production is having difficulties. In the Iranian legislature on June
11, Lahijan parliamentary representative Iraj Nadimi posed questions
about the country’s failure to achieve self-sufficiency in rice
production and about wastage of the rice harvest, “Kayhan” reported
on June 12. Agricultural Jihad Minister Mohammad Reza Eskandari
responded by saying he hopes rice imports will be unnecessary in
three years. The Friday Prayer leader in the northern city of Rasht,
Ayatollah Zeynolabedin Qorbani, complained that Gilan Province rice
paddies are not getting enough water, the city’s “Moin” daily
reported on June 11. (Bill Samii)
****************************************** ***************
Copyright (c) 2006. RFE/RL, Inc. All rights reserved.
The “RFE/RL Iran Report” is a weekly prepared by A. William Samii on
the basis of materials from RFE/RL broadcast services, RFE/RL
Newsline, and other news services. It is distributed every Monday.
Direct comments to A. William Samii at [email protected].
For information on reprints, see:
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EUROPEAN ARMENIAN FEDERATION LAUNCHING ACTIVITY IN THE CZECH PARLIAMENT
ArmRadio.am
07.07.2006 12:50
“The European Armenian Federation is working in the direction of
discussion and adoption of the bill on the Armenian Genocide by the
Czech Parliament,” Head of the European Armenian Federation Hila
Tchoboyan told “Armenpress” correspondent. She noted that there is
a bill on the Armenian Genocide in the European Parliament, which
allows launching activity in Parliaments of all European countries.
As for the bill on the Armenian Genocide denial in the French
Parliament, Hilda Tchoboyan said that the issue will be addressed
preceding and during the fall session. She noted that members of
the Party in power might not respond to the call of the four of their
colleagues to sign the bill. However, the Socialist faction, comprising
minority in the Parliament, has promised that despite everything the
bill on the Armenian Genocide denial will be included in the agenda.

PRESIDENT KOCHARYAN VISITED US EMBASSY IN ARMENIA
ArmRadio.am
07.07.2006 13:14
Today President Robert Kocharyan and Mrs. Bela Kocharyan visited the
US Embassy in Armenia. They congratulated Ambassador John Evans and
the Staff of the Embassy on the national holiday of the United States
of America – Independence Day.
Expressing appreciation for the current level of Armenian-American
relations and the pace of development, the President expressed
confidence that the established close ties will continue developing
successfully.

ROTATION OF ARMENIAN PEACEKEEPERS IN IRAQ TO TAKE PLACE LATER IN JULY
ArmRadio.am
07.07.2006 16:00
Rotation of Armenian peacekeepers in Iraq will take place at the end
of the current month, Commander of the Peacekeeping Division of RA
Ministry of Defense Artak Tonoyan told “Arminfo” Agency
In his words, because of technical reasons the exact date of the
rotation has not been set so far. Most probably, it will occur after
July 25.
To remind, the third group of Armenian peacekeepers, consisting of
45 people, is currently in Iraq. Armenia has been participating in
the peacekeeping operation in Iraq since January 2005.

TURKISH PAPER VIEWS RISKS, BENEFITS OF TURKISH-IRANIAN “RAPPROCHEMENT”
Hurriyet website, Istanbul
1 Jul 06
Text of article by Ilter Turkmen entitled “Turkish-Iranian
rapprochement” published by Turkish daily Hurriyet website on 1 July
Turkish-Iranian relations have followed a see-saw course, often marked
with mutual distrust, especially since the Islamic revolution.
Recently we see that this situation has changed substantially,
that cooperation in the economic and energy spheres has increased,
and that coinciding interests are better evaluated in the light of
developments in the Middle East.
Indeed there is an impression that Turkey wants to play a special
role with regard to the resolution of the crisis that has erupted
over Iran’s nuclear programmes. However, Western perceptions and
reactions to this role sometimes do not appear to be as positive or
encouraging as might be expected. One sign of that was the statement
issued by the spokesman of the US State Department during Foreign
Minister Abdullah Gul’s visit to Tehran with regard to reports that
Turkey is playing a mediating role.
The spokesman said that, although there is general agreement between
the views of the United States and Turkey, a communication channel with
Iran already exists for the package of proposals offered by the five
UN Security Council permanent members plus Germany and that EU Council
Diplomatic Representative Javier Solana is performing that function.
Ali Larijani, Iran’s chief nuclear negotiator, apparently told
Westerners that Tehran wants Turkey’s mediation. This should not
be surprising. Larijani probably hopes that Turkey will be more
sympathetic to Iran’s positions or that he can at least gain some
more time.
That is fine but what would Turkey gain from such mediation? Prestige
or disappointment? After all, at the end of the day, it is possible
that Turkey may upset both sides. Consequently it would be best to
continue parallel contacts with Iran as is being done now and to make
the necessary suggestions in a friendly manner. Furthermore taking on
airs of mediator – or “facilitator” as Gul calls it – in the problems
of the Middle East is not very good from an image standpoint.
We give the impression that we think we have a monopoly on dialogue
with Muslim countries. We must not forget that Western countries often
have better relations than us with these countries in many spheres.
Although it is very significant that our relations with Iran are
much better today than they were in the past, this development must
not lead to a myth about the history of these relations. For example
the argument that Turkey and Iran have had goodneighbourly relations
with stable borders since the Treaty of Qasri-shirin in 1639 is not
quite true.
There was no shortage of wars between Turkey and Iran after 1639. Iran
attempted to seize Baghdad and Basra several times. In the first years
of the Turkish republic Kurdish gangs armed by Armenians entered Turkey
from Iran and provoked a rebellion movement. Everyone remembers that
in the very near past Iran supported both the PKK and fundamentalist
terrorism in Turkey.
It is true that one needs to be free of the emotional claws of the
past when relations are on the mend. However, this must not be done
selectively. These days it is hard not to notice attempts at ridding
Turkey’s collective memory of negative historical perceptions of not
only Iran but also Russia.
One cannot object to this as long as history is not distorted. However,
there is also a tremendous effort under way to create the perception
that our relations with the West, especially the United States,
were always marked with adversity. Selective collective memory
always prevents a country’s foreign policy from being set on a
rational course.

ARMENIAN PARLIAMENT GRANTS AMNESTY TO 300 CONVICTS
Mediamax news agency
7 Jul 06
Yerevan, 7 July: The Armenian National Assembly today passed a
resolution on granting amnesty to mark the 15th anniversary of the
republic’s independence.
About 300 convicts, who committed crime before 1 June 2006, will
be released under the amnesty, Armenian Justice Minister David
Arutyunyan said.
In accordance with the parliament’s resolution, the amnesty cannot
be granted to inmates who committed serious crimes and to those who
deliberately violated prison regulations.

GEORGIAN OFFICIAL DISMISSES PUTIN CALL FOR REFERENDUM
RIA Novosti, Moscow
6 Jul 06
Tbilisi, 6 July: No referendum on the status of South Ossetia and
Abkhazia within Georgia is possible until Georgia’s territorial
integrity is restored in full, Georgian Security Council Secretary
Kote Kemularia has told RIA Novosti.
“Until Georgia’s territorial integrity is restored within the borders
recognized by the UN as well as by Russia, and every single refugee
returns to South Ossetia and Abkhazia, no referendum can take place,”
he said.
Kemularia recalled that a referendum on Georgia’s independence took
place in Georgia, with both South Ossetia and Abkhazia then within it,
on 31 March 1991.
“Back then the whole of Georgia (Georgians, Russians, Abkhazians,
Armenians, Greeks, Ossetians, Jews, Azeris), including those who
lived in both South Ossetia and Abkhazia, voted for a united and
independent Georgia. So until our territorial integrity is restored
in full, no new referendum can replace that one,” he believes.
[Passage omitted]
From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress