HEARINGS ON THE KARABAKH ISSUE TO BE HELD AT NKR PARLIAMENT
ArmRadio.am
12.04.2006 13:16
April 21 hearings on “Karabakh Issue: Prospects for Resolution ”
will be held at the National Assembly of Nagorno-Karabakh.
President of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Foreign Relations
Vahram Atanesyan informs that the initiative of holding hearings
comes from the activeness of the international mediators.
In Atanesyan’s words, “under such circumstances all political forces
represented in the NKR Parliament should present their distinct
position on the settlement of the conflict.
Vahram Atanesyan told that invitations to participate in the hearings
have been sent to Head of the RA NA Standing Committee on Foreign
Relations Armen Rustamyan, a number of political scientists and
experts of Armenia.

The Armenian National Committee of Canada
130 Albert St., Suite 1007
Ottawa – Ontario
K1P 5G4
Tel. (613) 235-2622 Fax (613) 238-2622
PRESS RELEASE
April 11, 2006
Contact: Aris Babikian
(416) 317-8972
The World Premier of Andrew Goldberg’s
`The Armenian Genocide’ on TVO
Ottawa – TVO’s Human Edge program will broadcast Andrew Goldberg’s hard
hitting documentary on the Armenian Genocide on Wednesday, April 12 at 10
p.m.; Sunday, April 16 at midnight; Monday, April 24 at 10 p.m.; and at1:00
a.m.
On Wednesday, April 12 a panel discussion will take place. The panel is part
of Studio 2 program which airs every day between 8:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. The
program, a current affairs report covers a variety of issues.
On Wednesday’s the program features international affairs panel consisting
of Janice Stein (Munk Center – U of T), Richard Gwyn (The Toronto Star) and
Patrick Martin (The Globe & Mail).
TVO will not invite Armenians or Turks to participate in the discussions.
The moderator of the panel is Steve Paikin. For additional info on Studio 2
see:
crosite.woa?b?8551661144368000000
The film, written, produced and directed by Emmy Award-winner Andrew
Goldberg, is the complete history of the Armenian Genocide. The film
describes not only what happened before, during and since the First World
War, but also takes a direct look at the genocide denial maintained by
Turkey to this day.
To this day, Turkey not only denies the genocidal intent of these mass
murders but has gone to great lengths to rewrite history, and, in fact, to
stop the telling of this story wherever possible. The result has been a
nearly a century of historical revisionism and a distortion of facts that
unequivocally indict Turkey for genocide.
TVO coordinates are:
Rogers: Channel 2
Bell Express Vu: 265
Look TV: 72
Star Choice: 353
Cogeco: 02
-30-
The ANCC is the largest and the most influential Canadian-Armenian
grassroots political organization. Working in coordination with a network of
offices, chapters, and supporters throughout Canada and affiliated
organizations around the world, the ANCC actively advances the concerns of
the Canadian-Armenian community on a broad range of issues.

PRESS RELEASE
Catholicosate of Cilicia
Communication and Information Department
Contact: V.Rev.Fr.Krikor Chiftjian, Communications Officer
Tel: (04) 410001, 410003
Fax: (04) 419724
E-mail: [email protected]
Web:
PO Box 70 317
Antelias-Lebanon
Armenian version:
Watch the recorded video of the message of His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos
of Cilicia here:
TH E THIRD PAN-ARMENIAN WRITERS’ CONFERENCE KICKS OFF IN ANTELIAS
“A WRITER IS A MESSENGER OF TRUTH”
SAYS HIS HOLINESS ARAM
The third Pan-Armenian Writers’ Conference was officially inaugurated in the
Antelias headquarters of the Catholicosate of Cilicia on April 6. The
conference is the initiative of the Writers’ Union of Armenia in cooperation
with the Assembly of Lebanese-Armenian Writers. It is held under the
patronage of His Holiness Aram I.
More than 300 Armenian writers from Armenia, Nagorno Karabagh, Lebanon, the
Middle East, Europe, Northern and Southern America, Canada and Australia
gathered in Antelias to participate in the conference.
The conference was inaugurated by a beautiful performance by the Seminary
students of “Vork Zartaretsin” on the sounds of which His Holiness entered
the conference hall with a procession. The students then sang “Hair Mer”
with the blessings of the Pontiff, launching the historical conference with
prayers.
Bebo Simonian spoke on behalf of the organizing committee, highlighting the
important value of the conference to the history of Armenian literature and
culture in general. Simonian also focused on the locality of the meeting,
Antelias “where the spirit of Western Armenian martyrs, martyr writers and
intellectuals breathes.” He expressed his gratitude to His Holiness for his
patronage and support to Armenian culture.
The chairman of the Armenian Writers’ Union, Levon Ananian, then expressed
his gratitude for His Holiness Aram I for inviting the third Pan-Armenian
Writers’ Conference in the heart of the Armenian Diaspora, Lebanon and the
Catholicosate of Cilicia in particular.
Addressing HIS Holiness, Ananian said: “We know very well your efforts and
initiatives in the spiritual, cultural, educational, intellectual fields and
other activities that serve the interests of the Armenian nation, activities
to which you give breath and spirit, depth and vision. Indeed, Your Holiness
‘ care and support of literature and culture know no boundaries.”
Ananian assured that Armenian writers are well aware of the challenges that
face the 15-year-old Republic of Armenia and the Armenian nation all over
the globe. He pointed out that Armenian writers are gathered in Antelias to
listen to the wise advice of the Armenian Pontiff.
The Ambassador of Armenia to Lebanon, Vahan Der Ghevontian, then read a
letter by the president of the Republic of Armenia addressed to the
participants of the conference. In his letter His Excellency Robert
Kotcharian welcomed the organization of such a conference in Antelias, “one
of our communities having rich literary tradition.”
Roupen Hovsepian then read a letter by Artuir Baghdassarian, the Speaker of
the Armenian Parliament, who focused on the important role of Armenian
writers in preserving the Armenian nation and identity throughout history.
Aram Garabedian read the letter of Armenian Prime Minister Antranig
Markarian, who highlighted challenges and new expectations from Armenian
writers, including the protection of Armenian spiritual life from foreign
influences.
His Holiness Karekin II, Catholicos of All Armenians sent a Letter of
Blessing which was read by Archbishop Varoujan Hergelian, Catholicosal Vicar
in the Diocese of Cyprus. Conveying his brotherly greetings to His Holiness
Aram I, His Holiness Karekin II emphasized the importance of Armenian
literature in preserving the Armenian identity. “We are a small nation, but
have rich literary heritage which has guided our nation through its
historical difficulties and will also act as a gear through our contemporary
challenges,” His Holiness said.
Dr. Zaven Yegavian, director of the Armenian Communities Department of the
Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation, also sent a letter which was read by Varti
Keshishian. Dr. Yegavian called on Armenian writers to believe in their
mission, stressing on the important role of Armenian intellectuals in the
efforts to preserve the Armenian national heritage.
The chancellor of the Catholicosate of Cilicia, Khatchig Dedeyian, then read
the letter by the Ambassador of Lebanon to Armenia.
The oldest participant in the conference, prominent poet Jack Hagopian, who
had arrived from Los Angeles, took the stage with heart spoken words about
brotherly love between Armenian writers of Armenia and the Diaspora.
His Holiness Aram I then delivered his visionary thoughts to the conference.
Speaking about the history and mission of the Armenian Catholicosate of
Cilicia, His Holiness said: “This Catholicosate became, particularly after
the Genocide, a house of faith for our nation, assembling the children of
our nation on the foreign and alienating paths of the Diaspora, providing
them with spiritual-intellectual nourishment, nurturing them moral values
and national dreams, protecting them from the fierce waves and storms of
life.”
His Holiness also expressed his thoughts on the conference as leading
viewpoints for the sessions to follow. “The theme of this conference, “the
challenges of globalization and the Armenian literature” is not an
invitation to discuss issues of theoretical, abstract or academic nature; it
‘s a challenge to face problems related to our everyday life. I invite you
to wrestle with your concerns and problems in this perspective,” he said.
On the mission of Armenian writers His Holiness stated: “A writer is a
messenger with his nature and mission. I believe that more than anything
else, a writer is a messenger of the truth, the witness of truth and the
preacher of truth. What sacred but difficult mission is called upon the
Armenian writer.”
“These days we unfortunately look elsewhere for the truth. We have
transformed fakeness, interests, temporary considerations and the person
into truth,” said the Armenian Pontiff, assuring that true literature is the
echo of truth and its mirror. (For the full text of His Holiness’ message,
see here).
The Seminary Choir then perfomed “I Veh Partsants” and “Cilicia.” An
exhibition of books published in Armenia followed the inauguration of the
conference in the “Gulbenkian” hall of the “Cilicia” museum. Levon Ananian
and His Holiness delivered speeches on this occasion.
##
View the photos here:
es37.htm
ctures38.htm
*****
The Armenian Catholicosate of Cilicia is one of the two Catholicosates of
the Armenian Orthodox Church. For detailed information about the history and
mission of the Cilician Catholicosate, you may refer to the web page of the
Catholicosate, The Cilician Catholicosate, the
administrative center of the church is located in Antelias, Lebanon.

PRESS RELEASE
Catholicosate of Cilicia
Communication and Information Department
Contact: V.Rev.Fr.Krikor Chiftjian, Communications Officer
Tel: (04) 410001, 410003
Fax: (04) 419724
E-mail: [email protected]
Web:
PO Box 70 317
Antelias-Lebanon
Armenian version:
Watch the recorded video of the message of His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos
of Cilicia here:
TH E THIRD PAN-ARMENIAN WRITERS’ CONFERENCE CONVENES ITS SESSIONS IN ANTELIAS
The second session of the Pan-Armenian Writers’ Conference was held in the
hall of the Veharan on the evening of the conference’s inauguration on April
6.
Two writers spoke on “Globalization and the modern Armenian literature.”
Karnig Ananian from Armenia presented an analytical speech on the topic,
focusing on the challenges posed by the globalization on the field of
literature and particularly Armenian literature. In this context he spoke
about the threats to national identities and the value of nations, the
“poetisation” of the concept of global citizenship and tendencies to reject
literary values and engage in “garbage writing.”
The second writer to speak about the topic, Lebanese-Armenian writer Sarkis
Giragossian, presented a brief overview of the globalization wave,
highlighting its consequences on the Armenian culture and literature.
Giragossian said that a new image of Armenians has formed in the Armenian
literature of the last decade. He opposed the centuries-old visionary
national literature of rich values and traditions to materialism, the stress
on the physical being of individuals and their instinctive drives. He
assured the former would overcome the waves of globalization.
The participants then exchanged views on the topic under the chairmanship of
Henrig Etoyian (Armenia) and Hrant Markarian (United States).
The third session of the conference was held on April 7 and focused on two
main themes: “New life experience and new literature” and “The conflict of
identity in the literature of the Armenian Diaspora”.
The first topic was presented by Jenya Kalantarian from Armenia who talked
about the inter-fusion between various literary genres such as poetry and
prose in recent times. Vehanoush Tekeyian from the United States talked
about the conflict of identity in the literature of the Armenian Diaspora.
She related the literature of various Armenian communities to the Diaspora
Armenians’ struggle for survival.
Hovhannes Krikorian (Armenia) and Hagop Mikaelian (Syria) then chaired the
session on discussions and exchange of viewpoints by the participants.
The fourth session of the conference was dedicated to the Diaspora
literature and included presentations on “The Armenian Diaspora Literature
assessed by the modern literary criticism of Armenia” and “Modern Thinking
in the Armenian Diaspora literature”.
The presenter of the first topic, Souren Tanielian from Armenia assessed the
Armenian Diaspora literature in light of the influences of globalization. He
talked about the persistent contradiction between globalization and national
identities. Tanielian spoke in detail about the viewpoints of such Armenian
writers as Kegham Sevan, Vazken Kaprielian and Alex Topdjian, the
perceptions of Armenian literary critics of the Soviet Union and the
adoption of the Diaspora literature in Armenia.
The second topic was presented by Hilda Kalfaian-Panossian, who talked about
the formation of various natures of literature in the post-Genocide Armenian
communities of the Diaspora as a result of different intellectual
influences. As such, Paris was the first to attract attention whereby new
Armenian writers opposed the emotionalism of the old generation. Istanbul
followed with new writers adopting new approached to both prose and poetry
after World War II. The presenter warned that the greatest difficulty the
Armenian Diaspora literature faces today is the issue of being understood
with difficulty.
Vazken Kaprielian (Armenia) and Aram Sepedjian (Lebanon) chaired the
discussions’ session.
The fifth session of the conference featured the topic “The Armenian
Genocide and the Modern Armenian Literature” which was presented by Azad
Yeghiazarian from Armenia. Talking about the large place to this topic in
Armenian literature, Yeghiazarian said: “The national destiny has been one
of the major concerns of literature and literature itself has deeply
affected on national destiny and psychology. In other words, a nation’s
literature is what its history and destiny are; and a nation’s history and
psychology are what its literature is. This is one of the most important
unique aspects of Armenian literature.”
An exchange of viewpoints followed under the chairmanship of Roupen
Hovsepian (Armenia) and Arshag Kazandjian (the United States).
The main theme of the sixth and last session of the day was “The
internationalization of Armenian literature”. Alexander Topdjian from
Armenia talked about the comprehensive procedure by which Armenian
literature should be internationalized.
“The internationalization of Armenian literature should first and foremost
become an indivisible part of government policy. This means that a clear and
comprehensive plan should be devised to introduce our literature to the
world. This is a difficult mission the achievement of which requires the
unity of not only the artistic unions of Armenia but also that of the
Diaspora’s intellectual potential,” he said.
The second presenter, Harout Kuirkdjian from Greece, stressed the value of
quality, highlighting the importance of writers and a literature that would
follow the progress of the global literature, renewing the Armenian language
and exhibiting a revolutionary loyalty.
Berdj Zeitountsian (Armenia) and Haroutioun Berberian (Canada) chaired the
discussions of the last session.
##
View photo here: tm
*****
The Armenian Catholicosate of Cilicia is one of the two Catholicosates of
the Armenian Orthodox Church. For detailed information about the history and
mission of the Cilician Catholicosate, you may refer to the web page of the
Catholicosate, The Cilician Catholicosate, the
administrative center of the church is located in Antelias, Lebanon.

PRESS RELEASE
Catholicosate of Cilicia
Communication and Information Department
Contact: V.Rev.Fr.Krikor Chiftjian, Communications Officer
Tel: (04) 410001, 410003
Fax: (04) 419724
E-mail: [email protected]
Web:
PO Box 70 317
Antelias-Lebanon
Armenian version:
Watch the recorded video of the message of His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos
of Cilicia here:
TH E THIRD PAN-ARMENIAN WRITERS’ CONFERENCE CONCLUDES
ITS SESSIONS IN ANTELIAS
Inaugurated in the Antelias headquarters of the Catholicosate of Cilicia for
the first time on April 6, the Third Pan-Armenian Writers’ Conference
concluded its sessions on April 8. The official closing ceremony of the
conference will be held on the evening of Palm Sunday on April 9 under the
patronage of His Holiness Aram I, who will also deliver his Pontifical
speech on this occasion.
The April 6 sessions were dedicated to a single theme entitled “Modern
children’s literature and national schools”. Two expert presentations were
delivered on this topic by Eduard Milidonian from Armenia and Krikor
Shahinian from Lebanon consecutively.
Poet and lecturer Eduard Milidonian spoke about modern children’s literature
and textbooks in Armenia. He pointed out that the textbooks include the
works of contemporary writers, expressing concern about the presence of low
quality poetry in them. He proposed including writers in the preparation of
textbooks and talked about the importance of government support for the
publication of the works of contemporary children’s writers.
Krikor Shahinian spoke about the children’s books published in the Diaspora
both by individual efforts of by various publishing houses. He talked about
the advantages and disadvantages of each type of venture and mentioned the
electronic versions of such books, the Eastern to Western Armenian
transformations and special adaptations in language as new aspects of
children’s literature in the Diaspora.
Talking about future perspectives, Shahinian proposed setting up literary
groups in the densely Armenian-populated centers of the Diaspora and
organizing periodical meetings during which the members of the groups would
acquaint themselves with the international masterpieces of children’s
literature, read them and examine their own works. He also proposed
establishing a scholarship for children’s writers with good knowledge of the
Armenian language and artistic talent.
Arevshad Avakian (Armenia) and Torkom Postadjian (the United States) chaired
the sessions during which discussions and viewpoints were exchanged.
The next session was dedicated to proposals about the Fourth Pan-Armenian
Writer’s Conference. Under the chairmanship of Norayr Atalian from Armenia
and Markar Sharabkhian from Canada the participant Armenian writers made
various proposals the focus of which was the importance of contact between
Armenian writers around the globe. The idea of establishing a website for
this purpose was proposed. Other suggestions were made on the organization
of the printing press.
The ninth session was dedicated to the concerns and difficulties of Armenian
writers. Seiran Krikorian from Armenia and Jirayr Tanielian from Lebanon
chaired the session during which various suggestions were made particularly
for coordinating the intellectual activities in Armenia and the Diaspora.
The official press release of the conference was read during the last
session which was chaired by Henrig Pakhchinian from Armenia and Hagop
Balian from France.
##
View photo here:
es38.htm#2
*****
The Armenian Catholicosate of Cilicia is one of the two Catholicosates of
the Armenian Orthodox Church. For detailed information about the history and
mission of the Cilician Catholicosate, you may refer to the web page of the
Catholicosate, The Cilician Catholicosate, the
administrative center of the church is located in Antelias, Lebanon.

PRESS RELEASE
Catholicosate of Cilicia
Communication and Information Department
Contact: V.Rev.Fr.Krikor Chiftjian, Communications Officer
Tel: (04) 410001, 410003
Fax: (04) 419724
E-mail: [email protected]
Web:
PO Box 70 317
Antelias-Lebanon
Armenian version:
HIS HOLINESS ARAM I PRAISES POET JACK S. HAGOPIAN
Prominent poet Jack S. Hagopian is the most senior writer who attended the
Third Panarmenian Writers’ Conference in the Catholicosate of Cilicia
recently. The poet spoke during the opening ceremony of the conference.
In a letter addressed to the poet, His Holiness Aram I highly praised his
work. “You will always remain a beaming presence in our modern literature
not with the quantity of your published books, but with their quality; not
with the number of your poems, but with the profound faith deep convictions,
pure feelings and bright dreams bursting from them. Such a poet can not have
a dawn,” wrote the Armenian Pontiff in the letter.
His Holiness arranged for the publication of Jack Hagopian’s latest work
entitled “Anmegh Meghabarde Badarak”. The Pontiff had also decorated the
poet’s chest with the “St. Mesrob Mashdots” insignia four years ago.
The poet will be the guest of the Catholicosate of Cilicia for a week,
delivering lectures in the Seminary.
His Holiness Aram I had meetings with many of the participants in the
conference. He highly praised their dedication to Armenian literature and
reassured the Catholicosate of Cilicia’s support to all the “servants” of
Armenian culture.
##
The Armenian Catholicosate of Cilicia is one of the two Catholicosates of
the Armenian Orthodox Church. For detailed information about the history and
mission of the Cilician Catholicosate, you may refer to the web page of the
Catholicosate, The Cilician Catholicosate, the
administrative center of the church is located in Antelias, Lebanon.

PRESS RELEASE
Catholicosate of Cilicia
Communication and Information Department
Contact: V.Rev.Fr.Krikor Chiftjian, Communications Officer
Tel: (04) 410001, 410003
Fax: (04) 419724
E-mail: [email protected]
Web:
PO Box 70 317
Antelias-Lebanon
Armenian version:
THE ANOINTMENT OF A PICTURE OF THE VIRGIN MARY IN THE SEMINARY
A restored painting of the Virgin Mary and Baby Jesus was anointed in the
Sourp Asdvadzadzine Monastery in Bikfaya on March 31.
The beautiful painting by an anonymous painter used to be hung for years in
the chapel above the candle light area. Many pilgrims have lit candles and
prayed in front of this holy painting; many believers have received the
answers for their prayers there.
Unfortunately, due to careless candle lighting, one section of the painting
was damaged by fire flames and smoke, rendering it unrecognisable.
In February 2006 the painting was completely renovated and placed in the
newly built altar at the entrance of the Seminary building to avoid similar
accidents in the future.
After the evening mass on March 31, a procession of the Seminary students
and the members of the Cilician Brotherhood walked towards the newly build
altar and held a canonical anointment of the restored painting. Father
Walter Raymond, the spiritual Dean of the Anglican Church’s Mother Cathedral
in Quebec, also attended the event. Father Raymond has been teaching at the
Seminary during the last few months.
The Seminary students read the Psalms and the members of the Brotherhood
read special prayers. The Seminary Choir accompanied with special hymns. The
painting was then anointed with Holy Chrism.
The painting’s front was first anointed and then its right and left sides
respectively. During the anointment of the painting’s front, prayers were
said for all the travellers, ill people, sinners and lost people, asking God
to help them all.
With the anointment of the painting’s right side, the painting was given the
ability to cure the sick and put a good word in for believers. During the
anointment of the left side, God was asked to strengthen the Armenian
nation, free all prisoners, defeat all non-believers and protect believers.
All the present spiritual officers and students then kissed the newly
anointed painting, to receive its blessings.
The restored painting placed in the newly built altar will distribute daily
blessings to the Seminary students for success in their lessons and future
spiritual work. The Holy paintings will also be a daily prayer for all those
philanthropists who support the Seminary with their generous contributions.
##
View photos here:
es34.htm
*****
The Armenian Catholicosate of Cilicia is one of the two Catholicosates of
the Armenian Orthodox Church. For detailed information about the Theological
Seminary of the Cilician Catholicosate, you may refer to the web page of the
Catholicosate, The Cilician Catholicosate, the
administrative center of the church is located in Antelias, Lebanon.

Press Release
Catholicosate of Cilicia
Communication and Information Department
Contact: V.Rev.Fr.Krikor Chiftjian, Communications Officer
Tel: (04) 410001, 410003
Fax: (04) 419724
E-mail: [email protected]
Web:
PO Box 70 317
Antelias-Lebanon
Armenian version:
Watch the recorded video of the Sunrise service here:
TH E GREAT LENT PERIOD COMES TO ITS END IN THE SEMINARY
The Great Lent period came to its end with the Sunrise service held in the
Seminary of the Catholicosate of Cilicia on April 7.
The Seminary students made the church services of every Wednesday and Friday
during the Great Lent period as opportunities for self enrichment. New
students particularly grabbed the opportunity to learn simple church hymns
and perform them during services for a trail period. The old students were
able to perform the more difficult hymns without mistakes.
The Seminary’s administration praised all the students on this occasion for
their commitment and efforts towards the Armenian Church hymns.
##
The Armenian Catholicosate of Cilicia is one of the two Catholicosates of
the Armenian Orthodox Church. For detailed information about the Theological
Seminary of the Cilician Catholicosate, you may refer to the web page of the
Catholicosate, The Cilician Catholicosate, the
administrative center of the church is located in Antelias, Lebanon.
From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress

PRESS RELEASE
Catholicosate of Cilicia
Communication and Information Department
Contact: V.Rev.Fr.Krikor Chiftjian, Communications Officer
Tel: (04) 410001, 410003
Fax: (04) 419724
E-mail: [email protected]
Web:
PO Box 70 317
Antelias-Lebanon
Armenian version:
Watch the recorded video of the message of His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos
of Cilicia here:
Re ad the message of His Holiness Aram I in Armenian here:
Messages/messages5.htm
THE THIRD PAN-ARMENIAN WRITERS’ CONFERENCE
COMES TO ITS END WITH A SPECIAL CEREMONY
The Third Pan-Armenian Writers’ Conference officially ended with a special
ceremony held on the evening of April 9 in the Antelias headquarters of the
Catholicosate of Cilicia under the patronage of His Holiness Aram I.
The president of the Writers’ Union of Armenia, Levon Ananian thanked His
Holiness Aram I on behalf of the participants in the conference and absent
Armenian writers. Ananian expressed his gratitude not only for the
organization of the conference, but for the love, support, care and
commitment that the Armenian Pontiff shows towards Armenian writers and
culture.
Following the heart spoken words of the oldest participant in the
conference, poet Jack Hagopian, during the official inauguration of the
conference, a similar opportunity was given to the youngest participant,
poet Nanor Indjedjigian, during the closing ceremony. In her speech, the
young poet considered Armenian literature to be a source of youth.
His Holiness Aram I then delivered the concluding remarks, expressing his
viewpoints and impressions of the conference. The Catholicos made use of his
experience as a participant in numerous national and international
conferences to make several constructive suggestions for the next
conference.
The Pontiff proposed that in the future more time be reserved for discussion
sessions, which should include more questions than statements. He suggested
penetrating into the heart of the presented topics and bringing problems
clearly under the spotlight. His Holiness stressed the importance of
participation by the youth, considering it the source of persistence of
Armenian institutions, culture and literature.
His Holiness Aram I particularly emphasized the importance of looking for
new paths in the cooperation between Armenia and the Diaspora and pointed
out that Armenian literature can help contribute to this. In this context,
he focused on mutual recognition and acquaintance, stressing that Armenian
language textbooks should include the works of both Armenia-based and
Diaspora-based Armenian writers.
His Holiness called on bravely facing difficult and sensitive issues rather
than escaping from them. Mentioning the issue of dictation as an example, he
said that as one of the strong factors of the Armenian nation’s unity, the
matter needs to be discussed in a periodical manner.
His Holiness Aram I then identified the deterioration of quality in all the
fields of Armenian literature as a major problem and called for establishing
a new level of quality with collective efforts and commitment.
At the end of the ceremony, His Holiness Aram I decorated the president of
the Writers’ Union of Armenia with the “St. Mesrob Mashdots” insignia. The
Seminary choir performed a series of national and patriotic songs on this
occasion.
##
View photo here:
es42.htm#2
*****
The Armenian Catholicosate of Cilicia is one of the two Catholicosates of
the Armenian Orthodox Church. For detailed information about the history and
mission of the Cilician Catholicosate, you may refer to the web page of the
Catholicosate, The Cilician Catholicosate, the
administrative center of the church is located in Antelias, Lebanon.
From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress

Yerevan Press Club of Armenia presents `MediaDialogue” Web Site as a
Regional Information Hub project.
As a part of the project web site is maintained,
featuring the most interesting publications from the press of Armenia,
Azerbaijan, Georgia and Turkey on issues of mutual concern. The latest
updates on the site are weekly delivered to the subscribers.
************************************* **************************************
========= ================================================== ================
REGION
========================== ================================================
C OOPERATION AND SECURITY IN THE BLACK SEA REGION
——————————————- ———————————
Source: `Hurriyet’ newspaper (Turkey) [April 08, 2006]
Author:
I. Turkmen
Recently, special attention is paid to the new geopolitical tendencies
in the Black Sea region. More detailed study of this issue may be
found in the April issue of the `Strategic Analysis’ magazine of the
Eurasia Center of Strategic Research (ECSR). Below is the attempt for
analysis of several aspects of this problem.
We will primarily consider the activity of the organization of Black
Sea Economic Cooperation (BSEC). This structure was established in the
1990s on the initiative of Turkey, with the active support of Russia,
however it did not acquire sufficient influence. Besides constant
presence of political uncertainty and discords among the countries of
the region, the balance of forces within the organization is also
influenced by the coming EU membership of Romania and Bulgaria.
The policy of EU in the Black Sea region grew more active. As noted in
the materials of ECSR, certain analysts hold that the strengthening of
EU role in the Black Sea region clashes with the interests of
Turkey. The activity of EU in the region is often viewed as a joint
NATO strategic initiative, a part of which is the democratic movements
in Ukraine and Georgia.
***
In October 2005, the status of observer in the organization was
granted to USA, as a result of persistent efforts. For USA, the Black
Sea region is an important energy transportation hub and a springboard
for establishment of its influence in the Caucasus and Central
Asia. The construction of the bases in Romania and Bulgaria also
pursues this goal.
USA is aspiring to active participation in the cooperation for
regional security, ensuring the involvement of NATO in all similar
initiatives. At present, there is an institute in the region, which is
responsible for cooperation in the security sphere, `Blackseafor’,
established by the countries of the Black Sea basin. The functions of
the structure include operations on the search and rescue,
humanitarian aid and environmental management. USA also intends to
transfer to the Black Sea the `Active Effort’ NATO military exercises,
conducted in the Mediterranean after September 11, 2001 with the
participation of Turkey.
The exercises are aimed at the control of the sea navigation and
counteraction to the questionable vessels. Analogous function is
performed by the initiative of Turkey `Harmony in the Black Sea’, that
Russia recently expressed willingness to join. If a similar step is
taken by USA, a whole set of problems will emerge, particularly
related to the Montreux Agreement. The Agreement restricts the tonnage
of the ships of the non-Black Sea countries in passing over the Black
Sea straits, and limits the time of their navigation in the Black
Sea. Periodically, there is information that USA is lobbying for
introduction of amendments in the Agreement, however with no result so
far.
The second problem may be the fact that recently Turkey opts for the
Russian position, resisting the strengthened influence of USA in the
Black Sea region. However, it is essential to remember that
minimization of the USA Navy in the Black Sea does not mean prevention
of air operations in the region. Having left the bases of Romania and
Bulgaria, the American planes may reach Caucasus and then Iran and
Central Asia.
***
On the one hand, Turkey’s intention to preserve the leading role in
the Black Sea is natural and understandable. On the other hand, new
reasons for discord with USA are also of no advantage to Turkey.
Therefore, the sides need to keep to the middle way.
========================================== ================================
ECONOMY
========= ================================================== ===============
RUSSIAN EMBARGO ON GEORGIAN WINE…
————————————————- —————————
Source: `Resonansi-Nedelya’ newspaper (Georgia) [April 10, 2006]
Author: Gela Mtivlishvili
Russia’s ban on import of the Georgian wine was a serious blow to the
Georgian wine-making. Despite the loud and inspiring statements of the
Georgian authorities that serious negotiations on this political
decision will be started with Russia, the embargo is still in
force. According to the Georgian wine-makers, if the current situation
lasts one more month, the autumn harvest of grapes (rtveli) is already
doomed.
The export of the Georgian alcoholic produce to Russia was stopped a
month ago. Officially, Moscow explained its decision by the struggle
with falsification and low-quality products. However, both the
Georgian authorities and the Kakhetian wine-makers (Kakheti region is
the center of Georgian wine-making) state that it is not an economic
but purely political decision, since no claims can be put to the
quality of the exported produce.
`To prove it, the Ministry of Agriculture, by it own means, sent
samples of Georgian wine to reputable international laboratories,
President Sahakashvili makes statements on a daily basis, meets the
governors, so what? How can it help us?’ the Kakhetian villagers
complain. `The government is mocking itself or us? It is clear that
the government depends on America, whereas the people look to
Russia. We are not demanding Russia’s favor by all means, but we can
find a way to improve our relations with it, can’t we?! If this year
our produce does not get to Russia, what are we supposed to do? We
will have no money for petrol at least to cultivate the potato and
corn fields’, Georgiy Nadiradze (78) stated to `Resonansi’.
Russian embargo will possibly make the autumn rtveli senseless. `If we
do not sell the wine, we will not have a chance to gather and process
the new harvest’, Head of the Supervisory Board of `Telavi Wine
Cellar’ Zurab Ramazashvili said to `Resonansi-Nedelya’.
Other famous wine-makers and producers agree with him. Director of
`Alaverdi’ wine factory Soso Goyiashvili says that besides Russia,
wine is also exported to other countries, but the Russian share makes
85%! `If the situation does not change, we are on the verge of huge
problems, the scope of which can hardly be imagined now’, he stated to
`Resonansi-Nedelya’. Last week, Minister of Finance Lexo Lexishvili
met Kakhetian wine-makers. The wine-makers asked the Minister for
fiscal privileges, since the situation in wine-making sphere is
unbearable. The Minister promised to put this issue on the agenda of
the government session, thus raising indignation of the Kakhetians –
they have committed follies in the relations with Russia and now we
have to think about fiscal privileges! Unlike them, the governor of
Kakheti, Petre Tsiskarishvili was satisfied with the meeting. `I am
confident, the Minister of Finance will manage to convince the
government of the necessity for introducing tax privileges for the
wine-makers placed in a difficult situation’, he stated.
However, the attitude in Kakheti is overall depressing. `Promises from
the President and the Government is all we hear. Nothing changes in
reality, and the hope is vanishing daily’, the wine-makers say. The
wine-producers are also skeptical about the possibility of quick
finding of new diversified markets, as asserted by the Georgian
authorities, viewing Ukraine, Kazakhstan, China, EU countries and the
regional neighbors as an alternative. `We need to improve the
relations with Russia, where we have long exported our
produce. Finding new markets is a long and strenuous process, not
always successful. In the meantime, it is hard to say what may become
of the Georgian wine-making’, they say.
========================================== =================================
NEIGHBOURS
===== ================================================== ===================
THERE IS NO DISAGREEMENT BETWEEN TURKEY AND AZERBAIJAN
————————————————- —————————
Source: “Zerkalo” newspaper (Azerbaijan) [April 05, 2006]
Author:
F. Teymurkhanli, R. Mirkadirov
Such is the opinion of the heads of states
“The investments of the Turkish businessmen in the Azerbaijani economy
made 2,2 billion USD, without energy sector input. The general volume
of the investments is today equaled to the estimated sum of 4,5
billion USD”, as stated at the meeting with Azerbaijani President
Ilham Aliev by his Turkish colleague Ahmed Necdet Sezer on official
visit to Baku.
In his opinion, these investments may be increased under more
favorable conditions for the investors. At the same time, the Turkish
President emphasized that the turnover between the two countries is on
the stable growth, `If in 2004 it made 550 million USD, in 2005 – 795
million. This year, the sides are planning to raise this figure to a
billion”.
On his behalf, I. Aliev said that official Baku attaches great
significance to this visit. He noted that Azerbaijan cooperates with
Turkey in various spheres and it was always important in the aspect of
regional relations as well.
All these words were voiced at the point of the meeting when the
journalists were present. Later, the media representatives were asked
out. Later in a briefing, the Presidents themselves provided
information on the subject of the negotiations to the journalists.
Thus, A. Sezer emphasized that solidarity in the cooperation between
Turkey and Azerbaijan may serve as a good example for all the states
in the region. “The input of the partners for ensuring the security of
the two brother nations will still increase due to the new projects
implemented alongside the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline. The latter
will be put to exploitation already in the coming months, and I
invited President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliev to participate in its
opening ceremony”, Head of the Turkish State noted. Referring to the
issue of short-term prospects for economic cooperation, A. Sezer also
stated that in the course of the meeting, the Presidents emphasized
the decisiveness of the sides in implementation of the projects of
Baku-Tbilisi-Erzrum gas pipeline and Baku-Tbilisi-Akhalkalaki-Kars
railway. According to the Turkish President, these projects `will make
the two brother nations still closer within their strategic
interests”. Further on, the Turkish President stressed that during his
meeting with I. Aliev they also discussed the issues of developing
economic and political ties between the two countries and the regional
conflicts, in particular, the issue of settling the Karabagh
issue. `Turkey has always supported and will keep supporting the
position of Azerbaijan on this issue. We view the solution of the
Mountainous Karabagh conflict in the context of preserving territorial
integrity of Azerbaijan through peaceful negotiations”, A. Sezer
stated, once again emphasizing that Ankara is ready to take all effort
for resolution of Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict. Referring to the
issue of settling the Cyprus problem, he expressed satisfaction with
the position of Azerbaijan in this aspect, particularly the measures
taken by Azerbaijan on withdrawal of the Cyprus Turks from the
international isolation. On his behalf, President Aliev noted that the
relations between Azerbaijan and Turkey are on a high level today, `We
attach great s! ignificance to the visit of the Turkish President. I
am confident that the visit of Ahmed Necdet Sezer to Baku will give a
new push to the development of the bilateral relations”.
I. Aliev also stated that the position of Azerbaijan on the settlement
of Mountainous Karabagh conflict is unchanged. “We opt for it to be
settled on the basis of international legal norms, that is respecting
the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan under the condition that our
refugees return to their homeland. These principles reflect both the
reality and the justice, in accordance with international law”,
I. Aliev emphasized.
Thus, the issues of resolving the Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict were
the priorities on the agenda of the two Presidents’ meeting. `In this
case Turkey always stands by Azerbaijan. This support is very
important for us. The position of Turkey is just and Azerbaijan is
grateful for it’, I. Live stressed.
Further on, the President of Azerbaijan noted that our country feels
constant support and help of the brother state from the first day of
independence.
I. Aliev stated that the negotiations with his Turkish colleague also
referred to the regional projects, particularly the construction of
the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan export pipeline and the South Caucasus gas
pipeline. According to President of Azerbaijan, these entities are
under construction and already this year they will be put to
operation. Raising the issue of opening the
Kars-Akhalkalaki-Tbilisi-Baku railway communication, I. Aliev noted
that `the sides do not have any disagreement in this
respect”. “Azerbaijan, Turkey and Georgia will take an active part in
the project, and we hope it will be a success”, I. Aliev
noted. According to Azerbaijani President, presently the
trade-economic relations between the countries are
enlarging. “Alongside this, they do not fully reflect the current
potential. I think in the future the cooperation will start developing
at a quicker pace”, I. Aliev stated.
Still we should pay attention to certain details in the relations
between Azerbaijan and Turkey. We will start from the fact that the
steps of Azerbaijan on the withdrawal of the Northern Cyprus from
international isolation today sets serious problems for official Baku
already in the relations with the European Union and impedes the
negotiations on ratification of the action plan on cooperation with
this international organization. The Southern, i.e. Greek Cyprus,
demands written guarantees from official Baku ensuring that Azerbaijan
will never recognize the independence of the Turkish
Cyprus. Otherwise, the Turks threaten blocking the involvement of
Azerbaijan in the New Neighborhood Policy programme.
Further on, a few words about the Turkish investments in the
Azerbaijani economy. In this issue as well, it is time to change the
priorities. First, now we can speak about not only the Turkish
investments in Azerbaijan but also the Azerbaijani investments in the
Turkish economy, though partially of shadow nature. Second, in the
time to come the possibilities of Azerbaijan to invest in the Turkish
economy will incomparably surpass the resources of the Turkish.
Finally, the issue of Karabagh settlement is not that clear. The
Turkish officials have always stated that they will open the borders
with Armenia only after settlement of the Armenian-Azerbaijani
conflict, though our newspaper repeatedly wrote that official Ankara
in its turn has enough problems in the relations with Yerevan. Such is
the situation. `The international observers expect that Turkey will
open the borders with Armenia”, the advisor of the Turkish Prime
Minister on foreign relations, the deputy of the Turkish Parliament
Egemen Bagis stated in his speech at the Council on Foreign Relations
of New York. “We recognize Armenia as an independent state. We do not
have diplomatic relations but we respect their (Armenians’) right for
independence similarly to all the former Soviet Republics”, he
said. The advisor of the Turkish Prime Minister noted that Turkey does
not open the borders with Armenia and does not establish diplomatic
relations `since Armenia does not recognize these borders”. “The
Armenian Constitution urges not to recognize the borders with Turkey’,
Bagis noted, as reported by `Liberty’ radio.
Thus, the attitude of official Ankara to opening of the
Turkish-Armenian border also hinges on the foreign policy
situation. In other words, it is changing with regard to the object of
`consumption’. When the statements are addressed to Azerbaijan, Ankara
`recollects’ the Karabagh conflict, when it is necessary to
substantiate the refusal from establishment of normal relations with
Yerevan in the West, the argument is Armenia’s unwillingness to
recognize the territorial integrity of Turkey itself. Therefore, we
should not link the relations between Turkey and Armenia with the
Mountainous Karabagh conflict to avoid additional obligations even to
this brother nation. As for the problems with `Barmek’, we may settle
them on friendly terms…
In conclusion, we will note that initially the visit of the Turkish
President to Azerbaijan was fixed for January 25-26 of the current
year but because of the bad weather conditions, it took place only
yesterday. Today, A. Sezer will meet the Head of Azerbaijani
government Arthur Rasizade and will visit Heydar Aliev Foundation. At
this, the visit of the Turkish President to Azerbaijan will end.
=========================================== ================================
INT. STRUCTURES
======================================= ===================================
NEIGHBORHOOD POLICY DOES NOT OPEN PROSPECTS FOR EU MEMBERSHIP
————————————— ————————————-
Source: “Golos Armenii” newspaper (Armenia) [April 11, 2006]
Author: Tatul Hakobian
EU Envoy for the South Caucasus Peter Semneby stated in an exclusive
interview to `GA’
– Mr. Semneby, this is your first visit to Yerevan as an EU Special
Envoy, and a few weeks ago you visited Baku and Tbilisi. Summing up,
what are your first impressions and what impulses will go from you to
Brussels after the trip?
– I believe the countries of the region after the independence have
gone a long way. The new European neighborhood policy opens new
possibilities for both each of the countries separately, as well as
for the whole region of South Caucasus. Currently the greatest
problems are those of their interrelations that can hardly be solved
on a bilateral basis, and here EU and the neighborhood policy can play
a key role, starting a new stage in the region development.
– Your interpretation of the neighborhood policy. Does this initiative
mean a promise of EU membership for the countries of the region or
this is just a prospect? Experts are of the opinion that this is
purely a `police barrier’ around EU.
– I d not agree with the `barrier’. EU is truly interested in the
development of the neighboring countries. The interest increases as
shortly the EU will have two new members on the Black Sea
coast. Turkey’s accession is being negotiated and this country shares
a border with South Caucasus. The interest of the EU increases also
because the energy issues gain particular importance. EU has a
fundamental interest in the stability and prosperity of the immediate
neighbors. The European neighborhood policy does not open the
prospects of EU membership. But I think this is not that important,
since the policy contains numerous components that would allow
bringing the countries of the region closer to the status, standard
that the EU countries already enjoy, this is a hard way, and it is
necessary to concentrate, to invest efforts and energy to take it.
– Mr. Semneby, is the blockade considered to be a hostile act in the
European policy?
– It is not normal to have the borders closed. Armenia has a
particular problem in this respect/l two of the four borders are
closed. I hope that the problem can be solved quite soon and the
Karabagh conflict resolution will give it a push.
– Recently, in Sweden, that you represent, the President of Armenia
announced that Turkey hopes to become a member of the European Union
and blocks Armenia at the same time. He qualified the situation as
abnormal.
– I was there. I do hope that the problem will be resolved and the
prospects of Karabagh resolution will give it a push. Even if one
overlooks the problem of Mountainous Karabagh, the closed border is an
abnormal situation.
– Do you believe the Karabagh conflict resolution and the improvement
of relations between Armenia and Turkey are interconnected?
– Of course, there is an interconnection. It is not a secret that the
Turkish border is closed partly due to the Karabagh conflict.
– Which of the two would you say is to be resolved first, or may be
the resolution should occur simultaneously?
– It is hard to say. Any model is acceptable.
– But for the three frozen conflicts, Turkey continues the blockade of
Armenia; the situation is also quite complicated in Georgian-Russian
relations. Considering this, what is your view of the integration of
the South Caucasus in European structures?
– I think that the precondition for prosperity is the normal relations
between the countries of the region and the countries out of the
region. In order to develop such relations, one of course must resolve
the frozen conflicts. They take much attention, political energy and
are a serious impediment for the normal development. The resolution of
frozen conflicts is in the interests of the region and EU. I hope this
opinion is shared by the neighbors of the region, primarily, Turkey
and Russia.
– In Armenia and Azerbaijan there is an opinion that Presidents Robert
Kocharian and Ilham Aliev procrastinate in the Karabagh
resolution. What would you say?
– I think this is a matter of historical responsibility for the
problem resolution. The Presidents of Armenia and Azerbaijan have this
chance, and I think they will use it to make a historical step in the
interests of their countries, people, and the whole region. This is a
difficult step because the solution is only possible when each party
compromises in ties demands and expectations. This must be done by
both the Armenian and the Azerbaijani parties. While this is
difficult, I am deeply convinced: there are very few controversies not
to be able to achieve a solution in the end.
– You have recently announced that the EU can say its word in the
post-conflict situation, also in the peace operation.
– This is an option. I think when the agreements are signed, an appeal
to EU will probably follow and EU will certainly consider the
issue. But it is important to note that this is not the only
option. It is too early to say what the peace operation will be like
and who it will involve. Besides, there is a great need for
rehabilitation in the conflict zone, and I think here, too, EU will
play the key role.
– Does this mean that the parties are so close to conflict resolution
that it is time to speak about peace building and rehabilitation on
the conflict territory?
– The parties were close to solution in Rambouillet two months
ago. Unfortunately, for a number of reasons this never happened, but
the negotiations and discussions continue, and I have a feeling that
Rambouillet was a push to realize the historical responsibility and an
opening of prospects, it made it clear what the price of not reaching
an agreement soon will be. I remain a cautious optimist and I think
that there are still possibilities.
– Russia is one of the key players in South Caucasus. In official
Moscow there is an opinion that the new European neighborhood policy
sets unequal conditions for Russia.
– I do not think that Russia has any doubts on the ENP. On the
contrary, its interests often coincide with the European
interests. This is true primarily for the prosperity and stability in
the adjacent region.
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