ARMENIA TAKES “TIME OUT” IN KARABAKH TALKS – AZERI MINISTER
ANS TV, Baku
5 Sep 05
[Presenter] Official Baku is waiting for a reply from Armenia, which
took time out following the Azerbaijani and Armenian presidents’
meeting in Kazan. The format of the talks will be made clear after
the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairmen’s visit to the region.
[Correspondent] Armenia asked for a time to think after official
Baku made its position clear, [Azerbaijani] Foreign Minister Elmar
Mammadyarov has said. Mammadyarov said official Yerevan took time
out following the Kazan meeting between the Azerbaijani and Armenian
presidents.
[Mammadyarov, speaking to reporters] The Armenian side has asked for a
time to think. [Armenia said] it needs a time to decide how the talks
should be continued. There are suggestions that the foreign ministers
should meet or the co-chairmen will visit the region [as heard].
[Correspondent] But the format of the next stage of the Karabakh
talks between Baku and Yerevan is still unclear. This will be made
clear after the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairmen’s visit to the region
in late September and early October.
Mammadyarov also said some suggestions put forward in Kazan satisfied
the interests of official Baku.
[Mammadyarov] In general, you know, Azerbaijan supports some
suggestions put forward in Kazan because it is a stage-by-stage
process. You know, it is early to say something because the talks
are being continued. We think we will achieve a result sooner or
later. Of course, we want this to happen soon.
[Passage omitted: about Armenia’s approach to Karabakh status]

NKR PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS ON THE INDEPENDENCE DAY
Azat Artsakh Nagorno Karabakh Republic [NKR]
05 Sept 05
Dear fellow countrymen, Today on September 2nd Nagorno Karabakh
Republic celebrates the 14th anniversary of proclamation of NKR. We
celebrate our chief holiday in ceasefire, which enables us to develop
free and independent Artsakh which has chosen the way of democratic
development in a comparatively quiet situation. And though NKR has not
been recognized yet, our country proved to the world that not only
did it de facto accomplish itself but also left behind many of its
neighbours in adopting the standards of the European community. The
evidence to this is the recent election to the National Assembly in
June, highly evaluated by the independent international observers. No
one taught lessons of democracy to the people of Artsakh as it
is constantly done in Azerbaijan where no election held so far,
be it presidential, parliamentary or local, corresponded to the
basic rules of the modern democratic societies. Today Azerbaijan is
even unable to defend the rights of its own people, let alone the
ethnic minorities living in this country. This sole fact is enough
for the progressive international community to recognize the right
of the people of Karabakh to have a sovereign state independent of
Azerbaijan. This is the reality, and the world, including Azerbaijan,
cannot but take it into consideration. And it is not accidental that
the Baku authorities do their best to conceal from their people the
achievements of Nagorno Karabakh in building a legitimate democratic
state, preventing their citizens from visiting NKR, communicating with
the people of Artsakh. However, this kind of behaviour has no prospect
because it causes alienation of the two peoples thus delaying the day
of the overall and mutually acceptable resolution. What is more, the
steps of the Azerbaijani government and its defiance of negotiations
with Karabakh stake the resolution of the Nagorno Karabakh conflict
in a civilized way, on the basis of reasonable compromise. Therefore
the unresolved conflict remains a factor which threatens to destabili!
ze the situation in the region. Using the opportunity I want to
assure you once again that the NKR government is only for the
peace resolution of the conflict with Azerbaijan. At the same
time our people can be sure that no one will be able to take away
from Artsakh the independence won at the expense of irretrievable
losses. The truly popular Defence Army of NKR is able to counteract
to those who will intrude into our fatherland. It has all the
necessary means and possibilities. However, we have no right to be
satisfied with what we have. By merely praising the way we already
passed, we are likely to lose all we acquired without a clear and
precise perspective of tomorrow, and the future generations will
never forgive us. In the future too we must promote the country’s
ability to defend itself, foster the rates of economic, social and
cultural development. It is necessary to put to use our main wealth,
the physical and mental potential of the people of Artsakh, their
professionalism and assiduity, multiply the cultural heritage of
Artsakh. The successful realization of these objectives is pointless
without further democratization of the public and political life
of NKR and building a civil society. There can be no alternative to
this. The development of the sovereignty of Karabakh is impossible
without the support of Armenia and the Diaspora. However, we do not
use the political and economic potential of the triangle Armenia –
Artsakh – Diaspora at full yet, for the international recognition of
NKR either. Certainly we have much to do in this regard. Dear fellow
countrymen, on this day each of us should feel responsible for the
future of Artsakh. We still have many unsettled problems. However,
we can overcome the difficulties only through joint efforts, honest
work, mutual trust and thoughtfulness towards the concerns and needs
of each Artsakh man. Congratulations, dear friends. I wish you all
the best. Peace and prosperity to our fatherland, Nagorno Karabakh
Republic.

This is a multi-part message in MIME format.
AGBU Press Office
55 East 59th Street
New York, NY 10022-1112
Phone: 212.319.6383, x137
Fax: 212.319.6507
Email: [email protected]
Website:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, September 6, 2005
AGBU CENTRAL BOARD DONATES $100,000 TO RED CROSS FOR VICTIMS OF
HURRICANE KATRINA
In response to the natural disaster in the Gulf States, the Central
Board of the Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU), through special
relief contributions, will donate $100,000 to the Red Cross in support
of Hurricane Katrina emergency efforts. AGBU has quickly responded over
the years to the plight of those who have survived warfare and natural
disasters all over the world.
The Red Cross has received over $409 million in gifts that will help
victims receive water, shelter, food, counseling and other assistance.
As a non-profit organization reaching out to individuals through
humanitarian programs, AGBU would like to offer its support to the Red
Cross so that it may continue its work in helping the victims of
Hurricane Katrina.
We encourage our worldwide membership to continue donating to charitable
organizations that are providing relief efforts.
Established in 1906, AGBU is the world’s largest non-profit Armenian
organization. Headquartered in New York City with an annual budget of
$26 million, AGBU () preserves and promotes the Armenian
identity and heritage through educational, cultural and humanitarian
programs, annually serving some 400,000 Armenians in 35 countries.

California Courier Online, September 8, 2005
1 – Commentary
Threatened by Legal Action, TIME
Apologizes for Offending Armenians
By Harut Sassounian
Publisher, The Califorrnia Courier
2 – AMAA Awards Scholarships
To Needy and Deserving Students
3- Lecture About Archaeological Discoveries
In Armenia Scheduled in Glendale, Sept. 21
4 – TCA-Arshag Dickranian School’s
New Wing is Ready for Occupancy
5 – Kouyoumdjian’s Genocide Script
Among Finalists for Elly Award
6 – Two-Year Study of Armenian Americans
Shows Demographics Are Changing
7 – Ararat Home Development of
Rockhaven Property Put on Hold
8 – Harvest Gallery
Presents Zareh
Exhibition, Sept. 9-27
*************************************************************************
1 – Commentary
Threatened by Legal Action, TIME
Apologizes for Offending Armenians
By Harut Sassounian
Publisher, The California Courier
Six weeks ago, the Switzerland-Armenia Association (SAA) sent a letter of
protest to TIME magazine expressing its “shock and disappointment” that
TIME included in its European Edition (June 6, 2005 issue), as a paid ad, a
Turkish DVD that denied the Armenian Genocide.
As the denial of the Armenian Genocide is a criminal offense under Swiss
laws, the SAA threatened TIME with legal action, unless the magazine took
nine corrective steps ranging from publishing a formal apology to
disseminating, at TIME’s expense, a factual DVD on the Armenian Genocide,
in the same seven languages as the Turkish DVD.
James Kelly, the Managing Editor of TIME, responded last week to SAA’s
letter by stating: “We regret distributing the [Turkish] DVD as part of
TIME’s European edition and are very sorry for the offense it has
caused. The so-called ‘documentary’ portion of the DVD presents a one-sided
view of history that does not meet our standards for fairness and accuracy,
and we would not have distributed it had we been aware of its content.
Unfortunately the DVD was not adequately reviewed by anyone at TIME because
it was believed to be a benign promotion piece. I can assure you that we
have changed our review process and will be much more vigilant in the
future. We apologize to the Armenian community, and to our readers.”
This is a fine letter that makes several very important points:
— It expresses regret three times in the space of a few short lines;
— It challenges the credibility of the Turkish DVD by referring to it as a
“so-called ‘documentary'” that is “one-sided” and not meeting TIME’s
“standards for fairness and accuracy”;
— It acknowledges that TIME would not have distributed the Turkish DVD had
it been “aware of its content”;
— It accepts TIME’s negligence by admitting that the DVD “was not
adequately reviewed by anyone at TIME”;
— It pledges to be “much more vigilant,” should the Turks attempt a
similar ploy in the future.
Clearly, this letter is an improvement over TIME’s initial wholly
inadequate reaction to Armenian complaints. James Geary, the editor of TIME
Europe, had callously responded that the magazine was “not
endorsing any political organization or cause.” Mr. Kelly’s letter, on the
other hand, reinforces the e-mail Norman Pearlstine, the Editor-in-Chief of
TIME, sent to a reader admitting that the contents of the DVD were
“different from what we had been led to believe.” In other words, Mr.
Pearlstine acknowledged that TIME was tricked by the Turks.
Despite Mr. Kelly’s more understanding letter that included profuse
apologies, the most critical element is still missing from his response to
the Switzerland-Armenia Association. He expresses regret for TIME’s
dissemination of the offensive DVD; acknowledges that the Turkish DVD was
one-sided, unfair and inaccurate; admits that the magazine was negligent in
not reviewing the DVD; and accepts that the DVD should not have been
distributed by TIME.
Acknowledging its error and apologizing for it does not, however, go far
enough in redressing the harm done to the psyche of the survivors of the
Armenian Genocide. The Turkish DVD also tarnished the memory of the
Armenian martyrs by casting doubt on the truthfulness of their agonizing
eyewitness accounts.
Mr. Kelly and his superiors at TIME now have an obligation to undo the
damage they have caused by their negligence. They need to take the nine
steps suggested by the SAA. The least TIME could do is agree to
disseminate free of charge, to the same 500,000 readers that received the
Turkish DVD, a new DVD that accurately portrays the facts of the Armenian
Genocide. Otherwise, TIME’s admission of mistakes and
expression of regrets remain simply empty words devoid of any meaning and
sincerity. It is too easy for TIME executives to pocket the one million
dollars for circulating the Turkish hit piece and then simply
tell the Armenians, “we apologize.” A true apology has to be accompanied by
concrete steps that include making amends to the aggrieved party — the
Armenians.
Until then, Armenians worldwide should continue their boycott of TIME
magazine and resort to all possible legal measures accorded to them under
European genocide denial laws to seek adequate redress. Kind words alone do
not compensate for the damage caused by TIME’s negligent, insensitive and
offensive act.

**************************************************************************
2 – AMAA Awards Scholarships
To Needy and Deserving Students
PARAMUS, NJ – The Chairman of the Armenian Missionary Association of
America’s Scholarship Committee, Robert Hekemian, Jr., just recently
reported the awarding of $130,000 in direct scholarship grants to college
and university students for the 2005-06 academic year.
This year, 84 students applied and, upon verification of need and academic
qualifications, 70 students were awarded scholarships. In addition,
$10,000.00 was awarded to university students in Armenia and $230,000 has
been provided to various institutions of higher learning and charitable
organizations for distribution as scholarship grants to needy qualified
Armenian university students, including Haigazian University of Beirut,
Lebanon.
The Armenian Missionary Association of America created its scholarship
program in the mid 1970’s to help needy and promising undergraduate
students achieve their goals in education. This program has substantially
grown since then and successfully provides support for a young generation
of Armenian Americans in their college needs. Since its inception the
Program has provided over $3 million in grants and loans to more than 3,500
students in the United States and Canada.
The need for scholarship aid is crucial especially now. The rising cost of
education in the United States is a profound concern for many undergraduate
students who desire to enroll in college and obtain a higher degree of
education, thus securing their future in the competitive job marketplace.
Most of these potential students work hard throughout their years of high
school study and are deserving of further success in their lives, but are
sometimes unable to continue their education because of financial reasons.
Uncertain economic conditions and higher unemployment rates, force many
parents to look for other sources of support for the
education of their children – high-rate loans and limited government
programs, for which many families do not qualify.
The scholarship assistance provided by AMAA has been much appreciated. Many
of the previous recipients have come forward and supported this program by
establishing endowment funds or making direct contributions. One such
recipient, a successful pharmacist now, appreciated the program and
recently established two scholarship endowment funds to give the same
opportunity to others. Another recipient, who is now the president of a
publicly traded NASDAQ company, wrote recently: “I am very grateful for
the generosity and patience that the AMAA has extended me in the past”. In
her letter, she also recognized the importance of supporting the program
through her own contribution. Still, there is a tremendous need for our
members, friends and our previous scholarship recipients to remember the
opportunities this program has provided them in the past and
meaningfully contribute to it.
“The scholarship that you have given me really helps. It helps not only
financially, by my being able to stay in the school, but gives me more
confidence academically,” wrote one of this year’s recipients. The
scholarships awarded to young prospective students are not simply checks
provided to their institutions of higher learning, but provide the moral
support of the Association that carries on with the young students
throughout the years of their study and in their future careers. It is this
support that the Scholarship Committee feels needs to be in place in order
to prepare the bright future for young Armenian Americans.
The scholarships, which were granted this year, were awarded from 70 AMAA
endowment funds established for this purpose.
**************************************************************************
3 – Lecture About Archaeological Discoveries
In Armenia Scheduled in Glendale, Sept. 21
GLENDALE – Professor Adam T. Smith of the University of Chicago will give a
special presentation Sept. 21 at 7 p.m. at the Glendale Public Library
Auditorium on “The Rise of Civilization in the Armenian Highland: The Gift
of Semiramis?”
The program is being presented as part of Project Discovery’s educational
mission.
There is no admission charge.
During the 15th century B.C., the societies living in the mountains and
plains of what is today Armenia underwent a convulsive transformation.
Peoples that for centuries had lived in socially stratified, predominantly
mobile, pastoral communities rather suddenly found themselves members of
complex, settled territorial polities complete with rigid social
hierarchies and developed political institutions cloistered within
stone-walled fortresses. How could such radical transformation in the way
people lived come about? Traditional archaeological theories describe the
emergence of complexity in the region as a result of Assyrian military
incursions-a gift of Semiramis. Yet complex societies emerged in the
Armenian Highlands long before the Assyrians turned their gaze to the
north. And they emerged with astonishing rapidity following more than half
a millennia of mobile lifeways centered on the practices of stock breeding.
Excavations from 2000 to 2005 at the fortress of Gegharot, located in the
Tsaghkahovit Plain of central Armenia, have provided dramatic new clues
about the beginnings of social complexity in the region. Through a
“biography” of a single trench at Gegharot fortress, Dr. Smith will not
only discuss the most recent results of his research, but will also lead
the audience through the process of archaeological interpretation that
coaxes dramatic pictures of ancient life from artifacts.
Light refreshments will be served following the presentation.
Since space for the lecture is limited, it is suggested that seats be
reserved by calling (toll free 1-866-393-6565).
***************************************************************************
4 – TCA-Arshag Dickranian School’s
New Wing is Ready for Occupancy
HOLLYWOOD, Calif. – The TCA-Arshag Dickranian School Board of Trustees last
week announced the successful completion of its campus expansion project.
The overall additions and alteration took three years to finish, and were
done in three phases without hindering the school’s curricular activities.
Construction work on the subterranean parking and the new playground
facilities started and finished during the June-August 2003 three-month
summer vacation. Then, as the new wing was still on the rise, the workers
concentrated on the additions and alterations on the existing building
during the following summer recess. Finally, no effort was spared to
complete the new wing and acquire its occupancy permit by this fall, which
coincides with the 25th anniversary of the school.
The new wing encloses the plush Walter and Laurel Karabian Hall at the
entire ground level; the terrace linking the two buildings on the mezzanine
level; and the upper grade classrooms, labs, computer room, conference room
and teachers’ room on the second level.
Another unique feature of the new wing is the solar panel system covering
the entire roof, which was set up by taking advantage of the incentive
rebate program by the State of California.
Needless to say, the price tag for the timely completion of this vital
undertaking was quite high, and all support from the community is still
needed to ease such impending burden.
The generosity of major benefactors, namely: Mrs. Eleanor Dickranian, Mr.
and Mrs. Walter Karabian, Mr. and Mrs. Ken Norian, Drs. Petros and Karine
Taglyan, Drs. Noubar and Dickranouhi Mkhsi-Gevorkian, set the pace of this
project, the Trustees noted.
They added their thanks to all the supporters and stewards who helped make
this venture possible and endowed Arshag Dickranian School with all the
amenities of a model learning institution.
Send tax deductible donations to: TCA-Arshag Dickranian School, 1200 N.
Cahuenga Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90038
***************************************************************************
5 – Kouyoumdjian’s Genocide Script
Among Finalists for Elly Award
SACRAMENTO – Aram Kouyoumdjian’s “The Delicate Lines” was named among the
nominees for Best Original Script as the Sacramento Area Regional Theater
Alliance recently announced the nominations of its annual Elly Awards.
“Protest,” a shorter solo performance work by Kouyoumdjian, won a Best
Actor nomination for J.D. Rudometkin.
“The Delicate Lines” follows the story of an Armenian woman in the
aftermath of the Genocide as she struggles with her poet brother’s descent
into madness and with her conflicted love for his best friend. Its
companion piece, “Protest,” is a partly-autobiographical work constructed
around a demonstration against Turkish denials of the Genocide.
“It is immensely satisfying to see plays about the Genocide win such
recognition within the theater community,” Kouyoumdjian said.
“The Delicate Lines” received its world premiere this April at California
Stage in Sacramento, where it played to capacity crowds before moving to
similar sold-out performances in San Francisco and Los Angeles. “Protest”
is currently under consideration for production by the Finborough Theatre
in London this fall.
The nomination is Kouyoumdjian’s second consecutive citation in the
playwriting category. He won the Best Original Script award last year for
“The Farewells.” He has an additional Elly for directing “Three Hotels.”
Rudometkin is a repeat nominee as well, having previously been short-listed
as Best Supporting Actor for his performance in Caryl Churchill, “Far
Away,”also directed by Kouyoumdjian.
Kouyoumdjian, an associate member of the Dramatists Guild, is currently
collaborating on the script of “Little Armenia,” which has been
commissioned by the Fountain Theatre and is slated for production early
next year.
***************************************************************************
6 – Two-Year Study of Armenian Americans
Shows Demographics Are Changing
By Tania Chatila, News-Press and Leader
GLENDALE — Armenian Americans, many of whom originate from Lebanon, Iraq,
Russia and other countries, are linked by a common denominator of Armenian
traditions.
But as Armenian Americans in the United States struggle to hold onto these
traditions, a new study has found the demographic is changing — Armenian
youth are not attending church services regularly, Armenian Americans trust
American politicians more than those of their own ethnicity and while
Armenians take interest in the general welfare of Armenia, a majority would
rather stay in the United States than move back.
The 200-page study, conducted by Garbis Der Yeghiayan, founding president
of Mashdots College in Glendale, attempts to define the structure of the
Armenian community in the United States, and along with religion, touches
on topics such as family, education, politics and Sept. 11.
“It’s about the Armenian-American community coast to coast,” Der Yeghiayan
said. “It’s about where we are today and what are the prospects of the
Armenian community in America.”
The study, which took about two years to complete, bases its findings on a
questionnaire sent to 8,000 Armenian Americans from 22 states, of which
3,000 responded. Der Yeghiayan also did a study in 1991 focusing on
Armenian American youth.
And of the key findings, the study shows that while Armenian Americans are
very attached to their traditions and values, the younger generations are
struggling with assimilation and are showing less interest in attending
regular Armenian church services.
“They have not changed drastically from where they come from,” Der
Yeghiayan said of the demographic. “They continue to value tradition.”
But as new generations are growing, they are also changing, and dealing
with the internal and external conflicts of pleasing their parents and
fitting in, he said.
“They have parallel obligations,” Der Yeghiayan said. “One, to their
traditions as members of the Armenian community. But they also want to be
recognized as part of the general society.”
And this could in part explain the drop in Armenian church attendance by
youth, something the Armenian American community should be concerned about,
Der Yeghiayan said.
Only 1% of Armenian American youth are attending Armenian church services
every Sunday, a significant downtrend since the 12% rate found in 1991,
according to the study.
“Armenians for centuries have been supportive of their churches,” he said.
“But we have to revise and modernize our strategies and see what the needs
are.”
If Armenian churches do not adjust their services to accommodate younger
generations, Armenian American youth could lose their identities, he said.
“I think the church has realized that it needs to change with the times to
be able to accommodate the youth,” said Ani Asatryan, president of the Cal
State Northridge Armenian Students Assn. and a Glendale resident. “That’s
not to say that they’re not involved. It’s a larger percentage that is
surely and slowly becoming more involved.”
Among the other findings, 47% of Armenian Americans provide financial
assistance to relatives and friends in Armenia; 67% of the demographic
rated Armenian political leaders as mediocre or poor; 33% feel religion in
life is not important; 83% say the American government has more of an
obligation to recognize the Armenian Genocide and 65% feel their
relationship with the Latino community needs improvement.
“It’s a wake up call,” said Der Yeghiayan of the study. “We have to compare
ourselves with ourselves — where we were 25 years ago, where we are today
and where we will be in the future.”
The study provides insight into a relatively new culture in the United
States, Asatryan said.
“Considering the amount of Armenians, especially in Glendale where the
population of Armenian Americans is so high and so concentrated, to have a
study like this out provides the community with an understanding of who we
are and where we come from and why we do the things we do,” she said. “It’s
encouraging.”
According to the study on Armenian Americans:
* 52% feel cohabitation — unwed couples living together — is favorable.
* 36% feel having a baby out of wedlock is favorable.
* 30% are registered Democrats.
* 65% feel the relationship with the Latino community needs improvement.
* Of the languages spoken among Armenian Americans, English is first,
Armenian is second and Arabic is third.
* 69% have an education beyond high school.
* 36% would like to be called Armenian.
* 92% are interested in the current affairs of Armenia.
For more information, contact Mashdots College at (818) 548-9345 or send to
[email protected].
**************************************************************************
7 – Ararat Home Development of
Rockhaven Property Put on Hold
MONTROSE, Calif. – The development by the Ararat Home of Los Angeles of the
Rockhaven property in Montrose has been put on hold, the Ararat Trustees
reported last week.
At a recent meeting of the Board of Trustees, an action was taken to delay
the development of the property, and to consider other alternatives for
expanding the services of Ararat Home.
The decision was based on the current difficulties of obtaining necessary
permits and the recent inflationary trend in the cost of materials needed
for construction.
Current cost estimates are substantially higher then those made earlier,
requiring more funds to be raised before proceeding, the Trustees
explained.
Ararat purchased the property and the Rockhaven Sanitarium in 2001 and was
planning the redevelopment and improvement of the property as a 178-bed
Skilled Nursing Facility. The facility was to be state-of-the-arts.
Building Committee Chairman Sinan Sinanian said,” This is a wonderful and
much needed project which is as the ‘taking-off’ point, but the board will
need to raise more funds to support it.”
The Long-Range Planning Committee of the Board is now working and will
shortly report to the board on the future needs of Ararat and the means to
accomplish them.
Ararat Home will continue to provide services, recognized as outstanding by
the State, at its facilities in Mission Hills, Eagle Rock, and Rockhaven
for those in its care, while planning for improved and expanded facilities
for the future.
**************************************************************************
8 – Harvest Gallery
Presents Zareh
Exhibition, Sept. 9-27
GLENDALE – Harvest Gallery is presenting paintings and drawings by Zareh at
an exhibition opening on Sept. 9 in Glendale, Calif. The artist’s opening
reception will be held from 7 to 10 p.m. at the Gallery. 938 N. Brand
Boulevard.
Born in 1956 in Syria, Zareh was raised in Lebanon under the harsh effects
of a civil war. Zareh’s art represents endless transformation and
evolution. Upon immigrating to the United States in 1983, he attended
classes at both UCLA and the Barnsdall Art Center.
Zareh has displayed his art in numerous solo and group exhibitions in the
Los Angeles metropolitan area. He has also staged live, public exhibits
including “The Red Trees of the Armenian Genocide” (2001) and most recently
a traveling series titled “Marry the Priest” (2002). His art has been
featured in numerous mainstream and ethnic publications including the Los
Angeles Times, La Opinion, Panorama (Russian), Armenian Observer, Armenian
Reporter International and the Beirut Times.
Zareh’s exhibit will be on display from Sept. 9 through Sept. 27. Gallery
hours are Tuesday – Sunday from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm.
************************************************************************
The California Courier On-Line is a service provided by the California
Courier. Subscriptions or changes of address should not be transmitted
through this service. Information in that regard should be telephoned
to (818) 409-0949; faxed to: (818) 409-9207, or e-mailed to:
[email protected]. Letters to the editor concerning issues
addressed in the Courier may be e-mailed, provided it is signed by
the author. Phone and/or E-mail address is also required to verify
authorship.

ASBAREZ ONLINE
TOP STORIES
09/06/2005
TO ACCESS PREVIOUS ASBAREZ ONLINE EDITIONS PLEASE VISIT OUR
WEBSITE AT <;HTTP:// 1) Armenia Ready to Help Hurricane Victims 2) ARS Urges Opening Hearts to Hurricane Victims 3) Cheney Fails to Explain Letter on Armenian Genocide 4) Armenian Genocide Legislation Scheduled for Committee Consideration 1) Armenia Ready to Help Hurricane Victims President, Spiritual Leaders Send Condolences (Combined Sources)--Armenia conveyed its readiness to provide assistance to the US Government in the wake of Hurricane Katrina's devastation. Armenian foreign minister Vartan Oskanian said on Monday that the US Embassy in Armenia would be providing a list of necessary items, and that, `Armenia is ready to provide both financial and professional assistance to the US to the best of its abilities. Rescue teams, physicians, and other specialists will depart from Armenia to the US in case of need.' Oskanian said. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said on Friday that "no aid would be turned down from foreign countries" in assisting residents along the Gulf Coast. In a letter to US President Bush, Armenian President Robert Kocharian sent condolences on behalf of the Armenian people. "We share your pain and sadness. Please accept... most sincere words of condolence and convey them to the families of those who are suffering. We wish you strength, patience, and courage." His Holinesses Aram I and Karekin II sent letters to Bush as well, expressing support and condolences to the American people in light of the losses suffered. In the letter, His Holiness Aram I said that "the tragic images that I see on television are, indeed, disturbing and heartbreaking. This is, in fact, one of the biggest natural disasters in the recent memory of the USA. I share the pain and anxiety of those who have been affected by this disaster." The Catholicos also informed the president that he has advised the two prelates of the Catholicosate of Cilicia in the United States to encourage Armenian-American communities to actively participate in the post-hurricane humanitarian efforts. His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, stated "We extend to you, your government and all the people of the United States, the sorrow and sincere condolences of the Armenian Church and all Armenians throughout the world. As head of the Armenian Apostolic Holy Church, we offer our solemn prayers for eternal rest for all those who perished in this disaster, and solace and comfort to their families and friends. We ask the Almighty to grant recovery to the thousands of afflicted, hurt and homeless families, and strength to you and your government at this difficult time." Also responding to the hurricane was His Eminence Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate of Western USA, who sent a solidarity letter to Lousiana state Governor Blanco on the unprecedented event that devastated the whole region. In his letter, the Prelate expressed his condolences for the human losses, and His Eminence mentioned that he had urged and appealed to the faithful of the churches and parishes to pray for the rest of the souls of the victims, and participate by contributing abundantly to the American Red Cross and the Armenian Relief Society in order to assist the national efforts and help the devastated and most unfortunate families. On September 4, the Prelate's appeal and directives circulated to all pastors, churches, and communities of the Western Prelacy inviting, calling and urging them all to contribute generously and assist the relief efforts to reach out to the millions of the affected by this disaster. Brewing Anger In Washington, President Bush said he was dispatching Vice President Dick Cheney to the battered Gulf Coast to assess relief efforts. But local and state officials, particularly in Louisiana, have bitterly criticized what they see as a slow response to the plight of people caught in the disaster. Appearing on the CBS-TV "Early Show," Aaron Broussard, president of Jefferson Parish just outside New Orleans, remains angry. "Bureaucracy has murdered people in the greater New Orleans area," he said. "And bureaucracy needs to stand trial before Congress today. So I'm asking Congress, please investigate this now. Take whatever idiot they have at the top of whatever agency and give me a better idiot. Give me a caring idiot. Give me a sensitive idiot. Just don't give me the same idiot." Congress has pledged an investigation into the federal response. President Bush likewise promised Tuesday to lead his own investigation to determine, as he put it, "what went right and what went wrong" in the response to Hurricane Katrina. 2) ARS Urges Opening Hearts to Hurricane Victims Humanitarian organization appeals to Armenians for assistance Following the devastation and flooding in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, the Armenian Relief Society of Western USA has begun collecting monetary donations for the victims of the Gulf Coast disaster. As rescue workers continue to pluck people from their rooftops and evacuate ravaged areas, the realization that thousands of survivors will not have homes or jobs to return to along the Gulf coast of Louisiana and Alabama is daunting. Last January, the ARS-WR successfully collected donations for Tsunami victims. In a press release, the ARS appealed to the community to give back in this time of dire need. `We are sure that all Armenian-Americans who have felt the impact of helping hands through natural disasters, whether in Northridge or Armenia, will give generously to the ARS.' The Western Region's chair of the ARS Angela Savoian urged the organization's members, supporters, and the community-at-large to lend a hand to victims. "These are times to let actions speak for themselves," said Savoian. "The aftermath of Hurricane Katrina is too disastrous to describe, but we... all of us are ready to take on the responsibility to alleviate the suffering of fellow citizens in the Gulf States. Let's open up our hearts to the losses of lives, homes and livelihoods, and be generous with our donations." The Western Prelacy has designated the ARS as one of the agencies to contact for offering Gulf Coast disaster relief donations. Send your tax-deductible donations payable to the ARS of Western USA, Regional Executive immediately. Please indicate that your donation is for the "Hurricane Victims Fund." Donations can be mailed to: Armenian Relief Society of Western USA Inc, Regional Executive, 517 W. Glenoaks Blvd., Glendale, CA 91202-2812, or by visiting the ARS Western regions headquarters at the same address. 3) Cheney Fails to Explain Letter on Armenian Genocide Vice President sidesteps query from twenty-two Congress members regarding reason for letter to Genocide survivor WASHINGTON, DC--Vice President Dick Cheney has sidestepped a Congressional request for clarification regarding the reasons behind his forthright--although apparently mistaken--characterization of the Armenian genocide in letter sent this April to survivor Maritza Ohanessian, reported the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA). In an April 22 letter to Ohanessian on the occasion of her 100th birthday, the Vice President properly described the Armenian genocide, a departure from the Administration's standard practice of using evasive or euphemistic terminology to downplay the true historical, legal, and contemporary geopolitical implications of this crime against humanity. In response to this letter, Congressman Steve Rothman (D-NJ) and twenty-one of his House colleagues asked the Vice President if this letter represented a formal shift in the Administration's policy. The Vice President's response, signed by his Principal Deputy for National Security Affairs John P. Hannah, simply notes that "there has been no change in Administration policy on this issue," without any articulation of the nature of the policy. "The Vice President should explain to Maritza Ohanessian and all Armenian Americans why he sent this letter recognizing the Armenian Genocide but cannot now stand behind his words or even offer an explanation for his reversal," said ANCA Executive Director Aram Hamparian. "We appreciate Congressman Rothman's leadership on this issue and want to thank all those who joined with him in this effort." Joining Congressman Rothman as signatories to the June 23rd Congressional letter were Representatives Rob Andrews (D-NJ), Lois Capps (D-CA), Joe Crowley (D-NY), Anna Eshoo (D-CA), Barney Frank (D-MA), Patrick Kennedy (D-RI), Mark Steven Kirk (R-IL), Sander Levin (D-MI), Carolyn Maloney (D-NY), Thaddeus McCotter (R-MI), James McGovern (D-MA), Michael McNulty (D-NY), Richard Neal (D-MA), Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ), George Radanovich (R-CA), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Brad Sherman (D-CA), Mark Souder (R-IN), John Tierney (D-MA), Edolphus Towns (D-NY), and Peter Visclosky (D-IN). 4) Armenian Genocide Legislation Scheduled for Committee Consideration May be `Marked-Up' as Early as September 14 WASHINGTON, DC--Armenian Genocide legislation appears set to come before the influential House International Relations Committee as early as Wednesday, September 14th, reported the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA). According to Congressional sources, Committee Chairman Henry Hyde (R-IL) is prepared to `mark-up' both Armenian Genocide Resolutions (H.Res.316 and H.Con.Res.195). During this mark-up session, the fifty members of the panel will have an opportunity to consider changes and then to vote to either approve or disapprove each measure. `We want to thank Chairman Hyde for his leadership in ensuring that the members of his Committee have the opportunity to vote on Armenian Genocide legislation,' said ANCA Executive Director Aram Hamparian. `Along with our local chapters around the nation and coalition partners here in Washington, DC, we are working hard to support the efforts of our friends-- Congressmen George Radanovich, Adam Schiff, and Armenian Caucus Co-Chairmen Joe Knollenberg and Frank Pallone-- in encouraging the Committee to act favorably on this legislation. H.Res.316, which was introduced by Representatives George Radanovich (R-CA), Adam Schiff (D-CA), and Congressional Armenian Caucus Co-Chairs Frank Pallone (D-NJ) and Joe Knollenberg (R-MI), calls upon the President to ensure US foreign policy reflects appropriate understanding of the Armenian Genocide. The resolution includes thirty detailed findings from past US hearings, resolutions and Presidential statements, as well as references to statements by international bodies and organizations. As of today, a bipartisan group of over one hundred and twelve Representatives have already agreed to cosponsor this measure. H.Con.Res.195, introduced by Rep. Adam Schiff and cosponsored by over eighty Representatives, was offered following direct negotiations with House International Relations Committee Chairman Henry Hyde (R-IL). The Chairman agreed to Committee-level consideration of Armenian Genocide legislation in return for Rep. Schiff tabling a planned June 8 Armenian Genocide amendment to the House Foreign Relations Authorization bill. The agreement addressed serious concerns on the part of the Administration and Congressional leaders that the Schiff Amendment-- which had strong prospects of passing--would overshadow the White House meeting, held that same day, between President Bush and Turkish Prime Minister Erdogan. This measure, which is in the process of being amended, reaffirms the Armenian Genocide within the broader context of regional relationships and addresses Turkey's efforts to join the European Union. The Turkish Ambassador and his lobbyists--including the Livingston Group--are actively making the rounds to members of the International Relations Committee, seeking to block any action on US reaffirmation of the Armenian Genocide. As part of this effort, the Livingston Group has been distributing a four-page genocide-denial document to Congressional offices. 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) 2005 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.

PRESS RELEASE
BIRTHRIGHT ARMENIA
Contact: Linda Yepoyan
September 2, 2005
Phone: 610-642-6633
[email protected]

ARMENIAN LEADERS EMPOWER YOUTH TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE HOMELAND THROUGH
BIRTHRIGHT ARMENIA FORUM SERIES
Yerevan, Armenia – In an intensive 12-week Forum Series, Birthright Armenia
has brought together well-known Armenian leaders with young volunteers from
across the Diaspora. A diverse group of speakers including President
Kocharian’s advisor on corruption, Armenia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs,
and a national expert on Nagorno-Karabagh, has inspired diasporan youth, as
future leaders, to participate in Armenia’s development by providing unique
insight into Armenia’s social, cultural, economic, and political issues and
needs.
In order to provide the broadest picture possible, Birthright’s Forum Series
is offered via a two-track system: a hard-track centered around policy,
economics, government, and business, and a soft-track concentrated on
culture, arts, poverty reduction, entertainment, and ecology. The forums go
beyond presenting facts and figures to providing concrete tools that empower
youth to participate in the building of a nation.
The overall response from Birthright Armenia’s participants has been
positive. Lalai Manjikian, an Armenia Volunteer Corps volunteer and
Birthright Armenia participant from Canada, says that the Forums have
changed her experience in Armenia because they have enabled her to see
beyond the typical diasporan point-of-view. `They allow us to have a real
grasp of the social, economic, and environmental problems and issues Armenia
faces so we have an idea of where we can contribute.’
The impressive list of Birthright Armenia’s invited experts includes:
Vardan Oskanyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs
Gegham Gharibjanyan, Deputy Foreign Minister and Former
Ambassador to Iran
Garegin Chookaszian, Executive Director of Information
Technologies Foundation (ITF)
Manuk Hergnyan, Executive Director of Vem Radio
Bagrat Yesayan, Anti-corruption Advisor to the President of the
Republic of Armenia
Alexander Manasian, Ph.D Philosophic Sciences and Expert on the
Nagorno-Karabagh Conflict
Arsen Kharatian, Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper (PRSP) Open
Forum
Edith Khachatourian, Founder of International Legal Consulting
Shake Karapetyan, Owner, Art Bridge Bookstore and Café
Vardan Hovhannisyan, President/Founder of Bars Media
Dikran Xzmalian, Independent Filmmaker
Avetik Ishkhanian, Head of Helsinki Committee of Armenia
Isabella Sargsyan, Member of Helsinki Citizens Assembly, Youth
Program Coordinator
Mikael Danielian, Executive Director of Helsinki Foundation
Levon Abrahamyan, Ethnographer
Ms. Gayane Shagoyan, Head of Hazarashen NGO
Father Dajad Davidian, Pastor of the Armenian Church Youth
Movement, Diocese of Ararat
Dr. Tom Samuelian, Founder of Arlex International Ltd
Alexander Iskandarian, Head of the Caucasus Media Institute
Tevan Poghosyan, Executive Director of International Center for
Human Development
Pavel Gharakeshishian, President of Makur Yerevan
Mary Eganian, Representative, Armenian Young Lawyers Assoc.
Lara Aharonian, Director, Kanayq Hayots Women’s Resource Center
Edward Balassanian, Executive Director, Cafesjian Museum
Foundation
Raffi Niziblian, Viva Cell Marketing Manager
Alex Sardar, Chief of Party for Counterpart International
Jeffrey Tufenkian, President of Armenian Forests NGO
Susan Klein, Executive Country Director of the Armenia Tree
Project in Yerevan
Jeff Masarjian, Executive Director, Armenia Tree Project
Karine Danielian, President of the Association of Sustainable
Human Development NGO
The speakers have also responded positively to Birthright Armenia’s Forum
Series, as they are excited to share their knowledge with young diasporans,
who may one day return to Armenia and contribute further to its development.
One featured speaker, Garegin Chookaszian, Executive Director of Information
Technologies Foundation (ITF), states `I am sure that this kind of meeting,
with experts from different fields, represents one of the fastest and most
interactive ways of getting information about what is going on in Armenia.’
Susan Klein, Executive Country Director of the Armenia Tree Project, an
environmental NGO, further points out that the Forums provide an excellent
mechanism for public awareness, as volunteers speak about what they have
learned to other volunteers and ex-patriates, as well as Armenians in the
Diaspora. She also points out that not only are the Forums critical to
`understanding what is really happening in this country and the kinds of
people that are working here,’ but also that through the expansive scope of
topics, the volunteers are exposed to ideas and projects that could
potentially `shape what they are doing here.’
Birthright Armenia’s mission is to strengthen ties between the Homeland and
Diasporan youth by affording them an opportunity to be a part of Armenia’s
daily life and to contribute to Armenia’s development through work, study
and volunteer experiences, while developing life-long personal ties and a
renewed sense of Armenian identity. For those interested in learning more
about Birthright Armenia, please visit or email
[email protected].

PRESS RELEASE
Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, Information Services
Address: Vagharshapat, Republic of Armenia
Contact: Rev. Fr. Ktrij Devejian
Tel: (374 10) 517 163
Fax: (374 10) 517 301
E-Mail: [email protected]
September 6, 2005
Armenian Church Convenes Meeting to Study Sainthood for Victims of the
Armenian Genocide
>From September 3 through 6, 2005, the Armenian Church Committee for the
Study of the Canonization of the Victims of the Armenian Genocide convened
its inaugural meeting in the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin.
The members of the committee are:
His Eminence Archbishop Sebouh Sarkissian, Co-Chairman (Catholicosate of the
Great House of Cilicia)
His Grace Bishop Yeznik Petrosian, Co-Chairman (Catholicosate of All
Armenians)
His Grace Bishop Kegham Khatcherian (Catholicosate of the Great House of
Cilicia)
Very Rev. Fr. Papken Charian, Secretary (Catholicosate of the Great House of
Cilicia)
Very Rev. Fr. Zadig Avedikian, Secretary (Catholicosate of All Armenians)
Very Rev. Fr. Daniel Findikian (Catholicosate of All Armenians)
Prior to their meeting, the members of the committee were received by His
Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, who
gave them his Pontifical blessing, placing importance on the work ahead and
wishing them success in their endeavors.
His Grace Bishop Yeznik Petrosian introduced the members of the committee to
His Holiness, and asked for his blessing. His Eminence Archbishop Sebouh
Sarkissian transmitted the fraternal greetings and best wishes for success
of His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia.
During their meeting, the members exchanged ideas and viewpoints, and
following substantial discussion, established the main task, the framework
for analysis, the working timeline and underscored the fundamental statement
of the question.
The first working session of the committee will take place from November 8
to 12, 2005, in the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin.
##

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.
***************************************************************************
==========================================================================
CONFLICTS
==========================================================================
PROGRESS OF NEGOTIATIONS HINGES ON SECRECY
—————————————— ———————————
Source: “Azg” newspaper (Armenia) [September 03, 2005]
Author: Tatul Hakobian
In the course of Rupel’s visit, the sides will give assessment of the
current stage of negotiations
On his regional visit, OSCE Chairman-in-office, Dimitrij Rupel will
visit Yerevan on September 5-6. Foreign Minister of Slovenia will
meet Presidents of Armenia and Mountainous Karabagh, Foreign Minister
Vartan Oskanian, as reported by RA MFA.
After Kazan negotiations of Presidents Robert Kocharian and Ilham
Aliev, OSCE Minsk Group Co-chairmen left for the capital of Slovenia,
Ljubljana with information on the details of Kazan meeting. It is
important to note that in his public statements, Rupel separates the
MK issue from all other interethnic conflicts on CIS territory,
considering MKR a disputable territory.
After the visit of OSCE Chairman-in-office to Yerevan and Baku, the
Co-chairmen will start preparation to the next stage of meetings on
the level of Armenian and Azerbaijani Foreign Ministers, likely to
take place by the end of September beginning of October. As reported
by `Mediamax’, Russian mediator Yuri Merzliakov answered the question
`Why the sides are so reserved after the Kazan meeting?’ in the
following manner, `There was an agreement on keeping the details of
discussion secret’.
`Recent negotiations of the Presidents were very useful, the
discussion was detailed and predictable’, Yuri Merzliakov stated to
Azerbaijani ANS TV Company. Russian Co-chairman refused to answer the
question whether new proposals were made in Kazan, noting only that
the `progress of negotiations hinges on secrecy’.
Merzliakov noted that the Co-chairmen will take all effort for
conducting another meeting Kocharian-Aliev until the end of the
year. The visit of the Co-chairmen to the region should take place by
December.
Yesterday Foreign Ministry of Azerbaijan expressed concern over the
visit of Armenian President to Mountainous Karabagh, qualifying it as
a step impeding the process of settlement. `Regretfully, Yerevan is
taking steps that do not contribute to activation of the
negotiations’, Head of MFA Press and Information Department Tayir
Tagizade stated. Yesterday, Turkish `Hurriyet’ newspaper published an
interview with President of Azerbaijan, in which Ilham Aliev notes,
`Each Azerbaijani is deeply convinced that the day will come when the
occupied territories will be liberated and the Azerbaijani flag will
flutter over Karabagh’. Commenting on the Kazan meeting, Aliev
stated, `There are no results yet. Armenians expect that we will give
them independence, however it is impossible’.
Robert Kocharian, on a visit to Stepanakert to celebrate the 14
anniversary of Karabagh independence, stated to the journalists
yesterday that he has positive impressions of the meeting with
President of Azerbaijan in Kazan. `Positive tendencies are traced in
the negotiation process’, he stated and added, `Mountainous Karabagh
cannot be an object of bargaining, and the Armenian people are
unanimous about it’.
On his behalf, MKR President assured that MKR authorities are for a
peaceful settlement of the conflict, emphasizing that no one will
succeed depriving us of Artsakh and its independence, achieved at the
cost of inevitable losses’.
Azerbaijan is unable to protect even the rights of its own people to
say nothing of ethnic minorities living in this country. This fact is
enough to recognize the rights of Mountainous Karabagh people for
their own, sovereign state, independent from Azerbaijan’, Arkady
Ghukasian stated.
THE FACT OF AZERBAIJAN GETTING EMPTY IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN KARABAGH!
—————————————————————————-
Source: “Star” newspaper (Turkey) [August 31, 2005]
Author:
We always tried to cover the real situation in the Turkic countries of
the post-Soviet space.
Azerbaijan is closest to us from all the aspects. If you allow, we
will postpone the process of settlement of Karabagh conflict, which
seems to be endless, and will present to you the demographic problems
requiring attention.
On August 27, after CIS summit of August 26 in Kazan, the meeting of
Presidents of Azerbaijan and Armenia, Aliev and Kocharian took place
there.
The recent meeting of the two leaders was held on May 16 in
Warsaw. Before each meeting, there is some information of the type,
`prior to each meeting there are details that resolution of the
conflict is close’. This time we had the same situation, however, no
concrete agreements were reached.
In compliance with the decision of UN Security Council, by April 30,
1993 the Armenians were to have liberated Kerebejer. The withdrawal of
the troops was fixed for July 15. After the coup and dismissal of
Elchibey, the troops were still there. First and foremost, the new
authorities of Azerbaijan started to withdraw the troops of Popular
Front that were fighting in Karabagh, and to dismiss them. Heydar
Aliev then stated, `Our army does not fight’. From the period of July
to October that year, the Armenians occupied 5 more regions in
Karabagh besides Kerbejer and Lachin: Agdam, Jebrail, Fizuli,
Zangelan, Kubatli.
Empty Talk
On May 1994, a truce was signed. The situation was quite uncertain. It
was not clear if Azerbaijan capitulated, lost or won.
Aliev the senior met Kocharian 22 times with no result. During OSCE
summit in Lisbon Heydar Aliev stated that Armenia occupied Azerbaijan
and put veto on OSCE decision. This event was presented as a heroic
deed; as a result, the baby boys born on these days were named after
Lisbon. Genje governor once stated, `President was a hero at Lisbon
summit’, thus entering the anthology of Azerbaijani humor.
Making a speech at the refugee camp, Heydar Aliev stated that the
Armenian Diaspora is very strong and therefore Azerbaijan will be
unable to fight against them. (2002). Armenian Foreign Minster Vartan
Oskanian constantly avoided concrete agreements, putting unacceptable
conditions for Azerbaijan and categorically rejecting Turkish
mediation.
During the two-day session at Armenian Parliament (18-19 April, 2005)
Defense Minister Serj Sargsian stated, `To strengthen second Armenian
state, we should do our best and should not allow interference of our
enemy – Turkey’.
At EU summit May 15-17, the Presidents of the two countries vested
additional powers with their Foreign Ministers to continue
negotiations. Special representative of Azerbaijan on Karabagh Araz
Azimov stated, `In August, we might probably reach an agreement’. On
August 23-24 on the eve of Kazan meeting, Foreign Ministers met in
Moscow for empty talk. Half Departed In other words, the negotiation
process was constantly underway with no result. Armenia proved
stronger in this aspect with Russia constantly at its back.
Half Departed However, let us consider the most important
aspect. There are numerous publications that only 2 million people are
left in Armenia. Still, there is the reverse of the medal. Azerbaijan
is also getting empty. Since 1993, 3 million Azerbaijanis have moved
to Russia. Even Sweden has more refugees from Azerbaijan than other
countries – over 2 thousand people. In European countries, 200
thousand Azerbaijanis enjoy a refugee status. Turkey has 200 thousand
of them, Ukraine – 300 thousand, Iran – 100 thousand Azerbaijanis.
Thus, the 8 million population of Azerbaijan is already reduced almost
twice.
The elections in Azerbaijan are close. We will still raise this issue.
==========================================================================
ECONOMY
=========================================================================
ABKHAZIAN RAILWAY IS OF NO SPECIAL SIGNIFICANCE TO GEORGIA
—————————————— ——————————–
Source: “Rezonansi” newspaper (Georgia) [August 25, 2005]
Author:
The Russian side formed a group of specialists that will take up study
of the railway in Abkhazia. As you know, the railway linking Russia to
the South Caucasus countries stopped functioning because of the recent
events in Abkhazia. Up to recently, the negotiations on restoring the
railway faced an impasse. The Georgian side was categorical in
relating this issue to the return of the refugees back to the
uncontrolled autonomy. It encountered if not resistance, at least
silent disagreement of the other parties to negotiation – the
Abkhazian and Russian sides. However, the situation changed recently –
though Tbilisi thinks return of the refugees is a priority, it is more
tolerant to the issue of restoring the railway than previously.
Expert Gia Khukhashvili holds the unilateral study of the Abkhazian
segment of the railway is accorded with the Georgian side. `Our
authorities have changed their position? The refugees have not yet
returned, why don’t the authorities express their protest?’ he
asks. Thus, the expert holds that the initiative of restoring the
railway communication is fully seized by the Russians and the
Abkhazians, whereas the Georgians may finally end up in a difficult
situation necessitating constant minor and major concessions, for
instance, in such important issues as opening of the checkpoint on
Psou-Inguri segment. Khukhashvili is uncertain over the main issue too
– who will take the responsibility, and to put it directly, who will
own this segment of the railway – Russia or Georgia.
Gia Khukhashvili also traces a menace in clarifying financial
issues. He thinks the situation is quite strange. From the very
outset, Georgia insisted on purely economic nature of restoring the
railway. However, it is obvious that this issue acquired strong
political implication, given the fact that functioning of the railway
will bring maximum efficiency to Russia and particularly Armenia but
not Georgia, as Khukhashvili holds. `There is a situation of giving a
lot but getting a little. Though we do have questions – for instance,
how can the railway be restored without the involvement of the
Georgian side. Obviously, our opponents calculated everything – they
will propose something and we will agree. If it actually happens, the
suspicions about illogical behavior of our authorities will come
true’, Gia Khukhashvili holds. In his opinion, Georgia does not have
problems with cargo transportation even without this railway. The
additional railway, certainly, will never be supe! rfluous, however
it will be significant to Russia and Armenia and not Georgia. Besides,
Khukhashvili thinks it is not clear why prior to the railway recovery
the issue of regulating parallel car route, in good condition, was not
even mentioned. Besides, Khukhashvili holds it would be possible to
find out how secure the route is before starting restoration of the
railway. All this points to lobby intrigues with a different
motivation. `We are more in the political than economic field’,
Khukhashvili thinks
===========================================================================
NEIGHBOURS
=========================================================================
BAKU WILL DO ITS BEST FOR REMOVING ISOLATION OF NORTHERN CYPRUS
———————————————– —————————–
Source: “Zerkalo” newspaper (Azerbaijan) [September 05, 2005]
Author:
Head of the State Holds that No One Has a Right to Exert Pressure on
Azerbaijan
‘Azerbaijan is very strong, so Armenia will give in. However, we do
not want war, since many people will die. I believe that sooner or
later we will get our lands back. No one should ever doubt
it’. President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliev stated about it to Turkish
`Hurriyet’ newspaper, published on September 2, as `Trend’ agency
reports.
“Each Azerbaijani strongly believes that the time will come when the
occupied lands will be liberated, whereas the Azerbaijani flag will
again flutter over Karabagh’, President Aliev emphasized, commenting
also on the results of the Kazan meeting with President of Armenia
Robert Kocharian. `There are no results yet. Armenians are expecting
independence from us. However, it is impossible! Our priority is
preserving territorial integrity of Azerbaijan. I told Kocharian that
we are ready to guarantee security of the Armenian community of
Karabagh. I emphasized that Baku will not allow the community to face
any danger’, Ilham Aliev stated, adding that `however, they (Armenian
armed forces) are unwilling to liberate our lands’.
At the same time, I. Aliev noted that in the course of the recent
telephone conversation US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice stated
that Washington wants the sides to resolve the conflict. `I do not
understand why Armenia, as an occupier state, is not punished, though
I do understand that the Armenian lobby is strong. The current
situation is extremely unfair”, I. Aliev stated. He noted that after
this conversation he felt some softening in the position of Robert
Kocharian, though it was not sufficient for settling the problem.
‘We took all possible steps. However, Armenia does not heed the
opinion of the international community. Over a million Azerbaijani
citizens were left homeless. The West aspires to fast settlement. We
will do our best to this effect. Further on, we will sit down to think
it over’, I. Aliev summed up.
President of Azerbaijan also raised the issue of pressure on official
Baku as regards settlement of economic ties with the Turkish Republic
of Northern Cyprus. First steps towards Azerbaijan were taken by the
Greek authorities, summoning our ambassador to MFA and giving him a
note. However, we did not pay attention to this. Further on, a letter
was addressed to Baku from the Republic of Cyprus, which I put aside
without opening. No one has a right to exert pressure on Azerbaijan’,
I. Aliev noted.
The Azerbaijani President also emphasized that he pays no heed to
international pressure, noting `he does not even remember the author
of the letter addressed to him from Greek Cyprus”. The Head of State
reminded that many doubted his statements on breaking the isolation
regime of the Northern Cyprus. `There were many critical articles on
my behalf. However, I kept my word. The time has come for other Turkic
states to support Azerbaijani position on this issue. Now it is their
turn to take similar steps’, I. Aliev stated.
The question of whether Azerbaijan will take new initiatives in this
direction was answered by Aliev, `We will do our utmost, since we do
believe that the isolation of Cyprus should be removed. The injustice
should be put an end to. Strangely, the punishment is put to the side
supporting UN plan on unification of the island. It is impossible
either to understand or accept’.
***************************************************************************
You can subscribe or unsubscribe to this newsletter either at
or by sending a message to the Editor:
[email protected].
For comments or questions please contact the Editor: [email protected].

FORUM 18 NEWS SERVICE, Oslo, Norway
The right to believe, to worship and witness
The right to change one’s belief or religion
The right to join together and express one’s belief
================================================
Monday 5 September 2005
NAGORNO-KARABAKH: BAPTIST CONSCRIPT NOW IMPRISONED
Military leaders in the unrecognised republic of Nagorno-Karabakh in the
South Caucasus have successfully appealed to the courts for Gagik Mirzoyan
– handed a suspended sentence in July for refusing to handle weapons or
swear the military oath on grounds of religious faith – to be sent to
prison. On 5 September Hadrut district court imprisoned the embattled
Baptist conscript for one year. The court told Mirzoyan that if he
declared then and there he would swear the oath it would free him and send
him back to his unit. “Gagik responded that he couldn’t do so as the Bible
doesn’t allow it,” a fellow Baptist told Forum 18. “He was sentenced and
police took him away immediately.” Two Jehovah’s Witnesses have also been
sentenced to prison in Nagorno-Karabakh this year for refusing compulsory
military service because of their religious convictions.
NAGORNO-KARABAKH: BAPTIST CONSCRIPT NOW IMPRISONED
By Felix Corley, Forum 18 News Service
Two months after a court in the unrecognised republic of Nagorno-Karabakh
in the South Caucasus gave Baptist conscript Gagik Mirzoyan a suspended
sentence for refusing to swear the military oath or bear arms because of
his religious convictions, a court has increased the penalty at the urging
of military leaders. The district court of Hadrut in south-eastern Karabakh
sentenced Mirzoyan today (5 September) to one year’s imprisonment. “This is
bad news,” Albert Voskanyan, director of the Centre for Civilian
Initiatives, told Forum 18 News Service from Karabakh’s capital
Stepanakert. “Mirzoyan is likely to be brought here to Stepanakert in the
next few days and then, it seems, to the prison in Shushi.”
Already held in Shushi prison for refusing military service on grounds of
religious conscience is Jehovah’s Witness Areg Hovhanesyan, sentenced on
16 February to four years’ imprisonment (see F18News 22 February 2005
<;). "We were there in court with Gagik's family today," a fellow-Baptist told Forum 18 from Stepanakert on 5 September. "Gagik looked well, but he was much thinner, perhaps because of all the worry over the past few months." The Baptist reported that the court told Mirzoyan that if he declared then and there he would swear the oath it would free him and send him back to his unit. "Gagik responded that he couldn't do so as the Bible doesn't allow it. He was sentenced and police took him away immediately." The Baptist, who preferred not to be named, insisted that Mirzoyan is prepared to conduct an alternative service. "He's ready to serve even in a dangerous position, such as in a frontline medical unit, as long as it is without weapons and without swearing the oath," the Baptist told Forum 18. "He believes this would be a witness for others to his faith." Mirzoyan, a Karabakh native and a member of a local congregation of the Council of Churches Baptists, was called up last December. He announced immediately that he was not able to serve with weapons or swear the military oath on grounds of religious conscience. In the wake of his conscription he was beaten up in two different military units and served 10 days in military prison (see F18News 6 January 2005 <; and 15 April 2005 < le_id=544>).
Nagorno-Karabakh has compulsory military service for all young men, with
no alternative service provision. At a trial at Hadrut district court on 7
July, Mirzoyan was found guilty under Article 364 part 1 of the criminal
code (Nagorno-Karabakh has adopted Armenia’s criminal code), which
punishes “refusal to perform one’s military duties” with detention of up
to 3 months, disciplinary battalion of up to 2 years or imprisonment of up
to 2 years. He was sentenced to two years’ imprisonment. However, the court
ruled that the sentence should be suspended under Article 70 of the
criminal code, which covers conditional punishments. Mirzoyan was then
sent back to his military unit in Hadrut district (see F18News 13 July
2005 <;). The Baptist said that conditional sentences are given so that those sentenced "think over" what they have done. "But as they saw no progress in persuading Gagik to take the oath, the military leadership appealed against his suspended sentence and the case was brought to court again." Karabakh officials have revealed to Forum 18 in recent months that letters about Mirzoyan's case had arrived in Stepanakert from around the world. Local Baptists say some 500 letters alone reached the court ahead of the 7 July trial. The Stepanakert Baptist told Forum 18 he understands that "the young state" of Nagorno-Karabakh is wary over allowing an alternative to compulsory military service as long as hostilities with the Azerbaijani government are unresolved. "There is still a state of war, and the authorities fear other people will try to follow the example of anyone allowed to do alternative service. But if such alternative service is hard and even dangerous, it will separate out those who want to do it because of their love of the Lord." Also sentenced in Karabakh this year for refusing military service on religious grounds was another Jehovah's Witness Armen Grigoryan, an Armenian citizen who had been illegally deported from Armenia to serve in Karabakh against his will. Grigoryan was returned to Armenia to serve his two year sentence (see F18News 7 July 2005 <;). Jehovah's Witness sources told Forum 18 on 26 July that Grigoryan is now being held in the prison in the town of Nubarashen close to the Armenian capital Yerevan. A printer-friendly map of the disputed enclave of Nagorno-Karabakh is available at <;Rootmap=azerba>
within the map titled ‘Azerbaijan’.
A printer-friendly map of Armenia is available at
< a&Rootmap=armeni>
(END)
© Forum 18 News Service. All rights reserved. ISSN 1504-2855
You may reproduce or quote this article provided that credit is given to
F18News
Past and current Forum 18 information can be found at

UGAB-INFOS
BULLETIN DE LIAISON DE L’UGAB-FRANCE / Septembre 2005
UGAB France
11, square Alboni, 75016 France
Tél. : 01 45 24 72 75
Fax : 01 40 50 88 09
Email : [email protected]
Le programme de stages d’été de l’UGAB à Paris : « très réussi »
L’UGAB France a clôturé le 13 août dernier son programme de stages en
entreprise à Paris dans l’enthousiasme. Lors du dîner d’adieu, tous
les stagiaires ont dit à l’UGAB combien ils ont apprécié l’occasion
qui leur a été offerte.
Les cinq stagiaires ont en effet pu travailler pendant 7 semaines
auprès d’employeurs aussi prestigieux que le Louvre, la société
internationale de recrutement Michael Page International (MPI), le
groupe hôtelier Accor ou encore la société de centres d’appel Intra
Call Centre.
Cette année, la majorité des stagiaires étaient originaires
d’Arménie. Trois d’entre eux étaient les majors de l’Université
Française d’Arménie (UFAR). Le stage à l’UGAB, qui est l’un des
éléments d’un partenariat entre l’UGAB et l’UFAR, représentait pour
eux la récompense d’un parcours universitaire hors pair. Tous les
stagiaires se sont vu confier des missions de confiance, qui leur ont
permis de tirer le meilleur parti de cette confrontation au monde de
l’entreprise.
Relancé en 2005 sur le modèle des stages de l’UGAB de New York, le
programme de stages de Paris a pour ambition de fournir à des jeunes
d’origine arménienne l’occasion d’acquérir une expérience unique dans
des entreprises de premier plan. Le programme ne pourrait pas être mis
sur pied sans l’aide de professionnels et de dirigeants d’entreprise
arméniens ou amis des Arméniens, qui contribuent à placer des
stagiaires en tenant compte de leur profil et de leur formation.
Les stagiaires ont notamment pu profiter de la Maison Arménienne de la
Cité Internationale Universitaire de Paris, où ils logeaient, et ont
bénéficié d’un programme social et culturel fourni. Plusieurs
rencontres et sorties, notamment avec les Jeunes professionnels de
l’UGAB ainsi qu’avec les jeunes de l’UGAB de Paris, leur ont permis de
faire connaissance avec les Arméniens de la capitale. Raymond
Kevorkian, directeur de la bibliothèque Nubar Pacha de l’UGAB, Vahé
Tashdjian, également de la bibliothèque Nubar Pacha et l’historien
Claude Mutafian ont tenu des conférences à leur intention sur des
sujets liés aux Arméniens de France et à l’histoire arménienne. Enfin,
les stagiaires ont pu visiter le Louvre, Montmartre, Versailles et
d’autres hauts lieux de la capitale.
L’UGAB France entend à présent réaliser une évaluation détaillée de la
campagne de stages 2005, et tiendra compte des leçons de l’expérience
dans la conception du programme 2006.
Mais deux conclusions s’imposent d’ores et déjà, si l’on en croit les
stagiaires eux-mêmes : d’une part la campagne de stages 2005 est un
succès ; d’autre part le programme de stage gagnerait à être mieux
connu.
Le programme de stages de l’UGAB est ouvert à tous les étudiants
arméniens ayant accompli au moins deux années d’études supérieures. La
brochure d’information et le formulaire d’inscription du stage se
trouvent sur <; et sur L'UGAB commémore le 95e anniversaire de la fondation du Comité de Marseille et rend hommage à Serge Tchuruk 250 personnes ont assisté au dîner de gala du 2 juillet dans les salons d'honneur de la préfecture de Marseille autour de Berge Setrakian, président mondial de l'UGAB, accompagné de son épouse et de membres du Central Board, de Denis Ketchedjian, président de l'UGAB France, également accompagné de membres du Comité de France, de Bernard Besoian, président du Comité de Marseille, et des présidents des Comités de Lyon, Valence, Saint-Etienne et Vienne. De nombreux amis de l'UGAB étaient venus spécialement des Etats-Unis, du Liban, de Syrie, de Russie et de Belgique. L'événement a été marqué en outre par des interventions de M. Serge Tchuruk, de Berge Setrakian, de Bernard Besoian, et de Christian Fremond, préfet des Bouches-du-Rhône et préfet de région. Le dîner de gala était animé par Jacky Nercessian, acteur français d'origine arménienne. Grce à l'appui de l'UGAB France et au travail remarquable du comité d'organisation et notamment de Sona Attamian et Lucie Kouyoumdjian, ce dîner de gala a été un succès remarquable. Depuis 1906 dans le monde, et depuis 1910 à Marseille, l'UGAB intervient dans les domaines culturel, éducatif et humanitaire, au service de tous les Arméniens où qu'ils soient et quels qu'ils soient. Cette action, l'UGAB la maintient constamment tout en l'adaptant aux réalités actuelles, c'est-à-dire à l'émergence, 90 ans après le génocide et l'exode, d'une génération d'Arméniens parfaitement intégrés dans leurs pays d'accueil et parvenus au sommet de l'échelle sociale mais restés fidèles à leurs racines et à leurs origines. Ce Gala a été aussi l'occasion de retracer les 95 années accomplies par l'UGAB à Marseille et la vie des Arméniens de Marseille depuis 1910. Née en Egypte en 1906, L'UGAB était en fait une organisation méditerranéenne, et Marseille fait partie de ce vaste ensemble et fut, dès les premiers jours de l'Union, une ville stratégique. L'organisation fonctionne alors comme un réseau de personnes déterminées, qui leur permet de regrouper leurs forces, d'augmenter le nombre des membres et des bienfaiteurs, et de collecter des fonds pour permettre aux Arméniens de continuer à vivre sur leurs terres ancestrales. Les premiers contacts sont pris à l'initiative d'Arathon Bay, son premier président à Marseille. A partir de 1916, Marseille devient le berceau le plus important de la diaspora arménienne en Occident, accueillant les rescapés du génocide, dont l'afflux augmente particulièrement au début des années 20. L'UGAB se consacrera dès lors entièrement à les accueillir et à faciliter leur intégration en France. Les années 20 et 30 sont des années de détresse : après avoir accueilli les Arméniens, Marseille les rejette désormais, et la xénophobie monte en Europe. Ils se regroupent par région d'origine autour de ceux qui ont pu acheter un terrain et construire une maison. Des quartiers entiers deviennent arméniens. Ce sont l'Eglise et les associations, telles que l'UGAB, qui permettent à la communauté arménienne de maintenir sa cohésion. Après la guerre, l'Union se développe rapidement et réoriente ses activités vers la préservation et la promotion de la culture et de l'éducation. Une école est fondée à la fin des années 50, et les événements culturels, les fêtes et les manifestations sportives se multiplient. L'UGAB soutient tout particulièrement l'Eglise. Le tournant suivant est amorcé à partir de 1988, du tremblement de terre et de l'indépendance de l'Arménie, et l'UGAB Marseille répond à l'urgence, puis entreprend, au cours des années 1990 et 2000, de soutenir des projets à plus long terme en Arménie, comme les centres pour enfants de l'UGAB, les « tables en Arménie » (sorte de restaurants du c=9Cur) ou des rencontres entre « enfants d'Arménie et de France ». Depuis 2003, le président de l'UGAB de Marseille, Bernard Besoian, continue d'orienter le potentiel de l'UGAB d'aujourd'hui vers la concrétisation de ses aspirations de demain. Il s'applique à mettre à profit les mutations en cours à l'heure de la mondialisation, du développement des nouvelles technologies et de la communication. Et c'est aussi par la mise en valeur de modèles comme Serge Tchuruk que l'UGAB entend contribuer, à Marseille comme ailleurs, à partager et à répandre sa passion de l'arménité et à poursuivre, avec les moyens du XXIe siècle, la mission qu'elle s'était assignée au début du XXe. Pour plus d'informations : L'UGAB Londres parraine une conférence sur le génocide arménien à la Chambre des Lords A l'occasion du 90e anniversaire du génocide, l'UGAB Londres a parrainé une conférence qui s'est tenue à la Chambre des Lords le 15 juin dernier, et intitulée `Reconnaître les génocides'. Elle était organisée par le Groupe interparlementaire britannique Royaume-Uni-Arménie (BAAPPG selon son sigle anglais). Plus de 200 personnes ont participé à l'événement, y compris parlementaires, fonctionnaires, ministres, journalistes, dirigeants communautaires et associatifs et membres de l'UGAB. Les principaux orateurs étaient Vartan Oskanian, ministres des Affaires étrangères d'Arménie, le député François Rochebloine, l'ancien parlementaire canadien et conseiller du Premier ministre canadien, Sarkis Assadourian et enfin James Smith, directeur exécutif du Holocaust Memorial Trust Beth Shalom. Tous ont exprimé le souhait que le Parlement britannique reconnaisse, lui aussi, le génocide arménien.