Think-tank predicts boost in Azeri-Iranian economic relations
Zerkalo, Baku
25 Jan 05

Excerpt from CGR analytical group report by Azerbaijani newspaper
Zerkalo on 25 January entitled “Next stage of dialogue between Baku
and Tehran”, subheaded “Cooperation between Azerbaijan and Iran plays
pivotal role in maintaining balance of forces in the region”
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev started his official visit to the
Islamic Republic of Iran yesterday [24 January]. This visit should be
considered primarily as the next stage in the dynamic development that
has been observed in recent months in the Azerbaijani-Iranian
dialogue.
As the authors of this article have written in one of their previous
reports, cooperation between Azerbaijan and Iran plays a leading role
in maintaining the balance of forces between the power centres of the
South Caucasus, and is consequently of great significance for the
security of Azerbaijan and the whole region.
We would like to concentrate on another important component of
bilateral cooperation between Azerbaijan and Iran – namely, the
possibilities for transit alternatives and transport security for
Azerbaijan.
Azerbaijan has repeatedly come under pressure from neighbouring states
on the issue of importing oil and its transport via our territory and
access to world markets.
Problems triggered by Russia in the exploitation of the northern
[Baku-Novorossiysk] oil pipeline were a real headache for Azerbaijan
before the commissioning of the Baku-Supsa oil pipeline. [Passage
omitted]
Nevertheless, we should also bear in mind that we are in a region
where the interests of various force centres clash. Our country’s very
position at the point of contact of the interests of power centres
restricts its movements and compels us to take heed of the interests
of the opposing side in the course of cooperation with neighbouring
states. First of all there is the US factor, which has had an
influence on Azerbaijan’s relations with Iran. However, if we pay heed
to the fact that the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan oil pipeline is nearing
completion, that Azerbaijan is successfully continuing integration
into the west and is a partner in the antiterror coalition, led by the
USA along with Russia and the European Union, and that a strengthening
of our southern neighbour is being observed, then it is easy to
imagine that a favourable situation for this highly important
cooperation with Iran in transport has been established.
Activities in this direction are being carried out in principle. As
Zerkalo newspaper reported, the sixth session of the
Azerbaijani-Iranian intergovernmental commission on cooperation in
economic, trade and humanitarian fields was held in Tehran on 8-9
January 2005. A memorandum, signed at the end of the session of the
commission, envisaged the development of a feasibility study of a
draft project for the construction of an Alat-Astara road. The
document also stipulated the drafting of projects for the construction
of a Qazvin-Rasht-Astara (Iran)-Astara (Azerbaijan) railway. If these
projects are successfully implemented, then the reconstruction of the
Alat-Astara road, the implementation of the Qazvin-Rasht-Astara
(Iran)-Astara (Azerbaijan) railway, and the establishment of a single
railway junction between Azerbaijan and Iran will be conducive to the
realization of the North-South transport corridor by boosting railway
transportation between Europe and South Asia. [Passage omitted]
However, all this does not mean that the important Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan
project will be put back. On the contrary, it will remain the main
export channel for Azerbaijani oil, and the Iranian route will play a
supporting role in force majeure circumstances. Such a position will
take into consideration both geopolitical factors, in particular, the
level and essence of US-Iranian relations. Thus, a marked
rapprochement and a striving for the implementation of fully-fledged
cooperation by both the Iranian and Azerbaijani sides is of
significance not only for political and economic relations between the
two countries but also for the resolution of the Armenian-Azerbaijani
conflict, securing energy and transit security for Azerbaijan, and
finally, for a strategy of maintaining a balance of forces in the
South Caucasus.

Azerbaijan should not be used against Iran – analyst
Ekspress, Baku
25 Jan 05
An Azerbaijani political analyst has said that Azerbaijan should not
be used as an instrument against Iran. In remarks to Ekspress
newspaper, Baku State University history professor Musa Qasimli said
that Azerbaijan could play a role in improving relations between Iran
and the USA. The following is an excerpt from Jala Sabirqizi and Abbas
Ali report by Azerbaijani newspaper Ekspress on 25 January headlined
“New war in the region is a threat” and subheaded “Musa Qasimli:
‘Azerbaijan may play a role in easing the tension in US-Iranian
relations'”. Subheadings inserted editorially
“President [Ilham] Aliyev’s visit to Iran is undoubtedly very
important from the viewpoint of bilateral and regional relations.
First of all, the visit lays the foundation for a new stage in the
development of Azerbaijani-Iranian relations,” said PhD in history
Musa Qasimli, professor of the department for new and modern history
of European and American countries of Baku State University, in
comments to Ekspress on the president’s official visit to the
neighbouring country.
“Bound together”
[Qasimli] Iran and Azerbaijan are bound together by religion, history,
literature, geography and a common fate for many centuries. No matter
which regime rules in that country, it needs good relations with
Azerbaijan. Our country should maintain good relations with all
countries, including Iran, at a time when a fifth of our territories
have been occupied following Armenia’s aggression against Azerbaijan.
[Interviewer] But there have been quite chilly relations between Iran
and Azerbaijan until recently. Can we expect any changes after this
visit?
[Qasimli] I think there have been both objective and subjective
reasons for these cold relations from time to time. Both sides have
created conditions for it. Nevertheless, I believe that it is
necessary to have much better relations. This visit will help resolve
some problems in bilateral relations and gradually eliminate the
chill. Opening a consulate in Tabriz [in northern Iran predominantly
populated by ethnic Azeris] was a foreign policy success after the
2003 presidential elections. Railway construction between the two
countries is also in the interests of both countries. We should not
view Iran as our enemy, and neither should Iran view us as a threat.
[Passage omitted: possible impact of visit on resolving problems of
ethnic Azeris in Iran]
Iranian-Armenian ties
[Interviewer] Can Iran’s broad economic and political relations with
Armenia be identified as an obstacle to the development of
Iranian-Azerbaijani relations?
[Qasimli] Some issues should be openly declared. One million
Azerbaijani Muslims have become refugees after Armenia occupied a
fifth of Azerbaijani territories. It is not good for Iran, which has
undertaken to defend the rights of world Muslims in its foreign policy
and declared itself to be an Islamic republic, to cooperate with
occupying Armenia. It deals a blow to our bilateral relations. If Iran
were faithful to the principles it has declared, it would never
establish relations with and help Armenia. Iran is like a small window
for Armenia today. If they did not have close cooperation and Iran did
not help Armenia economically, Armenia would probably not reach its
current level and continue the occupation of Azerbaijani lands.
Security issues
[Interviewer] Iran and Azerbaijan have recently signed a security
treaty. What do you think motivated it? Was it because of the
appearance of new nuances in bilateral relations or the threat of US
attacks on Iran?
[Qasimli] To begin with, if Azerbaijan and Iran border on each other,
they should have common security issues. Therefore, security treaties
are important. As for US-Iranian relations, Azerbaijan’s foreign
policy priority is to integrate into the Euroatlantic space. The USA
is our strategic partner, while Iran should be our kind neighbour. I
think Azerbaijan may play a role in easing the tension in US-Iranian
relations. The president’s visit to Iran may lead to a thaw in
US-Iranian relations.
I believe that a new war in the region is a threat, especially one
with such a big country as Iran. Most of those who will suffer in
Iran, where 30 million ethnic Azerbaijanis live, may be Azerbaijanis.
I do not believe that the press reports about the possibility of the
USA’s hitting Iran will come true under the current circumstances,
because this is against US interests. Washington is competing with the
EU, while Europe’s economic centres are closely cooperating with
Iran. I think they will also have some influence in the improvement of
US-Iranian relations. Iran, for its part, should firmly reject
supporting terrorism and stop its nuclear programmes.
[Interviewer] If this threat against Iran is realized, what position
should Azerbaijan take?
[Qasimli] As an independent state Azerbaijan should not become an
instrument for any country or group of countries in relation to
Iran. Our foreign policy should be balanced and each country should
have its place there. At the same time, Azerbaijan should continue to
be in the antiterrorism coalition as a country that has suffered from
terrorism and aggression. It would not be reasonable to predict how
developments will unfold in the future. I think the USA and Iran will
try to resolve these issue by peaceful means. If the USA is our
strategic partner, Iran is our neighbour. In any case, peoples should
live in a kind neighbourhood and should not use their territory
against each other.

ARMENIA THIS WEEK
Monday, January 24, 2005

In this issue:

Armenian government posts economic scorecard for 2004
Governing coalition, opposition in talks over constitution reform

ARMENIA POSTS STRONG ECONOMIC GAINS FOR 2004
Armenia’s main economic index, the Gross Domestic Product (GDP),
increased by over 10 percent last year, the preliminary data of the
National Statistics Service showed, a fourth consecutive year of
double-digit growth. Armenia registered overall economic progress
despite a shortfall in diamond-cutting, a major industry, and conclusion
of the multi-million-dollar infrastructure projects funded by the
U.S.-based Lincy Foundation. The overall GDP now totals over $3.5
billion, which is roughly where it stood prior to the economic collapse
of the early 1990s.

Construction, agriculture and electricity generation posted the
strongest figures of all economic sectors, growing by 17, 15 and 10
percent year-on-year, respectively. Overall industrial output increased
by two percent, reflecting decline in diamond-cutting and stoppages at
major industrial enterprises. Exports increased by four percent to $715
million. Twenty-five European Union countries accounted for 36.5 percent
of Armenia’s external trade, with Russia’s share decreasing to 12.5
percent. Armenia’s trade with Georgia grew by 50 percent, the highest
such increase with any one country, following the anti-corruption
crackdown by the new administration of President Mikhail Saakashvili.

The Statistics Service also reported a 23 percent increase in average
incomes, now standing at just over $100 in the private sector and about
half that in the smaller public sector, and registered unemployment
falling from 9.7 to 9.3 percent of the labor force. The unemployment
figures have been disputed by a recent poll held by the
Armenian-European Policy and Legal Advice Center (AEPLAC) which found
that more than 20 percent of respondents “could not find a job.” At the
same time, Armenia’s Labor Minister Aghvan Vartanian recently suggested
that at least 130,000 Armenians were employed unofficially, with their
employers seeking to avoid tax and social security payments. President
Robert Kocharian has recently pledged to crack down on this practice.
(Sources: Armenia This Week 11-8; Arminfo 1-20; RFE/RL Armenia Report
1-20, 21)

COALITION MAJORITY, OPPOSITION TO DISCUSS CONSTITUTIONAL REFORM
Armenia’s main opposition groups last week submitted a set of proposals
for reforming the Armenian Constitution, which the coalition majority
leaders said would be seriously considered. Proposals submitted on
behalf of the opposition Justice Bloc and National Unity Party mark a
turnaround in their refusal to cooperate with the governing coalition
following the end of opposition-led street protests last June. Armenia’s
President Robert Kocharian has long pledged to reform the 1995 Armenian
Constitution, seen as giving too many powers to the President, but a
government-backed referendum held in May 2003 failed to garner
sufficient votes.

According to media reports, the opposition reform package would
strengthen parliamentary oversight of the government, limit the
president’s authority to appoint and dismiss judges and make the Yerevan
mayor an elected official. The joint opposition proposal is the fourth
such reform package. Last year, the coalition majority comprising the
Republican and Country of Law Parties and the Armenian Revolutionary
Federation (Dashnaktsutiun), the United Labor Party led by businessman
Gurgen Arsenian and a member of the Justice Bloc Arshak Sadoyan had
submitted their respective proposals.

The Council of Europe’s Venice Commission, which has long worked with
Armenia on constitutional reform, last month published an “interim
opinion” concluding that the coalition and Arsenian proposals represent
an overall improvement over the Constitution in force, but would need
further work to fully correspond to European standards of power-sharing
and human rights. Sadoyan’s proposal was criticized as containing
“provisions that cannot be realistically implemented in practice.” The
Parliament is now expected to work out a compromise constitutional
reform draft to be voted on a popular referendum, possibly later this
year.

Also in recent weeks, Nagorno Karabakh President Arkady Ghoukasian
reshuffled his cabinet, dismissing the education minister, a senior
member of the local branch of Dashnaktsutiun. The move led to a falling
out with the party, which backed Ghoukasian’s re-election bid in 2002.
Last August, a Dashnak-backed parliamentarian defeated a pro-government
candidate in elections for Stepanakert mayor. Local observers see these
developments as setting the stage for a tough contest during Karabakh
parliamentary elections due later this year. Pro-Ghoukasian Democratic
Artsakh Union currently has a majority in the 33-seat Karabakh
legislature, with Dashanks forming the second largest faction. (Sources:
Armenia This Week 6-18, 8-23; ; RFE/RL Armenia
Report 12-29, 1-7, 1-17, 21; Hayakakan Zhamanak 1-18, 19; Arminfo 1-20,
21; Noyan Tapan 1-18, 20)

A WEEKLY NEWSLETTER PUBLISHED BY THE ARMENIAN ASSEMBLY OF AMERICA
122 C Street, N.W., Suite 350, Washington, D.C. 20001 (202) 393-3434 FAX
(202) 638-4904
E-Mail [email protected] WEB
From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress

ASBAREZ ONLINE
TOP STORIES
01/24/2005
TO ACCESS PREVIOUS ASBAREZ ONLINE EDITIONS PLEASE VISIT OUR
WEBSITE AT <;HTTP:// 1) ARF Celebrates over a Century of Service to Armenians Worldwide 2) Rep. Linda Sanchez Latest Addition to Congressional Armenian Caucus 3) US Ambassador Evans Comments on Jones's Statement 4) Council of Europe Defames Armenia 1) ARF Celebrates over a Century of Service to Armenians Worldwide GLENDALE--The Southern California Armenian community, along with the faithful from as far away as Fresno, gathered in Glendale, California on January 22 to celebrate the anniversary of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF), founded in 1890. Glendale High School's auditorium was packed with about 2,000 supporters who came to mark the venerable organization's unwavering commitment and dedication to the Armenian people for more than a hundred years, through thick and thin. The Homenetmen regional band, along with the scouts of its Ararat chapter, opened the program with the flag ceremony, followed by the performances of the American national anthem by Nanor Hindoyan, and the Armenian and ARF anthems by Nersik Ispiryan. Honored guests included Western Region Prelate Archbishop Mousegh Mardirossian and Primate Archbishop Hovnan Derderian and former Primate Vatche Hovsepian, representatives of the Armenian Catholic and Evangelical churches, Armenia's Consul General in the US Gagik Kirakossian, ARF Bureau representative Hrant Margarian, Bureau member Dr. Vicken Hovsepian, as well as representatives of the ADL (Ramgavar party), AGBU, ARS, Hamazkayin, Homenetmen, and other representatives of various organizations and the media. Speaking on behalf of the organizing committee, Vasken Madenlian conveyed welcoming remarks and served as the evening's emcee. Subsequent speakers included Melanie Vartabedian of the Armenian Youth Federation, Anahit Stepanian of the ARF Central Committee, as well as keynote speaker ARF Bureau representative Hrant Margarian. Margarian began, noting that for decades on, when commemorating the anniversary of the ARF, these events serve as an opportunity to be accountable to the public. Addressing current fundamental changes and unfolding of strategic situations throughout the world, Margarian stressed that numerous important political and international advancements were registered during the past year. "In the case of Armenia, these advancements have come in the social, domestic-political, economic sectors, and in foreign policy; there has also been progress in Armenia-diaspora relations, in the advancement of the Armenian case, pan-Armenian, as well in the development of pan-diasporan community relations." As far as ARF's role and activity in carrying out vital social and economic reforms in Armenia, Margarian noted that the ARF's role as a government coalition partner is not a self-serving one, and stressed that its participation does not imply that the Tashnagtsutiun is fully content with the government's activities. "Rather, as a coalition partner, the Tashnagtsutiun strives to guarantee that the government works toward maintaining and continuing reform programs. It serves to ensure that the government's fight against corruption and bribery are more forceful, and that it more effectively pursues the shaping of civil and public sectors, the implementation of democratic ideals, and preservation of national harmony." In order to effectively tackle the country's widespread corruption, the ARF, revealed Margarian, urged the Armenian government to join Council of Europe's Group of States against Corruption (GRECO). As a result, Armenia became the 37th member, agreeing to adopt a strategic plan of action to stamp out corruption, and indicating its clear-cut political will to integrate European standards into society. Armenia's membership, he stressed, also presumes legislative commitments, and a multidisciplinary approach to fighting corruption that includes cross-border cooperation between states and international institutions. In summary, Margarian stated that for the ARF, priority lies in pursuit of issues tied to Armenia's security. "The ARF cannot win when the people of Armenia and our nation are under threat. During these times, the ARF, when considering its political goals, simply cannot assume the role of a spectator." He said that the ARF will continue to fight--at all cost and available means, to establish democracy in Armenia and in eliminating poverty and corruption. Margarian also spoke of recent upheavals in the South Caucuses, as well as the effects of foreign intervention and policy on the region, specifically Armenia. He said that the opposition in Armenia, inspired by developments in Georgia, attempted to seize power, creating instability, and threatening not only the situation in Mountainous Karabagh Republic, but also developments and advancements in Armenia. Margarian stressed that the ARF immediately called for negotiations between the government and the opposition to maintain internal stability. Although the opposition rejected all offers, the efforts and propositions of the ARF nevertheless helped in quelling internal crisis. And as a result of that policy, the party today enjoys a certain political authority, leverage, and respect by the authorities, opposition organizations, political forces, as well as international and diplomatic representatives operating in Armenia, he said. On Mountainous Karabagh Republic (MKR), Margarian emphasized that the commitment of the diaspora to the issue, and the involvement of all Armenians are guarantees that our victories there will be preserved and strengthened. He affirmed ARF's commitment to its fundamental views in establishing a resolution to the conflict--according to which, and also legally--MKR must be a part of the Republic of Armenia. On the issue of Javakhk, a majority Armenian populated region of Georgia, Margarian said that Georgia is obliged to practically display its commitment to lifting not only its biased policy in the region, but one that has neglected the economic and basic social needs of the population. Margarian noted the importance of commemorating the 90th anniversary of the genocide of Armenians by Turkey, saying, "Armenians must once again convey their condemnation of that act against humanity--stressing to the world that there will never be forgiveness without repentance and just compensation. Only then can there be normalization of Armenian-Turkish relations, and only then can progress be registered." 2) Rep. Linda Sanchez Latest Addition to Congressional Armenian Caucus --Two term Congresswoman has been active on Genocide Recognition and US-Armenia Economic Relations Issues GLENDALE--Southern California Democrat Linda Sanchez (39th Dist.) is the most recent in a line of Representatives who have become members of the Congressional Armenian Caucus. She joins Representatives Ben Chandler (R-KY), Raul Grijalva (D-AZ), Jerry Moran (R-KS), and Joe Schwarz (R-MI), all of whom have added their names to the Caucus over the past three weeks. Since her election to Congress in 2002, Rep. Sanchez has consistently been active on issues of concern to the Armenian American community. In the 108th Congress, she was a cosponsor of a measure, which granted permanent normal trade relations status (PNTR) to Armenia. She has also been vocal in urging President Bush to properly commemorate the Armenian genocide, joining over 160 of her colleagues in cosigning letters to the President regarding the topic in April 2003 and 2004. `We appreciate Rep. Linda Sanchez's leadership and advocacy on issues of concern to her Armenian American constituency,' commented ANCA Western Region Executive Director Ardashes Kassakhian. `It is through exemplary leadership like hers that we will see the membership of the Congressional Caucus on Armenian issues continue to grow.' An attorney by profession prior to her election to office, Rep. Sanchez currently serves on the House Government Reforms, Small Business and Judiciary Committees. She convincingly defeated Republican Tim Escobar in the 2004 Congressional elections, garnering 61% of the vote. Established in 1995 and co-chaired by Representatives Frank Pallone (D-NJ) and Joe Knollenberg (R-MI), the Congressional Armenian Caucus is a bipartisan forum for the discussion of policies to foster increased cooperation between the United States and Armenian governments and to strengthen the enduring bonds between the American and Armenian peoples. 3) US Ambassador Evans Comments on Jones's Statement YEREVAN (Arminfo)--In an interview broadcast by TV Company Armenia, US Ambassador to Armenia John Evans stated, `I know what criminal elements US Assistant Secretary of the State Elizabeth Jones was referring to and do not think the matter concerned Nagorno-Karabakh.' According to the ambassador, the US's position on Karabagh, which calls for a peaceful settlement to the conflict, remains unchanged. `I have known her for almost 30 years as a professional diplomat and when I first read about her statement, I thought immediately: something is wrong here,' commented Evans. Jones's intent, according to Evans, is to create closer cooperation between the US and Russia in resolving the conflicts in Abkhazia, Transdnesitria, and Mountainous Karabagh. `I know the geography [of the region] and I don't think that the matter concerned Nagorno Karabakhwe know what districts and elements she meant,' the American diplomat said. Evans also added that the US has for several years now allocated support to Mountainous Karabagh, and those who misinterpret Jones's statement are attempting to damage US-Armenia relations. 4) Council of Europe Defames Armenia STRASBOURG--The European Armenian Federation announced over the weekend that the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) is on the verge of adopting two resolutions, one questioning the independent status of the Mountainous Karabagh Republic (MKR), and the other excluding the Armenian genocide day of remembrance from the European calendar. PACE members will determine the fate of both resolutions on Tuesday. Prepared by David Atkinson (Democrat) from the United Kingdom, the resolution dealing with MKR notes that `considerable parts of the territory of Azerbaijan are still occupied by Armenian forces' and that `separatist forces are still in control of the Nagorno-Karabakh region.' Full of incendiary language, the resolution also describes MKR as a mono-ethnic area `which [evokes] the terrible concept of ethnic cleansing.' `The Atkinson report is the report of Azerbaijan. This country believes that shifting the institutional framework will turn its crimes into virtues. Attempts of ethnic cleansing actually occurred but, contrary to Mr. Atkinson insinuations, it was the policy led by Baku,' declared Laurent Leylekian, executive director of the European Armenian Federation. `Without the fight for self-determination led by the people of Karabagh, theses historically Armenian territories would no longer house Armenians, as is the case today in the region of Nakhitchevan or throughout the areas of Eastern Turkey,' Leylekian added. On Tuesday, parliamentarians will also vote on a resolution drafted by Sweden's Mats Einarsson (United Left), which calls for the `establishment of a European remembrance center for victims of forced population movements and ethnic cleansing.' In its current form, the resolution cites several examples of genocides perpetrated during the twentieth century, including the Holocaust organized by the Nazis, the forced migrations directed by Stalin, and the genocide of the Ukrainians. It, however, deliberately omits mention of the Armenian genocide. `How can we grant credibility to an institution which supports such a biased lecture of history?' questioned Leylekian. `By taking cues from Turkey, the Council of Europe is making itself party to a second symbolic murder of the Armenians of Anatolia and Western Armenia. Such a move, taken by an institution which claims to serve as the guardian of human rights in Europe, is simply pathetic.' The European Armenian Federation has called upon European citizens and organizations to intervene in the matter, by urging their PACE representatives to vote against the two resolutions. A complete list of PACE parliamentarians is available online at 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.

Council of Europe adopts resolution on Armenian-Azeri conflict
ANS TV, Baku
25 Jan 05
[Presenter in studio] The discussions on the Nagornyy Karabakh
conflict at the winter session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the
Council of Europe [PACE] came to an end about two hours ago. The
participants in the session heard David Atkinson’s report on the
conflict. Our special correspondent Ayaz Mirzayev reports from
Strasbourg.
[Correspondent by telephone] The resolution prepared on the basis of
British MP David Atkinson’s report on the Nagornyy Karabakh conflict
has been unanimously adopted by the Parliamentary Assembly of the
Council of Europe [PACE]. No amendment, proposed by the Armenian side,
was made to the phrase separatist forces in the document. We should
note that the opposite side claimed that the use of this term in the
document was an affront to Armenia and Nagornyy Karabakh’s Armenian
community and tried very hard to get the word freedom fighters used in
the document instead of separatist forces.
Before the session, the political committee even adopted a decision to
make this amendment. However, during the vote at the session, the
Azerbaijani and Turkish parliamentarians spoke out against this
amendment. The head of the Azerbaijani delegation, Samad Seyidov, said
in his speech that only the Armenian lobby was against the adoption of
the resolution and a speedy solution to the problem. They do not want
the resolution to be adopted and the conflict to be solved on the
basis of international law.
After heated discussions, even the political committee, which had
agreed to make this amendment, had to change its decision. During the
general vote, the overwhelming majority spoke out against the
amendment. In general, only two changes were adopted to the resolution
during the vote. One of them says that Azerbaijan should conduct
consultations with both the Armenian and Azerbaijani communities
without any preconditions. The resolution also appeals to
Secretary-General of the Parliamentary Assembly Terry Davis to hold
these consultations in Strasbourg. The other amendment is of a
technical nature. Samad Seyidov, head of the Azerbaijani delegation,
said that the resolution is of very special importance to
Azerbaijan. It shows that European countries already recognize Armenia
as an aggressor and acknowledge that Nagornyy Karabakh is still
controlled by separatist forces.
As for the other points of the resolution, they say that the sides
should not resort to a military solution, the Azerbaijani government
should establish ties with both communities of the region in order to
hold consultations on the future status of Nagornyy Karabakh and
should appeal to an international criminal court if it is impossible
to solve the conflict.
At the same time, the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe
decided to keep this issue at the centre of attention and return to it
at the January 2006 session.
Ayaz Mirzayev, ANS, Strasbourg.

Yerevan: We Recognize the Kars Agreement
By Cumali Onal, Suleyman Kurt
Published: Tuesday 25, 2005
zaman.com
In an interview with Zaman, Armenian Foreign Minister Vartan Oskanyan
has recognized the Kars Agreement, stipulated by Ankara.
The Armenian Minister said that Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip
Erdogan’s remarks about the Kars Agreement determining the borders
between the two countries were surprising for them. Saying that no
Armenian leaders had made any statements denying Yerevan’s recognition
of the Kars Agreement so far, Oskanyan added: “Armenia is a country
which is a continuation of the Soviet Union. All agreements signed
between the Soviet Union and third countries are valid.”
A high level Turkish diplomat interpreted Oskanyan’s remarks as
“opportunism”. The diplomat said: “There are some expressions in the
Armenian Constitution and the Declaration of Independence which use
the expression “Western Armenia” for Turkey’s eastern regions and Agri
Mountain is also registered in the state emblem. Secondly, they have
made no concrete steps to withdraw from the Azerbaijani territories
that they occupied and the Armenian diaspora continues to accuse
Turkey of genocide. If we are talking about compromise, concrete steps
should be taken on those three areas.” Prime Minister Erdogan raised
the subject of the Kars Agreement after his Moscow trip on January 12,
saying that Yerevan should take the first step on the issue of
Turkey’s opening the Armenian border.
Oskanyan answered questions from Zaman on various issues ranging from
the Kars Agreement to so-called genocide claims.
Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan explaining that Armenia
does not recognize the Kars Treaty, said “If they say ‘I don’t
recognize it,’ then, in that case, don’t get upset, we won’t recognize
it, either.” Those are the expressions he used. Why don’t you
recognize the Treaty of Kars?
The PM’s statement about the Kars Treaty really surprised me.
Government of Armenia has made no statements saying we don’t recognize
it. We are the successor states of the Soviet Union. All of the
agreements, which the Soviet Union signed, continue to be in force
unless new agreements have been signed to replace them, or unless
statements have been made about not recognizing those agreements.
What is your view on Turkish condition for Armenia to end occupation
in Azerbaijani land?
Turkey can’t try to simplify the Nagorno Karabakh issue so much that
it reduces it to a territorial problem, independent of all other
issues. This is a comprehensive issue, and includes many elements such
as territories, refugees, security, and stability. Until the Nagorno
Karabakh issue arose between Azerbaijan and Armenians, there was no
Azerbaijani territory under Armeniancontrol. Those territories came
under Armenian control after the Nagorno Karabakh issue came to the
fore. The Turkish side is confusing cause and consequence. By
separating cause from consequence, you can’t solve this problem. At
the heart of the problem, is that Azerbaijan doesn’t deal with the
fundamental core issue. That is why Turkey can’t turn the territories
issue into a precondition. It’s not that we’re not for finding a
solution. But we want the issue to be looked at in its totality.
What do you say about Turkey’s mediation? By the same token, should
Russia have become a mediator?
Turkey cannot be a mediator in the Nagorno Karabakh resolution
process, because it is biased. Russia, on the other hand, has no
preconditions for a resolution. And it is not biased. But Turkey comes
forward, at every opportunity, from its one-sided position. If Turkey
reviews its policy toward Armenia, establishes full diplomatic
relations, and develops good relations equal tothose it has with
Azerbaijan, then, Turkey’s mediation would be very effective. Turkey
always proposes mediation. Although we have regular bilateral
meetings, without any problems, however, the matter of mediation is
different.
Russia and Turkey’s joint act on the issue does not help for solution
How does a joint cooperation between Ankara and Russia affect the
solution?
We have no problems with the fact that we are on the agenda of both
countries. However, I don’t believe that the combined efforts of the
two countries would aid in the resolution process.
One fifth of Azerbaijani land is under Armenian occupation. When will
you end this?
Nagorno Karabakh has always been Armenian territory. As for the other
regions, that is a matter between Nagorno Karabakh and Azerbaijan. In
the Soviet Union, Nagorno Karabakh was included within Azerbaijan.
When war erupted between Nagorno Karabakh and Azerbaijan, it is
natural that Armenia helped Nagorno Karabakh. The fundamental reason
that there are negotiations being conducted between Armenia and
Azerbaijan is that Azerbaijan refuses to negotiate with Nagorno
Karabakh.
Years ago, you put Genocide assertions on the agenda. In that regard,
you are also trying to receive the assistance of the West, led by the
US. What is your intent? Are you trying to grab territory from Turkey,
or to receive compensation?
Take a look at the map please. Turkey’s geography, economy, and
population are obvious. Armenia on the other hand is a small and poor
country. On the Armenian foreign policy agenda, there is no reference
to territories or compensation. Our foreign policy goal is
international recognition of the Armenian Genocide, together with
recognition by Turkey. What happened in 1915 is quite obviously
Genocide. Turks have differing opinions about that. Let’s let people
openly discuss this issue. We are democratic societies. There is no
need to become concerned that Armenia is trying to place this issue on
other countries’ agendas. Turks, too, can lobby in different
countries, work with them. However, Armenia absolutely does not view
this as a precondition for the improvementof relations with Turkey. We
have never said that Turkey first acknowledges the Genocide. We could
have resolved the matter through dialogue, had there been diplomatic
relations between the two countries. How are we to resolve this issue?
Since we’re not able to resolve it at the governmental level, then
there are efforts to seek solutions at other levels, through other
channels.
According to you, will Turkey’s entry into the EU facilitate this
claim?
Today, there are two important problems between Armenia and Turkey:
opening the border, and Genocide. For the improvement of relations,
Genocide recognition is not a precondition but open borders
automatically are. No one can insist that there can be normal
relations between two countries if the border between them is
closed. However, even without Genocide recognition, it is possible to
normalize relations. The Genocide is a moral, broader issue. The EU,
too, would like for Turkey to recognize the Genocide at some stage in
the process. We hope that these matters will be included in the agenda
for negotiations between Turkey and the EU to begin later this year.
But on the border issue, we can’t wait 10-15 years or longer, for
Turkey to be accepted into the EU, for there to be some positive
movement. We hope that very soon, Turkey will open the border.
Armenians living in Turkey accuse the Armenians of the Diaspora for
insisting on Genocide recognition. Where does Armenia take place in
this discussion?
It is natural that the Armenians of the Diaspora would more frequently
raise the issue. They are the descendants of the Genocide survivors.
Their grandfathers were pushed to the Syrian deserts, to the Arab
countries, and from there, they moved on to Europe and the US. They
grew up listening to the elders telling stories of the Genocide. But,
this isn’t just their issue; it’s also Armenia’s issue. There is no
difference between them.
There is nothing left for historians to discuss about
If the issue is first discussed by historians and specialists, and
they find some common ground, wouldn’t that ease the process?
There is nothing new to say on this. There are countless studies on
the subject and the events of 1915 have very clearly emerged. If the
historians were to gather again, no one’s point of view would change.
The specialists have been working. They’re done with their work. Now,
it is essential that the Turkish government enter into this discussion.
Why are we afraid of these discussions? Today, around the world,
there are many countries with similar problems. Japan and South Korea,
South Korea and China, Japan and the US, the US and Mexico, and
others. These countries continue to have relations with each other,
even as they continue to discuss these events. And they have fine
relations.
Cairo, Ankara

EU envoy urges Armenia, Georgia to put forward joint regional initiatives
Mediamax news agency
25 Jan 05
YEREVAN
Issues relating to the preparation of an Individual Action Plan as
part of the European [Union’s] New Neighbourhood Policy were discussed
in Yerevan today by the Armenian deputy foreign minister, Ruben
Shugaryan, and the special representative of the European Union in the
South Caucasus, Ambassador Heikki Talvitie.
Heikki Talvitie expressed his confidence that work on the Individual
Action Plan would be completed this year so that it could be adopted
in 2006, the press service of the Foreign Ministry has told Mediamax.
Shugaryan and Talvitie said the document, together with the
Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA), would serve as an
effective framework for Armenia’s integration into the European Union.
Ambassador Talvitie suggested that Armenia capitalize on the
opportunities presented by the New Neighbourhood Policy by putting
forward new programmes involving regional cooperation. Namely, the EU
representative said it might be a good idea to initiate some joint
Armenian-Georgian programmes in the first stage. He said their
successful implementation could facilitate the development of new
regional initiatives.
Ruben Shugaryan and Heikki Talvitie also exchanged opinions on
regional problems and discussed ways of securing a negotiated
settlement of the Nagornyy Karabakh conflict.

“NEW TIMES” PARTY PROTESTS AGAINST ARREST OF LEADER OF PARTY
“ARMENIAN-ARYAN ORDER”
YEREVAN, JANUARY 25. ARMINFO. Party “New Times” protests against the
arrest of the leader of the party “Armenian-aryan order” Armen
Avetisian. It is said in the statement of the party New Times provided
to ARMINFO Tuesday.
The authors of the statement think that the arrest of Armen Avetisian
bears a political hidden reason and is an order of the authorities.
According to the statement, the true reason of the arrest of Armen
Avetisian is not he anti-Semite statements, as it is officially
motivated, but his speeches against introduction of the system of
social cards in the republic and threats to publish the names of the
representatives of the power who have non-traditional sexual
orientation.
From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress

E-GOVERNMENT INTRODUCTION IN ARMENIA TO BE STARTED FROM FOREIGN
MINISTRY
YEREVAN, JANUARY 25. ARMINFO. A pilot project of e-government is being
carried out in Armenia’s Foreign Ministry under the EU IT. Am program,
says the program director Antony Jagus.
The project will be finished in a year. If successful this model will
be applied to the whole Armenian Government. The project envisions
creating a modern computer network, installing necessary equipment,
retraining FM employees. The best example of e-government in FM is the
issuance of e-visas. The next step is e-certificate of no previous
conviction for those seeking jobs abroad. This phase is to be carried
out together with Justice Ministry. For this purpose the computer
networks of the two ministries will be united. The FM’s experience
will be applied to the whole government structure. Officials from
different ministries are now being trained in England under the
program.
Jagus says that the Armenian authorities are actively promoting the
e-government introduction into the executive power. He hopes that the
demonstration of the pilot project results will stimulate the whole
process.
The other bloc of the IT.Am program envisions technically modernizing
the European Regional Institute of Information Technologies of
Armenia, creating a modern academic network and drafting a flexible IT
education program there to allow to train necessary e-government
specialists. This education system will timely react to changes on the
market and will be open for novelties in the sphere. The two blocs of
the program cost a total of 1.2 mln EUR.

BULGARIA ADVOCATES PEACEFUL SETTLEMENT OF KARABAKH CONFLICT
YEREVAN, JANUARY 25. ARMINFO,. Bulgaria advocates peaceful settlement
of the Karabakh conflict, Bulgarian MP Remzi Osman said during the
Monday meeting of Bulgarian and Azeri MPs.
Bulgaria advocates peaceful settlement of all conflicts including the
Karabakh one. “We pray that this conflict be settled by our next
meeting,” Osman said.
The member of the Azeri-Bulgarian parliamentary friendship group Elman
Mamedov urged the Bulgarian MPs to take up a fair position on the
issue. “I don’t say that Bulgaria should support Azerbaijan in he
settlement but your country should assume a fair position on the issue
which will contribute to its early resolutions.”
Mamedov reminded the Bulgarian MPs that the UN has made 4 resolutions
on the issue which “the Armenian side ignores.” “The UN in its turn
closes its eyes on this negligence. This is inadmissible.”