The Associated Press State & Local Wire
March 19, 2004, Friday, BC cycle
Church’s former priest admits tax fraud
ALBANY, N.Y.
The former priest of an upstate church has pleaded guilty to tax
fraud, admitting he failed to report to the Internal Revenue Service
the church funds that he deposited in a private account for his own
use.
Megerdich Megerdichian, 47, of Cranston, R.I., faces up to three
years in prison, a fine up to $250,000 and restitution to the IRS of
the $9,442 tax underpayment, according to U.S. Attorney Glenn
Suddaby. Sentencing is scheduled July 14 in federal court
Megerdichian was the priest at Holy Cross Armenian Apostolic Church
in Troy for about 16 years until his removal in 1998, according to
Suddaby. Two years later, he repaid the church funds, which had come
from various sources including congregation members.

The New York Times
March 19, 2004, Friday, Late Edition – Final
Georgian Leader to Lift Economic Blockade of Province
By SETH MYDANS
TBILISI, Georgia
President Mikhail Saakashvili said Thursday that he had won important
concessions from the leader of the renegade province of Adzharia and
would lift a four-day-old economic blockade.
“The sanctions will be lifted from midnight tonight because we have
resolved all the issues which led to this misunderstanding between
the local administration and the Georgian government,” he said after
meeting with the leader, Aslan Abashidze, in the provincial capital,
Batumi.
“I want to underline that there is no conflict with Adzharia, and
such a conflict cannot be,” Mr. Saakashvili said.
The deal defuses a crisis that was touched off Sunday when armed men
supporting Mr. Abashidze refused to allow the president to enter
Adzharia.
Mr. Saakashvili placed Georgian troops on alert. Mr. Abashidze
declared a state of emergency in his fiefdom and sent armed men into
the streets.
The standoff threatened to have international repercussions as
officials from Russia, which has a military base in Adzharia,
expressed support for Mr. Abashidze.
According to wire service reports from Batumi, Mr. Abashidze will
allow parliamentary elections to proceed on March 28, review the
cases of imprisoned opponents and disarm his paramilitary militias.
Officials from the central government in Tbilisi will be based in
Batumi to ensure that the government receives customs duties that Mr.
Abashidze had withheld in the past, the reports said.
Mr. Abashidze later said, “The meeting showed that there are no
issues that cannot be resolved.”
The specifics of the agreements were not made public, and it was not
clear how much Mr. Abashidze surrendered of the economic and military
control he had exercised for years in the manner of what Mr.
Saakashvili had called “a feudal chief from medieval times.”
Political analysts here said it appeared that the president had
earned at least short-term concessions from Mr. Abashidze that would
allow the election to proceed and supporters of the central
government to campaign.
Mr. Abashidze has harassed and arrested opponents and made it almost
impossible for supporters of the central government to campaign or
move freely.
Mr. Saakashvili has said Mr. Abashidze’s “time is past” and analysts
said it was difficult to see how a compromise could be reached that
would allow him to remain in office. He was one of the last
supporters of the former president, Eduard A. Shevardnadze, who was
driven from office last November in a peaceful uprising led by Mr.
Saakashvili.
Before traveling to Batumi on Thursday morning, Mr. Saakashvili had
sounded a tough note, saying, “I am not going to be horse-trading
with anyone or meeting anyone halfway. The law should be observed
across all of Georgia’s territory. We are not doing any deals.”
He added, “We are speaking here about my subordinate.”
The meeting in Batumi was accompanied by televised scenes of Mr.
Abashidze’s supporters chanting, “Babu! Babu!”, which means
“grandfather,” and other protesters in the distance chanting Mr.
Saakashvili’s nickname, “Misha! Misha!”
The blockade, which began Monday, was causing economic disruption in
neighboring Turkey and Armenia and particularly in Azerbaijan, where
thousands of rail cars carrying oil to the port at Batumi were
stranded.

GRAPHIC: Photo: President Mikhail Saakashvili of Georgia, center,
addressed supporters yesterday at a rally in Batumi, the provincial
capital of Adzharia. (Photo by Agence France-Presse–Getty Images);

Map of Georgia highlighting Batumi: Georgian officials will monitor
customs collections in Batumi.

Associated Press Worldstream
March 19, 2004 Friday 12:08 PM Eastern Time
Three civilians killed in latest mine explosion in Nagorno-Karabakh
YEREVAN, Armenia
A jeep of hunters driving in the contested Nagorno-Karabakh enclave
hit an anti-tank mine that killed three civilians and wounded another
six, a demining organization said Friday.
The explosion happened Sunday evening, the office of London-based
HALO trust in Nagorno-Karabakh’s regional capital Stepanakert said.
Nagorno-Karabakh remains laced with mines from the war that left
ethnic Armenian forces in control of the enclave within Azerbaijan. A
cease-fire between the two former Soviet republics was signed in
1994, but the enclave’s political status is unresolved and Armenian
and Azeri forces face off across a demilitarized zone.
Inlcuding the latest explosion, HALO said seven civilians have died
in Nagorno-Karabakh this year. Nine people died in 2003.

ARKA News Agency
March 19 2004
RA President receives administration of RA Police
Mass media did not become business in Armenia – trustee of National
Press Club
Goal of European Commission in Armenia is to assist the development
of democracy
Armenia places 107th in the list of 121 states on representation of
women in the Parliament
*********************************************************************
RA PRESIDENT RECEIVES ADMINISTRATION OF RA POLICE
YEREVAN, March 19. /ARKA/. RA President Robert Kocharian received
administration of RA police, President’s Press Office told ARKA. The
parties discussed activity of the system. L.D. –0–
*********************************************************************
MASS MEDIA DID NOT BECOME BUSINESS IN ARMENIA – TRUSTEE OF NATIONAL
PRESS CLUB
YEREVAN, March 19. /ARKA/. Mass media did not become business in
Armenia, Trustee of National Press Club of Armenia Narine Dilbarian
stated at the forum dedicated to international women month. According
to her, it is the biggest obstacle on the way of provision of
independence of Armenian press. She said that due to this reason many
mass media look for shadow resources of financing and lose their
independence. At this, according to Dilbarian, most difficult is
provision of independence of electronic mass media, as they need
large financial spendings. In accordance to that she offered to
change grant policy of European and American organizations, by
directing grants to separate mass media.
She also mentioned the adoption of RA Government’s decision on
accreditation of journalists in state bodies.
Forum dedicated to international women month organized by US Embassy
to Armenia PR Department. The goal of the forum in discussion of role
of women in external policy, business, press and law-enforcement
bodies. L.D. –0–
*********************************************************************
GOAL OF EUROPEAN COMMISSION IN ARMENIA IS TO ASSIST THE DEVELOPMENT
OF DEMOCRACY
YEREVAN, March 19. /ARKA/. Goal of European Commission in Armenia is
to assist the development of democracy in the frames of agreement on
partnership and cooperation between RA and EU, the Head of
Operational Section of EC Delegation for Georgia and Armenia Office
in Yerevan Adriana Longoni stated today. She said that European
institute of human rights and democracy is an instrument of support
of local public organizations for development of programs and
projects on human rights protection and democracy. In the view,
according to Longoni, several Armenia public organizations already
turned to EC Yerevan Office. She expressed hope that soon Armenian
NGOs will receive financing and conclude a contract on realization of
programs contributing to democracy development in Armenia. L.D. –0–
*********************************************************************
ARMENIA PLACES 107TH IN THE LIST OF 121 STATES ON REPRESENTATION OF
WOMEN IN THE PARLIAMENT
YEREVAN, March 19. /ARKA/. Armenia places 107th in the list of 121
states on representation of women in the Parliament, Professor of
Political Science at American University of Armenia Lusik Danielian
stated today at the forum dedicated to international women month.
According to her, USA takes 54th place in this list. She said that
today only 14 countries have Parliaments with the number of people
over 30%. At this she added that Armenia enters the list of 77
countries, which legally set the quotes for inclusion of women in
election lists of political parties. Danielian said that the
experience shows that the quotes are the only mechanism for inclusion
of women in parliament work. She also said that not only
participation of women in political parties is important, but their
representation in decision making bodies. She stressed dominating
role of Armenian women in public organizations and added that it is
time to switch from those organizations to political parties and
state structures.
Forum dedicated to international women month organized by US Embassy
to Armenia PR Department. The goal of the forum in discussion of role
of women in external policy, business, press and law-enforcement
bodies. L.D. –0–

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

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

Armenian Assembly of America
122 C Street, NW, Suite 350
Washington, DC 20001
Phone: 202-393-3434
Fax: 202-638-4904
Email: [email protected]
Web:
PRESS RELEASE
March 19, 2004
CONTACT: Christine Kojoian
E-mail: [email protected]
SENATOR SARBANES TO ADDRESS ARMENIAN ASSEMBLY’S NATIONAL ADVOCACY CONFERENCE
Washington, DC – The Armenian Assembly announced this week that longtime
Armenian issues supporter Senator Paul Sarbanes (D-MD) will be the
Democratic keynote speaker at the Assembly’s National Conference and
Banquet, April 18-20, in Washington, DC.
Sarbanes will join Republican keynote speaker Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY)
during a Monday night banquet that is part of a three-day event being held
in cooperation with the Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU) and the
Eastern and Western Diocese of the Armenian Church.
“We’re delighted to have Senator Sarbanes, a staunch supporter of our
community, take the time to brief conference participants,” said National
Conference and Banquet Chair Annie Totah.
In August of last year, McConnell and Sarbanes introduced S. 1557, which
would extend permanent normal trade relations (PNTR) status to Armenia. If
enacted, the legislation would allow Armenian goods easier access to the
U.S. by eliminating a 30-year-old provision governing levy of duty and
taxes.
More recently, the senator joined five of his colleagues in sending a letter
to President Bush urging him to ask Turkey to lift its damaging blockade of
Armenia during his recent meeting with Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip
Erdogan. In addition to his support on this letter, the senator is a
cosponsor of the genocide resolution (S. Res. 164), which would ensure that
the lessons of the Holocaust and the Armenian Genocide, in addition to those
in Cambodia and Rwanda, as well as others, are not forgotten.
Additionally, Sarbanes has repeatedly led the fight to maintain Section 907
of the Freedom Support Act, which places reasonable restrictions on U.S.
assistance to Azerbaijan while it continues to immorally block Armenia and
Nagorno Karabakh. In 2001, he and McConnell led the successful Senate floor
debate in defeating an attempt to rescind this crucial measure.
Organized by the Assembly’s Armenian American Action Committee (ARAMAC), the
three-day event is a prime opportunity for anyone interested in honing their
advocacy skills and brainstorming issues with some of Washington’s most
influential policymakers. Participants will have the opportunity to gain
deeper insight into the inner-workings of Congress during advocacy workshop
sessions, panel discussions and meetings with elected officials.
The conference agenda will include a panel discussion on “Secrets to
Advocacy.” Panel participants include: Former Congressman James Rogan
(R-CA), New Hampshire State Representative Harry Haytayan (R-NH),
legislative assistant for Senator Paul Sarbanes (D-MD) Joanne Berry and
Assembly Board of Directors member and one-time aide to former Governor
Wilson (R-CA), Lisa Kalustian. The panel will be moderated by Assembly
Board of Directors Vice Chair Lisa Esayian.
The conference will open with an ecumenical service at the National
Cathedral marking the 89th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. From
there, guests will attend a welcoming reception at the Kennedy Center for
the Performing Arts. The next day, conference attendees will take part in a
full-day of advocacy workshops and panel discussion, followed by a reception
and banquet that evening. The conference will close Tuesday with a farewell
breakfast after which time activist will head to Capitol Hill for meetings
with their elected officials.
The Armenian Assembly of America is the largest Washington-based nationwide
organization promoting public understanding and awareness of Armenian
issues. It is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt membership organization.
NR#2004-030
Photograph available at the following link:
Caption: Senator Paul Sarbanes (D-MD)

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

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

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