The statement of President Serzh Sargsyan at the joint press Conference with the President of the Czech Republic Miloš Zeman

Posted on by
Reply

Սերժ Սարգսյան,Չեխիա

President Serzh Sargsyan met the President of the Czech Republic Miloš Zeman
Today, President Serzh Sargsyan, who pays a state visit to the Czech Republic, held a meeting with President Miloš Zeman. At the end of the two Presidents’ negotiations, a signing ceremony of bilateral documents took place aimed at fostering and expanding cooperation in a number of areas. In particular, Agreements were signed on Cooperation in Fight Against Crime between the Government of the Republic of Armenian and the Government of the Czech Republic, On Economic and Industrial Cooperation between the Government of the Republic of Armenian and the Government of the Czech Republic, On Cooperation in Healthcare and Medical Science between the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Armenian and the Ministry of Health of the Czech Republic, Memorandum of Understanding on Disaster Prevention and Elimination of Consequences, Fire Service and Public Protection between the Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Republic of Armenia and the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Czech Republic, Joint Declaration on Cooperation in the Area of Environment Protection between the Ministry of Nature Protection of the Republic of Armenia and the Ministry of Environment of the Czech Republic, Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation between the State Revenue Committee under the Government of the Republic of Armenia and the Customs Service General Directorate of the Czech Republic.

Presidents Serzh Sargsyan and Miloš Zeman summed up the results of their negotiations in a joint press conference.

 

***

 

սերժ սարգսյան

 

The statement of President Serzh Sargsyan at the joint press Conference with the President of the Czech Republic Miloš Zeman

 

Your Excellency Mr. President,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

I am pleased to pay my first state visit to the Czech Republic at the invitation of the President of the Czech Republic.

We just held substantive and productive talks with President Zeman in the atmosphere of complete mutual understanding. We discussed both issues of our bilateral agenda as well as current regional and international topics.

We noted with satisfaction that since the establishment of diplomatic relations between our countries we have registered prominent progress in interstate affairs. A dozen of documents on different fields signed today and to be signed tomorrow attest to it. We outlined healthcare, environment, decentralized collaboration, trade, economic and cultural cooperation as the areas of prospective cooperation. We stressed the necessity of widening business connections and stimulating investments, promoting people-to-people contacts and developing tourism. The direct flights under operation between our capitals serve as an important prerequisite for that. We attached importance to the ongoing Armenian-Czech business forum within the current visit.

We mutually highlighted the importance of the inter-parliamentary cooperation supported by the friendship groups established within the two parliaments.

We underlined the necessity of consistent development of cultural, educational and scientific ties. This year Yerevan and in 2015 Prague will respectively host Days of Czech and Armenian cultures. Mr. President proposed us to more actively encourage our youth to study in the Czech Republic, and I am surely grateful for that.

We reaffirmed the mutual will to deepen cooperation between our states within the framework of such international platforms as the UN institutions, OSCE, Council of Europe as well as the EU Eastern Partnership.

Prague stands high on Armenia’s European agenda, which is a priority in our foreign policy. About five years ago it was precisely in Prague, where Armenia undertook a commitment to enhance closer cooperation with the EU upon the start of the Eastern Partnership. This commitment was reaffirmed at the Vilnius summit last November. We are determined to continuously enhance and expand our relations with the EU. In this respect, we expect the support of friendly nations, especially the Czech comprehensive support.

We are convinced that different integration processes may certainly be developed based on compatibility and cooperation rather than controversy. In this sense the Eastern Partnership might serve as a natural bridge fostering economic integration from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean. We are committed to make consistent efforts toward constructing more inclusive Europe, free from dividing lines. I am thankful to Mr. President for his understanding toward our decision to join the Customs Union. I am also thankful to the President of the Czech Republic for the invitation to the Eastern Partnership Summit that will take place on April 24, in Prague and I am particularly thankful for appreciating my visit to Prague on the 24th of April, bearing in mind that on the 24th of April Armenians across the world pay their tribute to the victims of the Genocide.

We highly appreciate the constructive position of the Czech Republic in support to the efforts of the OSCE Minsk group co-chairs to find a peaceful resolution to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. In November 2013, after a two-year interval the meeting of the Presidents of Armenia and Azerbaijan took place in Vienna, which by itself is a positive step in the negotiation process. The direct contacts on the presidential level are important stimulus to the ongoing negotiations under the auspices of the OSCE Minsk Group, which is the only format of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict resolution. The principles and provisions embedded in the Presidents’ statements of the OSCE Minsk Group co-chair countries – Russia, the USA and France – provide appropriate ground for the just and enduring settlement of the conflict. We share the stance of the co-chair countries that those principles and provisions should be viewed as a whole and the attempts to prioritize one over the other will make consensus and conflict settlement impossible.

 

Միլոշ Զեման,Սերժ Սարգսյան, Չեխիայի Հանրապետություն

Nevertheless, the settlement of the problem is not realistic unless Azerbaijan abandons the malicious policy of bellicose propaganda, incitement of arms race and provocative actions along the line of contact. It’s high time for Azerbaijan to adopt a constructive stance on the exclusively peaceful settlement of the conflict. Here let me make a very important emphasis, Mr. President: we expect from the international community to show impartial approach or at least to be guided by the principle of not harming the process.

I completely shared the view of President Zeman that the regional conflicts shall be resolved through exclusively peaceful means and negotiations.

I assess our meeting as productive and hope that the Armenian-Czech dialogue and cooperation will develop and widen in different fields by mutual efforts and based on already existing grounds.

I thanked President Zeman for warm hospitality and invited him to pay a state visit to Armenia and I am thankful that he was pleased to accept the invitation.

Անկախ

 

 

Government Hearings Of 2013 State Agency Performance Reports Kick Off

Posted on by
Reply

կառավարությունում

Chaired by Prime Minister Tigran Sargsyan, the government proceeded today with the hearings of public agency performance, government action plan and priority tasks implementation reports for 2013.

Reports were delivered by the ministers of Labor and Social Affairs, Healthcare, Sport and Youth Affairs, Diaspora, Agriculture, Finance, Energy and Natural Resources, Economy, Transport and Communications, as well as the heads of the Social Insurance Public Service, Ministry of Agriculture-affiliated State Food Security Service, State Property Management Department and General Department of Civil Aviation.

The speakers reported back the status of priority tasks for 2013, dwelling on the recorded shortfalls, after which the head of government instructed them to eliminate the existing shortcomings.

In conclusion, the Prime Minister referred to the performance of individual agencies and staff divisions. The speakers gave explanations concerning the delay in the implementation or non-implementation of specific tasks.

The aforementioned agencies’ summary action plans and performance reports for the year 2013 are available at their official websites.

Անկախ

In 2013 SCR Transported More than 3.2 Million Tons of Cargo and More than 415 Thousand Passengers

Posted on by
1

«Հարավկովկասյան երկաթուղի»

In January – December 2013 South Caucasus Railway transported 3275.2 thousand tons of cargo and 415.4 thousand passengers. In the reporting period SCR volume of freight decreased by 5.3% compared with 2012, while passenger traffic increased by 4% (from 52992,0 thousand passenger/km to 55123,8 thousand passenger/km).

In export traffic throughout the year 456 tons of cargo was transported by rail, imported 1260.7 thousand tons, and in local traffic 1558.5 thousand tons.

In the nomenclature of the goods carried the past year in particular non-ferrous ore (1.3 million tons), grain cargo (over 455 tons), oil loads (276.8 thousand tons), building materials (133.5 thousand tons), cement (more than 110.2 thousand tons) dominated.

However, only in December SCR transported 245 tons of cargo: 29.7 tons in export, 120 tons in the import and 95.3 thousand tons in the local traffic .

And within 415.4 thousand passengers carried out last year 60.2 thousand people were transported to the international and 355.2 thousand in the domestic traffic.

SCR CEO Victor Rebets instructed corresponding managers to hold a detailed examination of the situation and to take steps to ensure growth in freight and passenger traffic, attracting to the railway additional cargo volumes and new passengers .

 

SCR increased efficiency of locomotive and car Fleets

 

In 2013 South Caucasus Railway significantly increased the level of efficiency of freight cars and locomotive.

According to recent statistics SCR car turnover compared to the same period in 2012 accelerated to 0.2 days or 6.7 %. On average one car was in circulation during 3 days.

Average daily productivity of one car reached 4995 net tkm/wagon, which is 10.6 % more than in 2012.

Performance of the locomotive fleet also improved. In particular, the average mileage of one locomotive was 394 loc/km, which is higher than in 2012 by 7.7%.

The Company achieved such results due to its policy of railway infrastructure and traction-rolling stock improvement on the basis of comprehensive measures to ensure traffic safety.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Անկախ

Dr. Farkas will meet with Minister of Foreign Affairs Edward Nalbandian, Minister of Defense Seyran Ohanyan

Posted on by
Reply

Էվելին Ֆարկասը

The U.S. Embassy announces the arrival of Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Russia/Ukraine/Eurasia, U.S. Department of Defense Dr. Evelyn Farkas, to Armenia for a series of bilateral defense consultations from December 18 to19.

 

During her visit, Dr. Farkas will meet with Minister of Foreign Affairs Edward Nalbandian, Minister of Defense Seyran Ohanyan, and experts from the academic community. This visit highlights the strong and expanding cooperation between the United States and Armenia in the area of defense.  Topics of Dr. Farkas’ discussions will include areas of cooperation that are beneficial to both countries such as coalition and peacekeeping operations, training between Armenian military and forces from the U.S. European Command and the Kansas National Guard, and regional security.

 Անկախ

 

 

President Serzh Sargsyan received the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group

Posted on by
Reply

Սերժ Սարգսյան, ԵԱՀԿ Մինսկի խմբի համանախագահներ

 President Serzh Sargsyan received today the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group Igor Popov (Russia), James Warlick (US), Jacques Fore (France) and the Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairman-in-Office Andrzej Kaprzyk.

The Co-Chairs presented the results of their negotiations in Baku and discussed with the President of Armenia issues related to possible future meetings at the presidential and ministerial levels to be held in the framework of the NK peace process.
Անկախ

President Serzh Sargsyan conducted a meeting at the Ministry of Economy

Posted on by
Reply

սերժ սարգսյան,էկոնոմիկայի նախարարություն

 President Serzh Sargsyan visited today the Ministry of Economy. The President toured the premise of the Ministry, conversed with the employees of the Ministry’s departmental reform group, the Agency for Licensing and Authorization and other departments about their work and forthcoming plans, inquired about the working conditions and existing problems. Later, at the conference hall of the Ministry, the President conducted a working meeting with the leadership of the Ministry.

At the meeting, the Minister of Economy, Deputy Ministers and Head of Staff reported on the works carried out in their respective areas, spoke about the existing problems and development programs.

Minister Vahram Avanessian along with the economic trends presented also the main emphases which will appear in the future activities of the Ministry. In particular, he reported on the works carried out in the area of Armenia’s accession to the Customs Union, the process of reformation undertaken in the area of civil aviation, departmental reforms, improvement of business environment and information technologies, development of small and medium enterprises, as well as about the works conducted in the area of innovative policies.

Deputy Minister Ara Petrossian presented the area of trade and market regulation speaking, particularly, about the turnover and increase of export volumes in January-October of 2013.

Main activities conducted in 2013 in the area of quality infrastructure and technical regulation were presented by Deputy Minister Garnik Badalian. The Deputy Minister spoke also about the drafts of 4 national technical regulations, National Accreditation body, works of the national institutes of Standards and Measures.

Another Deputy Minister, Garegin Melkonian presented the results of international economic cooperation, cooperation with EU and intellectual property issues, particularly, bilateral and multilateral cooperation, assistance programs implemented by the European Union in 2012-2013 and other areas under his supervision.

Deputy Minister Tigran Harutyunian spoke about investment policy, main directions and priorities for industrial development.

Head of Staff of the Ministry of Economy Emil Tarasian familiarized the President of Armenia with the structure of the Ministry, reported on human resources and administration and steps taken towards the enhancement of the staff efficiency.
After listening to the reports, the President spoke about tasks and priorities before the Ministry of Economy. “To recap our tasks, I should say that there has opened a new and vast field for work, and I anticipate active, persistent and thorough work. I emphasize these words because such work qualities are really necessary for us, related to our membership to the Customs Union. We all should realize that it is a responsibility which we have assumed,” the President underscored.

Serzh Sargsyan stressed also the importance of the Ministry’s persistent work on other directions, including strengthening of favorable business environment, development of the areas which have great export potential and capacity to generate multiple jobs, support of small and medium enterprises.

Serzh Sargsyan spoke about the necessity to develop in the Ministry of Economy of analytical capacities and creation of a relevant center whose activities should be of a more applicable nature. The President stressed the importance of a public nature of the works conducted by the future center work and availability of its analysis for the public at large. The President of Armenia noted that as the initial step, he anticipates that already in February-March 2014, when the National Statistical Service will have issued final social and economic results for year 2013, the Government will present a comprehensive and meticulous analysis. Presented will be tendencies registered throughout the year; it will become clear whether goals set for year 2013 have been met and if not, what are the subjective and objective reasons which resulted in deflection, how the external factors have influenced the final results, what base has been set for future development, etc. According to the President, such analyses are also necessary so that adopted decisions and approaches become comprehensible for all.

At the Ministry of Economy, the President responded also to the questions raised by the participants of the meeting. In particular, presenting his view on the pension reform, which is being broadly debated nowadays, Serzh Sargsyan said, “You see, I have been working on that issue personally for some time and in the past have conducted a number of meetings, also with the participation of the political forces represented in the National Assembly, to be more precise, with at least four groups, with the participation of party leaders. The objective was to understand all problems which might appear – from public discontent to economic and financial problems, and with this conviction we have drafted a law, sent it to the National Assembly and, thanks God, we already have a law which has been voted on, and my attitude towards that law is positive. I hear different opinions every day and these opinions, by the may, could be easily split as political and professional; in political as well as professional opinions present are both superficial and rather thoughtful approaches. I would like every one who believes this is a useful reform to be more active. After all, what do we want? We want to put an end to a bad situation existing today, related to the social security of the elderly. To be honest, I occasionally feel embarrassed, ashamed. I even believe, the time has come to apologize to these people. We have to solve this problem so that future state officials are not compelled to apologize. I want every official who could have solved this problem years ago, hear me now, we wouldn’t be forced to apologize now. Tall tales that a system which was created through the solidarity of generations and decades is now being destroyed. Who said that is being destroyed? The system will remain intact. What we say is “we make this addition to it.” I am very positive about it, and all those who believe it’s a good thing, should be more active,” the President said.

At the conclusion of the meeting, a group of the Ministry employees were awarded for their diligent and efficient work. Artak Baghdassarian, Head of the Economic Development Policy Department, Artashes Hovhannissian, Head of the First Division, Nina Ter-Grigorian, Leading Specialist at the Department of International Economic Cooperation received Presidential Letters of Commendation.

 

 Անկախ

Junk food and fizzy drinks cause children to be TWICE as unhappy as their healthier counterparts

Posted on by
Reply

անառողջ սնունդ

 

Fast food and fizzy drinks could be causing widespread depression among in children.

A study of 10 to 15-year-olds found that children who played sports and ate healthy foods were twice as likely to be happy.

Gender and age were key factors, with older children largely the least satisfied and girls more likely to eat healthy food.

Teenagers were more prone to eating fatty foods and takeaways, and were less happy than their younger peers.

During the study, happiness was graded through 20 questions including how well the children got on with their peers, whether they were kind and shared with others, and if they got restless or angry.

‘In terms of eating junk food moderation is the key – we’re not telling anyone they can’t eat these foods, just that they shouldn’t be consumed all the time’ said Dr Cara Booker, from the Institute for Social and Economic Research at Essex University.

 Անկախ

 

Prime Minister Pays Working Visit To Shirak Marz

Posted on by
Reply

Վարչապետ, Գյումրի

Prime Minister Tigran Sargsyan traveled today to Shirak Marz of Armenia for a working visit.

His first stop was at Pemzashen community where the Prime Minister attended the opening of a reconstructed kindergarten building. On this occasion, Tigran Sargsyan welcomed and congratulated the residents of the community: “A campaign pledge made by the President of the Republic of Armenia has been fulfilled. Much has to be done yet in your community, since the need for kindergarten is three times the one available today. This means that the program must be continued. Allow me to once again congratulate you all on the first step.”

The Prime Minister went around the premises, getting familiar with the facilities and amenities, talking to the kids and getting photographed with them. The total cost of the project (note that the kindergarten dates back to 1960) is 76,171,019 drams. Implemented by Shinkarkas LLC, construction work started in November, 2012 and was completed in August, 2013. The reopening ceremony was attended by Head of the World Bank Yerevan Office Jean – Michel Happi.

Leaving Pemzashen for the regional center of Gyumri, the Prime Minister toured the Gyumri Technopark to inspect the ongoing activities. It was noted that the bulk of construction work was complete so that the Park would be commissioned by this yearend.

“Today, Gyumri Technopark fully provided programs. Several international organizations have already submitted requests for activity in the industrial park so that the Park project will be fully implemented in 2014. Our promise to build the Gyumri technopark and the programs to achieve progress in the field of IT are coming true. Dozens of companies are looking forward to getting involved the industrial park. Besides youth can benefit from services that is, it will be the best and most powerful information center in Armenia,” the Premier told the reporters during a briefing.

Then Tigran Sargsyan visited the newly opened Russian Book House in Gyumri, which serves as a center for sale of books and as a cultural center, which boasts a vast amount of literature on Armenian-Russian cultural relations and history.

The Head of Government asked about the center’s activities, talked to the students and made an record in the Guests’ Book. During the working visit to the second capital of Armenia, Prime Minister Tigran Sargsyan also visited the NAS Institute of Geophysics and Engineering Seismology after Ara Nazaryan, the unfinished building of which is reconstructed in the framework of the reconstruction program of Gyumri.

According to the project, the building has experimental and laboratory offices, an auditorium and a basement adapted for the installation and operation of equipment. Construction work is scheduled for completion in 2014.

The Prime Minister also visited the former buildings of a surgical hospital after G. Gulbenkian and the Gyumri municipality, as well as the Gyumri territorial department of the National Statistics Service of Armenia.

In this regard, the Prime Minister told reporters that the purpose of visit and inspection of the data structures is the study of these areas for the rational allocation of government departments and ensure the availability of public services.

The Prime Minister’s visit ended up with a short halt at Samaritain rehabilitation center, after which he attended an exhibition-tasting of dishes at Hoktember cinema in Gyumri.

The newly appointed Ambassador of the Netherlands presented his credentials to the President

Posted on by
Reply

Սերժ Սարգսյան,Նիդերլանդների դեսպան

 Today, the newly appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Netherlands Hans Horbach (residence in Tbilisi) presented his credentials to President Serzh Sargsyan.

The President congratulated the Ambassador on his appointment, wished him all the best and expressed hope that Ambassador Horbach will use his great experience of diplomatic work and knowledge for the benefit of deepening the Armenian-Dutch relations. Serzh Sargsyan noted that Armenia is interested and ready to advance bilateral political, trade and economic relations and cooperate in all mutually beneficial areas. According to the President, for that very reason Armenia opened her Embassy in the Netherlands, based on conviction that such step would have a positive impact on the invigoration of bilateral relations.

President Serzh Sargsyan and Ambassador of Netherlands concurred that although Armenia and the Netherlands maintain efficient and versatile cooperation and among the EU member states Holland remains one of Armenia’s leading partners, nevertheless there is still considerable, untapped potential for deepening and expanding the bilateral ties and it is necessary to work actively on that direction.

Ambassador Horbach assured that during his tenure he would do his best to further the interstate relations and develop the mutually beneficial cooperation.

Republic of Armenia reaffirming the Government’s commitment to gender equality

Posted on by
Reply

PC-3

On the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, representatives of the UN, US, EU, OSCE and Council of Europe Office in Yerevan welcome the 22 November statement of the Women’s Council chaired by the Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia reaffirming the Government’s commitment to gender equality.

We highly commend the determination of the Women’s Council to adhere to Armenia’s international commitments on gender equality, including the UN Convention on the Elimination of All Types of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), to which Armenia is signatory since 1993.  We also encourage Armenia’s signature of the Council of Europe Convention on Preventing and Combating Violence against Women and Domestic Violence.

Furthermore we also support the Council’s call to ensure the effective implementation of the law “On Provision of Equal Rights and Equal Opportunities for Women and Men.”

We also support the call to the law-enforcement bodies to undertake all the necessary measures to prevent and prosecute intimidation of individuals and organizations working on gender equality and women’s rights.

 

We acknowledge the Armenian Government’s efforts towards harmonization of domestic legislation with international standards, as well as implementation of provisions and commitments of international legal documents to which Armenia is party.

Gender equality is a cornerstone of democratic governance and sustainable development.  We reiterate our willingness and determination to support the Government of Armenia in the further implementation of legislation on non-discrimination and equal rights and opportunities of men and women.

 

 

 

 

Bako Sahakyan received Laurent Corbaz

Posted on by
Reply

Բակո Սահակյան,Կարմիր խաչ,Լորան Կորբային On 18 November Artsakh Republic President Bako Sahakyan received Laurent Corbaz, the ICRC’s head of operations for Eastern Europe and Central Asia and head of the ICRC mission in Stepanakert Nicolas Fleury.
The implementation of a number of humanitarian projects and the activity of the ICRC in Artsakh were touched upon during the meeting.
Both sides underlined high level of cooperation between the ICRC and corresponding structures of the Artsakh Republic as well as readiness to maintain the recorded positive dynamics of relations.
Minister of foreign affairs Karen Mirzoyan and other officials partook in the meeting.

President Serzh Sargsyan had a telephone conversation with the US Secretary of State John Kerry

Posted on by
Reply

ՍԵՐԺ ՍԱՐԳՍՅԱՆ

 

In the evening of November 18, President Serzh Sargsyan had a telephone conversation with the US Secretary of State John Kerry. The call was initiated by the American side. Discussed were issues related to the Armenian-American bilateral relations and cooperation, as well as issues pertinent to the meeting of the Presidents of Armenia and Azerbaijan on November 19 in Vienna which will be held with the participation of the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group and the Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairman-in-Office. On the eve of the meeting in the Austrian capital, the US Secretary of State reiterated the unequivocal support of the United States to a peaceful resolution of the NK conflict. The parties underscored that there is no alternative to a negotiated solution of the conflict and noted that it is necessary to find mutually acceptable mechanisms for the resolution of the conflict based on the fundamental principles.

Recognition, Appreciation Of State Symbols Deemed As Primary Concern

Posted on by
Reply

հհ կառավարության նիստ

The Government held a regular meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Tigran Sargsyan. Opening the meeting, the Prime Minister referred to the questions of submitting a new application to the Millennium Challenge Corpration and the introduction of the funded pension system starting January 1, 2014 (see separately).

After the agenda had been approved, the Executive proceeded to the discussion.

The Government approved amendments to the bills on the law on the Flag of the Republic of Armenia and on Coat of Arms of the Republic of Armenia that had been developed jointly by a Prime Minister-established working group on recognition, appreciation and popularization of State symbols. “Menk” Foundation for Preservation of National Values and in collaboration with other non-governmental organizations.

Tigran Sargsyan noted in this connection, “We have to thank the NGOs, who were proactive, consistent, and were interested in this issue. We also have to ask them to take under control and monitor the enforcement of this law considering the coat of arms and the flag are State symbols, which contribute to the patriotic education of our youth. We are very grateful to the civil society.”

The Government next approved the initiative to extend the enactment of the law on citizens in breach of the procedure of compulsory military service untill December 1, 2013, allowing those offenders over 27 years of age to pay the stipulated fee within the prescribed deadlines, return to the homeland and be safe from prosecution. With the next decision, the meeting considered the bill to be of top priority.

The above draft laws will be sent to the National Assembly in the manner established by law.

The Cabinet approved the fundamental document to be part of Armenia’s official thematic reports subject for submission to UN monitoring bodies and instructed the Minister of Justice to ensure its translation.

The Revised National Report of the Republic of Armenia concerning the European Social Charter was next approved by the session (reference period 2009-2012).

In conclusion, the Executive approved a proposal for signing a protocol on amendments to three agreements on cooperation between the CIS-member States. The agreements relate to the determination of the country of origin of goods, the Trade Fair and the development of congress activities, as well as a number of previously signed instruments on coordination of intergovernmental relations.

President Serzh Sargsyan awarded the Order of Honor to the prominent state figure Vladimir Movsissian

Posted on by
Reply

Վլադիմիր Մովսիսյան,Սերժ Սարգսյան

By the decree of President Serzh Sargsyan, the prominent state, political and public figure Vladimir Movsissian was awarded the Order of Honor for his years-long and outstanding state and public service as well as for his significant contribution to Armenia’s economic development.

Today, at the Presidential Palace there took place the award ceremony which was attended by V. Movsissian’s family members, partners, party friends, and high state officials. At the outset, Serzh Sargsyan congratulated the prominent statesman on his 80th birth anniversary, wished him good health, long life, well-being and many happy days to his family. In his remarks, President Sargsyan spoke about a life and work dedicated to Motherland. “One can speak about Vladimir Movsissian’s life at length. One can list all positions he has held and success Armenia achieved in the same periods of time. However in my view, in brief Vladimir Movsissian can be called a “person who represents an entire epoch.” I am convinced that Vladimir Movsissian is one of those individuals who represent and signify the era of important achievements in the history of the Armenian people,” President Serzh Sargsyan said. Serzh Sargsyan stressed the importance of the impressive legacy created by Vladimir Movsissian and his multiple colleagues in Soviet Armenia and underscored that without that substantial legacy, its the economic, scientific, spiritual and cultural base it would have been impossible to build independent Armenia. The President noted that Vladimir Movsissian through his untiring work was one of those who had created those traditions. “Under any circumstance, you were striving to make your input in building a strong and self-sufficient Armenia. Only powerful Armenia can compel others to reckon with her, only powerful Armenia will be reckoned with by her distant and close, friendly and not friendly neighbors. With this somber realization, in the twenty-two years of Armenia’s independence you have been contributing your experience, knowledge and organizational talent and continue to contribute now and serve our nation and our people. I take this opportunity to thank you for the huge work carried out by you in the Commission on Sevan Lake issues,” President Serzh Sargsyan said and wished that the outstanding statesman continues his patriotic work since his country and his people need him.

In his thank-you remarks Vladimir Movsissian said that it was a great honor for him to receive from the President of Armenia the Order of Honor in the presence of his family, friends, colleagues and comrades-in-arms. “As the poet said, every now and then, I converse with my conscience, looking back from a distance of 80 years, I think about the road I traveled, assess tasks fulfilled and unfulfilled, take a sober view of them, and make my conclusions. Things I have done have been done with your assistance, assistance of our people, of my colleagues, of every state structure, with the assistance of my comrades-in-arms” the recipient of the high award noted in his remarks. He said he was extremely pleased to hear the President’s assessment regarding the impressive legacy created in Soviet Armenia which became a basis for independent Armenia’s development: it speaks about a strong bond between the two societies. According to V. Movsissian, it will become a great impetus for Armenia’s further development.

Vladimir Movsissian spoke briefly about his life and work, about his achievements and accomplishments and underscored that he has always been very lenient about that. “When I succeeded in something, I never got excited too soon about it. When I failed in something, I never got disheartened too soon, but was waiting stubbornly for the time to come when I could again and again serve my country and my people,” the statesman said in his remarks and assured the President of Armenia and those present at the award ceremony that he was in a good shape, ready to continue to serve our people and state which faces numerous challenges and which can be conquered only through the united efforts. He expressed readiness together with his colleagues and friends from the older generation to continue to bring his knowledge and services to the strengthening of our statehood and prosperity for our people.

“I held it out: I was tormented by grief, I was happy with success – I have seen it all. And I thank you all for not leaving me one on one with my inner world; you have been by my side and always supported me, I have managed to hold it out. We all have to hold it out. Today, I continue my work with clear conscience and clean hands,” Vladimir Movsissian said, expressing also gratitude to the members of his family who throughout his entire work did everything to make him work unreservedly.

President Bako Sahakyan met in Martakert region’s Vank village with participants of the “Artsakh Youth Forum-2013”

Posted on by
Reply

Բակո Սահակյան, "Արցախի երիտֆորում-2013" On 17 November President Bako Sahakyan met in Martakert region’s Vank village with participants of the “Artsakh Youth Forum-2013”.
A number of issues related to foreign and domestic policy of Artsakh as well as programs being implemented for the youth were raised during the meeting.
According to the Head of the State youth problems are always at the spotlight of the authorities, and the state will continue to do everything possible for solving them efficiently.
Minister of culture and youth affairs Narine Aghabalyan, minister of education and science Slava Asryan and other officials partook in the meeting
Բակո Սահակյան, "Արցախի երիտֆորում-2013"

 

Artsakh Republic President Bako Sahakyan met famous Spanish opera singer Plácido Domingo Jr

Posted on by
Reply

Արցախ, Բակո Սահակյանը, Պլասիդո Դոմինգո-կրտսեր On 17 November Artsakh Republic President Bako Sahakyan met famous Spanish opera singer Plácido Domingo Jr.
President Sahakyan expressed gratitude to the singer for concertizing in Artsakh noting that it contributed greatly to developing culture, deepening intercultural dialogue, adding that it possessed a message of peace. Issues related to realizing a number of cultural programs in our country were touched upon too.
NKR culture and youth affairs minister Narine Aghabalyan, other officials partook in the meeting.

The RA Presidential Award Ceremony for Global Contribution in area of IT for year 2013 at the Presidential Palace

Posted on by
Reply

Սերժ Սարգսյան,Ցուգիո Մակիմոտո, տիկին Կումիկո Մակիմոտո,մրցանակ

 

 Tonight, at the Presidential Palace there took place the RA Presidential Award Ceremony for Global Contribution in area of IT for year 2013.

At the reception held in honor of Mr. Tsugio Makimoto, the President of Semiconductor Industry Association, former CEO of the Hitachi Company and Mrs. Kumiko Makimoto, the President of the Executive Council of the Award Committee of the World Information Technologies (WIT) Hovik Musayelyan presented the procedure of selecting the Award winners, named previous winners of the Presidential Award, spoke about the concept behind the Presidential Award and its goal, as well as about Armenia’s competitive advantage in the IT area. He expressed hope that some years from now, it will be noted that thanks to this Award, the most brilliant and outstanding individuals of the world science, education and business, becoming the recipients of the this Award, will come to Armenia, bringing with them the contemporary culture of high-tech and will promote the image of our country and make it recognizable all over the world as a country which stands on knowledge and intellect. According to Hovik Musayelyan, Armenia’s competitive advantage is linked closely to the IT area and our country has every necessary prerequisite and potential to become a regional hub and important player in that area. In his remarks, the President of the Executive Council of the Award Committee also quoted the winner of the RA Presidential Award for 2011, famous Steve Wozniak, “There is no Noble Prize in the IT area but for me this award equals Noble Prize. I receive it from the President of Armenia, and I am proud for that.”

A member of the Commission, Tony Moroyan briefly presented to the guests of the reception the biography of the Award winner Tsugio Makimoto.

Present at the reception was the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Armenia Tikahito Harada who expressed gratitude for the recognition by Armenia of the significant input made by the world-famous Tsugio Makimoto to the IT area and for bestowing him with such a high award, which according to the Ambassador proves the existence of dynamically developing strong friendly ties between Armenia and Japan.

At the reception held on the occasion of the Award ceremony, President Serzh Sargsyan made a statement.

In his thank-you remarks, the Awardee Tsugio Makimoto expressed gratitude for being awarded one of the most prestigious awards in the IT area spoke about his work and prospects of development of information technologies in the world.

 

****

Congratulatory remarks by the President of Armenia at the RA Presidential Award Ceremony for the Global Contribution to the Area of Information Technologies

 

Distinguished Mr. Makimoto,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

Today, I have performed a very enjoyable duty: I have handed to Mr. Tsugio Makimoto the RA Presidential Award for the Global Contribution to the area of the Information Technologies. Dr. Makimoto is one of the most distinguished personalities in Japan’s IT industry. He is so farsighted that his vision and proposals are always ahead of times. In the last fifteen years, we have witnessed creation of various revolutionary goods and platforms which have changed the approaches of the public and even of the specialists, among them Smart cards, Smart phones, electronic books, etc. All this was inspired also by Dr. Makimoto’s ideas.

With this Award, the people of Armenia manifest their admiration and gratitude to those who are moving forward the human civilization and in their own way become symbols of their times. With this Award we pay tribute not only to Dr. Makimoto but also to his native land – Japan, the home of brave and diligent, wise and talented people. We witnessed how a horrific earthquake shattered Japan; we also witnessed how the people withstood tenaciously that natural catastrophe and how united and organized they work for healing their wounds. For our country and our nation, which have witnessed multiple earthquakes, it is a real lesson.

Japan’s economic and technological achievements are remarkable and instructive not only for us but also for the entire world. With this Award, we also strive to attract attention of our young people to effective deeds and successful people. We want to give our young people right examples and true guidelines. We strongly believe that people are the greatest treasure of the land, and Japan is a strong proof of that.

Dear Mr. Makimoto,

I once again congratulate you on this Award. Please be assured that the Makimoto’s Wave discovered by you has, so to speak, crossed the ocean and reached Armenia. The IT area is the most rapidly developing area in Armenia and we pin great hopes on this promising field. Thanks to the individuals like yourself all processes in today’s world, including political, have acquired a new speed. Today’s young people have no idea what new professions will emerge tomorrow. In situation like this every one, no exceptions, has a greater responsibility which makes us move in step with times.

Distinguished Doctor Makimoto,

I wish you and your family good health and all the best, new achievements in your gratifying work. Please be assured that your success will make us here, in Armenia very happy.

Thank you for coming to Armenia, I also thank you for the works you will be performing in Armenia in next ten or twelve days.

Thank you.

 

President received the recipient of the 2013 RA Presidential Award for Global Contribution in the Area of Information Technologies (IT) Tsugio Makimoto

Posted on by
Reply

Սերժ Սարգսյան,ՏՏ ոլորտ, Ցուգիո Մակիմոտո

 President Serzh Sargsyan received today the Chairman of Semiconductor Industry Association, President of the Techno Vision Company, former CEO of the Hitachi Company, and the recipient of the 2013 RA Presidential Award for Global Contribution in the Area of Information Technologies (IT) Tsugio Makimoto.“It’s a great honor for us to host and award one of the outstanding architects of the IT area of our times, whose achievements in that area have been groundbreaking and have influenced all areas of our life. Here, in Armenia we attach great importance to the development of IT area, and today it has become one of the fast developing areas,” President Serzh Sargsyan said at the meeting. He expressed confidence that Tsugo Makimoto’s visit to Armenia will foster our cooperation with Japan and at the same time will inspire Armenian specialists working in the area of information technologies, including those young people who are thinking of working in the future in that area.

Tsugo Makimoto expressed gratitude for the award and said that it was a great honor for him to be recognized in Armenia in such a way. “In the 21st century, information technologies have been playing a large and critical role in the race for winning the global competition. I wish that Armenia and Japan can find opportunities for cooperation in that area,” Tsugio Makimoto said. He said that would be staying in Armenia longer than he was initially planning and would like to familiarize closely with our country, the history, and culture of the Armenian people.

After the meeting, at the Presidential Palace there took place the ceremony of cancelling the stamps dedicated to the RA Presidential Award for Global Contribution in the Area of Information Technologies. One of the stamps depicts the RA Presidential Award for the global contribution in the Area of IT, the other shows the commemorative medal presented to the awardees, with the globe on the background which symbolizes a border-free world. Along with the two stamps, a postcard will be issued with the portraits of the three previous awardees.

In the evening, a reception will be held on the occasion of the RA Presidential Award Ceremony for Global Contribution in area of IT for year 2013 and in honor of Mr. Tsugio Makimoto and Mrs. Kumiko Makimoto.

 

***

Additional Information on the RA Presidential Award in the area of Information Technologies

 

Tsugio Mikamoto is the fourth recipient of the RA Presidential Award in the area of Information Technologies. The first one was awarded in 2010 to Craig R. Barrett, former Chairman of the Board of the Intel Corporation; the second was awarded in 2011 to a co-founder of the Apple Computers Corporation Steve Wozniak, and the third in 2012 – to the Honorary President of Synopsys Federico Faggin.

The RA Presidential Award in IT area was established by President Serzh Sargsyan’s July 6, 2009 decree and was aimed at fostering the development of this area. It is an annual award which is bestowed on the individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the area of information technologies and whose input – technological, educational, managerial, financial or other – has resulted or will result in substantial developments in the IT area.

The selection process in carried out by the Award Committee nominated by the President of Armenia and by the international selection commission. The Award comprises a medal commemorating Armenia and high technologies, a diploma and a memorial souvenir.
***

Dr. Tsugio Makimoto
Retired CEO of Hitachi Electronic Device Group and Sr. Managing Director of Hitachi
Currently, the President of SSIS and Techno Vision
(A brief CV)

 

Dr. Makimoto has been one of the most effective visionaries of Japan’s IT industry. He has pushed the technology limits to bring the building blocks that have included advance semiconductors & display devices. These building blocks have enabled the electronics industry to develop and launch most of the electronics products that have changed the world, and impacted almost all aspects of our lives since 1970’s, and continue today and going forward. Last fifteen years, we have seen many paradigm shifting products and platforms, e.g. Smart Card, Smart Phones, e-books, Tablet PC’s, GPS navigation systems, Servers, PC’s, HDTV, Telecommunications, Robotics and Automation, Electronic Games, Mobile Products, Internet, Social Networking, and others yet to come.

His visionary models and projection let him to discover and publish the famous “Makimoto Wave” that relates to the cyclical nature of semiconductor industry.

Prior to his retirement from Hitachi, Dr. Makimoto has served as the CEO of Hitachi Electronic Device Group and Senior Executive Managing Director. Since then, he has stayed active in various distinguished positions in the high tech multinational and industry groups. These have included: Sr. Corporate Advisor of Sony Corporation, Member of Advisory Panel of National Science & Technology Board of Singapore, Board Director of Chartered Semiconductor Manufacturing in Singapore, Member of Industry Advisory Board of UC Berkley, Chairman of PDF Solutions, also he was instrumental in establishing WSC (World SC Council).

Currently he is the president of SSIS (Society of Semiconductor Industry Specialists) and the founder & President of Techno Vision. He also holds senior advisory positions with several multinational companies: Taiyo Nippon Sanso Corp, Micronics Japan Corp and Nantero Corp. in USA.

Dr. Makimoto holds a BS in Applied Physics from University of Tokyo, MS in EE from Stanford University as well as Ph. D from University of Tokyo. He has been nominated and been an IEEE Fellow since 1997. He has been the recipient of many international awards, e.g. IR-100 Award, Ichimura Award and Bellwether Award. He is the author of several visionary books and other publications. 

President Serzh Sargsyan visited military units dislocated in the central and southern parts of Artsakh

Posted on by
Reply

4622

 

In the framework of his working visit to Artsakh, President Serzh Sargsyan on November 14 together with the President of NKR Bako Sahanian, Heads of the Defense Ministries of the two Armenian Republics and the highest commanding staff visited a military unit of the Defense Army dislocated in the central part of Artsakh. After greeting the troops on the drill ground, the President conversed with the soldiers and officers. Later, he observed an exhibition exercise of a reconnaissance detachment.

The Presidents of RA and NKR paid tribute and laid a wreath at the memorial of fallen heroes erected on the territory of the military dislocation.

After the official opening of the army structures built here, Serzh Sargsyan and Bako Sahakian observed the preparatory exercises of the staff getting ready for combat duty and commended those who demonstrated the best results. The Presidents of the two Armenian states visited also a military unit dislocated in the southern part of Artsakh, where recently opened was a new service building furnished with every convenience. Here, the Presidents observed also exercises of the troops on overcoming the zone of artificial obstacles.

The three-day visit of the RA President Serzh Sargsyan to the NKR DA military units and frontline, conducted in the framework of cooperation of the two Armenian states, has concluded.

This morning in Stepanakert, Presidents Serzh Sargsyan and Bako Sahakian held a private meeting which was followed by the consultations in the extended format, with the participation of the delegation of the Republic of Armenia, the Prime Minister of NKR and members of the government.
  2. 1
  3. 2
  4. 3
  5. 4
  6. 5
  7. 6
  8. 7
  9. 8
  10. 9
  11. 10