ANCA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ARAM HAMPARI AN FEATURED AT ANC OF ILLINOIS LOCAL FUNDRAISER

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ARAM HAMPARIANGlenview, IL — A crowd of supporters of the Armenian National Committee of Illinois (ANC-IL) gathered at the home of Dr. Khachig and Lena Ishkhan on Sunday, October 6, 2013, to hear about recent developments in Hai Tahd at the local, regional and national level.

The featured speaker of the event was ANCA Executive Director Aram Hamparian. The long-time director of the ANCA’s Washington, DC office discussed the various phases that Armenian political activity has passed through. He described how Armenian political activity began nearly a century ago with efforts were centered around fostering sympathy, especially with regard to securing aid for victims of the genocide and for Armenia’s fledgling republic. He stated that, with the Soviet takeover of the republic, the community entered a stage of partisanship, which peaked during the Cold War, where different elements aligned themselves with the different poles.

Hamparian discussed how in the 1960s and 70s, the community began to take a more outward focus, organizing protests and becoming more forceful in our demands. In the 1980s and 90s, the community began to become much active in lobbying efforts and trying to influence the decision makers within our government structures. More recently, the ANCA has tried to expand the community’s reach by helping young Armenian Americans actually become the part of the government structures and eventually become the decision makers.

He also described how the ANCA’s palette of issues has expanded beyond human rights and the genocide to demands for reparations, support for Armenia, Karabakh and Javakhk, and support for Armenian communities in Iraq, Syria and other areas in turmoil.  He talked about the transition of Armenia’s relationship with the US from one that is aid-based, which began with earthquake relief, to one that is trade-based in order to help fuel economic growth.

Earlier, ANC of Illinois Chair Claude Ohanesian opened the program by thanking everyone for attending.  He then called hosts Khachig and Lena Ishkhan forward to thank them for their gracious hospitality, presenting them with a gift of a signed copy of the newly published book by Hrair Hawk Khatcherian, “one church, one nation.”

Reviewing some of the many activities of the ANC of Illinois, Ohanesian spoke about the ANC’s continuing efforts to raise awareness about Armenian issues with local, state, and federal officials, mentioning meetings with Illinois Governor Pat Quinn, Armenian Caucus Co-Chair Cong. Michael Grimm, Congressman Brad Schneider, members of the Illinois State Assembly, and others.

Ohanesian spoke about the ANC’s 2013 Armenian Genocide commemoration, which featured noted author Peter Balakian and which was co-hosted by the Illinois Holocaust Museum. He also discussed continuing efforts with the Museum to mark the Centennial of Armenian Genocide.  He then introduced Illinois State Holocaust and Genocide Commission member and long-time ANC activist Greg Bedian to provide an update on the Commission and other outreach activities.

Bedian, who was appointed to the Commission by Gov. Quinn, described the newly organized Commission’s efforts to raise genocide awareness. He spoke about how the Commission was working to encourage the various communities impacted by genocide to work more closely together and learn from each other, and how the ANC had hosted a meeting of the Commission at the Armenian Community Center in March. He also discussed the importance of an international academic conference, held in May that the ANC co-organized with the Assyrian and Greek communities, and held at the Illinois Holocaust Museum, which was the first major conference ever held devoted to the three genocides committed by the Ottoman Turks.

Upon conclusion of the program, attendees were given copies of the book “A Problem from Hell: America and the Age of Genocide,” which was written by Samantha Power, the current U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations.

The Armenian National Committee of Illinois is a grassroots public affairs organization which works in coordination with a nationwide network of offices, affiliated organizations and supporters to inform, educate, and actively advance the concerns of the Armenian American community on broad range of issues.

 

Eugene Kaspersky receives honorary doctorate and discusses viruses and cyber threats in Armenia

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Եվգենի Կասպերսկի

Kaspersky Lab announces that Eugene Kaspersky, Chairman and CEO of Kaspersky Lab, received an honorary doctorate from the State Engineering University of Armenia (SEUA), the country’s leading technical university. Eugene Kaspersky and the company’s top IT security experts  met representatives of the education and the business community, as well as students from local technical universities during the recent visit to Armenia. They spoke about current cyber threats in Armenia and the wider world and discussed ways to combat them.

“The number of cyber threats is constantly growing, so it is especially important to train more experts who can combat them. The world’s next generation of specialists needs more than just good knowledge of the IT security field and strong practical skills – they also need to be able to think one step ahead and come up with something really new. I am glad to see that today’s students in Armenia are interested in cyber security and are willing to improve and develop in this area. And I’ll be doubly happy if Kaspersky Lab can help them do that,” said Eugene Kaspersky.

One of the highlights of Eugene Kaspersky’s visit was the presentation ceremony where he received a doctorate for his outstanding services to science. The Chairman and CEO of Kaspersky Lab also took part in the official opening of the Kaspersky Lab Training and CertificationCenter within the State Engineering University of Armenia. The Center will help bridge the gap between theoretical and practical education. It also provides future IT security professionals with the necessary knowledge of contemporary technologies, enabling them to gain Kaspersky Lab certification while studying at the university.

“We are deeply appreciative of the role that Kaspersky Lab is playing in the development of information security and the personal contributions Eugene Kaspersky has made as one of the leading experts in information protection. We are sure that Kaspersky Lab’s expertise will help our students become excellent IT professionals,” said Ara Avetisyan, Rector of the State Engineering University of Armenia.

Kaspersky Lab’s successful association with Armenia began four years ago following the signing of a memorandum of understanding entitled ‘Safe Armenia’ with the Ministry of the Economy. This information security project led to the implementation of a number of educational programs in Armenian schools, specialist training for IT administrators in state and commercial organizations and discounted licenses for some Kaspersky Lab products used within government structures.

The cooperation between Kaspersky Lab and the State Engineering University of Armenia began in 2009 when a student of the university won first prize in that year’s edition of the international conference CyberSecurity for the Next Generation. After that, the university registered as a member of Kaspersky Lab’s educational program and signed an agreement on cooperation within the KasperskyAcademy program which remains in effect.  In February 2013, SEUA hosted the latest regional round of CyberSecurity for the Next Generation for Russia and other CIS countries.

 

About Kaspersky Lab

Kaspersky Lab is the world’s largest privately held vendor of endpoint protection solutions. The company is ranked among the world’s top four vendors of security solutions for endpoint users*. Throughout its more than 16-year history Kaspersky Lab has remained an innovator in IT security and provides effective digital security solutions for large enterprises, SMBs and consumers. Kaspersky Lab, with its holding company registered in the United Kingdom, currently operates in almost 200 countries and territories across the globe, providing protection for over 300 million users worldwide. Learn more at www.kaspersky.com.

Dozens dead as magnitude-7.1 earthquake hits the Philippines

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A magnitude-7.1 earthquake struck central Philippines on Tuesday, leaving at least 49 people dead and rattling many who were celebrating a religious holiday.

The quake, which struck early in the morning, crumbled a number of buildings and sent panicked people streaming into the streets, witnesses said.

At least 15 were killed in the city of Cebu, four were killed in the province of Bohol and one died in the province of Siquijor, said Maj. Reynaldo Balido,a spokesman for the Philippines Office of Civil Defense.

Most of those killed were hit by falling rubble, the Philippines News Agency reported.

7.1 earthquake rocks Philippines

At least 33 people were missing, and authorities were checking into reports of people trapped in collapsed buildings in Cebu and Bohol, the agency reported. Another 164 were injured, authorities said.

The quake was centered about 385 miles (619 kilometers) south-southeast of Manila, near Catigbian, and its depth was 12 miles (20 kilometers), according to the U.S. Geological Survey said.

Maryann Zamora, a communications specialist with the charity World Vision, reported seeing glass and concrete in the streets of Cebu City, about 37 miles (60 kilometers) north of the epicenter.

“Right now we are in the streets because it is unsafe to be inside,” she said by phone, her voice shaking as one of more than 10 aftershocks hit. “Tell everyone to pray for us.”

Tuesday was a national holiday — the beginning of the Muslim festival of Eid ul Adha.

There was no widespread threat of a tsunami, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said, but it warned that earthquakes this large can sometimes cause tsunamis within 61 miles (100 kilometers) of the epicenter.

© SRTM V4, 2013, CIAT Terms of Use
The earthquake-hit province of Bohol, Philippines. (Credit: Nokia)

Catigbian, which has a population of 23,000, is in the province of Bohol.

Tourist Robert Michael Poole said he was riding a bike in Bohol when the earthquake struck and cracked the road right in front of him.

“It was very strong,” Poole said. “I live in Tokyo. I am used to earthquakes. But this one was very strong. It shocked a lot of people here.”

Poole said he was able to move around and document some of the destruction, including a giant church that was decimated.

“Lucky thing is that it is a holiday here today and it happened at a time when nobody was in the church,” Poole said

ANCA EASTERN REGION ORGANIZES PETER KOUTOUJIAN PHONE BANK

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PK_phone bankFranklin, MA — The Armenian National Committee of American Eastern Region (ANCA-ER) organized a phone bank for Congressional hopeful Peter Koutoujian at Camp Haiastan on Saturday, October 6, 2013.

Middlesex County Sheriff Peter Koutoujian is running for the vacant seat in Massachusetts’ 5th Congressional district, which includes Watertown, Belmont, Waltham, Lexington, Arlington, and many other towns heavily populated with Armenian Americans. The ANCA Eastern Massachusetts has been actively working on the campaign, volunteering at district phone banks and canvassing the district. Local Armenian youth have joined the local ANC and participated in this effort.

The ANCA-ER organized the phone bank at Camp Haiastan during the Armenian Youth Federation’s annual Senior Seminar, an educational event that attracted more than 85 Armenian youth from the East Coast, West Coast and Canada. ANCA-ER Executive Director Michelle Hagopian and ANCA National Board Member Steve Mesrobian instructed and helped the youth for an hour on Saturday. The group used the online system on www.koutoujianforcongress.com by doing a virtual phone bank, which allows individuals to make calls anywhere they have Internet access.

“The ANCA-ER strives to activate Armenian youth on all things important to the Armenian people. Volunteering with the ANCA-ER to phone bank for Peter is a privilege and the very least that Armenian youth can be doing,” said Hagopian.

The Special Primary Election for now Sen. Ed Markey’s old seat will take place on Tuesday, October 15, in Massachusetts’ 5th district. For more information on ANCA-endorsed Koutoujian and his campaign, visit www.koutoujianforcongress.comtoday.

ANCA HOLDS ROUNDTABLE ON EVE OF U.S.-ARMENIA ECONOMIC TALKS

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ancaroundtableWASHINGTON, DC – On the eve of the upcoming annual meeting of the U.S.-Armenia Economic Task Force, the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) hosted a roundtable talk on the future of U.S.-Armenian relations.
The discussion, held in the ANCA’s Aramian Conference Room, featured a far-ranging and constructive exchange among a broad cross-section of stakeholders with a diverse set of experiences dealing with various aspects of America’s relationship with Armenia, Artsakh, and her own citizens among the Armenian American community.
“We were pleased to host an open exploration of the present state and future direction of U.S.-Armenian relations that was characterized by both a constructive exchange between those holding a diverse set of viewpoints and also a core consensus on shared national and democratic aspirations,” said ANCA Executive Director Aram Hamparian.  “We want to thank each and every person who participated, not only for the wisdom and vision they shared, but also for the very practical advice and suggestions that they brought to the table.”
Photos from the event are posted on the ANCA Facebook page at:
The U.S.-Armenia Economic Task Force meeting is set to address a broad range of issues impacting this bilateral relationship, with a special focus on growing the trade and investment levels between these two nations.  “This October, we’re looking to the U.S. leadership of this bilateral platform to build on more than a decade of largely aid-related discussions by bringing to the table a set of concrete deliverables: increased trade, new investments, and good jobs that will foster hope and opportunity in both nations,” added Hamparian, following the roundtable.
The ANCA has, against the backdrop of the downward trend in overall foreign aid levels, long advocated greater U.S. prioritization of the growth of economic ties with Armenia, in order to create jobs, reinforce the enduring friendship between the American and Armenian peoples, help offset the crushing impact of dual Turkish-Azerbaijani blockades, and – very significantly – provide Armenia with strategic options in terms of its economic and security relations with regional powers.

 

Meeting with member of the British House of Lords Caroline Cox

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Bako-Sahakyan-Caroline-CoxOn 26 September Artsakh Republic President Bako Sahakyan received member of the British House of Lords Caroline Cox and accompanying her individuals.
Welcoming Caroline Cox President Sahakyan noted that her 80th jubilee visit was among the best manifestations of sincere friendship with Artsakh.
For services shown to Artsakh and its people President Sahakyan decorated Caroline 260913Cox(1)Cox with the “Mesrop Mashtots” order.
The Head of the State rated high the input the Baroness has had in our republic’s development as well as objective and fair introduction of the Artsakh issue in various international fora expressing confidence that hereafter Caroline Cox would continue her humanitarian mission with the same zeal.
National Assembly speaker Ashot Ghoulyan, writer and publicist, hero of Artsakh Zori Balayan and other officials partook in the meeting.

Miss Philippines crowned the new Miss World

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Miss Philippines crowned the new Miss WorldA new Miss World was crowned Saturday, and though she competed as Miss Philippines, she hails from the United States.

Megan Young, 23, an aspiring filmmaker, took the top honor at the competition, held in Bali, Indonesia.

Miss France, Marine Lorphelin, and Miss Ghana, Carranzar Naa Okailey Shooter, were second and third runners up, respectively.

Young was born in the United States and moved to the Philippines at age 10, according to her biography.

The new Miss World is a college student who has appeared on screen as an actress and presenter since she was 15.

Protesters in Indonesia, the world’s most populous Muslim nation, denounced the event.

In an attempt to appease religious concerns, the pageant scrapped the swimsuit competition and replaced it with less-revealing beachwear attire.

 

ANCA ENDORSES DAYLIN LEACH IN PENNSYLVANIA CONGRESSIONAL PRIMARY

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 daylin_leachThe Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) announced its endorsement of long time Armenian American community supporter and State Senate champion Daylin Leach in his primary bid to succeed Representative Allyson Schwartz in Pennsylvania’s 13th Congressional district.
“Senator Leach has been an outspoken supporter of U.S. reaffirmation of the Armenian Genocide, spearheading successive Pennsylvania House and Senate resolutions raising awareness of the need to recognize and condemn this crime,” stated Pennsylvania activist and ANCA leader Nora Kzirian. “We’re proud to stand with Senator Leach as he seeks to bring his principled leadership to the Halls of Congress.”
“When I married into an Armenian family I was quickly captivated by the rich cultural and culinary Armenian traditions,” noted Senator Leach, a Jewish American. “But more than that, I learned of the tragic genocide inflicted on the Armenian people in the early part of the last century. My people have also experienced genocide. I know how important it is for the world to acknowledge the truth, and swore to make it my life’s mission to ensure that this happened for the Armenian people.”
State Senator Daylin Leach was first elected to the Pennsylvania State House in 2002 and later to the State Senate in 2008. Throughout his career in elected office, he has been author and prime sponsor of the Armenian Genocide Resolution in the Pennsylvania.  “Revisionists still inexplicably deny the existence of these horrific events, and modern Turkey continues to distort the facts surrounding the genocide. By consistently remembering and openly condemning the atrocities committed against the Armenians, Pennsylvanians affirm the need for constant vigilance to prevent similar atrocities in the future,” Leach explained to his colleagues on the Senate floor when introducing the resolution in 2009.
In May, 2012, Sen. Leach hosted students from the Armenian Sisters Academy at the Capitol Building in Harrisburg for “Armenian Awareness Day,” which included a dance performance, cultural exhibit and press conference. “I appreciate the support from members of the Armenian community who work tirelessly to preserve the rich history of their culture and share it with others. I hope that everyone who attended today’s event had fun and, more importantly, learned something along the way,” Leach told attendees at the press conference.  Video from the press conference can viewed at:http://www.senatorleach.com/contusvideo?vid=12
Sen. Leach, whose wife, Jennifer, is of Armenian descent, has been active in Pennsylvania Armenian community life, often participating in the annual Armenian Genocide Walk and recently serving as keynote Speaker at the Society for Orphaned Armenian Relief (SOAR) annual dinner.  He was among honored guests at the May 18th International House of Philadelphia global gala in celebration of the rich cultural traditions and achievements of the Armenian people around the world.
Sen. Leach’s father-in-law, Dr. Robert Mirak, is the author of “Torn Between Two Lands: Armenians in America 1890 to World War I,” the story of the Armenian immigrant experience in America prior to WWI, and the Armenian entry in the “Harvard Encyclopedia of American Ethnic Groups.”
Jennifer and the Mirak family are directors of the John Mirak Foundation which supports numerous Armenian causes in America and abroad including the Armenia Tree Project; Avedisian School in Yerevan; Armenian Eye Care Project; Zoryan Institute; Armenian Heritage Park in Boston, MA; St. Steven’s Armenian School, Watertown, MA; and,
St. James Church in Watertown, MA.
Leach is running in the Democratic primary in Pennsylvania’s 13th Congressional District to replace Congresswoman Allyson Schwartz, a supporter of Armenian American issues, who is running for Governor. The district includes Northeast Philadelphia and Montgomery County, both Armenian American strongholds in the state.  The primary is scheduled for May 20, 2014.

 

PRESIDENT SERZH SARGSYAN’S WORKING VISIT TO SYUNIK MARZ

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3952President Serzh Sargsyan, who is in Syunik on a working visit, in the framework of his visit familiarized with works of small and medium enterprises which are carrying out their development programs side by side with Syunik’s major mining and energy companies, looked into the investment projects, and prospects of development. In particular, the President visited Aval Trade knitting enterprise in Sisian, which was established in December 2012 and since April 2013 has been manufacturing knitting production. The President was informed that in four months of this year, the company has made an investment of 30.0 million AMD, including the import of modern machinery.

The enterprise employs 90 people with the average monthly salary of 70-80 thousand drams. As of April-August 2013, according to the management the company manufactured nearly 70.7 million dram worth production which was sold in the Russian Federation. The company is planning to expand its export market by increasing production capacities which will allow to employ 120 people.

In Goris, the President visited Goris Gamma enterprise which together with Zangezur copper and molybdenum factory currently is executing a new program of manufacturing new machinery in full compliance with international standards. Representatives of the company noted that they have concluded negotiations with the German supplier and now are negotiating with potential customers to specify the demand and assortment volumes. It was noted that if the program is successful, Armenia will be manufacturing digital, high accuracy turning and milling machines which comply with the European standards. At the initial stage of the program, investments reached one million US dollars; if there is proper demand, along with the increase of the production capacities, the number of jobs will reach 130.

Goris Gamma enterprise was founded back in 1979 and was specializing in the production of special machinery for the military industrial complex of the Ministry of Defense of former USSR. In 1996, the enterprise was restructured becoming a closed venture; 20 percent of its state shares were given without indemnity to the employees and 80 percent were privatized in 2001. Currently the enterprise has mechanical, special machinery assembling, electromotor assembling, and optical production units as well as an experimental laboratory. The production of the company is being sold primarily in the Russian Federation and, according to the management there are also sales orders from Canada. In January-August, 2013 the company manufactured 238.0 million dram worth production which is a 23% increase compared to the same period last year. It was noted that along with the batch production, the Company also receives sales orders from the Zangezur copper and molybdenum factory such as manufacturing of tools and machinery.

In the framework of his visit, President Serzh Sargsyan visited also Qajaran town. First, he visited the monument dedicated to the fallen heroes, laid flowers and paid tribute to the memory of the sons of the Armenian nation who died for our Motherland.

Later, at the central square of Qajaran, the President participated in the events dedicated to the 55th anniversary of the town and in the framework of the event handed awards and letters of commendation to a group of individuals who were distinguished for their patriotic work in different areas: Hrachia Tadevossian, Head of Division in the Qajaran Medical Center, Ltd. outpatient clinic by the Presidential decree was awarded the Mkhitar Heratsi Medal; Mikhail Aroustamian, Executive Director of the Rivs scientific and production enterprise (RF) was awarded the Anania Shirakatsi medal. Saro Hayrapetian, Chief Architect of the Qajaran community communal services Ltd. and Zakhar Mirzoyan, electric welder of the Ore Reduction and Transportation unit of the Qajaran copper and molybdenum factory for their years-long and diligent work received Presidential letters of commendation. In Qajaran, by the decision of the Council of Elders, the President was handed the first Battle of Artsakh commemorative medal.

President Sargsyan congratulated all those persent on the occasion of the town’s holiday and on receiving awards, thanked the inhabitants of Qajaran for their daily efforts aimed at the development of their town and their dedication, wished all the best and assured that Qajaran and other settlements in our country every year will become more comfortable and developed. The President of Armenia urged the participants of the festivities to look at the future of their town and our country with optimism and faith.

At the conclusion of the festivities, Serzh Sargsyan attended the opening ceremony of the monument dedicated to the former director of many years of the Qajaran copper and molybdenum factory, a skillful organizer of the mining production Frunze Petrossian.

The President continues his visit to Syunik marz. Today, he will also participate at the opening of Qajaran’s medical center. In Kapan, Serzh Sargsyan will visit the Garegin Nzhdeh Square and will familiarize with the program of its modernization; in Kapan’s high-school n. 2 he will observe construction works conducted here. In Syunik community of the marz, the President of Armenia will visit the small cattle slaughter house and new processing unit.

Address by President Serzh Sargsyan on the occasion of Independence Day

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Today, at the Karen Demirchian Sports and Culture Centre, a reception was organized on behalf of the President Serzh Sargsyan on the occasion of the 21st anniversary of the independence of the Republic of Armenia. The Head of State delivered congratulatory address on the occasion of the Independence Day.

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Address by President Serzh Sargsyan on the occasion of Independence Day

 

Your Holiness,
Distinguished President of the Republic of Nagorno Karabakh,
My Fellow Compatriots,
Distinguished Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

I cordially congratulate you on the occasion of Independence Day.

For the last twenty-two years, we have been traveling a new road, which has often appeared narrow and rocky just as our mountain pathways. We have been moving forward cautiously and prudently because we carry great responsibility on our shoulders. The is the Armenia of Orontids and Artaxiads, this is the Armenia of Arsacids and Bagratids, this is the Republic of Armenia of the beginning of the previous century, this is the Armenia which has already entered the third millennium After Christ.

Our path is full of ups and downs but it is our way. We are besieged from right and left; sometimes defiant, sometimes vexed, we nevertheless are moving forward towards the light. We will bring back all those whom at times we have not been able to keep by our side. We will reinstate all our losses and will leave all privations behind. We will look back and register with pride that together we have passed gingerly the only possible narrow pathway. We should have no doubts about that.

My Fellow Compatriots,

For a long time our nation was compelled to solve not development but primarily existential problems. Today, the task has changed: now we are calling to life projects which are dealing with the strengthening and development of the Armenian Statehood. Certainly, security is the number one priority for everyone in this world, and we are no exception. Security-related issues will always be in the focus of our attention, just as they are today. We are constantly searching for ways to boost our economy, and we have achieved certain results. We are setting goals to expand the borders of possible, so that each year with a precise regularity we are able to increase salaries and pensions. Along the way, we are carrying out our reforms, which provide steady development for stronger democracy, good governance, the rule of law, and progress in all other areas. Our policies are directed towards these objectives.

The stance of the Armenian authorities and our society is clear-cut. We have had enough of wars, perturbations, abrupt U-turns and adventurism. We need unfailing defense, peaceful work and sustainable development, and we are doing just that. Perhaps a little slowly, perhaps with some slip-ups along the way but definitely not when it comes to the most important issues and definitely not when it comes to fateful decisions.

Armenian State means realization of the Armenian dream – this is the greatest symbolism of today’s holiday. The re-establishment of our independence in 1991 made our nation’s centuries-long dream come true. Our brothers and sisters in Diaspora and, first and foremost, the citizens of Armenia nourish and make part of their own dream, which came true. Are we able to raise our dream fulfilled to new heights in the contemporary world? Yes, we are, if we neither underestimate, nor overestimate our capabilities. For one who is traveling down a rocky pathway it is absolutely crucial to evaluate painstakingly each step along the way.

The Orontids’ Armenia and the Artaxiads’ Armenia were manifestations of Armenian dream. Today, the situation is quite different, and we have quite another country. This is a new reality which our people started to create fighting and defending ourselves while relying on a substantial legacy inherited from the Soviet Armenia. A glance back reveals the huge distance we have already covered and enormous risks we have avoided. It also inspires us with hope that we can accelerate our advancement. Every offspring of the Armenia nation has a mission to be accomplished in this process. If anyone has not learned it yet, it is high time to do so.

My Fellow Compatriots,

Independence is an objective and daily routine at the same time. It has to be conquered every day through living, adopting decisions and implementing them as free citizens of independent Armenia. We are living in a free country, and can discuss anything we want to. One thing, however, is unalterable under any circumstance: the sovereignty of the Republic of Armenia. It is a dream and duty fulfilled, which is always with us. This is a feast that we inherited paying the price with our heroes’ blood and this is a duty which we shall pass on to our grandchildren.

I once again congratulate all citizens of the Republic of Armenia and the entire Armenian nation. I wish us all peaceful work for the benefit of our families and our country. I wish we allot our capabilities wisely on different turns of the path and crown with success our dreams and programs. Joint together they make what we call the Republic of Armenia.

Long live the Republic of Armenia!
Glory to the Armenian Nation!

President Serzh Sargsyan participated at the ceremony of consecration of the Armenian Cathedral in Moscow and opening of the Church compound

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 3791President Serzh Sargsyan and Mrs. Rita Sargsyan who are visiting the Russian Federation today participated at the ceremony of consecration of the Armenian Cathedral in Moscow and opening of the Church compound.

The ceremony of consecration of the Cathedral was conducted by His Holiness Catholicos of All Armenians Garegin II. The ceremony was attended by the Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia Kirill who gave his blessings, the President of the Nagorno Karabakh Republic Bako Sahakian, state and public figures of the Russian Federation, heads of the major Armenian Apostolic Church dioceses from Armenia and abroad, representatives and benefactors.

The construction of the Church compound, which is located in the center of Moscow and built in accordance with the Armenian national architectural traditions, was commenced back in 2006. It comprises the Cathedral, the Holy Cross Church, the diocese office, educational, cultural, administrative and hostel units, reception and festivity halls and a museum. The compound is built with light apricot colored tuff while the Cathedral is built with rose tuff brought from а stone quarry situated in the vicinity of the Armenian capital Ani and is decorated with crosses, bas-reliefs and the Armenian alphabet.

3795The compound through its appearance and bas-reliefs relates to the citizens of Moscow and guests of the Russian capital about the Armenian people, presents momentous pages of our history – invention of the alphabet, adoption of Christianity, our struggle for faith and motherland, the Golden Age, etc. The ornaments and bas-reliefs are harmoniously connected with the scattered over the territory of the compound numerous cross-stones – symbols of the Armenian sculptural art.

After the official ceremony of the consecration of the Cathedral, President Serzh Sargsyan along with the organizers, benefactors and guests watched at the reception hall of the administrative building of the Church “The Armenians in Moscow: Historical Road” exhibition, which was organized by the Russia and Nor Nachijevan Diocese of the Armenian Apostolic Church, National Archives of Armenia, RF Federal Agency of Archives, the General Department of Moscow Archives, and State Central Archives of Moscow.

The opulent exhibition presents the almost five-century long history of the Armenian community of Moscow starting from the end of the XIV century up to the beginning of the XX century. The exhibition is called upon to enhance the understanding of the role of the Church and community in the life of the Armenian nation and the processes of mutual enrichment of the Armenian and Russian cultures.

The President of Armenia visited also the educational and cultural units, as well as the Church hostel. Later, in the courtyard of the Church he was present at the unveiling ceremony of the Love and Brotherhood memorial fountain dedicated to the friendship of the Armenian and Russian peoples.

“Raoul Wallenberg 100 Anniversary” Medal award ceremony took place at the Presidential Palace

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 3765Today, at the Presidential Palace there took place the ceremony of awarding the President of Armenia Serzh Sargsyan, who is an honorary member of the Raoul Wallenberg International Foundation with the “Raoul Wallenberg 100th Anniversary” Medal. Raoul Wallenberg was a renowned Swedish diplomat who during the World War II saved thousands of Jews from death.

At the event, the Foundation also paid posthumous honors to doctor Harutyun Khatchatrian for his rescue activities during the Holocaust. He was also awarded the “Raoul Wallenberg 100th Anniversary” Medal, which was handed to his granddaughter Anna Khatchatrian.

In their remarks, the Founder of the Raoul Wallenberg Foundation Baruch Tenembaum and Vice President Daniel Rainer presented the history of creation of the Foundation, its mission and activities and underscored that the aim of this international foundation is to create educational programs and through the greater awareness to enroot values of civil valor and solidarity based on the examples of those who during the Holocaust were saving human lives.

The Foundation supports historical research, part of which is dedicated to the gathering and publication of the information about individuals saved by R. Wallenberg and other people who had manifested such bravery. The representatives of the Foundation expressed their gratitude to numerous Armenians who saved many human lives during the Holocaust. All of them will be paid tribute to; the history of their heroic lives will be studied meticulously and published.

President Serzh Sargsyan in his remarks attached the utmost importance to the mission of the Raoul Wallenberg Foundation, expressed thanks for the award and spoke about Armenia’s policies aimed at the prevention and condemnation of the crimes of genocide and uniting efforts of the international community in the fight against the phenomena which cultivate them.

 

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Remarks by President Serzh Sargsyan at the “Raoul Wallenberg 100 Anniversary” Medal award ceremony

 

Distinguished Mr. Tenembaum and Mr. Eurnekian,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

The “Raoul Wallenberg 100 Anniversary” Medal for me is not only a great honor but it also holds a special meaning. It embodies the noble values of humanity and courageous spirit which are professed by the Armenian people. The sons of the Armenian nation, who didn’t adapt to and didn’t tolerate the gravest crimes in the human history, were guided by these very values. They put their lives in peril to save many other peoples’ lives.

The history of Doctor Harutyun Khatchatrian is an example, an excellent one, but just one among many of saving human lives from the calamity of genocide. As a son of the nation which survived genocide, I have special feelings for each of such stories.

I attach the utmost importance to the Raoul Wallenberg Foundation’s mission to shed light on such heroic stories. The mission of broadcasting the stories such as Raoul Wallenberg’s and people like him and educating generations in that spirit has a special import not only for enrooting humanity and human courage and preserving the memory of the victims of genocides, but it also greatly helps in assessing the past impartially and thus supports efforts aimed at condemnation and prevention of such horrendous crimes against humanity.

My special thanks go to the Founder of the Raoul Wallenberg Foundation Baruch Tenembaum, the Chairman of the Foundation, our compatriot Eduardo Eurnekian and, of course, to the entire staff of the Foundation for their dedication, thank you.

Dear Attendees,

Our fate has destined us to become the front fighters in the fight against genocides. Indeed, nations, which had gone through such a catastrophe, have a special mission in preventing it from happening again. The best formula for preventing crimes against humanity is the elucidation of those horrific pages of the human history and the evaluation of the past in the light of all-human values. I believe it is equally important to fight against the prerequisites which breed such crimes.

The Republic of Armenia is doing her best to prevent the crimes of genocide and to unite efforts of the international community in the fight against occurrences which feed them. For years, Armenia has been introducing in different international settings resolutions aimed at the prevention of genocides. It was also due to our efforts that the UN Human Rights Council in different years has adopted a number of resolutions aimed at the prevention of genocides. They are called upon to constantly hold in the center of the international community’s attention the Convention on Prevention and Punishment of Genocide and to remind the states of their commitment to eliminated crimes against humanity.

It is no accident, that at the Ministerial Committee in the Council of Europe, Armenia has declared the fight against intolerance, discrimination and hate propaganda a priority of her presidency. We think it is shameful that in the contemporary world such occurrences not only continue to exist but are being promoted by certain forces, including on the state level. We must be determined to eradicate such manifestations in any corner of the world.

In conclusion, I once again address my words of appreciation to the Raoul Wallenberg Foundation for their mission of preserving memory. If we forget the Great Eghern, Holocaust and stop mentioning the victims of these sinister crimes, if we do not recall and pay tribute to all those who had been saving lives from the claws of genocide, we would be accomplices in the repetition of such appalling crimes. The American thinker of the Jewish descent Elie Wiesel put it precisely right: “Without memory, there is no culture. Without memory, there would be no civilization, no society, no future.”

We, Armenians are deeply convinced that the Holocaust could had been prevented if there had been memory of the first genocide of the 20th century perpetrated against Armenians, if it had been duly condemned and those guilty had their due punishment. With this regard, I express thanks to the Wallenberg Foundation for the efforts along with the Holocaust to gather information about the individuals and organizations which had been saving lives during the Armenian Genocide. This mission is particularly valuable on the eve of the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide.

Thank you.

 

ANCA VOICES ARMENIAN AMERICAN OPPOSITION TO U.S. STRIKES AGAINST SYRIA

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anca_syriaWASHINGTON, DC – The Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA), citing the Armenian American community’s profound concern for the fate of Syria’s Armenian population and the welfare of all of Syria’s citizens, circulated letters today across Capitol Hill calling on Members of the U.S. House and Senate to oppose legislation authorizing U.S. strikes against Syria.
“As our nation’s elected representatives gather this week to consider potential U.S. actions against Syrian targets, we wish to add our voice, as Americans of Armenian heritage, to those of our fellow citizens who oppose American military strikes and are against any escalation of violence.  Such an escalation would very likely create further challenges and lead to serious additional harm to Christian communities, including Syria’s Armenian minority,” said ANCA Chairman Ken Hachikian in letters to U.S. legislators.  “We take this stand mindful of the horrific human suffering that armed conflict has already visited across Syria, including the death and destruction being endured, to this day, by Armenians and other Christian communities.  There has already been too much bloodshed, too much brutality, and too much suffering.  An escalation in aggression can neither save lives nor help bring about peace.”
The ANCA message went on to stress that, “We believe that the advancement of our national interests, the enhancement of U.S. standing, the strengthening of the international rule-of-law system, and the promotion of stability and humanitarian and democratic values in this vital region, will not be facilitated by American attacks.  We look to our government to seek a diplomatic settlement, and to reinforce our nation’s call upon all parties to cease any attacks on civilians, to limit armed operations to military targets, and to refrain from violence, intimidation, and discrimination against Christians and other vulnerable minorities.”
As a follow up to longstanding ANCA advocacy for effective, needs-based delivery of humanitarian aid to Armenian and all at-risk populations, Hachikian noted that Armenian Americans “remain troubled that, despite the expenditure of hundreds of millions of dollars, serious gaps remain in terms of U.S.-supplied and funded relief aid actually reaching at-risk Armenian and other minority populations, in Aleppo and throughout Syria.” He added that   Equally troubling has been the very limited U.S. support for landlocked and blockaded Armenia’s efforts to support and resettle thousands fleeing the Syria crisis.  We urge you, in cooperation with your colleagues and our community (which is very actively engaged in relief efforts), to work with the Administration to urgently address these shortcomings.”

 

Statement by the Chairman of CoE Committee of Ministers, Foreign Minister of Armenia Edward Nalbandian on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of the entry into force of the European Convention on Human Rights

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399. Comments by Edward Nalbandian, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia, on the Enniskillen Joint Statement on Nagorno-Karabakh by the Heads of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chair Countries 18.06.2013Sixty years ago, on the 3 September 1953, the Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms, better known as the “European Convention on Human Rights”, entered into force. This treaty is undoubtedly the cornerstone of the human rights protection in Europe. Over sixty years, persons within the jurisdiction of the member States of the Council of Europe have benefited from this unique legal instrument. Several landmark judgments of the European Court of Human Rights, guardian of the Convention, have helped to significantly strengthen the rule of law and democracy across the European continent.

As Pierre-Henri Teitgen, one of the founding fathers of the European Convention, pointed out more than sixty years ago, democracies do not go bad in one day; nor can rule of law be put in place overnight. The promotion of human rights is an ongoing process and it is our common responsibility to ensure that the European Convention remains the effective constitutional instrument of European public order that it has become over the years.

That is why the Armenian Chairmanship of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe highly values the recent adoption of Protocols No. 15 and 16 to the Convention, which reinforce the ability of the Court to deal with incoming cases and strengthen application of the Convention at national level. No less than 22 member States have signed Protocol No. 15 since its opening for signature at the end of June. The opening for signature of Protocol No. 16 on 2 October will be another important step.

The Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe will continue to do its utmost to ensure that the rights enshrined in the Convention are respected and protected across Europe.

The newly appointed Ambassador of the Philippines presented his credentials to the President of Armenia

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3608_bToday, the newly appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Philippines to the Republic of Armenia (residence in Moscow) Alejandro Mosquera presented his credentials to the President of Armenia.

The President of Armenia congratulated the Ambassador on his appointment and expressed hope that during his service in our country, using the existing potential he will make his personal contribution to the enhancement and expansion of the Armenian-Philippine cooperation in different areas. According to Serzh Sargsyan, Armenia attaches importance to the deepening of her relations with the Philippines and toward that end is ready to implement joint initiatives and programs.

Ambassador Alejandro Mosquera assured that during his tenure in office, he would do his best so that through the steady and joint work the two countries have qualitatively new relations.

 

Davit Tonoyan held separate meetings with the UNHCR representative in Armenia Mr.Damtew Dessalegne

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դավիթ-տոնոյանOn August 23, First Deputy Minister of Defense Davit Tonoyan held separate meetings with the UNHCR representative in Armenia Mr.Damtew Dessalegne and with the head of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Armenia, Mr.Lorenzo Caraffi.

During both meetings parties discussed issues regarding the Armenian POW Hakob Injighulyan. D. Tonoyan particularly expressed his concern over the fact, that the Azerbaijani authorities continue to violate principles of international law with regard to Hakob Injighulyan and that competent international humanitarian organizations, human rights defenders and international community have not shown any reaction to the lack of restraint on part of Azerbaijan is rather perplexing.

Alleged “interviews” with Hakob Injighulyan recently recorded and broadcasted by the Azerbaijani authorities-which again testify to the informational war against Armenia on a rather very primitive level and aim to hinder the process of Injighulyan’s repatriation – have not been condemned by a single international organization. It is obvious that Injighulyan is forced to come up with controversial statements under psychological intimidation and most probably under the threat of physical abuse which has become a common way of acting for the Azerbaijani authorities under wide-spread impunity. Hakob Injighulyan’s request for resettling him in a 3rd country should be taken into consideration if he was assured  of the right  to express his wish in a free, unhindered and informed  manner and by no means under constant pressure .

He also reiterated the pledge of the Armenian authorities not to subject Injighulyan to criminal prosecution in view of the absence of corpus dilecti in his case and informed aboutintentions to ask UNHCR to use its good offices when they are engaged and inform Injighulyan duly of this commitment.

It is noteworthy that no repatriated POW of Armenian nationality has been subject to such prosecution with most of themtaking up their service in their homeland.

It was also said, that  the Armenian side believes international humanitarian organizations should engage themselves to a maximum extent facilitating the prompt repatriation of Injighulyan and will object to any attempt ofhis resettlement in a 3rd country considering them unjustified and groundless.

United Nations Secretary-general message for World humanitarian day

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9-20-2012_68411_lEvery year on August 19th, we mark World Humanitarian Day in honour of aid workers who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

 We commemorate their sacrifice and reaffirm our commitment to the life-saving work that humanitarians carry out around the world, every day, often in difficult and dangerous circumstances where others cannot or do not want to go.

This year’s commemoration marks the 10th anniversary of the attack on UN headquarters in Baghdad that killed Special Representative Sergio Vieira de Mello and 21 other United Nations colleagues and partners.  That tragedy was among the inspirations for this Day.

Sergio was a vocal advocate of the values and mission of the United Nations.  He touched the lives of all who met him, and helped millions of poor and vulnerable people in a life of service on several continents.  His death was a great loss to the United Nations, but his legacy has motivated many people to pursue humanitarian work.

This year, our World Humanitarian Day campaign is calling on people to answer a question: What do you think the world needs more of?  I urge people everywhere to go to www.worldhumanitarianday.org and tell us, in one word, what you think.

My word is “teamwork.”  In a time of global challenges, people and countries need to work together in common cause for peace, justice, dignity and development.  That is the humanitarian spirit.  That is the humanitarian imperative of the United Nations.

 

 

UN and its partners commemorate World Humanitarian Day

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makToday around 40 children and youth participated in the commemoration of the World Humanitarian day organized at the Sevan Windsurfing Club by the UN Office in Armenia.

The goal of the event was to further inspire youth to be more active humanitarians. The UN representatives discussed with youth the UN work in humanitarian area, distributed relevant UN materials and awarded seven winners of the windsurfing competition with UN promotional products.

 Every year on August 19th, the UN marks World Humanitarian Day in honour of aid workers who have lost their lives in the line of duty, including the dozens who have died this year. This year marks 10 years since the UN headquarters in Baghdad was bombed and 22 UN and aid workers were killed, including the then Special Representative of the Secretary-General to Iraq.

The UN Office in Armenia also commemorates their sacrifice and reaffirms its commitment to the life-saving work that humanitarians carry out around the world.

Ban Ki Moon, the UN Secretary-General, said: “This Day is an opportunity to celebrate the spirit that inspires humanitarian work. The World Humanitarian Day campaign is calling on people to answer a question: What do you think the world needs more of?  I urge people to go to www.worldhumanitarianday.org and tell us what you think.  My word is “teamwork.”  In a time of global challenges, people and countries need to work together in common cause for peace, justice, dignity and development.  That is the humanitarian imperative of the UN.”

After the discussion, 12-year old Armine B. added: “I would like to help people who are in need, I will make our world better. I will work for the UN when I will grow up.”

The event at the Sevan lake was supported by the UN Resident Coordinator, UN Department of Public Information, UN Population Fund, UNICEF, UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.  The UN Office in Armenia supported the management of the Club in their efforts to promote youth activism, healthy life style and environmental protection.

 

Ferry sinks after collision off Philippines; 31 dead, over 170 unaccounted for

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Philippines passenger ferry1Rescue crews have found 31 bodies, and are looking for 172 other people, after the ferry they were on collided Friday with a cargo ship in waters between southern Philippine islands, a Coast Guard official said.

Lt. Elgen Gregorio, from the Philippine Coast Guard, told CNN on Saturday morning that more than 600 people had been rescued. At that time, authorities were still looking for survivors.

The incident occurred around 9 p.m. Friday in the Mactan Channel about 2 miles northwest of Cebu City, the capital of Cebu province.

The passenger ship — MV St. Thomas Aquinas — was coming from nearby Butuan City and the cargo ship — the Sulpicio, which had about 20 people aboard — was leaving Cebu for the province of Davao in Mindanao.

The passenger ferry sank, but not before sending out a distress call heard by Coast Guard officials.

At least 44 people were being treated at one hospital in Cebu.

The incident recalls one of the worst maritime disasters in world history dating to December 20, 1987, also off the Philippines.

Between 1,700 and more than 4,000 people were killed when the ferry Dona Paz collided with the tanker MT Victor. The number of casualties has varied; many claim the Dona Paz was extremely overcrowded.

 

ANCA EASTERN REGION LOCAL COMMITTEES MEET WITH HOUSE REPRESENTATIVES DURING AUGUST RECESS

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Runyan_district (1)Mount Laurel, NJ — The Armenian National Committee of America Eastern Region (ANCA-ER) has been voicing the values and concerns of Armenian Americans with U.S. representatives in their district offices while Congress is on August recess.

The ANC of New Jersey was accompanied by Michelle Hagopian, ANCA Eastern Region Executive Director, to a meeting with Rep. Jon Runyan (R-NJ-3) on Tuesday, August 13, 2013. The meeting was at his Mount Laurel district office in southern New Jersey.

“These district meetings are vital to the ebb and flow of the ANCA-ER’s activity. Even though we connect with representatives in Washington, we lay the foundation locally in the district. We appreciate the cooperation of elected officials like Rep. Runyan for meeting with our activists, who are always willing to voice their concerns and advance the Armenian cause,” said Hagopian.

Andrew and Madonna Kzirian, two constituents of Rep. Runyan, attended the meeting and brought a few pamphlets and books on the Armenian Genocide as a gift to the Congressman. House Resolution 227, the Armenian Genocide Truth and Justice Resolution, was a main point of discussion in the meeting as the ANCA-ER works to increase the number of cosponsors on the resolution.

“I think the 3rd district community should be pleased that we’re meeting with elected officials at the federal level and we’re putting a face on the topic of the Genocide. Even if a Congressman isn’t up to speed on our issues, we’re making them aware that constituents are concerned about justice,” Andrew Kzirian said.

Hagopian also accompanied Vatche Kaloustian of the ANC of Pennsylvania to a meeting with the office of Rep. Patrick Meehan (R-PA-7) on Wednesday, August 14. The discussion ranged from the history of the Genocide to the self-determination and democratic nature of the Republic of Nagorno Karabakh, which included a briefing on the history of the region and the aggression by Azerbaijan against Armenians.

In the Midwest, the newly formed ANC of Missouri has been hard at work getting to know their elected officials as well. On Wednesday, August 7, ANC-MO activists Jake Varadian and John Donjoian met with the office of Rep. Ann Wagner (R-MO-2) to cultivate a relationship with the Congresswoman.

The pair discussed the St. Louis metropolitan area community, including the Granite City, Ill., Armenian Apostolic church, St. Gregory the Illuminator. The fact that the St. Louis area has a sizeable population of Baku Armenians provided a solid framework to discuss Nagorno Karabakh and the far-reaching roots it has in Missouri and Illinois. ANC-MO also gave personal accounts of their familial ties to the Genocide, emphasized the importance of culture that Armenian Americans bring to the area, and urged Rep. Wagner to push for more trade and aid to Armenia.

“Rep. Wagner’s office was genuinely touched by our personal accounts and our willingness to discuss the issues important to the Armenians of Missouri’s 2nd Congressional district,” Donjoian said.

ANCA-ER has other meetings scheduled in the district for this month and into September, while some local ANCs such as the ANC of Rhode Island have met with their representatives already and have made plans to meet with their Senators before the recess is over.

U.S. Congress returns to session in Washington, DC on September 9.

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