Armenia and European Union Issue Joint Declaration After Vilnius Summit

VILNIUS — The European Union and the Republic of Armenia have adopted a joint statement as a result of the EU Eastern Partnership summit in Vilnius, Lithuania, in which they said that they have completed negotiations on an Association Agreement, including a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area, but will not proceed with its initialing due to “Armenia’s new international commitments.” Yerevan and Brussels have also agreed on the need “to update the EU-Armenia ENP Action Plan.”

“The EU and Armenia enjoy close links and reconfirm their commitment to further develop and strengthen comprehensive cooperation in all areas of mutual interest within the Eastern Partnership framework,” the statement published by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia reads.

“Based on common values, both sides are committed to further cooperation aimed at the continuous improvement of democratic institutions and judiciary, the promotion of human rights and rule of law, good governance, the fight against corruption, the strengthening the civil society, the further improvement of the framework for enhanced trade and investments, the continued implementation of the mobility partnership and increased sectoral cooperation.

“Based on their common endeavour to build upon the existing framework of cooperation, the EU and Armenia stress the importance of revisiting the basis for their relations.”

Armenia views the EU summit as an important stage in the development of its relations with the 28-nation bloc “on a more streamlined and realistic foundations”, President Serzh Sarkisian said addressing the delegates to the high-level event on Friday.

In his speech the Armenian leader said it is in this context that Armenia reads the final document of the summit and the Armenia-EU Union Joint Statement adopted in the Lithuanian capital.

Armenia had been on course to initial an Association Agreement with the EU at the current summit but in September it decided not to go ahead, preferring to join the Customs Union of Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan. Despite the apparent U-turn the Armenian government has reaffirmed its commitment to continuing political cooperation with the EU to the extent that does not hamper its membership in the Russian-led trade bloc.

Armenia and European Union Issue Joint Declaration After Vilnius Summit

Thanksgiving Day Telethon Raises More than $22.6m for Vardenis-Martakert Highway

LOS ANGELES — The annual Thanksgiving Day Armenia Fund telethon broadcast from Los Angeles on Thjrsday has secured more than $22.6 million in donations and pledges for the construction of a strategically important road connecting Armenia and Nagorno-Karabakh.

The Hayastan All-Armenian Fund will spend the money raised for the construction of a 116-km Vardenis-Martakert highway, which is of great social and economic importance for the two Armenian republics.

According to the official website of the Hayastan All-Armenian Fund, more than half of the sum, $12.35 million, has been pledged by Russian Armenians, the second biggest amount of donations has come from the United States – a total of $3 million. About 1.5 million Euros (almost $2 million) were pledged by Armenians around Europe in a preceding Phoneathon held on 21-24 November. The rest of the pledges have been made by donors from Armenian communities in the Middle East and Latin America.

Armenians from Armenia have pledged to donate more than $1.6 million, while Karabakh Armenians will contribute $1 million for the construction of t he highway, which is planned as an alternative to today’s operating road via the Lachin corridor.

Similar fundraisers in 2012 secured over $21 million in donations to finance rural infrastructure projects in Nagorno-Karabakh and help Syria’s ethnic Armenian community. The bulk of the donations then also came from wealthy Armenians in Russia.

Thanksgiving Day Telethon Raises More than $22.6m for Vardenis-Martakert Highway

Turkish Journalist Nedim Sener Dedicates his Press Freedom Award to the Memory of Hrant Dink

NEW YORK — Nedim Sener, an investigative journalist with Turkey’s Posta newspaper, was honored with Press Freedom Award, a recognition for his work in the Turkish press against a myriad of odds and challenges that mar the profession in the country, Today’s Zaman reports.

The Committee to Protect Journalists’ 2013 International Press Freedom Awards were presented to Ecuador’s Janet Hinostroza, Egypt’s Bassem Youssef, Turkey’s Nedim Sener and Vietnam’s Nguyen Van Hai in a ceremony at New York’s Waldorf Astoria hotel on Tuesday evening.

Sener, who is among the four foreign journalists that were honored with Press Freedom Awards for their work in the face of severe reprisals, including physical threats and imprisonment, dedicated his award to the memory of Hrant Dink, a journalist whose killing he blames on the Turkish intelligence service.

“Hrant Dink was threatened by state officials because he had exercised his freedom of expression. He was murdered because state officials turned a blind eye to threats against him and failed to protect his life,” said Sener in the ceremony in New York.

Sener spent a year in jail awaiting trial on terrorism charges following allegations his reporting had contributed to an anti-government plot. He is currently free on conditional release but faces up to 15 years in prison if convicted.

“Turkey is a record-breaker. Sixty journalists are jailed there on the accusation of being terrorists — that’s more than anywhere else in the world,” Sener said. “Most recently, several colleagues received life terms after a trial that shocked the Turkish press corps. I feel compelled to speak for them now. Don’t be indifferent to their fate! Demand their release!”

He said there is a disagreement between journalists and politicians over the meaning of democracy as the latter view democray only through the prism of ballot box and elections.

“For politicians,democracy means allowing people to vote every four years. For journalists, democracy is an everyday experience. And the essence of that experience is the people’s right to be informed. It is no coincidence that the first act of an authoritarian government is to silence the press,” Sener said, addressing the increasing government pressure on the press.

He also lamented on wide use of self-censorship by media outlets in the face of government pressure. He said majority of the media outlets remained indifferent to Gezi Park protests in June, exercising self-censorship to avoid a crisis with the government.

“The events of Gezi Park over the summer revealed the scope of the press freedom crisis in my country. Thirty journalists were hurt, many were detained, and dozens were fired from their jobs because of their Gezi coverage. But perhaps the gravest problem was that many media outlets did not cover Gezi. Even though dramatic clashes were taking place right outside their windows, many newsrooms chose to self-censor for fear of official repercussions.”

Turkish Journalist Nedim Sener Dedicates his Press Freedom Award to the Memory of Hrant Dink

80th Anniversary of Farnz Werfel’s “The Forty Days of Musa Dagh” First Publishing Celebrated in Vienna

VIENNA — On the occasion of 80th anniversary of the first publishing of the famous novel by the Austrian writer Franz Werfel “The Forty Days of Musa Dagh”, a cultural ceremony was organized in Vienna, by the joint efforts of the Armenian embassy in Austria, the Armenian Genocide Museum Institute, and the community of the Armenian Apostolic Church in Austria, the Austrian radio, the Austrian Literature Society and “Franz Werfel” committee also participated in the organization.

The event was attended by representatives of the Armenian community in Austria, and Austrian intellectuals.Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Armenia in Austria Mr. Arman Kirakosyan made a welcome speech.

During the event director of the AGMI, Dr. Hayk Demoyan presented the photographs of the exhibits from Armenian Genocide Museum collection, related to the heroic Resistance of Musa Dagh.

The event was followed by a concert. Specially for the occasion the original manuscript of Franz Werfel’s famous novel “The Forty days of Musa Dagh”, was brought from the Austrian National Library, and was presented to the audience.

80th Anniversary of Farnz Werfel’s “The Forty Days of Musa Dagh” First Publishing Celebrated in Vienna

Armenian Economy Considered ‘Most Monopolized’ Among Ex-Soviet States

YEREVAN — Armenia has the most monopolized economy among former Soviet Union and Eastern European countries, according to a new report released by the World Bank (WB).

The report entitled “Re-Engineering a New Growth Model for Armenia: Accumulation, Competition, and Connectivity” was presented at the WB Yerevan office on Wednesday.

According to the report, about 20 percent of Armenia’s economy belongs to monopolies, which is the highest rate among former Eastern bloc countries, while along with oligopolies (when two or three players dominate the market) monopolies control nearly two-thirds of Armenia’s economy.

“A limited number of companies are dominant in the main sectors, the share of monopolies and oligopolies in the entire economy remains high,” said World Bank senior economist Gohar Gyulumian.

For several years top government officials in Armenia have declared at the highest level that issues of separating political powers and business and dealing with oligopolies remain among the priorities of the authorities. The latest World Bank report shows, however, that no progress has been made in Armenia in this direction yet.

The World Bank report also calls for a new growth model for job creation in Armenia. It outlines four areas crucial for that purpose, including higher investment and better financial intermediation between savers and investors, private sector-led job creation and improvement of workers’ skills, stronger competitive pressures in the markets for goods and services to improve incentives for companies to innovate, adopt new technologies, and become more efficient.

“Competition is thus of crucial importance for the dynamism of the economy. Pro-competition reforms and effective implementation of antitrust rules can lead to significant productivity gains and consumer savings,” says the report, whose authors also call for enhancing connections of the landlocked Armenian economy with world markets, including through land, air, and through internet and communication technologies, “as that would contribute to efficiency gains and competitiveness.”

Armenian Economy Considered ‘Most Monopolized’ Among Ex-Soviet States

Turkish Court Rejects Merging Hrant Dink Murder Case with Commander Negligence Case

ISTANBUL — A court trying the Trabzon Gendarmerie commanders due to their alleged neglect in the murder of Armenian-Turkish journalist Hrant Dink has decided not to merge that case with the main Dink murder case, the Hurriyet Daily News reports.

The court board did not find a “judicial and actual causality” between the two cases.

Ali Öz, who was Gendarmerie Commander of the Black Seaprovince of Trabzon during the killing of the late journalist, had been sentenced to six months in prison. However, after the Supreme Court of Appeals reversed the decision, he was put in another trial in Trabzon.

Öz was accused of not informing authorities that the crime organization founded by Yasin Hayal, who was charged with being the instigator of the assassination, was planning to commcharges it the crime, despite learning of the organization’s existence in 2006. He was also facing of forging documents in order to appear to have only obtained the information after the incident.

A Trabzon court had asked for against a gendarmerie commander on charges of neglect of duty over the assassination of Armenian-Turkish journalist Hrant Dink, with the main trial in Istanbul.

Istanbul’s 14th High Criminal Court ruled that the case against Öz was unnecessary to merge with the main Dink murder case, as both were currently being seen by the High Court of Appeals.

The court board also stated that merging the cases would only prolong the length of the main case.

Dink, the renowned editor-in-chief of Agos, was shot by triggerman Ogün Samast in front of his office in Istanbul on Jan. 19, 2007.

The main Dink trial resumed on Sept. 17, after the Supreme Court of Appeals verdict defined the acts of all suspects in the case to have been under “an organization formed to commit crime.”

Turkish Court Rejects Merging Hrant Dink Murder Case with Commander Negligence Case

“Voice of Nor Serount” Armenian Radio Program Turns 25!

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – Ryde Regional Radio (2RRR), congratulated its Sunday evening Armenian Program for turning 25 years old. “This is an amazing feat for a program. The 2RRR team and all our volunteers would like to congratulate presenters Toros Boyadjian and Vatche Topouzian on the longest running program on the station.”

“Yes, it’s hard to believe that the program started from humble beginnings back in November 1988, founded by Vatche Demerjian, and have served the Australian-Armenian community continuously for 25 years.”

Article praising The Voice of Nor Serount – 27 Nov 2013 Article – Northern Districts Times, Sydney NSW.

Toros Boyadjian and Vatche Topouzian broadcast the Voice of Nor Serount (New Generation), from the station’s Henley Cottage headquarters on Victoria Rd every Sunday between 7pm and 9pm.

The weekly 2 hour program provides a comprehensive summary of the week’s news (local, Armenian and International content); sports news; community information; live interviews; and the best Armenian music library consisting of modern hits and golden oldies.

To celebrate, there will be a dinner-dance function held on Saturday 30 November 2013 at “The Renaissance” function lounge in Lidcombe from 7.30 pm onwards.

The function is held under the auspices of His Grace Bishop Najarian (Primate of the Armenian church of Australia and New Zealand) and will be attended by local members of parliament, Councillors from the City of Ryde, distinguished guests, members of the Armenian community and our listeners. Entertainment will be provided by the popular local Armenian band “Blackbird.”

To help celebrate the “Voice of Nor Serount” Armenian Program’s 25 years on air, contact Garbis Abedjian at 0406 383 054 or Vrej Manoukian on 0406 723 613.

“Voice of Nor Serount” Armenian Radio Program Turns 25!

1.460 Million Euros Raised at Pan-European Phonethon

PARIS — The Pan-European Phoneton organized under the framework of the Hayastan All-Armenian Fund’s Telethon 2013 raised €1.460 million. The Phoneton was held on November 21-24 in France. The pledged amount is 40,000 euros more than last year.

“The funds donated by the Armenian community of France will be used to continue the construction of community centers in Nagorno-Karabakh and to assist Syrian Armenians. Part of the amount will be used to stimulate agriculture in Armenia’s region of Tavush region,” the Fund said in a statement.

On November 21st, Nagorno Karabakh Republic Bako Sahakyan visited the head office of the European Phonethon to help in the campaign.

President Sahakyan expressed his gratitude to the whole staff of the France office of the “Hayastan” all-Armenian Fund, headed by director of the Fund’s local body in France Bedros Terzian, to all the volunteers, directly involved in the Phonethon, underlining that the Armenians of Europe always stood by Artsakh, supporting our republic in every possible way.

The Phonethon was held ahead of the annual telethon which is usually conducted on November 28 in the USA. The proceeds from this year’s telethon will be used to complete the construction of the strategically important road stretching from Armenian Vardenis to Nagorno-Karabakh’s Martakert. The road is 72 miles long and is expected to directly benefit 30 villages along its way. The project is expected to cost $30 million.

1.460 Million Euros Raised at Pan-European Phonethon

S.D.H.P. Calls Upon All Armenians To Participate In Armenia Fund’s Fundraising

The Social Democrat Hunchakian Party Central Committee released a statement calling upon all Armenians to participate in Armenia Fund’s 16th annual telethon entitled “En Route To Artsak” which will take place on November 28^th.

The statement read: “The telethon and a variety of related events collecting funds will be directed towards the construction of the Vardenis-Martakert Highway, an extremely important and strategically significant project for our nation.

Connecting the northern sections of Artsakh with Armenia would not only benefit and reinforce Artsakh’s security, it will improve the connectivity between the two cities and separated villages and boost economic development and growth.

On behalf of the Social Democratic Hunchakian party, we call upon our compatriots living in the four corners of the earth, with the spirit of enthusiasm and generosity, to participate in this fundraising and with our common efforts make this important project a reality.

Together we are strong.

S.D.H.P. Central Committee”

 

S.D.H.P. Calls Upon All Armenians To Participate In Armenia Fund’s Fundraising

U.S. Firm to Invest $180 Million in Armenia’s Energy Sector

WASHINGTON, DC — Washington and Yerevan have welcomed what has been announced as the largest investment yet by a private U.S. company in Armenia and the first in the South Caucasus nation’s energy sector.

According to the media note released by the U.S. Department of State after the 22nd United States-Armenia Joint Economic Task Force (USATF) meeting in Washington, DC, on Friday, the investment by the American company, Contour Global, in Armenia’s hydropower sector amounts to $180 million.

“This investment, which is expected to be partially financed by the U.S. Overseas Private Investment Corporation, represents the largest U.S. private investment in Armenia’s history and the first U.S. investment in Armenia’s critical energy sector,” the statement added.

The two sides apparently referred to the three big hydropower stations built along the fast-flowing Vorotan river in Armenia’s southeastern Syunik province that generate a considerable part of the country’s electricity. Still in June Contour Global announced that it was close to buying the plants and the Armenian government then confirmed that it was in negotiations with a U.S. energy company on the possible sale of the facilities. The Armenian side did not release any further details on the course of the negotiations afterwards.

The latest USATF annual bilateral meeting aimed at promoting trade and investment between the United States and Armenia was hosted by the U.S. Department of State on November 22. It was attended by a delegation of Armenia led by Minister of Finance Davit Sarkisian and including Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ashot Hovakimian and Armenian Ambassador to the United States Tatoul Markarian. The U.S. Government was represented by Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Eric Rubin, USAID Assistant Administrator Paige Alexander, and Coordinator of Assistance for Europe Daniel Rosenblum. U.S. Ambassador to Armenia John Heffern and USAID Armenia Mission Director Karen Hilliard also attended.

“Both sides held discussions on mechanisms to deepen economic ties, increase trade and investment, and advance market reforms,” the U.S. Department of State said. “Participants discussed the bilateral launch of a visa liberalization process with the goal of achieving a visa-free regime for American travelers and ten-year multiple entry visas for Armenians, leading to increased bilateral trade and investment. The United States also encouraged implementation of Armenia’s civil aviation liberalization reforms.”

The press release further stated that the United States highlighted Armenia’s selection as one of 20 focus countries for the U.S. Agency for International Development’s (USAID) Science, Technology, Innovation, and Partnerships. “Through this initiative, both countries have agreed to undertake a signature effort in the areas of clean energy and water,” it said.

U.S. Firm to Invest $180 Million in Armenia’s Energy Sector

Egypt Expels Turkish Ambassador, Downgrades Diplomatic Relations

CAIRO — Egypt has told the Turkish ambassador to leave the country and downgraded relations between the two countries. Egypt’s foreign ministry blamed Turkey’s continued “interference” in its country’s internal affairs, the BBC reports.

Turkey’s diplomatic representation has been lowered to the level of charge d’affaires, the ministry said in a statement. Egypt has already recalled its ambassador from Turkey.

Saturday’s decision to expel Huseyin Avni Botsali, the Turkish ambassador, apparently follows remarks made by Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Turkish prime minister, that Egypt’s government regards as “provocative”.

Turkey has emerged as one of the fiercest international critics of the overthrow of Egypt’s Islamist President Mohamed Morsi in July, calling it an “unacceptable coup”.

Since Morsi’s election to the president’s office in June 2012, his Muslim Brotherhood organisation has forged close ties with the

Speaking on Saturday, Egypt’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Badr Abdelatty said Turkey was “attempting to influence public opinion against Egyptian interests, supported meetings of organisations that seek to create instability in the country.”

Earlier this year, Egypt’s interim leader pledged to recognize the Armenian Genocide in response to statements by Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan condemning “the coup” in Egypt.

“Egypt today [August 17] decided to sign onto the international document recognizing the Armenian Genocide”. Said Egypt’s interim president, Adly Mansour, on his twitter account: “Our representatives at the United Nations will sign the international document that acknowledges the Armenian Genocide, which was committed by the Turkish military, leading to the

Egypt Expels Turkish Ambassador, Downgrades Diplomatic Relations

Haigazian University Alumni Hold Tribute Banquet in Honor of University's Women’s Auxiliary of Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES — The Haigazian University Women’s Auxiliary was feted at an elegant and thoughtfully planned evening by the Haigazian University Alumni to thank the Auxiliary for its many years of faithful and devoted service and support of the University. The November 9th tribute event was held at the Wilshire Country Club where guests enjoyed visiting with one another on the patio during the reception cocktail. The dinner program started with a prayer by Mrs. Suzie Phillips, one of the original founding members of the Auxiliary. She thanked God for HU and the vision of Mrs. Virginia Harikian who guided and inspired the Auxiliary to raise funds for scholarships for needy Armenian men and women. The Auxiliary held unique and well attended events which featured the talents of its members. Boutiques, fashion shows, concerts, famous authors, opera divas, were all were presented by the Auxiliary to support Haigazian students.

Raffi Kendirjian, Chair of the Haigazian University Alumni Association of Los Angeles, welcomed the guests and applauded the ladies of the Auxiliary for their many years of dedicated service. Dr. Ani Darakjian, HU Board of Trustees Chair, added complimentary remarks about the Auxiliary and paid tribute on behalf of the Board. A history of the Auxiliary, a list of the current members, as well as photos from past events, was featured beautifully in the pages of the program. A ten minute video showcased the various events held by the Auxiliary and was narrated by Elizabeth Agbabian, Hermine Janoyan, Suzie Phillips and Joyce Stein, current president of the Auxiliary, who reminisced about the start and growth of the Auxiliary from a few to over 300 members. Grace Kurkjian thanked the Alumni on behalf of the Auxiliary for their thoughtful gesture of appreciation and gratitude.

Dr. Herant Katchadourian, Professor Emeritus, Stanford University, and former member of the Board of Trustees of HU was the keynote speaker of the evening. Dr. Katchadourian’s remarks were about altruism and why individuals such as the Auxiliary members spend time and effort in support of others for decades. He remarked that once he asked Mr. Hewlett, of Hewlett Packard fame, why he was donating 90 percent of his wealth to charity. Mr. Hewlett replied that “It is the right thing to do”. Dr. Katchadourian concluded that with faith we are prompted to do the right thing and he commended the Auxiliary for its many years of service.

Dr. Paul Haidostian, President of Haigazian University[/caption]

Dr. Paul Haidostian, President of HU, spoke of the current enrollment at HU and the upcoming plans for the 60th Anniversary of the founding of the University. At the conclusion of his remarks, each of the Auxiliary women was presented with a beautiful personalized gift with the seal of the HU from the Alumni and also one from the Board of Trustees. The Benediction was given by Dr. John Khanjian, the former president of HU.

The Alumni Committee which had had been working for many months and planned all the details of this tribute evening were Alexandra Bessos, Khachig Havatian, Hagop Kazazian, Maro Kazazian, Raffi Kendirjian, Chairman, Katia Kermoyan-Khodanian and Houry Tavitian.

Haigazian University Alumni Hold Tribute Banquet in Honor of University's Women’s Auxiliary of Los Angeles

Hayk Demoyan Discusses Developments at the Armenian Genocide Museum Institute

Dr. Hayk Demoyan, Director of the Armenian Genocide Museum Institute (AGMI) in Yerevan, was interviewed by Deborah Hay, Program Coordinator of the International Institute for Genocide and Human Rights Studies (A Division of the Zoryan Institute) on Nov. 11, 2013, during his recent trip to Canada.

Dr. Demoyan has produced 13 publications, the most recent of which appeared in Russian, entitled “Turkey’s Foreign Policy and the Karabakh Conflict,” which is based on his doctoral thesis. He is also Secretary of the State Commission on the Commemoration of the 100th Anniversary of the Armenian Genocide

Q1. Dr. Demoyan, welcome to Canada. Is this your first visit to our country? Please tell us about your activities here.

HD – This is my first visit to Canada, and it is very important for me, as Director of the AGMI, to be here for the purpose of signing a Memorandum of Understanding between the Canadian Museum for Human Rights and the Armenian Genocide Museum-Institute of the National Academy of Sciences. In addition, I took the opportunity to also meet with local centennial committees formed for the commemoration of the Armenian Genocide in 2015, as well as Armenian communities at large, to update them on the work being done at the AGMI and plans for centennial commemoration activities.

In this respect, I must say that the Zoryan Institute has already made an important contribution towards the 2015 Centennial by facilitating the relationship between the two museums. It took the initiative using its good offices to bring an official of the CMHR, Dr. Clint Curle, to visit the AGMI earlier this year, to acquaint himself with Armenia’s culture and history, and especially the Armenian Genocide. This was very important because the CMHR will be one of the most significant places in the world to have a permanent exhibition on the Armenian Genocide. During the visit, we confirmed that the AGMI and CMHR have so many interests in common that it made sense for us to establish an official working agreement. The Zoryan Institute has been instrumental as a facilitator and liaison between the two museums and will maintain an ongoing role in that capacity. I am sure this cooperation will facilitate the development of joint projects between the AGMI and the CMHR.

Q2. How far back do your relations with the Zoryan Institute go?

HD – I first encountered the Zoryan Institute when I met its Executive Director, George Shirinian, in Yerevan in 2005. When I was appointed Director of the AGMI, it seemed natural that the two organizations should explore areas of mutual interest and cooperation. Zoryan has always been generous in providing the museum copies of its publications and has participated in our conferences. In 2012, we established an agreement to cooperate in the areas of research, publication, and student exchanges. That year, Zoryan provided scholarships for two student-staff members of the AGMI to travel to Canada and attend its renowned Genocide and Human Rights University Program run at the University of Toronto. This year, another three of our student-staff were sponsored to attend. They all reported that the experience was excellent for them, both academically, and personally. Zoryan staff continues to provide materials, assistance and advice to AGMI’s researchers. In its turn AGMI is very supportive of Zoryan’s researchers with necessary materials and consultation.

Q3. Dr. Demoyan, you have been in charge of the Armenian Genocide Museum Institute for seven years now. Can you give us a brief overview of the developments of the museum during this time, especially in preparation for the Centennial?

HD – During my time at the AGMI, I have especially stressed three aspects: the educational role of the museum, representing the Armenian Genocide in a broader human rights context, and international cooperation with other museums and academic organizations. Parallel to this, a great effort has been made to enrich the museum’s collection with important and interesting documents and items, in order to include them in conceptually new exhibitions we are working on. As the collection grows, and the museum has more and more visitors, the current construction of new blocks for the museum will enable us to double our exhibition and storage spaces. These activities are an important part of the events dedicated to the centenary of the Armenian Genocide. Parallel to this, publishing activities and the development of numerous traveling exhibitions are planned to show in museum halls and other places worldwide. This is not a full list of our activities which, for sure, will continue after 2015 with new energy and vision.

Q4. As the Secretary of the State Commission on the Commemoration of the 100th Anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, you are involved in coordinating activities both in Armenia and the Diaspora. How does your visit to Canada fit into those overall activities?

HD – Among the many duties and responsibilities of Secretary, I try to establish contact with local committees and develop cooperation on a common agenda. My visit to Canada is an excellent example of the positive results that can be achieved when Armenian and Diaspora-based organizations, both academic and otherwise, cooperate.

I’d like to emphasize here that the Centennial Commission’s role is not to tell the local committees what to do or what projects to undertake. Rather, it is to support them, coordinate their efforts, and ensure that all activities are done under the umbrella of the local centennial commemorating committees, represented by all community organizations equally. Effective and cordial cooperation among all community organizations will be crucial for the success of the 2015 commemorations.

I’d like to make clear that my activities as Secretary of the State Commission and those as Director of the AGMI do differ. This is particularly critical in Canada, where a Canadian crown corporation, the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, is involved in promoting human rights and awareness about five recognized genocides, based on strict academic standards. We at the AGMI, being also an academic institution, will contribute to the CMHR’s permanent exhibition from that perspective, providing extensive materials and information about the Armenian Genocide.

The AGMI has been dealing with broad range of topics and activities on the Armenian Genocide for over 18 years, both conducting scientific research and representing its many aspects in educational displays. Together, the AGMI and the CMHR will work on developing new projects, among them new permanent exhibitions, as a new effort to preserve national memory and to raise awareness of the importance of human rights and genocide prevention. For this reason, I consider my visit to Canada as one of the high points of the AGMI’s activities for 2013.

Q5. You have visited Armenian communities around the world. Do you observe anything different about Canada?

HD – One of the significant differences in Canada is that the government here had the moral fortitude to officially recognize the Armenian Genocide, despite political pressure to deny it.

Canada is one of the world’s greatest proponents of multiculturalism, whereby each of the many ethnic groups in this country can preserve their particular heritage and lifestyle while still being good Canadians. Canada enables and encourages all ethnic groups to share their own history, memory, and values with one another. Canada has a significant Armenian community, with churches, political, cultural and social organizations. You have here an established, international, academic institute dealing with issues relating to the Armenian Genocide, Diaspora, and Armenia for the past thirty years. My research shows that despite many challenges of assimilation, the Armenian community here is a strong, contributing component of the Canadian mosaic.

We were very pleased to see CMHR officials from Canada visit Armenia in order to strengthen their understanding of the Armenian Genocide. During the visit, we found we had a meeting of minds in our goal of combating the violation of human rights, and we have now made official the cooperation between our two museums. I am sure the exhibits in the CMHR will help Canadians learn more about the Armenian Genocide and understand why their government officially recognizes it.

Q6. What is the objective of the Memorandum of Understanding between the two museums?

HD – The agreement will trigger the exchange of ideas, experiences, information and materials, exhibitions, sharing of research and advice, cooperation to advance the academic study of human rights, the Armenian Genocide and its effects, and processes seeking justice and reconciliation. It can serve as a model for other museums around the world for how to approach the Armenian Genocide through the lens of universal human rights.

Because of the enormity of the subject, I am sure that synergies with the CMHR will benefit us in Armenia in conceptualizing new approaches and new permanent and travelling exhibits, particularly the emphasis on human rights. At the same time, we hope to be helpful to the CMHR in developing the Armenian section of their exhibits, where the Zoryan institute will also be involved in an ongoing role as liaison and facilitator.

This agreement can be seen as a new starting point for education of the Armenian Genocide and for fighting against denial of the Genocide in world history. I hope it may also serve as the starting point for the establishment of a network of museums that deal with genocide and human rights. This is especially critical for 2014, a year when many countries will commemorate the centennial of the WWI, under cover of which Ottoman Turkey committed the Armenian Genocide.

Q7. Is there anything you would like to add in closing?

HD – Yes. My wish is that I come back to Canada as soon as possible to realize joint initiatives and programs, both in the academic field and also regarding community activities related to the centennial. I have no doubt our joint efforts will produce successful results in pursuit of our mission.

Hayk Demoyan Discusses Developments at the Armenian Genocide Museum Institute

Huge Gravesite Found in Karmir Blur Excavations

YEREVAN — A huge cemetery found as a result of three-year archaeological excavations in the ancient site of Karmir Blur (Red Hill) in Yerevan is of huge scientific significance, says Hakob Simonyan, head of the expedition and Director of the Historical Cultural Heritage” research center of the Ministry of Culture. According to him, the archaeological materials found at the site could give an answer to a number of questions about the residents of the area, their perceptions of the afterlife and their burial rituals.

Karmir Blur or Teishebaini was the capital of the 5th century Kingdom of Van (better known as Urartu), which is presently located near the city of Yerevan in Armenia.

The site was once an Araratian fortress and governmental centre with towered and buttressed perimeter walls, massive gates, a parade ground within its walls, and storage rooms that entirely occupied the ground floor. The site of the city, palace and citadel together measure over 110 acres (0.45 km2).

Hakob Simonyan says the Kingdom of Van has always been in the spotlight of scientists. However, no graveyard had ever found on the huge territory until the decision was made to construct a highway bypassing Yerevan, which could only pass through Karmir Blur.

As a result of three-month research work scholars have found densely located tombs. There are 500 tombs only under the road being constructed.

The Kings of Van viewed the Ararat Valley as a granary, where the finest wines were produced. Hakob Simonyan says 0.5 mln liters of wine was kept in the pantries of Karmir Blur. Huge reserves of grain were also kept in the city.

Among the most important items found at the site were the four idols – tuff tiles with holes in the shape of eyes. Scientists assume the idols protected the peace of the dead. It’s now unclear whether the people buried in the cemetery were from the same family, nationality or represented completely different ethnic groups. The answer to this question will become clear after a DNA test. Samples have already been sent to Copenhagen.

According to Hakob Simonyan, Karmir Blur contains an exceptional archaeological material, which could give answers to a number of questions. He says as many as 5,000 artifacts could be found at the site. Where they will be kept is a different question. Scholars are confident that it’s high time for Armenia – a country with a powerful cultural heritage – to have a Anthropological and Urartian Centers.

As for the excavations at Karmir Blur, Hakob Simonyan says both the Eurasian Bank and the Yerevan City Hall have promised that no historic monument will be destroyed and the road will be constructed only after the area is fully investigated.

Huge Gravesite Found in Karmir Blur Excavations

Robert Jay Lifton, Marianne Hirsch and Peter Balakian To Discuss Survivor Meaning at Columbia University, December 4

NEW YORK — A panel about survivor meaning featuring leading scholars in the field will be held at Columbia University on Wednesday evening, December 4, in an event hosted by the Armenian Center at Columbia University.

“Survivor Meaning: After the Armenian Genocide, the Holocaust, and Hiroshima: A Symposium with Robert Jay Lifton, Peter Balakian, and moderator Marianne Hirsch,” will feature discussions about survivor experience with a focus on psychological and social notions of meaning in the wake of three traumatic historical events.

Each of the panelists has made significant contributions to the study of survivor experience and memory. Robert Jay Lifton, the author of more than 20 books, is Distinguished Professor Emeritus at CUNY/Graduate Center and John Jay College for Criminal Justice and the Winner of the National Book Award for Life In Death: Survivors of Hiroshima.

Marianne Hirsch is William Peterfield Trent Professor of English and Comparative Literature at Columbia University as well as Professor in the Institute for Research on Women and Gender. She is the author of many books including her most recent The Generation of Postmemory: Writing and Visual Culture After the Holocaust.

Peter Balakian is Donald M. and Constance H. Rebar Professor of the Humanities at Colgate University and currently the Ordjanian Visiting Professor in Armenian Studies at Columbia University. He is the author of many books including his New York Times best selling memoir Black Dog of Fate, which won the PEN/Albrand Prize.

The panel will begin at 7:45 pm in room 614 of the Schermerhorn building (located at 1198 Amsterdam Avenue). This event is free and open to the public.

Robert Jay Lifton, Marianne Hirsch and Peter Balakian To Discuss Survivor Meaning at Columbia University, December 4

Interview with Social Democrat Hunchakian Party Central Committee Chairman Hagop Dikranian

The Social Democrat Hunchakian Party conducted its 20th world congress in Armenia on September 10-13 of this year, and elected a new Central Committee as well as a new Central Committee Chairman. MassisPost had the chance to conduct a meeting in Nicosia with Mr. Hagop Dikranian, the newly elected S.D.H.P. Central Committee Chairman.

After the recent S.D.H.P. Worldwide Congress and Central Committee elections, what changes, if any, are to be expected from the Party?

The 20th Worldwide Congress of the Social Democrat Hunchakian party was a turning point for the party. New found challenges are placed in front of the party, which the newly elected Central Committee Board is already resolute to successfully overcoming within their responsibilities. With the consideration of the party structures, significant changes will be taking place. Through stages, we will witness a number of positive adjustments with the primary focus and priority going towards strengthening internal organizational structures in all sectors and regions. In terms of the party’s political standpoint, we reaffirmed our autonomy within Armenia’s political field.

Furthermore, as was decided in our congress, to continue to strengthen our relations with the progressive Turkish political parties who have acknowledged the Armenian Genocide and bring about new opportunities for joint cooperation.

What is the current state of affairs of the Party in Armenia?

We lament the fact that the through the years the Hunchakian party has had internal unrest in Armenia and it never settled at the level as our members wished. We just hope that the unrest will remain in the past. To succeed, our comrades in Armenia face a challenge to put the extra effort for the integration within the party’s worldwide infrastructure, espouse and execute our party values and principles. It is the time to prove that, at this juncture, we will concentrate on internal organizational issues, shore up our presence in the provinces, villages and cities, and increasingly accentuate a stronger presence into the political field of Armenia.

What steps will the S.D.H.P. take towards the commemoration of 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide?

The 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide is an issue for the entire Armenian nation. Accordingly, the S.D.H.P is a part of the government commission in the Republic of Armenia headed by President Sargsyan to commemorate the 100th anniversary, as well as part of various existing bodies throughout the Armenian Diaspora in which we support and project our logistical and operational capabilities.

Can you discuss the S.D.H.P.’s involvement with the recent influx of Syrian refugees in Armenia?

First I must say that the S.D.H.P is closely following the developments in Syria. We believe that Syrian crisis should be settled by peaceful means and without intervention. At the same time, we continue to assist our Syrian Armenian brothers and sisters to the best of our abilities through the pan-Armenian efforts in different regions within the Diaspora, as well as cooperate with the Ministry of Diaspora within the Republic of Armenia. Here I want to emphasize the necessity of all Armenians to continue assisting our Syrian Armenian brethren in any possible way.

What do you see as the biggest challenge or obstacle for the S.D.H.P. in the upcoming years?

Party challenges need to be looked at from two different angles; Armenia and the Diaspora.

In terms of Armenia, with the reality that Armenia’s political field is not founded on ideology, makes our work harder. Today, Armenia’s political class possess no ideology, and for a political party with founding principles the presence of principled values is a necessity for Armenia and its people, and thus for us a challenge.

In terms of the Diaspora, Armenian preservation and the pursuit of the Armenian Cause remain our main goals. The fluid situation in the Middle East concerns us and continually challenges us.

Any last thoughts or comments?

I want to take this opportunity to praise our sincere and devoted membership. We appreciate their renewed anticipation of positive news. We understand great expectations are connected to the new leadership. For my part, I recognize that it is no longer time to talk, but rather, it is time for action. Therefore, all of us jointly will bring about many future successes for our beloved party. Our future is bright because it is in our hands. Thank you.

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SDHP 20th World Congress Comminique

The following is a translation of the official communique of the Social Democratic Hunchakian Party 20th World Congress.

On September 10-13, 2013, the Social Democratic Hunchakian Party held its 20th World Congress in Armenia with S.D.H.P. delegates from 17 countries in attendance. The congress considered in detail, vital issues pertaining to Armenia, the Armenian people and the Diaspora, along with international, regional and organizational matters and political realities.

Looking at the situation of social and economic domestic policies of the Republic of Armenia, the Congress reiterated the founding principles of the S.D.H.P., namely to support and guide the legitimate social demands of the people, their discontent against corruption, protectionism and the oligarchy. Congress examined the serious problem of emigration and found that, in large part, was the result of social injustice and despair among the citizens of the Republic of Armenia when facing their future prospects in the Republic. The Congress emphasized that only a resolution of the unhealthy climate cited above could halt this national tragedy.

The Congress also noted that in recent years in Armenia, there has been a positive shift in the field of freedom of speech, but the gains made strengthening democracy are not yet sufficient.

The Congress concluded that the Armenian government should conduct its foreign policy accordance with local geopolitical realities. From this point of view, with cautious optimism, the Congress welcomed the decision by Armenian authorities to partake in the Customs Union, at the same time the Congress hopes that the Republic of Armenia will continue to deepen its cooperation with European bodies.

The Congress reasserted, the Party’s belief that a resolution to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict must be found on the basis of international principles and the right to self-determination of peoples. Regardless of the form of the resolution, it must be approved by a referendum of the people of Artsakh. The Congress emphasized the need for the Government of Karabakh to be involved in the peace talks. The Congress confirmed that the solidification of the independence of Artsakh remains the primary international concern of the Armenian people.

Regarding Armenian-Turkish relations, the Congress decided to continue to strengthen the relationship the S.D.H.P has begun with Turkish intellectuals who recognized the reality of the Armenian Genocide, seeking to establish new areas of cooperation.

At the same time, Congress finds that it is essential the documents of the Turkish-Armenian protocol be submitted to the Armenian National Assembly for consideration to be withdrawn.

On the eve of the Armenian Genocide centennial, Congress noted the readiness of the S.D.H.P. to participate with all Armenian groups and non-Armenians who continue the Armenian Cause.

The Congress carefully measured the catastrophic conflict in Syria and concluded that the Syrian conflict must be solved by peaceful means, without outside intervention. The Congress calls on all Armenians to continue and intensify their efforts to help our Syrian Armenian brethren.

Congress also heeded to the observations of the Diasporan delegates pertaining to their communities and endorsed the continuation of the relentless work carried out to safeguard Armenianism in the Diaspora.

After reviewing the status of the organizational structures of the Party, the Congress reached conclusions and provided directives to be utilized by all Party organizational structures.

The last item on the S.D.H.P. World Congress’ agenda was the election of a new Central Committee.

The S.D.H.P. World Congress concluded with a visit to the Yerablur military cemetery, to pay respect to our martyrs, and reaffirm the principles of the S.D.H.P. to follow in their footsteps.

Interview with Social Democrat Hunchakian Party Central Committee Chairman Hagop Dikranian

Turkish FM Invited to Armenia

YEREVAN — Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu has been officially invited to visit Yerevan for an international ministerial conference next month, the Armenian government confirmed on Wednesday.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Tigran Balayan told RFE/RL’s Armenian service (Azatutyun.am) that invitations have been sent out to the foreign ministers of all countries aligned in the Black Sea Economic Cooperation (BSEC) grouping, including Turkey and Azerbaijan. They are scheduled to meet in Yerevan on December 12.

Citing unnamed Turkish officials, the Turkish daily “Today’s Zaman” reported on Tuesday that Davutoglu is considering attending the meeting. They said his decision depends on the outcome of the latest meeting of the Armenian and Azerbaijani presidents that took place in Vienna on Tuesday.

“If the two leaders agree to continue dialogue on the resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict in talks in Vienna, Davutoglu is expected to attend the BSEC meeting in Yerevan,” added the English-language paper.

Davutoglu’s predecessor, Ali Babacan, attended a similar BSEC gathering that was held in the Armenian capital in April 2009, during an unprecedented rapprochement between Armenia and Turkey. The U.S.-backed process culminated in the signing of two Turkish-Armenian protocols on the normalization of bilateral ties later in 2009. Ankara makes their implementation conditional on the resolution of the Karabakh conflict.

Davutoglu reportedly asked Switzerland to facilitate a renewed Turkish-Armenian dialogue during a visit to Berne last month. Still, he made clear that Ankara stands by the Karabakh precondition rejected by Yerevan.

Artur Baghdasarian, the secretary of Armenia’s National Security Council, also visited Switzerland late last week. Some observers in Yerevan believe that his talks with top Swiss officials focused on Turkish-Armenian relations. A spokesman for Baghdasarian declined to comment on this on Wednesday.

“As far as I understand, the Swiss have conveyed to Armenia what they were told [by Ankara]”.

Davutoglu held bilateral talks on Monday with U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry during which Karabakh conflict was on the agenda.

Turkish FM Invited to Armenia

UN Providing Emergency Food Assistance to Syrian Armenians

YEREVAN — The UN World Food Programme (WFP) began this week providing assistance to 5,000 Syrian Armenians displaced from Syria who have sought protection in Armenia. The 6-month-assistance project is funded by the government of the Russian Federation.

This WFP operation was put in place upon a request from the Ministry of Diaspora, responsible for overall coordination of assistance to Syrian Armenians.

Following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between WPF and the Ministry, WFP will provide assistance to the Syrian Armenian population during the current transition period, as the Government of Armenia continues its efforts in integrating the Syrian population of Armenian descent.

“Syrian Armenians were once part of the thriving Armenian Diaspora in Syria. Many of tehm have lost their homes and livelihoods due to the conflict in Syria,” said WPF Head of Office in Armenia Maria Lukyanova. “WPF Food support will help address some of the basic needs of this group that has sustained multiple shocks over the previous two years and help to prevent negative coping strategies.”

Preparations for project implementation were done in collaboration with the Ministry of Diaspora, WFP and its UN partners, primarily the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), as well as civil organizations such as the Center for the Coordination of Syrian Armenian Issues, Mission Armenia, the Armenian Relief Society and others.

UN Providing Emergency Food Assistance to Syrian Armenians

The RA Government Should Subsidize Students’ Tuitions

Armenian University students participated in the survey conducted by the S.D. Hunchakian “Sarkis Dkhrouni” Student and Youth Union regarding the socio-economic situation of the students and the increases in academic fees. The survey was carried out at the Yerevan State University, Architectural State University, Yerevan State University of Economics and Komitas State Conservatory at the end of October and beginning of November 2013.

Out of the participants, 10 percent said they don’t pay tuition, 90 percent said they pay for education, and 2-3 percent said they have discounted tuition fees.

Eighty percent of the students not paying tuition mentioned that they won’t continue their studies, if they have to pay. The average budget of the families of the students who participated in the survey was less than 80,000 drams. Moreover, the expenses for education made up 50-60,000 drams a month.  Only 0.1 percent of the students surveyed stated that they consider their families part of the upper economic class, the rest considered their families to be in the medium to lower income class of society.

Only 30 percent of the participants said they manage to pay their tuition during the semester and throughout the year with their salaries. Seventy percent of the participants said they would ask for loans from their relatives abroad and would rarely apply for loans.

“How can these families’ children receive an education, when fee increases are taking place without taking into account the spending ability of these families? They promised us that fee increases account for an increase in instructor’s salaries and improve the overall education system, but neither was done. This is yet another reason for emigration,” stated “Sarkis Dkhrouni” Student and Youth Union Chairman, Varazdat Yeghiazaryan at a press conference detailing the statistics.

When asked what steps should be taken to solve the fee increase problem? Yeghiazaryan stated, “Either the fees should not be increased, or at the very least the RA Government should subsidize students’ tuitions.” Yeghiazaryan disclosed that the Union suggests lowering the tuition by 50 percent for students in the provinces, children with a single parent and the students from socially disadvantaged families, regardless of whether they have passed their exams or not.

“Lecturers and students might like or dislike each other, and this can have an impact on the student’s grade. That’s why there is no need to take the fact that the student has passed or failed an exam into account. We’ll lead the struggle and let you know how we’re going to do it. This press conference is just the first step in our struggle,” Yeghiazaryan said.

New Developments in Turkish-Armenian Relations

On November 7, 2013, Turkey’s the Greens and the Left Party of the Future, organized a meeting entitled “Confronting History” in Istanbul, with the participation of various organizations and individuals who have acknowledged the Armenian Genocide. The Social Democrat Hunchakian Party received an invitation to participate in the meeting.

In response to the invitation, the foreign relations board of the S.D.H.P. Central Committee conveyed the following letter to the participants of the meeting:

“Esteemed Friends,

We learned that a meeting entitled “Confronting History” will take place in Istanbul organized by the Greens and the Left Party of the Future.

On this occasion, our viewpoint is that being unmindful to historical events or denying and falsifying facets of history is wrong. History must be looked at with open eyes.

Throughout our history, the greatest pain has been caused by the calamity of the Armenian Genocide, which is on the brink of its centennial. Condemning and acknowledging historical wrongdoings and expressing it as such within a community, is pertinent only from highly civilized individuals.

From these foundations, the meeting entitled “Confronting History,” and its decisions and affirmations, is an opening towards not repeating the mistakes of the past with the goals of establishing friendship between peoples along with justice and peace within the region. We extended our hand to you and welcome you and your spearheaded endeavors in a collaborative desire.”

At the end of the meeting, it was decided to increase the participation of various left-wing parties including the Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP) and convene a larger conference to work toward developing a greater degree of production. Furthermore, it was decided to participate in Genocide commemorations within Armenia, and collaborate with Germany’s Turkish population towards recognition and commemorations of the Armenian Genocide. The Greens and the Left Party of the Future have also invited the S.D.H.P. to participate in its party congress in Ankara on November 30th.

As a reminder, the Greens and the Left Party of the Future took part in the unprecedented commemorative events that took place in Istanbul, Turkey on June 13 and 15 of this year commemorating the 98th anniversary of the martyrdom of the “Twenty Gallows.”

New Developments in Turkish-Armenian Relations

Vasken Kaltakjian Awarded Artsakh Government Medal

STEPANAKERT — On November 15, 2013, Artsakh Republic President Bako Sahakyan signed a decree awarding the “Appreciation” medal to several individuals who defended the self-determination rights of the people of Artsakh and for promoting international recognition of the Republic of Nagorno Karabagh. Included among the awardees is Mr. Vasken Kaltakjian, Chairman of the Louisiana chapter of the Armenian Council of America, and member of the Central Committee of Social Democrat Hunchakian Party.

On May 30 of this year, the Louisiana State Senate passed a Resolution recognizing the Nagorno Karabakh Republic, expressing support for its development as a free and independent nation in order to guarantee its citizens those rights inherent in a free and independent society.

The Resolution also urges the President of the United States and the House of Representatives to support the self-determination and democratic independence of the Nagorno Karabakh Republic and its constructive involvement with the international community’s efforts to reach a just and lasting solution to security issues in that strategically important region. The Louisiana State Legislature became the fourth state legislative body to recognize the Nagorno Karabakh Republic, previous States to do so are Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Maine.

The Resolution was spearheaded by Louisiana State Senator Edwin R. Murray (D-New Orleans), who worked closely with Mr. Kaltakdjian.

Others who have been awarded the medal are; Jim Kaloustyan, manager of the “Rx.Ante.Inc” company (USA), dealing with Boston health issues; Jonathan Hecht, member of the USA Massachusetts state House of Representatives; Ani Haroyan, member of the ARF-US East Coast; and Anna Astvatsaturyan-Turcotte, lawyer and writer.

Vasken Kaltakjian Awarded Artsakh Government Medal

Sarkisian and Aliyev Agree to Give New "Impetus" to Negotiations

VIENNA — The presidents of Armenia and Azerbaijan, Serzh Sarkisian and Ilham Aliyev, have been discussing the so-called Nagorno-Karabakh conflict during face-to-face talks in Vienna.

The Minsk Group of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), under whose auspices the talks were held on November 19, issued the following statement after the meeting:

“ The Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group (the Russian Federation, France, and the United States of America) welcomed the President of the Republic of Armenia Serzh Sarkisian and the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev in Vienna, where the Presidents have arrived accompanied by the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the two countries to continue negotiations aimed at a peaceful resolution of the NK conflict. Present at the meeting were also the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group (Russian Federation, France, United States of America), as well as the Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairman-in-Office.

This is the first meeting of the Presidents since the Summit in Sochi in January 2012. During the tête-à-tête conversation and ensuing working meeting with the participation of the Co-Chairs and Ministers, the Presidents discussed a wide range of issues pertinent to the resolution of the NK problem.

The Presidents agreed to give a new impetus to the negotiations aimed at reaching a peaceful solution. They instructed their respective Ministers of Foreign Affairs to continue to work together with the Co-Chairs towards the enhancement of the peace process, based on the registered achievements. They agreed to meet again in coming months.

As a follow up, the Co-Chairs will organize working meetings with the Ministers on the sidelines of the OSCE Ministerial Council which will take place on December 5-6 in Kiev. The Co-Chairs are planning to conduct a visit to the region before the end of this year.”

Sarkisian told RFE/RL after the talks that the negotiations had been “normal.”

The two leaders last met in Sochi in January 2012 in talks mediated by Russia.

 

Sarkisian and Aliyev Agree to Give New "Impetus" to Negotiations

The German-Turkish Conspiracy Against the Diaspora

By Toros Sarian

The background and the effects of the German financed reconciliation projects.

The decades of silence regarding the Armenian Genocide during the Ottoman Empire was instantly broken as Gourgen Yanikian shot the Turkish General Consul and his Employee in Santa Barbara in January 1973. Turkish hopes that this act of Genocide would remain forgotten was transformed into an illusory wish. An elderly Armenian, living in distant California, proved that the descendants of this Turkish atrocity had not forgotten. In Santa Barbara the campaign had begun for the international recognition of this Genocide. During the campaign Armenians have informed the world public and have increased world awareness of these atrocities committed within the Ottoman Empire. Many Parliaments have passed resolutions recognizing the historical fact of the Armenian genocide. Turkey has declared the Armenian Diaspora to be a national enemy and took all possible measures to combat the “Armenian Lobby” and to prevent the International recognition of the Armenian Genocide.

It is widely accepted that Germany carries a joint responsibility for the Genocide against the Armenians during the Ottoman Empire period. This is clearly documented in the archive papers of the German Foreign Ministry which were published by the German journalist and publisher Wolfgang Gust in 2005. He persistently pointed out that only the German Government could have prevented Turkey from carrying out the Governments criminal plan of “solving the Armenian problem”. The German government under Emperor Wilhelm II failed to do so as their Alliance with the Turkish Regime was more important than the lives of the Christian Armenians.

The Berlin Government had been extremely silent regarding these atrocities, whilst at the same time proclaiming their exemplary conduct in addressing the atrocities committed against the European Jews during the Second World War, even suggesting that Turkey should take to heart their example. But when Germany is so courageous and open to working out the crimes of their past why had the German government remained silent till 2005 before beginning to evaluate their part in the Armenian Genocide? Only at the start of 2005 did the present Chancellor, Angela Merkel, forward a motion to parliament to commemorate the victims of the atrocities committed against Armenians throughout the Ottoman Empire. In April a debate took place on this theme in the German Parliament and in June an all party formulated resolution was passed. This resolution read as follows:

“The German Bundestag honors and commemorates the victims of violence, murder and expulsion among the Armenian people before and during the First World War. The Bundestag deplores the deeds of the Young Turkish government in the Ottoman Empire which have resulted in the almost total annihilation of the Armenians in Anatolia. It also deplores the inglorious role played by the German Reich which, in spite of a wealth of information on the organized expulsion and annihilation of Armenians, has made no attempt to intervene and stop these atrocities.” (Full text: www.armenian-genocide.org)

Although in the Resolution there was no explicit mention of an Armenian genocide many Armenians outside Germany interpreted the Resolution as being a recognition by the German Government of the Genocide against the Armenians. On the website of the „Armenian National Institute” it was stated that Germany was one of the nations which had recognized the Genocide. However, the Organization of Armenians in Germany has never viewed this Resolution from the German Parliament as recognition of the Genocide.

The Central Committee of Armenians in Germany has made it clear on many occasions that this parliamentary resolution does not meet the expectations of the Armenians in Germany.

In a Press release on the 13th March 2010 the organization stated that “The formal recognition of the Armenian Genocide by Germany is unavoidable and well overdue”, On the 6th April the organization demanded again from the German Parliament the formal recognition of the Armenian Genocide by the Ottoman Empire in 1915, according the UN convention concerning Prevention and Punishment of Acts of genocide.

There are clearly different opinions regarding the assessment of the German parliamentary Resolution of 2005. If the resolution was such a clear recognition of the genocide, why did the Turkish Government accept it so calmly and not react as it always did after such resolutions? Germany has a large Turkish immigrant population and the Turkish nationalists are well organized, but still there were no protests or demonstrations. There were no demands for a boycott of German products. Although the Turkish Government sent a formal protest against the resolution, it was very mild in contrast to other occasions when a state recognized the Genocide.

One comes to the conclusion that there must be other reasons why the Turkish Government and Turkish Nationalists reacted so tamely to the resolution. After the debate in April 2005 the German Chancellor Schroder travelled to Turkey. One theme was surely the contents of the all party formulated resolution. As time passed it was clear that the German and Turkish Governments had agreed upon a common strategy in dealing with the Genocide resolution. The old German-Turkish alliance had made the Genocide in 1915 possible and now the two allies had to find a way of preventing the demands of the Armenians for the recognition of the genocide from being pushed into the political arena.

The key to answering this question lies in essence in the title of the resolution Thus: ”Germany must make her contribution to the reconciliation between Turks and Armenians”

At first glance the demand for reconciliation seems something which cannot be rejected or criticized. Reading from statements issued by the German government since 2005, it is clear that the policy is not reconciliation between Armenians and Turks, but between the Republic of Armenia and Turkey. If the German government views the Genocide question as an issue to be solved by the two states then it is clear that the Armenian Diaspora has no role to play, according to the German government. The descendants of the survivors of the genocide, who have settled all over the world, would be accordingly ignored. Although over the decades it has been these people who have campaigned for the recognition of the atrocities. Demands of the German Parliament for a Turkish-Armenian reconciliation have aroused no opposition from the Turkish government: It is willing for reconciliation, but is not prepared to recognize the atrocities of 1915 as genocide.

The Armenian Diaspora is viewed by the Turkish Government as an “enemy”, which they have not so far been able to muzzle. The only possible way available for the Turkish Government to bypass the “irreconcilable Armenian Diaspora” is to turn the Genocide Question into a theme to be dealt with the Republic of Armenia. The Genocide will become a question for negotiation between the two states, thus the Diaspora will have no right or chance to engage in the process. The weakened State of Armenia, already isolated by Turkey and Azerbaijan can alone be put under even more pressure not only by Turkey but also her allies, especially Germany. By putting the reconciliation of the two nations, onto the political Agenda, the German Government has done the Turkish government an immense favor.

Armenian organizations in Europe have neither been very attentive in following the political developments since 2005. Nor have they been able to recognize the ramification of the German contribution to the Reconciliation process, let alone the political motives behind this policy. However on evaluation of the information currently available it becomes increasingly clear. Ulla Jelpke, Parliamentary member for the Links Party (The Left Party) put forward a short written question to the German government in August this year. Her aim was to ascertain which academic projects were being financed by the German state with the aim of critically evaluating the Genocide Question. The Foreign Office Secretary of State, Cornelia Piper responded giving details of great interest to Armenians. The detailed statement included the following: “On the basis of the cited Resolution of the German Parliament from June 2005, mentioned in your question, the German Government´s representative at the Department for Culture and Media has granted a sum of 410,000 euros to the Lepsius House in Potsdam, for equipment and cultural development programs, to establish the House as a center for German-Turkish Research and Cultural Place of Exchange. The German Government is accompanying the Turkish-Armenian reconciliation process with support for cross-border activities of NGO´s and German Political Foundations. In this spirit, the German Foreign Office has provided funds to a total of 1,4 million between 2009 and 2013 to the reconciliation project established by the Institute for International Cooperation of the German Adult Education Association,  (dvv international), under the title “Speaking to One Another”. The content of this project involves Student and scholar exchanges between Armenia and Turkey, common critical historical evaluation of the past events in the form of seminars, publications and exhibitions.” Apart from these two large sums 410,000 and 1, 4 million, the German Government has funded smaller activities to the sum of 50,000 euros. In total, the sum of 1, 9 million has been provided to support projects involved in the Reconciliation Process between Armenia and Turkey.

The financial support by Lepsius House in the city of Potsdam is widely known, and the work of Lepsius House is also known also by many Armenians in Germany. But, the work carried out by “dvv international” is largely unknown. On their website the organization’s areas of activity are described as follows: “The dvv supports a European and worldwide exchange of information and expertise regarding adult education and development, aids the establishment and expansion of structures for youth and adult education in developing and transformation countries and offers training consultation and medium provision for global intellectual euro political learning.” (For more information see: www.dvv-international.de)

This institution which has been active in the Republic of Armenia since 2002 and according to their Website is “one of the most important players in the field of Adult Education and LifeLong Learning”, has certainly established good contacts with the Government. The German Foreign Office and the dvv-international, and the Armenian ministries have presumably cooperated in organizing the Reconciliation projects in Armenia. A similar close cooperation will have taken place with the Turkish Government as the “dvv international” is also active in Turkey.

The Sarkisian government gladly embraced their role, thought out by Germany, in the Reconciliation process and, not purely for political reasons. They should have made it unmistakably clear right from the start, that the Genocide Question was certainly not an issue solely between Republic of Armenia and Turkey, but an issue which also involved the Armenian Diaspora. The position of Yerevan on this issue shows again that there is no clear agreement between the Sarkisian Government and the Diaspora regarding the Genocide Question.

One of the Turkish government’s policies is to drive a wedge between the Diaspora and the Republic of Armenia. The signing of the Turkish-Armenian Protocols in Zurich is in this connection was a great success for this Turkish political strategy, even though the Protocols were not ratified in the end. It may appear to be coincidental that the dvv-international began their reconciliation projects in the same year, 2009, as the Turkish-Armenian Protocol was being signed in Zurich and it is not known when the „Secret-Diplomacy” began, which led to the Zurich protocols. If the Turkish-Armenian negotiations began after 2005 it could be an indication that the negotiations had been initiated by the German government. Due to Germany’s involvement in the Genocide, Germany had an interest in ensuring that this theme was at last taken off the political Agenda.

As close ally to the Turkish government, Germany also had established close contacts to the Armenian government. Germany had given generous aid to the country and German investors are an important investment factor in the region. Therefore the German government had enough leverage to “convince” Yerevan as to the benefits of starting negotiations. Perhaps, this leverage had to be used again to persuade Yerevan to support their “Reconciliation Projects”. After Germany had pushed the “Recognition Question” onto the “Reconciliation Track” the Diaspora was and still is confronted with a new situation.

Should they give up their campaign for the recognition of the Genocide and instead join the “Reconciliation Process” with Turkey?

The Armenian Diaspora must realize the German Government pursued Reconciliation Policy serves Turkish political interests. Thanks to Germany, the Turkish Government can now point out that these “Reconciliation Projects” are being supported by the Armenian Government and are prepared to “solve” the Genocide question in cooperation with them. If the international community follows suit and also views the Genocide Question as a matter between only the Republic of Armenia and Turkey then the Armenian Diaspora with their demands for recognition of the Genocide would find no support, as in the past.

The Sarkisian Government was heavily criticized for the Zurich Protocol. But why is the Diaspora remaining silent when Germany and Turkey together with the Republic of Armenia are cooperating on reconciliation? The goal of the German financed ”Reconciliation Projects” is not to persuade Turkey to recognize the atrocities of 1915 as Genocide but to bring about reconciliation between Turkey and the Republic of Armenia. If this policy succeeds, the Diaspora campaign for Genocide Recognition which began with the shots in Santa Barbara would be at an abrupt end.

Photo: Enver Pahsa (L)  meeting with a German military officer in Berlin. (photo AA)

 

The German-Turkish Conspiracy Against the Diaspora

California Lutheran University Selects Black Dog of Fate as Required Reading For First-Year Class

By Taleen Babayan

California Lutheran University became the fifth U.S. university to use Peter Balakian’s memoir Black Dog of Fate as the requiring book for nearly a thousand incoming freshmen. In recent years, The College of New Jersey, University of Connecticut, Sienna College and Colgate University have also made the book a core text or a required first year read.

California Lutheran University, a private liberal arts institution located in Southern California, found Balakian’s memoir a compelling way to inaugurate its Freshman-Year Experience Program, which aims to integrate students into the school’s academic way of life.

“In the First-Year Seminar, we are especially committed to assisting students in choosing and developing an ethical stance in their academic and professional commitments,” said Professor James Bond, Associate Professor of English at CLU and Director of the Freshman-Year Experience Program. “A key emphasis in fostering an emerging ethical stance is helping them learn about what it might mean to participate in a global citizenship.”

Bond said that Balakian’s “elegant, moving, and critical memoir,” fit the program needs perfectly because it helped demonstrate to students the importance of discovering purpose. He noted that Balakian’s “younger self” does not occur through one event or moment, instead evolving over time and after much struggle, reflection and historical and family research.

“This process isn’t merely academic or narrowly personal,” said Bond. “Both are fused together, as they should be, and that fits our sense of educating the “whole person.”

While Black Dog of Fate is a personal story, focusing on Balakian’s life growing up in American-Armenian family in the 1950s and 60s, unaware that his family had been victims of the Armenian Genocide, Bond remarked that the memoir went beyond that and helps others understand the importance of being aware of one’s past “for the purpose of contributing to a higher good.”

“Professor Balakian is showing our students one viable and noble way for developing a calling beyond mere self interest, and also one that engages the self in the context of being a global citizen,” said Bond.

Professor Balakian discussed his book with incoming freshman at California Lutheran University at the start of the academic year. The book won the 1998 PEN/Martha Albrand Prize for the Art of the Memoir and has been through dozens of printings. It was published in a 10th anniversary edition, with the addition of two new chapters several years ago.

California Lutheran University Selects Black Dog of Fate as Required Reading For First-Year Class

Presidents of Armenia, Azerbaijan to Meet in Vienna on November 19

YEREVAN — The presidents of Armenia and Azerbaijan will meet in Vienna on Tuesday for what will be their first face-to-face talks on the unresolved Nagorno-Karabakh conflict in nearly two years.

The date and venue of the meeting was officially announced by President Serzh Sarkisian’s office and the Minsk Group of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe on Monday. The statements gave no details of its agenda.

The U.S., Russian and French diplomats co-heading the Minsk Group arranged the Armenian-Azerbaijani summit during their most recent tour of the conflict zone early this month. They hope that Sarkisian and his Azerbaijani counterpart Ilham Aliyev will revive a peace process that has been effectively deadlocked for the past two years.

The United States seems particularly hopeful about the summit. President Barack Obama urged Aliyev and Sarkisian to meet soon in separate letters sent to them in September. In another message sent to Aliyev on November 7, Obama spoke of a “historic opportunity to find a peaceful, negotiated resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.”

Nevertheless, few observers expect major progress at the Vienna talks. The conflicting parties continue to disagree on key details of the Basic Principles of a Karabakh settlement proposed by the mediators. There has also been no letup in their mutual threats and recriminations.

Sarkisian will fly to Vienna just days after visiting Karabakh, inspecting Armenian frontline positions and watching exercises held by Karabakh Armenian forces.

During the visit to Vienna the Armenian president is also scheduled to meet with his Austrian counterpart Heinz Fischer.

Sarkisian’s most recent meeting with Aliyev, mediated by Russia, took place in the Russian city of Sochi in January 2012. The two presidents pledged at the time to intensify their search for a mutually acceptable peace deal. However, no progress has been made in Armenian-Azerbaijani peace talks since then.

Presidents of Armenia, Azerbaijan to Meet in Vienna on November 19

Armenian Coin Wins First Prize at Vicenza Numismatica 10th International Fair

VICENZA — An Armenian memorial coin dedicated to the 500th anniversary of Armenian printing won the first prize at the Vicenza Numismatica 10th international fair in Italy, Press Service of the Central Bank of Armenia informed Public Radio of Armenia.

The international jury specially emphasized the unique combination of the modern design of the coin’s obverse and the classical design of its reverse.

The two faces of the coin combine the past and the present, symbolizing not only the 500th anniversary of printing of the first Armenian book in Venice in 1512, but also the international cultural role of Armenia and its capital Yerevan.

The 10th Vicenza Numismatica numismatic fair was held in the Italian city of Vicenza in September-November, 2013.

Armenian Coin Wins First Prize at Vicenza Numismatica 10th International Fair

A Special Performance by a Unique Artist

By Florence Avakian

NEW YORK, NY — Sunday, October 20 was a special day at the Armenian Evangelical Church of New York, as celebrated pianist Sahan Arzruni performed a demanding program of classical and Armenian compositions with more than 150 in attendance.

The newly appointed pastor of the church, Rev. Haig Kherlopian, and the church’s Board of Trustees Vice Chairman Peter Kougasian welcomed the crowd and introduced the artist who is also a well-known ethnomusicologist, writer, lecturer, and producer. Sahan Arzruni’s many accomplishments include command performances at the White House, as well as at the British, Danish and Icelandic courts.

Starting his program with Chopin’s Polonaise in C-sharp minor, (1926), known for its different textures, and dynamics, the artist demonstrated his formidable technique and fiery expression in this work which is replete with octaves, arpeggios, as well as gentle melodies. Then came three well known lyrical Chopin Nocturnes, and the legendary composer’s Fantaise-Impromptu (1834), with its many cross-rhythms, ending with mysterious waves. Again Arzruni displayed his impressive technique, phrasing, and understanding of the work.

Khachaturian was one of several Armenian composers that figured prominently in the program which included his three-movement Sonatina (1959) with its gentle rhythms, and virtuosic and exciting finale, and the often-performed Toccata (1932), filled with diverse harmonies and expressionism.

A group of selections from Khachaturian’s Children’s Album was a delightful surprise for many. Reflecting the deep Armenian feelings of the charming works, Arzruni played several, including Birthday with its joyous childlike fun, and the humorous Two Funny Aunties Have Quarreled.

Warm Repartee

Following intermission, the concert took on an air of warm and friendly repartee as Arzruni related humorous and revealing anecdotes about a few of the composers and their works.

Babadjanyan’s Elegy (1978) is one of the most lyrical and soul-searing pieces ever written. Arzruni explained that Babadjanian was one of the first to hear of Khachaturian’s death in 1978 on Moscow State Radio. Babadjanian recalled that when Khachaturian heard a 16-year old duduk player Levon Madoyan play this melody in the 1930’s in Yerevan, Khachaturian was “mesmerized”, and commented that “no human being can ever write such a beautiful piece. It is superhuman.”

Babadjanian arranged this melody, and on the day of Khachaturian’s death in 1978, he dedicated it to the memory of the great Armenian composer. The Elegy was played on Yerevan State Radio repeatedly for 24 hours the day of the composer’s death. With great feeling, Arzruni performed this heart rending composition.

Introducing Achtamar (1947) by Alan Hovhaness, Arzruni related that the renowned composer wrote his first opera at the tender age of four, and included in it a middle line used in the 14th and 15th centuries in Europe. However, Hovhaness was heartbroken when his mother said it was not playable, and threw it in the garbage. But that did not stop this genius who even as a child often couldn’t sleep, seeing notes in his dreams. In a humorous aside, Arzruni revealed that the contemporary Achtamar piece really should have been named after Hovhaness’ cat Raja whom he regarded as his sixth reincarnation. “The composer was so inspired by the piano keys on which Raja stepped that he quickly wrote them down.”

Gomidas Specialist

A master interpreter of Gomidas’ piano music, Arzruni presented Shoror of Mush (1916), so musically representative of village life with its daily chores, dances, and children playing. (At the concert, a CD of Arzruni playing the complete piano works of Gomidas was available).

Two masterworks completed the almost three-hour concert. Arzruni’s deep understanding, and pianistic brilliance was demonstrated in Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata (1801), one of the most popular and performed compositions, with its combination of nocturnal structure in the first movement, and turbulence in the last movement. Arzruni’s masterful rendition of Schubert’s Impromptu in A-flat major (1827), a composition of lyricism personified, brought the audience to its feet in a standing ovation.

Plaudits to the artist continued during the sumptuous reception in the church hall. The memorable event was organized by co-chairpersons Louise Tezel and Hilda Melconian.

A Special Performance by a Unique Artist

Former Hitachi CEO Tsugio Makimoto Receives Armenian President’s IT Award 2013

YEREVAN — The Armenian Presidential Award Ceremony for Global Contribution in area of IT for year 2013 took place at the Presidential Palace.

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.

Former Hitachi CEO Tsugio Makimoto Receives Armenian President’s IT Award 2013

U.S. Senate Criticizes Russia for Pressure on EU Aspirants

By Heather Maher

Radio Free Europe

The head of a U.S. Senate committee on November 14 criticized Russia for putting “considerable pressure” on Eastern European countries who want to join the European Union.

Chris Murphy, who heads the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations’ Subcommittee on European Affairs, made the comments at a hearing looking at countries in Eastern Europe and the Caucasus that might someday join the European Union.

“Ukraine, Moldova, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Belarus should be free to chart their own future. Our message should be that the door to Euro-Atlantic institutions is open, and if you’re prepared to meet reasonable conditions, we will support you,” Murphy said.

Murphy slammed Russian bans on goods from aspiring EU countries.

“Unfortunately, it seems as though Russia sees this whole contest as a zero-sum game and has put considerable pressure on each of the [Eastern] Partnership countries to discourage them from strengthening relations with the EU. We’ve seen a ban on wine imports from Moldova, chocolate from Ukraine, fertilizer from Belarus, and the list just goes on and on and on,” Murphy said.

The European Union is set to vote on whether to sign an Association Agreement and a Deep and Comprehensive Trade Agreement with Ukraine at a summit in Vilnius on November 28-29. It will also decide whether to initial those same agreements with EU aspirant countries Moldova and Georgia.

Members of the committee questioned U.S Assistant Secretary for European and Eurasian Affairs Victoria Nuland about progress in countries that have Euro-Atlantic aspirations.

Summit Could Be ‘Historic Moment’

Nuland said the Vilnius summit will represent “a historic moment” for Ukraine, Moldova, and Georgia, and “a key step towards their dream of one day being fully integrated into Europe.”

She said all three “have worked very hard to bring their judicial and law enforcement structures closer to the EU standard and to prepare their political systems and their economic and energy markets for greater integration with Europe.”

Nuland singled out Georgia for special praise.

“The Georgians, I would say, have taken a great leap in countering corruption, largely through efforts to do things like put all government contracting on the Internet, those kinds of things that could be done in other Eastern Partnership countries,” Nuland explained.

She also noted that although Ukraine has passed more than 18 pieces of legislation harmonizing with EU standards to prepare for Vilnius, it has more work to do if it wants a “yes” vote at the summit.

“Ukraine still needs to take three important reform steps in order to meet the EU’s conditions for signature at Vilnius. It needs to pass justice reform legislation, it needs to pass electoral reform legislation, and it needs to take action to release jailed former Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko for medical treatment,” Nuland said.

Nuland told the committee that in its discussions with Russia, U.S. officials have encouraged Moscow to see the benefits of deeper integration between its neighbors’ economies and the EU’s 500 million customers, “including the likelihood that more prosperous neighbors will buy more Russian exports.”

U.S. Senate Criticizes Russia for Pressure on EU Aspirants