PRESS RELEASE
AGBU Hye Geen Organization
2048 Erin Way
Glendale , CA 91206
Contact: Sona Yacoubian
Tel: (818)790-3023
E-mail: sonahera@msn.com

The launching of Sona Zeitlian’s newest publication “Contribution of
Armenians to the History of Medieval and Modern Egypt” took place on 1
December 2004 at the Glendale Central Public Library. The event was
sponsored by Tekeyan Cultural Association and AGBU “Hye Geen”.

The presentation of this unique study was made by Parsegh Kartalian, a
well known community leader. To begin with, he stressed that in the
history of the widespread Armenian diasporas, Egypt maintained a
prominent place until the middle of 20th century. In the medieval
period, he dwelt on the Armenian Veziers of 11th and 12th centuries
and their contribution to Egypt’s military, political and cultural
evolution. Summing up the legacy of this period, he mentioned the
establishment of the Armenian see that still functions today and the
contributions of Armenian architects and artisans whose works have
left an indelible mark on the evolution of muslim architecture.

He then focused on Modern Egypt, where Armenian statesmen have
contributed to the country’s politico-economic, legal and educational
evolution. In an atmosphere of religious tolerance and national
cohesion, such prominent figures as Boghos Bey Yusufian, Nubar Pasha
Nubarian, Dikran Pasha D’Abro, Ya’cub Artin Pasha Tcherakian, Boghos
Nubar Pasha Nubarian and many others have laid the foundations of the
state apparatus, public education, public transportation and the legal
framework based on secular principles. The speaker made an in depth
analysis of the contributions of these leading Armenian statesmen who
have also been pillars of their own community.

Then Sona Yacubian, president of AGBU “Hye Geen” introduced the
author, Sona Zeitlian. In her address, the author focused on the
pan-Armenian conception of Egypt’s Armenian community and the key role
it played in cementing diasporan relations and constant exchanges with
the Homeland. In fact, the community used its economic and
organizational clout as well as church unity to serve fellow Armenians
at a time of national crisis. The pan-Armenian conception was at the
heart of the Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU) established in
Egypt in 1906. For almost a century this world wide organization has
adapted to serve the nation’s changing needs.

Sona Zeitlian’s work was highly appreciated by an enthusiastic
audience, mindful of the fact that the diasporan narrative was linked
with the enfolding Armenian history.

Sona Zeitlian’s book is available from HSZ Publications at
Struere@aol.com

From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress