CEREMONY OF “CILICIA” SAILER’S DEPARTURE FROM THAMES RIVER TAKES PLACE IN LONDON

Noyan Tapan
Armenians Today
May 31 2006

LONDON, MAY 31, NOYAN TAPAN – ARMENIANS TODAY. The ceremony of
“Cilicia” sailer’s departure from the famous St. Katharine’s Dock
on the Thames River in London took place on May 28. The Armenian
Ambassador to the UK Vahe Gabrielian made an opening address. He
congratulated those present on the Day of the First Republic of
Armenia, and, speaking about the meaning of this day, noted that
the day of “Cilicia” sailer’s departure was not chosen by accident
and signifies the inflexible will and consistency of an Armenian
realizing his cherished dreams. He expressed confidence that the feat
of “Cilicia” sailer’s crew will be an example for others to follow in
their efforts to make the Republic of Armenia prosperous. Chairwoman of
the Armenian-British multiparty parliamentary group baroness Caroline
Cox recited her poem to “Cilicia”. Chairman of the Comunity and Church
Council of Great Britain Ara Palamudian and writer-publicist Zori
Balayan also made speeches. The national anthems of the RA and the
UK were performed, the choir of St. Eghishe Church sang. Hundreds
of people attended the event. According to the RA MFA Press and
Information Department, a reception was held at St. Katharine’s Dock’s
sailing club on the evening of May 26, at which members of the Armenian
community, as well ambassadors and representatives of the diplomatic
corps accredited to London and heads of local government bodies were
present. The Armenian Ambassador to the UK Vahe Gabrielian, Chairman
of the commission on organization of “Cilicia” sailer’s departure,
Director of Christian Solidarity Worldwide Stuart Windsor and the
sailer’s annalist Zori Balayan delivered speeches. Over the last
fifteen days, the film “Navigation by 7 Seas” was shown 5 times in
community organizations. BBC covered the departure of the “Cilicia”
sailer several times on May 25, with one of the programs being
broadcast live from the vessel. Tower Bridge in London was opened on
the occasion of the “Cilicia” sailer’s departure.