YEAR-END NEWS CONFERENCE AT THE DIASPORA MINISTRY
Gita Elibekyan

"Radiolur"
26.12.2008 15:59

Minister of Diaspora Hranush Hakobyan gave a year-end press conference
today. Diaspora journalist participated in the conference via Internet.

Speaking about the programs envisaged for 2009, the Minister said
those will further strengthen the Armenia-Diaspora ties. Next year
the Ministry will organize events honoring Charles Aznavour, Kirk
Kirkorian and Alex Manoogian.

The Ministry of Diaspora has a history of three months already. During
the period the staff has almost been shaped, the programs for 2009
have been determined.

"Next year the Ministry will submit two doctrines to the Government,
which are related to the development of the Armenian communities
in Georgia and Latin American states. The process of assimilation
in Latin American States and many regions of Georgia is very speedy,
the Minister of Diaspora notes, adding that five main questions should
be solved for world-spread Armenians. These include preservation of
the Armenian national identity, purity of language, support to the
investments of Diaspora Armenians.

Besides, every Armenian should certainly come to Armenia, even if as
a tourist, the Minster said.

As for the repatriation program of the Ministry, Hranush Hakobyan said
that proper conditions will be created for those who wish to return to
Armenia, noting that it will not be imposed like in 1946-1948. Beside
s, According to Mrs. Hakobyan, saying repatriation we should first of
all understand return of Armenians. "We want the Armenian separated
from his roots and identity, to be inspired with his Armenia, his
community and church."

Wishing Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, Minister Hakobyan called
on world-spread Armenians to assemble around the Motherland and make
it more powerful.