Author: Antranik Varosian

Armenpress: Armenia-EU relations have never been stronger – EU Commissioner for International Partnerships

Antranik Varosian

 22:22,

YEREVAN, 27 FEBUARY, ARMENPRESS. The EU Commissioner for International Partnerships Jutta Urpilainen  has addressed the need for closer ties between the EU and Armenia, as well as the necessity for a peace agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia. During her speech in the European Parliament, she emphasized that Armenia-EU relations are currently undergoing historic moments.

"Armenia-EU relations have never been stronger than today. This was confirmed two weeks ago at the Armenia-EU Partnership Council. Back in October last year, in this plenary session, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan signaled Armenia’s readiness to get closer to the European Union," said Urpilainen, emphasizing that the EU is working to move forward in that direction.

According to her, Armenia's previous decisions, which led to political, economic and security dependence, cannot be overcome overnight.

 "However, the clear political will of both sides will allow us to move forward in deepening and expanding our partnership. We already have a good foundation, solid frameworks, which is the European Union-Armenia Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement,’’ said the EU Commissioner for International Partnerships.

She noted that together with Armenia, they had undertaken the preparation of a new ambitious partnership program. "We have proposed this new partnership program to be based on our shared values consisting of three pillars. First, we will work to strengthen Armenia's resilience and diversify its economy by expanding cooperation in trade, energy, communications, and aviation security.

In order to expand contacts between people, we are discussing options for initiating a dialogue on visa liberalization. Armenia has expressed its strong interest in this issue, and we call on its leadership to intensify work in the direction of relevant reforms. The start of the dialogue on the liberalization of the visa regime will be an important political impulse for the citizens of Armenia and will provide leverage for further reforms.

Secondly, the issue of security is becoming an increasingly important element of our relationship. We are pleased to celebrate the first anniversary of the EU mission in Armenia and look forward to its strengthening through the European Peace Facility. We are expanding our dialogue on foreign and security policy issues, including participation in EU unit missions and operations.

Thirdly, increased investment will be of great importance for closer economic cooperation. We are committed to supporting Armenia's participation in the construction of an electric cable in the Black Sea, as well as joining other projects aimed at creating closer ties between the countries of the region. Creating closer ties between the countries of the region has great potential to contribute to peace," said the EU Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jutta Urpilainen.

 According to the commissioner, the EU continues to support the Armenians of Karabakh by providing financial resources to address their socio-economic problems.

''Our firm commitment to the process of normalization of relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan remains unchanged. We are ready to support stable and lasting peace, based on the principles of recognition of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of both countries. We reject any use of force or threat of force and continue to support the peaceful settlement of conflicts," concluded the EU Commissioner for International Partnerships Jutta Urpilainen.

Homenetmen Central Executive chairman meets with Eastern USA Regional Executive members

Antranik Varosian
 Homenetmen Eastern U.S. Diaspora, Youth 0

Regional Executive members meet with Central Executive members Hagop Khatcherian (chairman) and Vahe Tanashian

On Monday, February 19, 2024, members of the Homenetmen Eastern USA Regional Executive Vicken Khatchadourian, Razmik Banosian and Vahe Andonian met with Homenetmen’s Central Executive chairman Hagop Khatcherian (visiting from Lebanon) and Central Executive member Vahe Tanashian. The meeting took place at Homenetmen’s regional office in the Hairenik building in Watertown, Massachusetts.

During this meeting, Khatcherian shared details of Homenetmen’s programs for the next four years, as discussed during the Central Executive’s first plenary meeting held in January 2024. These programs include:

  • Homenetmen’s 13th World Congress held in October 2023 confirmed the continued existence of the Artsakh chapter in exile and the establishment of the Homenetmen Artsakh Fund. While the fund will provide financial support for those displaced from Artsakh, Homenetmen’s efforts also emphasize the need to provide programs for displaced youth to gather and feel camaraderie with their Homenetmen brothers and sisters. Beginning in April 2024, all Homenetmen scouts and athletes will wear a special Artsakh badge on their uniforms, with the purpose of keeping Artsakh at the forefront of our members’ thoughts.
  • To advance the Homenetmen Youth Division, areas will be identified in which it may appeal to both Homenetmen scouts/athletes who are no longer active and non-Homenetmen members who may have other interests. The intent of this undertaking is to create new opportunities for the Armenian youth to unify and utilize their shared strengths, furthering Homenetmen’s ability to contribute to the needs of the Armenian community, both in Armenia and abroad.
  • In addition to the traditional pan-Homenetmen Scouting panagoums and athletic games, Homenetmen will provide additional opportunities for participation by organizing “continental” events. This will allow scouts and athletes who are not able to attend a pan-Homenetmen event to participate in inter-regional events without traveling as far.
  • The organization is taking steps to create a more consistent brand, utilizing the Homenetmen website to provide uniform information about each region across the world. Among others, one of the goals of this program is to target corporate sponsorships for the organization as a whole.
  • Homenetmen is working to update its membership database, gathering additional data that will allow identification of members who have similar educational or professional backgrounds, interests, pursuits, etc. to enhance the development of current and future programs.

The Regional Executive members then shared information about the 12 chapters and miavors in the Eastern USA to better acquaint the visiting Central Executive chairman about the inner workings of the region. The executive members spoke about the region’s major annual events, such as the Navasartian Games and Regional Panagoum, as well as strengths, challenges and priorities for the current term. Several of the Regional Executive’s undertakings for the near term will complement the Central Executive’s programs, such as the completion of a regional membership database, development of a regional youth division and pursuit of a Homenetmen campsite in the Eastern U.S.

Before Khatcherian departed for Lebanon, the Regional Executive members presented him with a Homenetmen Eastern USA Region polo shirt as a small token of appreciation for his visit.

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The Armenian General Athletic Union and Scouts, known as "Homenetmen," is a non-profit organization founded over 100 years ago. Believing in the idea that strong bodies lead to strong minds, Homenetmen has provided Armenian youth across the globe with a moral, physical and psychological education outside the school environment, while also demonstrating richness of the Armenian culture and heritage. Today, Homenetmen is a worldwide organization with over 25,000 members on five continents. On the East Coast U.S., Homenetmen is a thriving organization with 12 chapters and over 900 members, governed by the Homenetmen Eastern Regional Executive.


Armenpress: Azerbaijani forces open fire at Armenian military positions in Gegharkunik Province, coordinates released

Antranik Varosian

 17:35,

YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 24, ARMENPRESS. The Azerbaijani military opened gunfire on February 24 at Armenian Armed Forces posts in the area of Verin Shorzha, Gegharkunik Province, the Ministry of Defense has said.

In a statement, the Ministry of Defense presented the coordinates of the Azerbaijani position from where the shooting occurred.

The Defense Ministry also warned that Azeri authorities are again spreading disinformation.

“The Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Armenia refutes the statement by the Ministry of Defense of Azerbaijan, which claimed that on February 24th, around 12:45 p.m., Armenian Armed Forces units had allegedly fired toward Azerbaijani positions in the eastern part of the border. This claim does not align with reality. Simultaneously, the Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Armenia informs that on February 24th, at approximately 12:30 p.m., Azerbaijani armed forces units discharged fire against Armenian military positions near Verin Shorzha in the Gegharkunik region. The fire was directed towards the Armenian positions from the Azerbaijani position located at the following coordinates: 40 °05'31.68" N, 45 °52'51.44" E.,” the Ministry of Defense said.

I am sure there will be actions – Deputy Prime Minister on Azerbaijani murderer’s release

Antranik Varosian

 18:59,

YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 22, ARMENPRESS. During a briefing with journalists on Thursday, Armenian Deputy Prime Minister Mher Grigoryan addressed the news concerning the return of Kamil Zeynalli, the Azerbaijani national wanted by Armenia on suspicion of committing war crimes during the 2020 war, to Baku. 

"I'm sure there will be actions, but for now, I prefer not to elaborate further because, there should also be a collegial discussion regarding the matter," Grigoryan commented on the situation when asked about the return of Zeynalli to Baku and the reception of him as a hero.

When asked what conclusion should be drawn from all this, the Deputy Prime Minister answered: "Let's not get ahead of ourselves. When there will be the official response, then we will talk."

Kamil Zeynalli is suspected of war crimes committed during the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh war when he fought from the Azeri side against Armenian forces, particularly of killing and beheading an elderly civilian hostage. According to the media reports, Zeynalli is a recipient of Azeri medals for his military service.  According to the reports, the man is now a 'blogger' and a ‘fitness trainer’.




Yeremyan Projects participates in the prestigious Gulfood exhibition in Dubai

Antranik Varosian

 14:40,

YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 21, ARMENPRESS.  The “Yeremyan Projects” company is participating in Gulfood 2024, the largest international food and beverage exhibition at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 19 – 23 February. About 5,500 companies from about 130 countries are represented at the prestigious event this year.
The Yeremyan Projects pavilion provides participants of the exhibition with an opportunity to become acquainted with the history of the company, its implemented programs, as well as the product range of  "Yeremyan Products".
"Yeremyan Products" dairy, a high-quality product already in great demand among Armenian consumers, will be showcased at the general pavilion of Armenia. The international visitors will have the opportunity to taste it and become acquainted with "Yeremyan Projects" vision to cultivate a new culture of milk consumption. The visitors will learn about the benefits of the "Seed to Table" concept and the closed-loop, as well as the approaches and projects aimed at developing Armenia's new farming economy and producing quality milk.
Gulfood is a platform that brings together the leaders and experts of the field, which enables Armenian businessmen and producers to present their history, rich cultural heritage, Armenian cuisine and unique products.
Yeremyan Projects General Director Davit Yeremyan who is also participating in the exhibition, has emphasized that Armenian products, particularly dairy products meeting high-quality standards, have all the prerequisites for entering the international market. 
“Presenting Armenian production and its history beyond the borders of our country is a great honor and a responsibility for us. Today, we present our high-quality products to thousands of visitors and leaders of famous companies, alongside the largest manufacturers and businesses worldwide. We share our success story and present Armenia as a country that has successfully implemented global business and production models.
The Gulfood exhibition is a good opportunity to establish new partnerships, exchange experience and, of course, create new opportunities for the export of Armenian products," Davit Yeremyan said.
100,000 trade representatives are expected to visit the exhibition. Business meetings, seminars and panel discussions are scheduled within the framework of Gulfood 2024.

OPCW Director-General receives Armenia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs

Antranik Varosian
Feb 14 2024

Discussion highlights the importance of upholding the norm against chemical weapons and tackling emerging challenges related to the implementation of the Convention

14 FEBRUARY 2024

THE HAGUE, Netherlands—14 February 2023—The Director-General of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), Ambassador Fernando Arias, welcomed Armenia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Mr Ararat Mirzoyan, at the OPCW’s Headquarters in The Hague on 8 February 2024.  

During their bilateral meeting, the Director-General and the Minister discussed contemporary issues in disarmament and non-proliferation and their impact on the implementation of the Chemical Weapons Convention. The Director-General briefed the Minister on ongoing efforts of the Organisation to uphold the norm against chemical weapons, including preventing their re-emergence. Director-General Arias stressed the important role of the OPCW Centre for Chemistry and Technology (ChemTech Centre) in strengthening the Organisation’s capabilities to respond to emerging threats related to the implementation of the Convention. He also underlined risks and opportunities arising from rapid advances in science and technology such as artificial intelligence.  In this sense the Director-General commented that the Secretariat continues to analyse the situation and will keep Member States informed.

The Minister highlighted: “I reiterate Armenia’s steadfast support for the collective endeavours of the international community in freeing the world from chemical weapons. This commitment is underscored by the unwavering implementation of the provisions outlined in the Chemical Weapons Convention. The task ahead involves ensuring that the OPCW remains adaptable and relevant in the face of evolving realities and needs that State Parties might have, including in the context of ongoing conflicts and aggressions.” 

The Minister also briefed the Director-General on various legislative reforms that have been established in Armenia to strengthen the Convention’s implementation.

The Director-General stated: “The OPCW commends Armenia for its efforts to uphold the norm against chemical weapons through strengthening its implementation of the Convention. We thank Armenia for its support to the work of the Organisation on preventing the re-emergence of chemical weapons.

Armenia signed the Chemical Weapons Convention in 1993, ratifying it in 1995 and has been an active member since the entry of the Convention into force.

The ChemTech Centre, which was inaugurated on 12 May 2023, enhances the OPCW’s ability to conduct chemical research and analysis. This significantly reinforces the Organisation’s verification regime and inspection capabilities of chemical industries around the world. In addition, an increasing number of capacity building activities are being delivered through the Centre, including chemical emergency response trainings and analytical skills development courses for experts from Member States.

As the implementing body for the Chemical Weapons Convention, the OPCW, with its 193 Member States, oversees the global endeavour to permanently eliminate chemical weapons. Since the Convention’s entry into force in 1997, it is the most successful disarmament treaty eliminating an entire class of weapons of mass destruction.

On 7 July 2023, the OPCW verified that all chemical weapons stockpiles declared by the 193 States Parties to the Chemical Weapons Convention since 1997 — totalling 72,304 metric tonnes of chemical agents — have been irreversibly destroyed under the OPCW’s strict verification regime.

For its extensive efforts in eliminating chemical weapons, the OPCW received the 2013 Nobel Peace Prize.

  • Photos from the event
  • Armenia | OPCW
  • Centre for Chemistry and Technology | OPCW
  • Supporting National Implementation of the Convention | OPCW

Chamlian School’s Mock Trial Team Triumphs in Inaugural Season

Antranik Varosian
by Contributor

 

 

 

in Community, Latest, News, Top Stories

Chamlian Armenian School's Mock Trial team


In an impressive display of legal acumen and persuasive eloquence, Chamlian Armenian School’s Mock Trial team made a remarkable debut, securing a top 10 placement out of 188 teams across Los Angeles County and reaching the quarter-finals in their inaugural season. This significant feat illustrates the incredible talent, dedication, and hard work of the students and underscores the invaluable guidance of their volunteer attorney coaches, as well as the strategic oversight of their Mock Trial advisor, Rosemary Boyadjian.

Highlighting individual excellence within the team, 7th grader Lia Stepanian was honored with the prestigious 2023 Outstanding Prosecution Award, distinguishing her as the top prosecution attorney in the county. This significant accolade reflects the competitive ethos and superior skills embodied by the team members.

7th grader Lia Stepanian (left) was honored with the prestigious 2023 Outstanding Prosecution Award

Further acclaim was given to Sophia Martin and Lia Stepanian, who earned the Teach Democracy Honorable Mention for an Outstanding Presentation, emphasizing the team’s dedication to legal education and advocacy.

The spotlight also shone on Maria Giragossian, Ivy Grigoryan, and Taline Boyamian, who were celebrated with the Best Attorney Award for their exceptional performance and commitment. A considerable measure of gratitude is extended to the volunteer attorney coaches, whose expertise and mentorship were pivotal to the team’s success. Their invaluable guidance throughout the competition played a crucial role in honing the students’ understanding of legal practices and courtroom dynamics.

Chamlian Armenian School’s foray into the competitive realm of mock trials underscores the students’ aptitude and the comprehensive support network fostered by the school. This season’s remarkable achievements highlight not only the students’ grasp of legal principles but also their proficiency in critical thinking, public speaking, and collaborative teamwork.

Chamlian School’s Mock Trial participants

Looking ahead to future endeavors, this year’s accomplishments establish a solid foundation for ongoing excellence. Chamlian Armenian School takes immense pride in its Mock Trial team and reaffirms its commitment to cultivating the bright minds of tomorrow. This inaugural achievement underscores Chamlian’s dedication to academic excellence and its role in nurturing articulate, and analytical thinkers poised for success in any field they choose to pursue.

To discover more about Chamlian Armenian School, visit the website.

During Two-Week Visit to DC, Artsakh Officials Advocate for Rights and Safe Return of Artsakh’s Armenians

Antranik Varosian
by Contributor

 

 

 

in Armenia, Artsakh, Featured Story, Latest, News, Top Stories

Artak Beglaryan and Gegham Stepanyan participated in a panel at George Washington University


WASHINGTON – Republic of Artsakh Human Rights Defender Gegham Stepanyan and former State Minister Artak Beglaryan concluded a two-week advocacy mission to Washington that called on U.S. Congressional leaders, Administration officials, and a broad array of faith-based and human rights groups to hold Azerbaijan accountable for the genocide against Artsakh’s 150,000 indigenous Armenian Christians and to provide support to refugees as mechanisms are explored to ensure their safe return to the homes from which they were forcibly displaced.

Artsakh Human Rights Defender Gegham Stepanyan with Rep. Chris Smith Rep, Ted Lieu received a briefing about Artsakh

Amb. Rashad Hussein Rep. David Valadeo with Artak Beglaryan Sen. Gary Peters with Artsakh reps. Sen. Armed Service Committee chair Jack Reed Sen. Gary Peters

Rep. Barbara Lee

The Armenian National Committee of America joined with Stepanyan and Beglaryan in over 60 meetings and briefings with Congressional offices, coinciding with the introduction of two resolutions that would cut military aid to Azerbaijan’s genocidal regime, holding Azerbaijan accountable for its crimes.  

In the Senate, Senators Ed Markey (D-MA) and Bill Cassidy (R-LA) introduced a bipartisan resolution (S.Res.540) that would require the State Department to provide a detailed description of widely documented human rights abuses perpetrated by Azerbaijan, pursuant to Section 502B(c) of the Foreign Assistance Act, which could block all military aid to the genocidal Aliyev regime.  

U.S. Representative Mike Lawler (R-NY) was joined by Congressional Armenian Caucus Co-Chairs Frank Pallone (D-NJ) and Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) and House Foreign Affairs Committee member Gabe Amo (D-RI) in introducing the House counterpart (H.R.7288) of the Senate’s unanimously-adopted “Armenian Protection Act,” (S.3000), which would block US security aid to Azerbaijan for two years.

Stepanyan and Beglaryan offered eye-witness accounts of the brutal realities of Azerbaijan’s ten-month blockade of Artsakh, which culminated in the September 2023 genocidal attack that forcibly emptied Artsakh of its indigenous Armenian population. In addition to the passage of the latest legislation urging an end to U.S. support for Azerbaijan’s genocidal actions, the Artsakh people’s advocates urged:

— Sanctions on Azerbaijan, including the enforcement of Section 907 and the application of Magnitsky sanctions on Aliyev government officials for war crimes and ethnic cleansing committed during the 2020 Azerbaijan-Turkey attacks against Armenia and Artsakh and subsequent genocidal aggression.

— U.S. aid for Artsakh’s forcibly displaced Armenians, including housing and job placement assistance, until a secure mechanism can be put in place through international oversight and mediation with Artsakh authorities to guarantee the safe and dignified return of forcibly displaced Armenians to their Artsakh homes.

— Expanded U.S. and international efforts to help secure the immediate release of Artsakh leaders, POWS, and all the other captured persons illegally held by Azerbaijan since the 2020 Azerbaijan/Turkey attacks and the 2023 aggression.

— Preservation of Artsakh’s Armenian cultural and religious heritage already vandalized or under threat of destruction by Azerbaijan.

Stepanyan and Beglaryan stressed that without international efforts to address the Artsakh people’s right to safe return, dignified life in Artsakh, and justice for the crimes committed, it will be impossible to establish sustainable peace in the region. They also emphasized that the systemic anti-Armenian hatred fomented by the Azerbaijani Government must be eradicated to ensure an enduring settlement of the conflict and regional stability.

While in Washington, Beglaryan and Stepanyan participated in the International Religious Freedom Summit, co-chaired by Ambassador Sam Brownback, the U.S. Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom (2018-2021) and Katrina Lantos Swett, President of the Lantos Foundation for Human Rights.  

During a presentation made to a diverse group of faith-based organizations and US government officials, Stepanyan explained, “I speak before you today not just as the human rights defender (Ombudsman) of my people but as a witness and a survivor of genocide.” He stressed that the world is witnessing the systematic erasure of “the Christian and world heritage of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh), of its ancient churches and hallowed cemeteries, now standing silent under the shadow of occupation and desecration by the dictatorial Aliyev regime of Azerbaijan.” Stepanyan urged faith leaders and government officials to rally together and serve as “the shield that protects the vulnerable, the voice that speaks for the silenced and the light that pierces the darkness of cultural erasure. Only then can we ensure that the soul of Artsakh, its ancient and sacred Christian heritage, is not lost forever.”

“Artsakh’s rights were center stage these past two weeks in Washington, DC, as two of the Republic’s most eloquent voices – Artak Beglaryan and Gegham Stepanyan – made the case to U.S. legislators and international religious freedom leaders for the safe return of indigenous Armenians to their ancient homeland,” said ANCA Executive Director Aram Hamparian. “Over the course of dozens of Congressional meetings, legislators heard first-hand about the Artsakh Genocide and explored the concrete U.S. steps needed to restore this integral part of the Armenian homeland.”

Beglaryan and Stepanyan’s visit was part of a 120,0000 Reasons coalition effort, supported by the Tufenkian Foundation and the Philos Project, and over 20 human rights, faith-based, and ethnic organizations, calling on the US Government to hold Azerbaijan accountable for its genocide against Artsakh’s Armenian population and to prevent further aggression against Armenia.

The Artsakh people’s representatives also participated in a fireside chat, organized by the George Washington University Armenian Law Students’ Association, where they shared the ongoing challenges facing Artsakh’s displaced and the need for concrete political and legal action. They also shared their powerful message of survival and issued an international call to action during a series of press interviews

In addition to educational efforts in the nation’s capital, the trip also included a robust series of meetings with international organizations and community leaders in New York.  While in Washington, they met with the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Agency for International Development.

Earlier, Stepanyan and Beglaryan participated in meetings with California state and local government officials, various university law programs, and community forums organized through the Armenian Bar Association, in conjunction with their annual meeting.

Deputy Prime Minister meets with Brazilian ambassador

Antranik Varosian

 15:08,

YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 12, ARMENPRESS. Deputy Prime Minister Tigran Khachatryan has held a meeting with the Ambassador of Brazil Fabio Vaz Pitaluga.

The Deputy PM attached importance to the continuous development of the Armenia-Brazil partnership and expressed hope that the cooperation will be further enhanced in tourism, high technology and other areas with potential, Khachatryan’s office said in a readout.

The Ambassador assured that he will make maximum efforts for the further strengthening of bilateral relations.

A broad range of issues of mutual interest was discussed during the meeting.

Armenia ready for EU-mediated talks with Azerbaijan – lawmaker

Antranik Varosian

 12:15, 9 February 2024

YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 9, ARMENPRESS. Armenia has reiterated its readiness to resume negotiations with Azerbaijan under EU mediation, Member of Parliament representing Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s Civil Contract Party Artur Hovhannisyan has said.

The MP, however, emphasized that there is no clarity at this moment on the resumption of talks.

“Naturally, the Republic of Armenia also favors the resumption of the talks in that format because the Armenian agenda’s priority is the establishment of peace in the region,” Hovhannisyan said. 

Azerbaijan has recently refused to participate in EU and US mediated talks with Armenia, despite having reached several agreements under EU mediation in the past. However, on February 8, President of the European Council Charles Michel said on X that he called Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev to congratulate him on his re-election and that he welcomes Azerbaijan’s commitment to take part in trilateral talks in Brussels.