Author: Arbi Tashjian

Turkey slams reports Disney+ will scrap ‘Ataturk’ series

Arbi Tashjian
Qatar – Aug 3 2023

The Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) called on Disney+ in June to cancel the show, which focused on the founder of the modern Turkish state.

Turkey’s governing party has criticised a reported decision by Walt Disney Co’s Disney+ not to broadcast a documentary series about modern Turkey’s founder Mustafa Kemal Ataturk on its streaming service.

Ebubekir Sahin, chairman of Turkey’s television watchdog RTUK, announced the probe on Tuesday night in a statement, describing Ataturk as “our most important social value”.

The Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) called on Disney+ in June to cancel the show, saying that it “glorifies a Turkish dictator and genocide killer”. Last month, Disney+ Turkey announced the Ataturk series would be on air “very soon”.

Several Turkish and Armenian news reports said Disney had decided to cancel the series, including the Armenian independent media outlet 301, saying the decision was influenced by the lobbying activities of ANCA.

In May 1915, Ottoman commanders began the mass deportation of Armenians from eastern Turkey. Armenia has claimed some 1.5 million ethnic Armenians died in massacres or of starvation and exhaustion in the desert.

Turkey has disputed the number, but acknowledges that killings did take place. However, Turkey has said that deaths occurred on all sides in the context of the conflict going on at the time, and refuses to recognise the deaths as a “genocide”.

Mustafa Kemal – later known as Ataturk – was a commander at the Gallipoli campaign of World War I in 1915, and later went on to establish the Republic of Turkey in 1923, after he ended the Ottoman Empire.

Armenians constituted a large minority in what is now modern-day Turkey for centuries, but only a small number remain, with the descendants of those who fled in 1915 living in other countries in the Middle East, and in the West.

Omer Celik, spokesman for Turkey’s governing Justice and Development Party, or AKP, called it a “shame” that Disney+ had “succumbed to the pressure of the Armenian lobby” in reportedly cancelling the series.

“This attitude of the platform in question is disrespectful to the values of the Republic of Turkey and our nation,” Celik said in a social media post.

“As we have stated on various occasions before, this so-called genocide network in the USA is using historical events as a tool for the politics of lies. The sole purpose of this lobby is to prevent the normalisation of Turkey-Armenia relations, as has been repeatedly seen.”

Walt Disney Turkey said on Wednesday that it had “revised content distribution strategy to reach wider audience” and decided to air a special version of the documentary on the FOX television channel in Turkey, and then it would be shown as two separate films in theatres.

The statement did not make it clear whether the Ataturk films will be broadcast on the Disney+ streaming service.

“As part of the centenary celebrations, we’re proud to announce that we will be bringing Ataturk to even more people from October through free-to-air FOX. Followed then by a theatrical window where people can experience both Film 1 and Film 2 on the big screen,” Saner Ayar, the producer, was quoted as saying in the Walt Disney Turkey statement.

https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/8/2/turkey-slams-reports-disney-will-scrap-ataturk-series 

Armenia asks ECHR to indicate interim measures against Azerbaijan over arrested Nagorno-Karabakh man

Arbi Tashjian

 17:16, 2 August 2023

YEREVAN, AUGUST 2, ARMENPRESS. Armenia has applied to the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) with a request to indicate interim measures against Azerbaijan to protect the rights of Rashid Beglaryan, the Office of the Representative of Armenia for International Legal Matters said in a statement on August 2.

Rashid Beglaryan, a resident of Nagorno-Karabakh, got lost and accidentally crossed into Azeri-controlled territory on Tuesday and was arrested by Azerbaijani authorities.

House of Lavash brings an Armenian staple to Belmont

Arbi Tashjian
July 26, 2023 Alexandra O'Neil Community News, Food, Diaspora 0

Lavash, Armenia’s national bread, is a kitchen staple for the Armenian community. For years, there was no local source for fresh lavash—until Arman Manoukian came along.

House of Lavash, located at 7 Cushing Ave, Belmont, Massachusetts, promises its patrons light and delicious bread. Since the store’s opening in 2022, owner Manoukian has sparked a newfound appreciation for fresh lavash that has strengthened the local Armenian community. His bakery pursues one mission: “to make sure our community has access to freshly baked lavash flatbread.”

House of Lavash’s homemade lavash, baked daily with a locally sourced recipe

House of Lavash offers homemade goods baked daily, and Manoukian sees the benefits firsthand. “The production equipment is brought from Armenia, and the recipe is locally developed,” Manoukian told the Weekly during a recent visit. Imported lavash is frozen with yeast and preservatives to prolong shelf life, so it falls apart. Manoukian’s lavash is elastic and long-lasting, with no artificial ingredients. It can be frozen for up to eight months and refrigerated for up to ten days. 

“We started with our own recipe, with no yeast and no preservatives, and it’s been a hit from the get-go. Everyone likes it. Some people say that even in Armenia there is no such lavash,” Manoukian said. 

In addition to lavash, the bakery offers gata, an Armenian sweetbread pastry, and a variety of products “grown in Armenia, dried in Armenia, shipped from Armenia directly.” From this selection, Manoukian featured dried apricot slices, chewy and perfectly sweet. 

Despite its reputation for delicious baked and imported goods, House of Lavash transcends the role of a bakery. “It’s a meeting place at this point. People come and talk,” Manoukian said. 

House of Lavash offers fresh bread, desserts, and imported goods from Armenia.

These community ties are further woven into the store’s operations. The bakery is family-run, which “makes it a pleasure to be in the store,” Manoukian said. “With love and care, when it goes into production, it shows in the product.” 

Surrounded by family and the local Armenian community, Manoukian has found significant support for his mission. He expressed, “It’s not only the family here, but the community that comes and talks to you about the importance of having fresh lavash.” 

At House of Lavash, non-Armenians also have a new way to experience Armenian culture. The store website features information on lavash’s preparation, origin and cultural importance. It details the legend of Armenian king Aram, who hid lavash in his shield to stay strong during an archery competition with his Assyrian counterpart, as well as highlighting lavash’s place on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2014. However, according to Manoukian, the real impact occurs in the store. “Initially, it took a while to introduce what lavash is. Now it has become their go-to bread. Those who have tried it are now regulars,” Manoukian said. 

House of Lavash is a gateway to meeting fellow Armenians or being introduced to Armenian food and culture. However, first and foremost, it’s a place where you can find “the two best things” – quality bread and desserts.

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Alexandra O’Neil is a rising junior at Boston College majoring in Communications with minors in Journalism, English and Theatre. She is an arts contributor for Boston College's newspaper The Heights, and she has written for ECHO Magazine, an online music publication based in Boston and Los Angeles. Her work focuses on performing arts coverage as well as film, music and literary reviews, and she is passionate about telling stories bringing attention to people making a difference in their communities.


Nagorno Karabakh authorities ought to do their part in managing crisis, says PM Pashinyan

Arbi Tashjian

 16:10,

YEREVAN, JULY 25, ARMENPRESS. Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan said on July 25 that the government of Nagorno Karabakh ought to do its part in managing the humanitarian crisis there. His comments came shortly after the Nagorno Karabakh President declared the entire Nagorno Karabakh to be a disaster zone amid the total blockade.

“I’d like to draw attention on an issue. Yes, we can say that Russia ought to do this, the US ought to do that, the EU ought to do this, and Armenia ought to do that, and Azerbaijan ought to do this. But we must also outline what the Nagorno Karabakh authorities ought to do. You can declare a disaster zone, but don’t the authorities of Nagorno Karabakh have something to do in managing the crisis? I think, in any case, by virtue of being the authorities they do. I think they ought to do their part, and we are ready to support them in the direction of doing that,” Pashinyan said at a press conference. 

Lachin Corridor, the only road connecting Nagorno Karabakh with Armenia and the rest of the world, has been blocked by Azerbaijan since late 2022. The Azerbaijani blockade constitutes a gross violation of the 2020 Nagorno Karabakh ceasefire agreement, which established that the 5km-wide Lachin Corridor shall be under the control of Russian peacekeepers. Furthermore, on February 22, 2023 the United Nations’ highest court – the International Court of Justice (ICJ) – ordered Azerbaijan to “take all steps at its disposal” to ensure unimpeded movement of persons, vehicles and cargo along the Lachin Corridor in both directions.  Azerbaijan has been ignoring the order ever since. Moreover, Azerbaijan then illegally installed a checkpoint on Lachin Corridor. The blockade has led to shortages of essential products such as food and medication. Azerbaijan has also cut off gas and power supply into Nagorno Karabakh, with officials warning that Baku seeks to commit ethnic cleansing against Armenians in Nagorno Karabakh. Hospitals have suspended normal operations and the Red Cross has been facilitating the medical evacuations of patients.

Asbarez: Homenetmen 46th Navasartian Games & Festival a Triumphant Success

Arbi Tashjian
by Contributor

 

 

 

in Featured Story, Latest, News, Top Stories

The Homenetmen Marching Band enters the field to kick off the Closing Ceremonies

After months of competing with athletic spirit, at midnight on July 9, the Homenetmen Western Region’s 46th Navasartian Games & Festival ended triumphantly under the chairmanship of Mr. and Mrs. Jack and Zarig Youredjians.

The impressive closing ceremony of the Navasartian Games was held over the weekend, bringing together community members to Birmingham Community Charter High School where the attendees relived the glorious history of the Armenian people, enjoyed listening to the sounds of Armenian and ethnic music, and witnessed the achievements of our young people. They also watched the parade of Homenetmen scouts and athletes and the presentation of the championship cups with pride.

Mr. & Mrs. Jack and Zarig Youredjians served as chairs of the 46th Navasartian Games

The climax was the Victory Parade of the Navasartian Games & Festival, which took place on the evening of Saturday, July 8 at the stadium of Birmingham Community Charter High School and was attended by a large number of Homenetmen members, parents, supporters and representatives of various organizations.

Manuel Marselian, the 2023 Exemplary Homenetmen Member

Th medals to the athletes of Homenetmen Hrashq chapter were presented in the presence of Western Prelate Bishop Torkom Donoyan, honorary presidents, as well as exemplary members of Homenetmen and the Regional Committee. During the ceremony, The Prelate offered his blessing to the athletes of Homenetmen Hrashq and their parents, and highly appreciated the representatives and their commendable activities. Afterwards, he made a generous contribution of $10,000 on behalf of the Western Prelacy for the activities of Homenetmen Hrashq.

The Master of Ceremonies was Alik Marselian, who is one of the members of the Homenetmen Pasadena “Azadamard” Chapter and who hosted the program in Armenian and English.

Passing of the Torch: Last year’s honorary chairs, Ara and Aline Tchaghlassian were recognized

At 6 p.m., the representatives of Homenetmen USA Western Region led by Western Prelate Bishop Torkom Donoyan, Honorary Presidents of Homenetmen’s Navasartian 46th Games & Festival Mr. and Mrs. Jack and Zarig Youredjians, Exemplary Homenetmen Member Manuel Marselian, and Chairman of the Regional Committee Hagop Tufenkjian to the stadium and to their seats at the platform of honor.

Among the attendees of the closing ceremony were Armand Kilidjian, a member of the Homenetmen Central Committee, Honorary Presidents of Homenetmen’s Navasartian 45th Games & Festival Mr. and Mrs. Ara and Aline Tchaghlassians, and pastor of the Holy Martyrs’ Church Senior Rev. Razmig Khatchadourian. Among other attendees were former honorary presidents of Homenetmen, exemplary members, supporters, as well as sponsors, donors and parents.

Western Prelate Bishop Torkom Donoyan Homenetmen Region Executive chair Hagop Tufenkjian Homenetmen Central Executive Member Armand Killidjian

Homenetmen Regional Executive Leader Charlene Guzelians was given the signal by Regional Executive Chairman Hagop Tufenkjian to commence the ceremony, following which she invited the flag beares. Homenetmen’s Marching Band entered the stadium and exhilarated the audience with the sounds of joyful Armenian songs. The attendees got more excited when the group of flag bearers of the Homenetmen walked into the stadium with self-confidence, bringing with them the national flags of the United States, Armenia, Artsakh, California and Nevada, as well as the flags of Homenetmen and the Navasartian Games & Festival.

At the onset of the program, the attendees honored the memory of late Homenetmen members, especially veteran member, Chairman of the Committee for the Navasartian Victory Parade, Steve Artinian, whose sudden death last month shocked the entire Homenetmen family.

In his welcoming remarks, the chairman, Hagop Tufenkjian, delivered Regional Executive’s message.

“Throughout the 105 years of its existence, Homenetmen has served as the great citadel for presenting the national identity to Armenians in all four corners of the globe. Today, we have gathered to celebrate the Navasartian 46th Games and Festival. Homenetmen has been the eternal flame for Armenians of the diaspora and the homeland. Homenetmen plays a unique role not only in sports, but also in education, scouting activities, and cultural domains,” Tufenkjian.

Afterwards, exemplary member of Homenetmen’s Navasartian 46th Games & Festival, Manuel Marselian, was invited to the stage to receive the “Exemplary Member of the Homenetmen – 2023” plaque as a token of appreciation for his dedication to Homenetmen and his invaluable efforts. Hagop Tufenkjian highly appreciated the contributions of the “Exemplary Member,”stating the following: “ Manuel has been a meritorious member of Homenetmen and has contributed to the organization for decades. He has served this union and held several positions with his dedicated activities and conscientious deeds.”

Expressing his words of gratitude in two languages, Manuel Marselian said the following: “I would like to express special gratitude to my dear family, whose love and encouragement helped me work for this wonderful organization with more vigor throughout all these years. Finally, I would like to express my deep gratitude to the Homenetmen USA Western Region’s Regional Committee for granting me the title of Exemplary Member of the Homenetmen.”

With a long round of applause, Mr. and Mrs. Jack and Zarig Youredjians headed toward the stage where they were greeted by Honorary Presidents of Homenetmen’s Navasartian 45th Games & Festival Mr. and Mrs. Ara and Aline Thaghlassians, who officially assumed the honorary chairmanship of Homenetmen’s Navasartian 46th Games & Festival.

On behalf of the large family of Homenetmen, Hagop Tufenkjian congratulated the Youredjians and highly appreciated their love for the nation and their spirit of dedication, stressing the following: “Mr. and Mrs. Jack and Zarig Youredjians have left their permanent mark in the entire Armenian community with their generous contributions, assistance and humanitarian services. The main purpose of the Youredjians has been to support young Armenians and help improve their lives.”

Assuming his responsibility, Jack Youredjian, on behalf of himself and his wife, expressed gratitude to the Homenetmen Regional Committee and the large family of Homenetmen and conveyed his heartfelt message by recalling the days when he was a cub scout in Jerusalem: “Homenetmen has played a major role in our lives, guiding us on the right path and helping all those who have been in need of help. If you know me, you know that my greatest joy is to work with young people, students and scouts like you all.” Youredjian also congratulated all the parents who had come to encourage and support their children, and he applauded the exceptional activities that Homenetmen carries out on all continents of the globe.

Prelate Donoyan, offered his blessings, as well as highly appreciated and encouraged the blessed activities of Homenetmen for the sons of the Armenian nation and emphasized the following: “Indeed, to talk about Homenetmen means to talk about the youth of our nation. To talk about Homenetmen means to talk about our nation’s healthy, conscientious leaders of the future. To talk about Homenetmen means to talk about the safety network that it offers to the youngest representatives of our nation under its blessed roof. To talk about Homenetmen means to talk about Armenia’s integrity, starting from Artsakh and ending with Western Armenia and Cilicia.”

“Out of all the activities that the Homenetmen carries out at different levels, for me, as leader of the Western Prelacy and an Armenian clergyman, the major activity is the establishment of Hrashq for children in need of special care. Homenetmen grew stronger, became more integral and became a much more national and Christian organization thanks to the vision that children with special needs should be gathered and referred to as “Hrashq” (Miracle); Homenetmen makes a miracle for our people and the community, with the power of God. Long live Homenetmen, and the free, independent, united Armenia, Amen,” added the Prelate in closing.

Afterwards, on behalf of the Homenetmen Central Committee, Armand Killidjian conveyed his congratulatory message in which he praised the Regional Committee, the Chapters and the Regional Committees, which helped make sure the Navasartian 46th Games & Festival end successfully. He also expressed gratitude to the athletes and scouts who always maintained Homenetmen’s high standards during the Games and in the implementation of activities.

The impressive messages were followed by the long-anticipated parade, which served as the major axis of the ceremony. Next, the “miracles” of Homenetmen Hrashq entered the stadium to the sounds of Armenian music performed by Homenetmen’s Brass Band, followed by the Chapters, along with their scouts, sport and parent committees and departments. In the end, the scouts participating in the All-Homenetmen 12th Scouting Jamboree, which kicked off on Friday in in Byurakan, Armenia, entered the stadium. They walked proudly and with self-confidence, greeted the attendees with pleasure and took their seats at the stadium.

Information about every Chapter was presented on the state-of-the-art screens placed on the stage. This year also marked the 5th anniversary of Homenetmen Hrashq, the 30th anniversary of the Crescenta Valley Shant Chapter, the 40th anniversary of the San Diego Sevan Chapter, the 45th anniversary of the Glendale Ararat Chapter, the 50th anniversary of the Fresno Sassoon Chapter and the 55th anniversary of the Los Angeles Chapter.

The championship cups were presented on Sunday, July 9 on the specially designed victory stage, across from the main gymnasium, where the winning teams and athletes proudly received their cups and medals.

On Sunday, California State Senator Anthony Portantino visited the venue for the Festival and expressed his congratulatory remarks to the Homenetmen Regional Committee for successfully holding the Navasartian Games & Festival this year as well.

As in years past, Homenetmen’s Chapters hosted food booths, with all proceeds being allocated to chapters.

The Mistress of Ceremonies for the Navasartian festive entertainment program was Los Angeles Chapter Executive member, Taleen Apanian. The attendees enjoyed performances by popular artists of the community, including Tigran Asatryan, Sarina Cross, Greg Hosharian and his band, Andre, Vache Amaryan, Joseph Krikorian, Vartan Taimazian, Mer Hovo and Kristine Pepelyan. Armenian patriotic singer Koko Tutunjian entertained the attendees with a selection of songs, and the event concluded with a fireworks display that was as impressive as the musical performances.

Results of the General Arrangement of the Homenetmen 46th Navasartian Games & Festival:

PING-PONG
A. Homenetmen Ararat Chapter
B. Homenetmen Shant Chapter

TRACK AND FIELD
A. Homenetmen Kars Chapter
B. Homenetmen Los Angeles Chapter
C. Homenetmen Ararat Chapter

TENNIS
A. Homenetmen Ararat Chapter
B. Homenetmen Ani Chapter
C. Homenetmen Kars Chapter

SWIMMING
A. Homenetmen Ani Chapter
B. Homenetmen Masis Chapter
C. Homenetmen Sipan Chapter

VOLLEYBALL
A. Homenetmen Ararat Chapter
B. Homenetmen Masis Chapter
C. Homenetmen Azadamard Chapter

SOCCER
A. Homenetmen Masis Chapter
B. Homenetmen Ararat Chapter
C. Homenetmen Los Angeles Chapter

BASKETBALL
A. Homenetmen Ararat Chapter
B. Homenetmen Shant Chapter
C. Homenetmen Masis Chapter

Political solution must be found to guarantee rights, security of Nagorno Karabakh people – French Ambassador

Arbi Tashjian

 11:28,

YEREVAN, JULY 19, ARMENPRESS. French Ambassador to Armenia Anne Louyot has called for a political solution to end the violations of the 9 November 2020 trilateral statement and guarantee the rights and security of the residents of Nagorno Karabakh, while France will continue to do what’s possible to ensure progress, in coordination with the EU and the United States.

Ambassador Louyot, who is completing her diplomatic mission in Armenia in a few days, told ARMENPRESS in an interview that she will never forget Armenia, whose people impressed her with their resilience and ability to plan the future despite the difficult situation resulting from the 2020 war.

ARMENPRESS: Mrs. Ambassador, what do you consider to be your most significant work and achievement in Armenia during these two years in terms of strengthening and developing the Armenian-French relations?

Ambassador Louyot: As you know, France is fully committed to the peace process, and I have actively supported our special envoy to the South Caucasus, Brice Roquefeuil’s work, which he carried out at the instructions of President Macron and Minister of Foreign Affairs Catherine Colonna, who visited Armenia in April this year. There’s been significant progress in our bilateral relations in the past two years, thanks to the commitment of the two governments. I am especially glad that we opened the defense mission in the embassy, aimed at deepening defense cooperation. In the economy, the roadmap signed by ministers Mirzoyan and Lemoyne in December 2021 allowed the French side to assume additional commitments, especially through supporting exports and imports in Armenia, particularly in the sector of solar energy. The French Development Agency has allocated a major state policy loan in the size of € 100 million and opened a representation in Yerevan, under the roof of the embassy, which allows diversifying and intensifying its activities in the areas of irrigation, energy, agriculture and elsewhere.

Together with the EU, we supported the strengthening of the rule of law through cooperation with the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Ministry of Justice.

There is significant progress in our cooperation in culture and education as well. The French Institute of Armenia, officially launched in 2022, is already preparing a major cultural program and will open its doors for all audiences for French language courses in the beginning of the academic year.  The ambitious France-Armenia Heritage program, which the embassy is carrying out jointly with the National Heritage Institute and the Louvre Museum, has enabled to train Armenian heritage experts and launch museum studies and restoration projects with the Erebuni Museum and the Mets Anapat of Tatev (Great Hermitage of Tatev).  As a result of intensive contacts with the Armenian education ministry, we will launch an ambitious project in the beginning of the academic year aimed at strengthening the  French language education in Armenia. I welcome the involvement of new provinces in the de-centralized cooperation, particularly Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes with Syunik and Hauts-de-France with Vayots Dzor, in addition to the thirty active partnerships which have allowed to develop effective partnerships in vocational education, for example with CEPFA. After all, I have to mention the embassy’s support to Armenia’s civil society as well.

ARMENPRESS: What legacy are you leaving behind for the new ambassador, what are some of the unfinished initiatives that your successor must complete?

Ambassador Louyot: New ambassadors always continue their predecessor’s work, based on the instructions by their ministry, but they also bring their own ideas and energy.  I am sure that my successor Olivier Decottignies will continue the projects we started and will launch new ones.

In addition to cooperation areas that need to be strengthened, I would mention the economy, where we need additional efforts from both sides in order to involve many French enterprises who want to start activities in Armenia. Huge work has been done, particularly thanks to the EU-Armenia Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to improve Armenia’s business environment, which is commendable. I’ve maintained regular contact with French companies that are working here, whose example should encourage other enterprises to benefit from the opportunities that Armenia’s healthy economic environment has to offer. In this sense, targeted and sectoral promotion actions could be useful.

The French University of Armenia must also be strengthened, whose significant commitment jointly with the universities of Lyon and Toulouse gives the chance to provide high quality education to 2000 Armenian students. I hope that the project to relocate the university will be successful with support of the two governments. And finally, the EU programs aimed at Armenia’s development can serve to encourage the activities of French organizations in Armenia based on clear, jointly approved strategies. A stronger Armenia is a developed Armenia.

ARMENPRESS: Mrs. Ambassador, you have visited border regions, who have visited the families affected by the Azerbaijani shelling in Syunik, you’ve personally witnessed the consequences of Azerbaijan’s aggression. What is your assessment about Azerbaijan’s conduct, and what kind of a response should the international community give, and are you satisfied with the reaction thus far?

Ambassador Louyot:  I have indeed visited the villages affected by Azerbaijan’s attacks in September 2022, in Gegharkunik, Vayots Dzor and Syunik I was able to witness the sufferings of the peaceful population, whom I wanted to express my solidarity with.  France supports the consistent efforts of the EU and the United States in this direction. The EU civilian mission, launched on 23 January, 2023, is contributing to the peace process in border regions through monitoring works. The result of this monitoring contributes to the EU’s mediation efforts, but we must further strengthen efforts in order for the territorial sovereignty and human rights to be respected.

The close and permanent consultations between our two governments and President Macron and Prime Minister Pashinyan reflects our commitment and desire to expand the international community’s support for a fair and lasting peace. We are working in this direction.

 

ARMENPRESS: Azerbaijan has completely blocked the Lachin Corridor and the Armenians of Artsakh are facing a humanitarian crisis for a long time now. Although the OSCE Minsk Group Co-chairmanship is factually not functioning today, given the fact that France is a co-chair of this structure, what role could it have for resolving the issue? How do you personally envision the solution to the issue?

Ambassador Louyot: We’ve condemned the blockade of Lachin Corridor, which is seriously harming the population of Nagorno Karabakh, since December, and we have called for the implementation of the International Court of Justice ruling on restoring traffic along the corridor. We welcome the ICRC efforts aimed at mitigating the consequences of the humanitarian crisis resulting from the blockade, but a political solution must be found to end the violations of the 9 November 2020 statement and to guarantee the rights and security of the residents of Nagorno Karabakh. The global instability resulting from the aggression unleashed by Russia against Ukraine doesn’t ease the work, but we continue to be mobilized.  That’s why France, a permanent member of the UN Security Council, initiated UNSC sessions in September and December of 2022 on Armenia and Nagorno Karabakh. France, in coordination with the EU and US, will continue to do what’s possible to ensure progress in the negotiations process.

ARMENPRESS: Mrs. Ambassador, summing up your diplomatic mission in Armenia, what has impressed you the most in Armenia during your tenure?

Ambassador Louyot: Being assigned to Armenia has special importance for a French diplomat, due to the ancient ties uniting our two peoples, which, as Anatole France said, belong to the same family. The pantheonization of Missak and Melinee Manouchian, ethnic Armenians who were French by conviction, symbolizes the closeness of our two nations. I was especially impressed by the resilience of the Armenian people, ability to make future plans despite the difficult situation resulting from the 2020 war. I highly appreciate the unique hospitality of Armenians, their ties to their history and wonderful heritage, as well as openness for other cultures and faiths. The Armenian people can be a link even between countries which sometimes have contradicting interests. This is an important ability, which I hope it will remain committed to.

ARMENPRESS: And finally, Mrs. Ambassador, you are completing your diplomatic mission in Armenia sooner than planned, and France has already named a new ambassador. The embassy had explained that your early departure has to do with personal reasons, but since there are various rumors on this issue claiming that you have been recalled, please clarify the reason of your early departure and whether this has been exclusively your personal decision.

Ambassador Louyot: In the atmosphere of instability caused by the aggression unleashed by Russia in Ukraine, disinformation is one of the weapons which is widely used against democratic countries. France’s commitment in Armenia is probably causing discontent, which can explain the generated fake news about our activities, my persona, and representatives of French enterprises in Armenia. The rumors about me are simply defamation, which is criminally liable in conditions of the rule of law. Therefore I have filed a complaint, expecting that justice will be served and a verdict will be issued. I am sad that I have to leave Armenia due to personal and family reasons after very rich and full two years. I am leaving many friends here and I am departing with the best memories. Be sure, I will never forget your country.

Interview by Anna Grigoryan

Photos by Mkhitar Khachatryan




CSTO deployment depends on Armenia’s decision, says Russia

Arbi Tashjian

 14:50,

YEREVAN, JULY 20, ARMENPRESS. Russia has said that the deployment of a CSTO mission in Armenia would have a significant contribution in stabilizing the situation on the Armenian-Azerbaijani border.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said at a press briefing that the possible deployment of the CSTO mission depends on Armenia’s decision.

“The deployment of the organization’s mission in Armenia would have a significant contribution in stabilizing the situation on the Armenian-Azerbaijani border. The ball is in the Armenian side’s court,” Zakharova said.

She noted that Nagorno Karabakh is not in the CSTO area of responsibility.

Haigazian University conference on Transitions and Transformations in the Armenian Space: 1900-2020

Arbi Tashjian
 Guest Contributor Diaspora 0

“Transitions and Transformations in the Armenian Space: 1900-2020″ Conference, Haigazian University, Beirut, June 27-29, 2023

BEIRUT—The Armenian Diaspora Research Center (ADRC) at Haigazian University organized the second conference on “Transitions and Transformations in the Armenian Space: 1900-2020,” held from June 27-29, in collaboration with the Khatchadur Apovian State Pedagogical University in Armenia (SPUA).

In his opening remarks, ADRC director Dr. Antranik Dakessian welcomed the audience and noted that the conference “is a call to the researchers in the diverse fields of Armenian Studies to observe and discuss anew the last 120 years of the Armenians from the perspective of the proclamation of the republics of Armenia and Artsakh.” Dr. Dakessian called on the researchers to suggest roadmaps from the standpoint of the thirty years of Armenian statehood in order for the Armenians to follow a new path.

Due to the illegal Azeri blockade, Elina Mekhitarian from Artsakh could not join the conference in person. Nonetheless, she sent a short message to the conferees stating that the Azeri violation of basic human rights is intended to force the indigenous Artsakh Armenians to desert their homeland. “…the 1988 Artsakh self-determination struggle and the victory of the first Artsakh War brought back Armenian pride. However, we all lost the 2020 war,” stated Mekhitarian. “The Diaspora Armenians who were the victims of the Genocide more than anyone else live and understand the pain of the loss of land.” Mekhitarian called on Armenians to eradicate “complacency, indifference otherwise we will reach a stage of no return. The danger of losing Armenian statehood and of the annihilation of the Armenians forces us to act without any delay. Artsakh is the deterring factor; it is the first domino to fall. I call you, to salvage Artsakh.”

In the salutary message of the Rector of SPUA, Professor Serpuhi Kevorkian (read by Dr. Edgar Hivhannissian), the Rector noted that the topics raised not only academic interests but proposed practical resolutions to basic issues concerning the Armenian church, as well as to issues related to Armenian socio-political institutions, Armenian culture, identity, world perception, Armenian Genocide and Armenian statehood. The message went on to say that the study and assessment of these topics are both modern and important and expressed the hope that such a discussion will enable us to be better prepared for the coming transformations.

In his lecture entitled “The periods of Armenian transformations,” guest speaker Professor Khatchadur Stepanyan divided the Armenian transformation process into three different periods and presented the social, linguistic, cultural, and other aspects of these transformations.

In his closing comments, Haigazian University President Rev. Dr. Paul Haidostian asked, “Whose task is it to crystallize such a strategy in both our conditions – statelessness and having a state – a strategy that would contribute to Armenian safety and security, national, educational, military, linguistic, ethical, religious, economic, cyber, environmental and other fields?” Rev. Dr. Haidostian noted that “in the broad span of the Diaspora it is essential that these strategies involve a historic, scientific, political, diplomatic and cultural depth and go far beyond Yerevan and regulate Armenian existence.”

During the course of the conference, there were 17 presentations. These included Prof. Vatchagan Krikorian’s analysis of transformations of 20th century Armenian prose; Dr. Hagop Cholakian’s in-depth analysis of the transformations of the Western Armenian language; Prof. Claude Armen Mutafian narrated the transformation of the Carpathian Armenians since the 1900s; Prof. Vahram Shemmassian (via internet) discussed the transformations of the Musa Dagh Armenians, while Dr. Lusié Sahagian discussed those of the Hamshen Armenians; Dr. Garen Megerdchian and Dr. Ani Fishenkjian highlighted the transformation of the Iranian and Syrian Armenian communities, respectively; Rev. Dr. Haidostian focused on the transformation of the Armenian Evangelical Church; Dr. Hratch Chilingirian discussed the institutional secularization of the Armenian church; Dr. Raffi Cherchian examined transformations in Armenian church architecture; and Dr. Hovhannissian highlighted the transformation of the Catholicosate of Cilicia between the Genocide and the 1930s.

Additionally, Dr. Lilit Hovhannissian spoke about the transformation of the interpretations of the diplomatic history of the Armenian cause between 1878 and 1923 in Soviet and post-Soviet Armenian historiography; Vilen Mnatsakanian detailed the transformation of economic policy during state-planned and market-run economies; Dr. Khatchig Mouradian delved deeply into the transformation of genocide education from past to present and presented its future prospects; Dr. Hagop Tatevossian analyzed the socio-psychological transformation of patriotism and its expressions; Harout Sassounian discussed the transformations of Diaspora representations and the project of a Diaspora parliament; and Dikran Yegavian examined the transformations of the relations between the Republic of Armenia and the Diaspora.

During the second day of the conference, Professor Mutafian’s book Jérusalem et les Arméniens jusqu’à la conquête ottomane (1516) was launched. Dr. Dakessian highlighted the scholar’s legacy while Prof. Mutafian highlighted the main aspects of the Jerusalem Armenians until the Ottoman conquest in 1516.

Sessions were moderated by Drs. Vatchagan Krikorian and Armen Urneshlian, Mouradian, Dakessian, Hovhannissian, Stepanyan, and Yeghia Tashjian.

Each panelist was given 30 minutes to thoroughly examine their subject, analyze it and offer propositions. There were significant parallels in the conference between the Musa Dagh, Hamshen, Carpathian Armenian communities, as well as the Armenian communities of Iran and Syria. The papers on literature and language were of a panoramic nature; some papers had institutional perspectives, particularly those of the church.

“Transitions and Transformations in the Armenian Space: 1900-2020″ Conference, Haigazian University, Beirut, June 27-29, 2023

Others that dealt with patriotism, historical interpretation and architecture were of a conceptual nature. An important novelty was papers that focused on economy and psychology, which added further perspectives to the conference and made it more inclusive. The papers on the governance-representation and cooperation of the Armenia-Artsakh-Diaspora triad and their visionary forecasts were of great importance.

This was an unprecedented conference, where the purpose was to focus on the last 120 years of Armenian life, to analyze it, examine current problems and come up with recommendations for the future, always keeping in mind the fact of Armenian statehood.

Misunderstandings and misinterpretations surfaced between Diaspora and Armenia scholars, as well as the conflict between the young and old generations’ approaches, particularly about the running and governance of the Armenian space, the imperative to plan for the future and come up with resolutions. Nonetheless, the conference distinguished itself by its free, friendly, academic atmosphere, where diverse perceptions, approaches, generations and disciplines were exhibited. It was another step towards disseminating awareness and involving a broader audience.

This was the second conference of its kind; the previous conference was held in Yerevan at SPUA on June 29-30, 2022. This second conference made clearer the scope of research in the Armenian space and will become the springboard to the third conference, which will be more focus-oriented and should deal with procedural matters, issues of applicability and policy adoptions for a better Armenian future.




A new program for record-breaking Camp Haiastan Teen Session

Arbi Tashjian
 Camp Haiastan Community News, Diaspora, Youth 0

FRANKLIN, Mass.—The summer program and activities of AYF Camp Haiastan are reviewed and discussed at length during the off-season (September-May), and last year was no exception.

The Board of Directors decided to update the Teen Session schedule to introduce additional activities, ranging from challenging, educational and entertaining. Teen Session is limited to campers who are ages 15 and 16, along with 14-year-olds who are entering their sophomore year of high school.

With a record-breaking 123 teen campers this year, the new activities reached a large group of youth. Although many campers live in the heavily Armenian-populated states of New York, New Jersey and Massachusetts, 13 other states, including Texas and California, were also represented. Campers also traveled from England, Brussels and France.

The board welcomed AYF Camp Haiastan Program Coordinator Seran Tcholakian to prepare and implement the new teen program. Tcholakian brought her professional background as a longtime teacher at the Alex and Marie Manoogian School in Southfield, MI, and her many years of involvement with Camp Haiastan to her role. Tcholakian has been a camper, a staffer and a summer director, as well as the mother of campers and counselors.

“We wanted to select someone who understood the needs of the camp’s current campers and staff to ensure the continuation of a positive, developmentally appropriate and special experience,” Board of Directors chairperson Hratch Najarian stated. “Digin Seran was asked to develop a new program to address the needs of the different age groups.”

The age and education level of the teens allowed for a varied number of activities, both in and outside of camp.

On the second day of the two-week session, 150 campers and counselors boarded buses and headed to Watertown, Massachusetts, home to many Armenian churches and institutions. The Boston suburb has played a significant role in the American-Armenian community.

Teen Session campers touring the Armenian Museum of America in Watertown with guide and director of finance Berj Chekijian

The campers visited the Armenian Museum of America located in Watertown Square, where they were greeted by the staff, including executive director Jason Sohigian. They then traveled to the Hairenik building where they received a tour of the Archives by director George Aghjayan, learned about the newspapers the Armenian Weekly and Hairenik Weekly from their editors Pauline Getzoyan and Zaven Torikian, respectively, and concluded with the Armenian Relief Society, Eastern Region (ARS) executive director Vart Chiloyan. The ARS has been a benefactor and supporter of Camp Haiastan since the property was acquired in 1940.

The Armenian Preference Day cooking class option was elevated to a manti class. Michael and Susan Guzelian, longtime supporters and volunteers, demonstrated the fine art of making manti. The enthusiastic campers quickly learned how to prepare the labor-intensive Armenian delicacy. Later that evening, the manti was baked and served with yogurt and tomato sauce to the hungry campers.

Campers learning about the ARS of Eastern USA programs from executive director Vart Chiloyan

Thursday’s professional day brought the largest number of outside volunteers to camp during a single session. The teens took part in one-and-a-half hour seminars on a topic of their choice. The areas offered were marketing, cooking, jewelry design, basketball, football, soccer, engineering, politics and art.

“We were thrilled that we had 10 groups with 15 different professionals in the particular fields presenting at our Thursday afternoon seminar,” Tcholakian stated. “Our goal was to engage these 15- and 16-year-olds in the discussion of an area that interests them and perhaps they may want to pursue in the future,” she added.

This activity allowed the teenagers to meet specialists in various professions, but it also provided a unique opportunity for the presenters to participate in Camp Haiastan life. All were impressed and inspired by the concentration of so many young Armenians in one place. In a letter thanking the Board and Tcholakian for inviting her to participate in this Professional Day, Ani Babaian, who led the art class, wrote, “The overall atmosphere of Camp Haiastan spoke volumes about its efficient management, and the happy and enthusiastic campers reinforced this impression. Their engagement and enjoyment confirm that your efforts have had a positive impact. I am genuinely impressed by the teens in my workshop. They are talented, educated, well-behaved, and energetic.”

Teen Session campers have a conference call with Artsakh youth

Hye Jahm (Armenian Hour) classes focused entirely on one subject. The topic selected was Artsakh. In addition to its history, current affairs, and the social and political life of the region, all teen campers learned a traditional Artsakh dance. However, the highlight of the week was the video conference call between the AYF Camp Haiastan campers and the ARF youth of Artsakh.  It was a memorable event for youth from the Diaspora and the homeland. Later, the teens wrote letters to their counterparts.

Campers write letters to their Artsakh counterparts

“Overall, we are pleased with the introduction of new activities to the camp schedule while maintaining and improving the decades-old traditions of Camp Haiastan, such as the Peanut (now Starburst) Carnival, Vartevar, Detective Game, Back Breaker, Alphabet Games and many other games and programs that three generations have now experienced,” stated Najarian.

***

The Staff and Management extend their deep appreciation to those who participated in Professional Day 

Peter Alemian ● Ani Babaian ● Taline Badrikian ● Steve Elmasian ● Grace Eziglioglu ● Daron Hamparian ● Theresa Jelalian ● Katherine Kazarian ●  Anto Keshgegian ●  Talar Malkadjian ● Steve Mesrobian ●  Billy Manzo ● Garo Tashian ● Sasoun Tcholakian ● Mher Tcholakian ● Dave Tikoian ●  Berge Zobian

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Located in Franklin, Massachusetts, AYF Camp Haiastan, was founded in 1951 and is the oldest Armenian camp in the United States. The Camp prides itself on providing a healthy and safe experience to Armenian-American youth to help them foster their Armenian identity and establish lifelong friendships.