Author: Emil Lazarian

“I should like to see any power of the world destroy this race, this small tribe of unimportant people, whose wars have all been fought and lost, whose structures have crumbled, literature is unread, music is unheard, and prayers are no more answered. Go ahead, destroy Armenia . See if you can do it. Send them into the desert without bread or water. Burn their homes and churches. Then see if they will not laugh, sing and pray again. For when two of them meet anywhere in the world, see if they will not create a New Armenia.” - WS

Exploring the Charm of Armenia: A Hidden Gem in South Caucasus

Emil Lazarian
Gillett News
Nov 12 2023

Armenia, a captivating landlocked country nestled in the South Caucasus region of Eurasia, has caught the attention of adventurous souls in search of a new place to call home. Bursting with a rich tapestry of history, mesmerizing landscapes, and a vibrant cultural scene, Armenia provides a living experience like no other. Let’s delve into the key aspects that make Armenia a captivating destination worth considering.

The Affordability Advantage: One of Armenia’s standout features is its relatively low cost of living compared to many other countries. From housing and transportation to daily expenses, everything tends to be pocket-friendly, making it an appealing option for those looking to stretch their budget without compromising on quality.

A Life of Quality: Armenia takes pride in offering its residents a high quality of life, defined by a strong sense of community and a rich cultural heritage. This peaceful and secure environment makes it an ideal setting to raise a family. Moreover, the well-developed healthcare system ensures easy access to quality medical services.

Embracing Economic Opportunities: Although Armenia has encountered economic challenges in the past, it has been making remarkable progress in recent years. The country is witnessing a booming tech industry, with an upsurge of startups and IT companies. Furthermore, Armenia’s strategic location between Europe and Asia opens doors for trade and business opportunities.

Education, a Priority: Education lies at the heart of Armenian society, boasting a high literacy rate and a well-established educational system. The country is home to several esteemed universities and research institutions, creating a conducive environment for academic growth and exploration.

From Ancient Monasteries to Majestic Landscapes: Armenia’s awe-inspiring landscapes, including the famed Mount Ararat and the picturesque Lake Sevan, magnetize tourists from all corners of the globe. The country offers a myriad of outdoor activities, ranging from invigorating hikes to thrilling ski adventures, not to mention the opportunity to explore ancient monasteries and immerse oneself in history.

A: Armenian, which belongs to the Indo-European language family, serves as the official language of Armenia.

A: While the job market in Armenia can be competitive, opportunities do exist, particularly in the flourishing tech sector and the burgeoning tourism industry.

A: Armenia is widely regarded as a safe country with a low crime rate. Nonetheless, exercising caution and adhering to common safety practices is always advisable.

In a nutshell, Armenia embodies a compelling amalgamation of affordability, quality of life, economic potential, and natural splendor. While it may not suit everyone’s taste, it undeniably holds tremendous allure for those seeking a fresh and enriching living experience.

Armenia receives French armored vehicles instead of Ukraine

Emil Lazarian
Nov 12 2023
NEWSARMY
ByDylan Malyasov


Armenia has reportedly taken delivery of the first batch of Bastion armored vehicles from the French defense company Arquus, formerly known as Renault Trucks Defense.

The announcement was made by journalist and analyst Leonid Nersisyan on Sunday, accompanied by photos of the armored vehicles spotted in the Georgian port of Poti en route to Armenia.

It is worth noting that the Bastion armored vehicles received by Armenia are the same vehicles that Arquus pledged to deliver to Ukraine in 2022 from its stock of 24 units.

The transfer of these vehicles to Ukraine was initially reported by the French newspaper “La Tribune” on October 3, 2022, stating that the French manufacturer Arquus, a part of the Swedish group Volvo, would provide Ukraine with 20 Bastion armored vehicles.

It is noteworthy that negotiations regarding the delivery of these armored vehicles to Ukraine have been ongoing for some time, as reported by security and defense correspondent Elizabeth Gosselin-Malo in April 2023.

“Company officials say talks on this have been ongoing for some time but nothing finalized (24 in stock),” she stated on X, formerly known as Twitter.

The acquisition of the Bastion armored vehicles is seen as a significant step in bolstering Armenia’s defense capabilities amid regional security concerns.

https://defence-blog.com/armenia-receives-bastion-armored-vehicles-arquus/

Armenia: Yan Girls Reveal How They Were Selected for Junior Eurovision

Emil Lazarian
EuroVoix
Nov 12 2023

Speaking to Armenian media, Yan Girls have revealed how they were selected to represent Armenia at Junior Eurovision 2023.

Yan Girls have spoken to Tert.am regarding their journey to the Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2023 in Nice, France. The girls revealed that the idea for competing in the contest came when an open call for singers for the contest was made by AMPTV. Nane explained:

“Our mothers are friends and decided to introduce us, because singing and music unite us all. We saw that Channel One had released an announcement where we could apply for Junior Eurovision 2023. As a result, we created this group and participated in the pre-election phase,”

At the audition stage the group had to perform two songs they chose “Revolting Children” from Matilda and “Bang-Bang”. Nensi added:

“We were waiting for our turn and, I can say, we were all indescribably excited because the first performance was about to take place. We had no idea who the jury would be, but we saw some familiar faces. When we got on the stage, we felt the freedom and positive emotions, I think that was the important factor that we were able to give a good performance,”

The girls were surprised when they were chosen as they had been told that there was a second round of auditions. Kamilla explained:

“We were told that there is another pre-election round ahead, that we should be auditioned again, filmed and then make a final selection. We went with our mothers and were sitting in the room when they announced that we will represent Armenia this year”

Looking ahead to the contest in Nice, France, Nane told Tert that:

“We realise the responsibility placed on us. Maybe this is one of the most responsible stages of our career, when we have to represent Armenia in an international competition. We work hard, come to rehearsals, take part in shootings in order to present ourselves at the competition as well as possible, perform well and live up to the expectations of our compatriots”

Yan Girls is formed of Nane, Nensi, Kamilla, Syuzana and Aida. The group are styled on K-pop artists but with an Armenian flare. Aida is 9 years old, Syuzanna is 10 and Nane, Nensi and Kamila are 11.

The song was composed by tokionine, with lyrics by Vahram Petrosyan and Maléna. Maléna won the Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2021 in Paris, France for Armenia, while tokionine was behind her winning song “Qami Qami”.

Image Source: AMPTV | Source: Tert.am

https://eurovoix.com/2023/11/12/yan-girls-reveal-selected-for-junior-eurovision/

Exploring Business Opportunities in Armenia

Emil Lazarian
Gillett News
Nov 11 2023

Armenia, a hidden gem nestled in the South Caucasus region, is gaining recognition as a promising destination for entrepreneurial ventures. Its flourishing economy, business-friendly atmosphere, and highly skilled workforce make it an attractive choice for both local residents and international investors. Let’s delve into some sectors that hold immense potential for success:

1. Technology and IT Services: Boasting a vibrant startup ecosystem, Armenia has become a hotbed for technology and IT services. With a pool of well-educated professionals and a supportive government, launching a tech-based enterprise like software development, mobile app development, or IT consulting can prove highly lucrative.

2. Tourism and Hospitality: With its captivating history, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, Armenia is a paradise for tourists. Establishing a hotel, guesthouse, or travel agency can be a highly profitable venture in this sector. Furthermore, offering unique experiences such as guided tours, adventure activities, or culinary journeys can attract both domestic and international visitors.

3. Agribusiness: Blessed with fertile lands and a favorable climate, Armenia provides excellent conditions for agribusiness. Entrepreneurs can explore opportunities in organic farming, wine production, dairy farming, or other agricultural activities to tap into the increasing demand for high-quality, locally sourced products.

FAQ:

Q: What is a startup ecosystem?
A: A startup ecosystem refers to the interconnected network of resources, support organizations, and infrastructure that foster the growth of startups in a specific region or industry.

Q: What is agribusiness?
A: Agribusiness encompasses all activities related to agricultural production, processing, distribution, and marketing of agricultural products.

Q: Is it easy to start a business in Armenia?
A: Armenia has implemented various business-friendly reforms, simplifying the process of starting a business. The government offers support programs, tax incentives, and streamlined procedures to promote entrepreneurship.

Q: Are there funding opportunities for startups in Armenia?
A: Yes, Armenia provides a range of funding opportunities for startups, including venture capital funds, angel investors, and government grants. The country also hosts numerous startup competitions and accelerators that offer financial support and mentorship.

In conclusion, Armenia offers a conducive environment for budding entrepreneurs, with sectors like technology, tourism, and agribusiness offering exceptional prospects. With the right idea, resources, and determination, entrepreneurs can thrive in this dynamic and growing economy. So, why not consider Armenia as your next entrepreneurial destination?

"We expect cooperation with EU in security sphere" – Armenian Security Council Secretary

Emil Lazarian
Nov 10 2023
  • JAMnews
  • Yerevan

Armenia-EU cooperation

Yerevan has addressed the European Union with a proposal to deepen cooperation in various directions and expand cooperation even in the security sphere. The Secretary of the Armenian Security Council spoke about it during the conference “Armenia-Europe: Armenia’s Strategic Future” in Brussels. Armen Grigoryan did not give any other details. In response to the journalists’ qualifying questions, he only said that “Armenia is considering all instruments with the help of which it is possible to ensure the country’s security”.

Speaking at the conference, the Secretary of the Security Council touched upon not only Armenia’s cooperation with the EU and proximity to Europe, loyalty to the principles of democracy, but also the settlement of Armenian-Azerbaijani relations and readiness for peace.

The main theses of Armen Grigoryan’s speech.

  • “Americans extending a helping hand”: US-Armenia military cooperation
  • Turkish and Azerbaijani Armed Forces exercises near Armenia’s borders. Is a new escalation possible?
  • Meeting in “3+3” format. Opinion from Yerevan: “There are risks, no benefits”

The Secretary of the Security Council announced that Armenia has recently been engaged in an intensive dialog with the European Union and EU member states, including on security issues, which has never been the case before. As an example, he recalled the agreements on military cooperation with France.

“We assume that we will be able to strengthen security cooperation both with collective Europe and with individual countries. And when I talk about security cooperation, I don’t mean only the military sphere, but security in a broader context. Economic cooperation can also have a security component in its subtext,” he emphasized.

Grigoryan recalled Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s speech in the European Parliament, which he regarded as a demonstration of “willingness to move forward in terms of cooperation with the EU.”

The parties have not yet disclosed the details of the agreement on the supply of French military equipment to Armenia

Armen Grigoryan himself asked this question and answered it himself:

“There is definitely an idea of European integration in Armenia, but there is also an idea of becoming a non-aligned state, the spectrum is very large.

We are trying to understand what instruments can ensure Armenia’s security and development, as well as peace in the region.”

Grigoryan announced that democracy connects Armenia to Europe. Besides, it is the best tool for solving the country’s internal problems and ensuring internal stability.

“But the biggest question in our society is whether democracy can also ensure external security? In fact, Armenia’s democracy comes under attack, becomes a target. And in order to protect it, it is necessary for Armenia to receive serious support for diversification of its economy, support in the field of security, support for diversification of its resources,” he said.

Main points of the Armenian Prime Minister’s speech in the European Parliament

Touching upon the process of normalizing relations with Azerbaijan, Grigoryan said that Armenia is ready for peace. He emphasized that Yerevan is ready for negotiations in the Brussels format. He expressed hope that they will be able to be organized in the near future.

The next meeting in Brussels was scheduled for the end of October, but did not take place. EU Special Representative for the South Caucasus Toivo Klaar announced that it could not be carried out due to “lack of time.” But in Armenia they said, including the Prime Minister himself, that “the President of Azerbaijan has not confirmed his participation.”

“What do we expect from these negotiations? The border between Armenia and Azerbaijan must be clarified. 29.8 thousand square kilometers of the Republic of Armenia and 86.6 thousand square kilometers of the Republic of Azerbaijan must be publicly confirmed. Unblocking [regional communications] should occur on the basis of four principles: sovereignty, jurisdiction, reciprocity and equality of countries. All Armenian prisoners must be returned,” Armen Grigoryan emphasized.

With such an agenda, he said, Armenia is ready to come to negotiations in the Brussels format and sign a peace treaty with Azerbaijan.

https://jam-news.net/armenia-eu-cooperation-in-the-security-sector/

Exclusive: Nagorno-Karabakh exodus was genocide, says former ICC chief prosecutor Luis Moreno Ocampo

Emil Lazarian

 13:55, 9 November 2023

BRUSSELS, NOVEMBER 9, ARMENPRESS. The former chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) Luis Moreno Ocampo believes that countries are deliberately ignoring the risk of genocide to avoid the obligation to prevent it.

In an interview with Armenpress Brussels correspondent, Ocampo said that the forced displacement of Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh after the Azerbaijani attack constitutes genocide.

Mr. Ocampo, on August 7, you provided and then published your professional opinion to the President of the Republic of Artsakh, considering the blockade and complete siege of Artsakh as genocide. What process could have been started at that time to prevent the coming disaster?

Well, the report was important because we made a point in the public opinion. However, states are doing something fascinating, they are deliberately ignoring the risk of genocide to avoid the obligation to prevent genocide, that’s what we found. We found basically that states are trying to avoid the word genocide. Even because when the US Congress took the report and started activities, then US State Department, without mentioning genocide said they will protect Nagorno Karabakh internationally. But it was late too late. They said that and three days later Aliyev attacked.

How do you interpret what happened after September 19 in Nagorno Karabakh? It seems that when many say genocide, they only imagine a massacre. But in a few days, more than a hundred thousand people forcibly left their homeland, leaving behind everything.

That is a genocide as well, under Genocide Convention article 2B. There's a new report by Juan Mendes saying that the fact that 100,000 people left is showing the mental harm. The fact that they left everything. So that is another form genocide to be, not only killing. The killing was not massive, but there is a mental harm of all the community leaving their land.

 

What legal mechanisms are there for the rights of the people of Artsakh that can work and how realistic do you consider the restoration of the rights of these people according to international norms?

I think it's important now that France is pushing for that. That's an important state that is pushing the agenda and it's something we should fight for. We should fight for gaining respect of the right of the people, because the people, even if they are not there, they are still the owners of the land and the place, so their rights must be respected. And I think a different priority is to recover, to release the hostages. There are 53 people in jail in Azerbaijan. The problem is international law is not something like if someone steals your bike, you can go to the police and the courts. No, there's nothing like that. We have the International Court of Justice presumably for states, and there is the International Criminal Court for prosecuting individuals. The legal process for releasing these people is not clear, but we should develop the process politically. That is why this meeting is important. 

How do you assess the behavior of the international community, what could it have done that it did not do, and that inaction led to this result?

Well, that is a problem, a failure by design. Because the world has no global institutions. Basically, the only global independent institution is the International Criminal Court, that's it. That's not enough. Imagine a country with just one court, no government, no political system. So, Armenia should be involved in resolving the problem. And that's why meetings like this, discussions with political leaders about what they can do and articulating that with the European Union, with the ICC, that is what we need to do. Armenia is showing that it's not just Armenia at risk, but civilization is at risk, and that's why Armenians are not alone. But Armenia is crucial. Armenia has a very important community around the world, so it’s an incredible strength you have there, and we can use it.

There are some conflicts that get more attention than others, as if all children are not children, all women are not women. What is your explanation for this duality?

Well, the media’s span of attention is only 6 seconds. That’s normal. The Darfur genocide was top in the media, then came the Arab Spring, then Libya, then Syria, then Russia, Yezidis, then Rohingya. There's always a new conflict covering the failure of the previous conflict. And that's why this year we are on the topic of having five genocides in only 2023. Now is the time to fix it. The fact that the Armenian community and the Jewish community are so widespread could really help to transform this situation. I understand it is a very difficult moment for the Armenian community, that even attacks on Armenia are possible, but you must understand that you never win if you stop fighting. So, you have to keep on fighting, and you are not alone.

Lilit Gasparyan




Russia expresses readiness to host Armenian-Azeri foreign ministerial talks

Emil Lazarian

 15:10,

YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 10, ARMENPRESS. Russia has reiterated its readiness to host a foreign ministerial meeting between Armenia and Azerbaijan with its mediation.

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin confirmed readiness to host such a meeting but did not mention possible timeframes.

“We’ve numerously confirmed our readiness to provide the Moscow platform for further dialogue on the level of foreign ministers of Armenia and Azerbaijan, around issues of normalization of bilateral relations and signing of a peace treaty. Our readiness remains unchanged. Whenever we agree upon the timeframes of such an event, we will announce about it,” Galuzin told reporters.

Armenian PM attends opening ceremony of Paris Peace Forum

Emil Lazarian

 15:28,

YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 10, ARMENPRESS. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has attended the opening ceremony of the Paris Peace Forum 2023 at the Brongniart Palace in Paris.

President of the Paris Peace Forum Ángel Gurría welcomed the Armenian Prime Minister and the other participating world leaders.

French President Emmanuel Macron delivered welcoming remarks.

PM Pashinyan will be among the speakers of the Insights on Cooperation in a world of rivalry : Crafting Peace and Building a Safer World – The case of Caucasus panel discussion.

PM Pashinyan presents the “Crossroads of the World” project at the Paris Peace Forum

Emil Lazarian

 19:02,

YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 10, ARMENPRESS.  During the panel discussion at the "6th Paris Peace Conference", Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, presenting the "Crossroads of Peace" project, noted that it is aimed at connecting  the regional countries, including Azerbaijan, Armenia and Turkey, with railways, roads, cables, gas pipelines, power lines or to strengthen existing connections.

''The South Caucasus needs peace, that is, a situation where all countries in the region live with open borders, are connected by active economic, political, cultural ties, and have accumulated experience and traditions of resolving all issues using the tools of diplomacy and dialogue.

Without the resumption of transport communications, it will be very difficult to ensure such a situation, and given this fact, the Armenian government has presented the “Crossroads of the World” project.

The “Crossroads of the World” project will also be beneficial for Georgia and Iran, including bilaterally, as well as in terms of strengthening relations with Azerbaijan, Turkey and Armenia,’’ Pashinyan said, expressing hope that they would be able to implement the project as a guarantee of stable and long-term peace in the region,'' said Pashinyan.

According to PM Pashinyan, the implementation of the "Crossroads of Peace" project would be beneficial not only for the region, but also for international trade, communication and stability.

“And I hope for support not only from the countries of the region, but also from the international community, in general. Undoubtedly, we are facing a very important and historical crossroads. Let's make it a crossroads of peace", concluded Armenian Prime Minister.

Foreign Ministers of Armenia and Korea discuss efforts to establish stability and peace in the region

Emil Lazarian

 19:30,

YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 10, ARMENPRESS.  On November 10, Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan, who is in Paris on a working visit, had a meeting with Park Jin, the Foreign Minister of the Republic of Korea, the foreign ministry said in a statement.

''The interlocutors discussed agenda issues of Armenian-Korean cooperation. Thoughts were exchanged on issues related to the deepening of bilateral political dialogue, the prospects of mutually beneficial cooperation in the fields of trade, economy, science and education, innovations and high technologies.

In the context of the most effective realization of the existing potential in the above directions, the Foreign Ministers of Armenia and Korea reaffirmed their intentions to mutually open diplomatic missions in both countries. Issues of interaction with the Korea International Cooperation Agency were also addressed.

Collaboration between the two countries within international platforms was also on the agenda of the meeting.

Reflecting on the regional security issues, Minister Mirzoyan presented to his Korean counterpart the situation created as a result of the ethnic cleansing of Nagorno-Karabakh by Azerbaijan and the measures implemented to address the problems faced by more than 100,000 forcibly displaced Armenians.

In this context, the Minister of Foreign Affairs emphasized effective cooperation with international partners and institutions. 

The interlocuters touched upon the efforts aimed at establishing stability and peace in the region,'' reads the statement.