Author: Karlen Baghdasarian

Central Bank of Armenia: exchange rates and prices of precious metals – 05-02-24

Karlen Baghdasarian

 17:03, 5 February 2024

YEREVAN, 5 FEBUARY, ARMENPRESS. The Central Bank of Armenia informs “Armenpress” that today, 5 February, USD exchange rate up by 0.03 drams to 404.03 drams. EUR exchange rate down by 5.46 drams to 434.29 drams. Russian Ruble exchange rate down by 0.03 drams to 4.43 drams. GBP exchange rate down by 6.91 drams to 508.84 drams.

The Central Bank has set the following prices for precious metals.

Gold price down by 150.01 drams to 26423.33 drams. Silver price up by 7.29 drams to 301.75 drams.

Armenian police chief meets Europol, CEPOL directors

Karlen Baghdasarian

 13:33, 2 February 2024

YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 2, ARMENPRESS. Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs, Police Chief Major General Aram Hovhannisyan has held meetings with Europol Executive Director Catherine De Bolle and CEPOL Executive Director Montserrat Marín López.

Hovhannisyan and De Bolle discussed the implementation of the provisions of the agreement signed between the Armenian police and Europol, as well as joining the SIENA system and other issues of mutual interest.

The police chief then discussed the internal affairs ministry academy’s needs with the CEPOL (European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Training) chief. Montserrat Marín López expressed readiness to assist in resolving the issues.

Hovhannisyan then met with the Deputy Police Chief of Cyprus and discussed the possibility of signing a cooperation agreement between the police academies.

At another meeting, the Armenian police chief and Moldova’s Ştefan cel Mare Academy executives decided to revise the current agreement to establish new directions of cooperation.

Gardman-Shirvan-Nakhichevan Pan-Armenian Union addresses Nakhichevan processes

Karlen Baghdasarian

 19:39,

YEREVAN, JANUARY 30, ARMENPRESS. The Pan-Armenian Union "Gardman-Shirvan-Nakhichevan"  has addressed the processes taking place in Nakhichevan.

"The Autonomous Republic of Nakhichevan with its status and geographical location has always been of great importance for the Azerbaijani ruling elite, therefore the issue of political-economic leadership and vice-vassalage of Nakhichevan is one of the main domestic political realities.

For 27 years, Nakhichevan has been governed by Vasif Talibov, who resigned from the position of the chairman of the Supreme Majlis of the Autonomous Republic of Nakhichevan in 2022.

For 27 years, Nakhichevan has been a closed zone not only for the foreign world but also for ordinary Azerbaijanis, serving as a unique laboratory for the formation of the best practices of dictatorship.

This time, Ilham Aliyev has decided to place Nakhichevan, as a feudal estate, under vertical management, under the strict control of security structures. However, this is not done openly, but according to the principle of vassal subordination, through the 'transparent' legality of share ownership by individuals closely related to the mentioned structures.

Such political and economic 'centralization' trends seem to correspond to the political aspirations of abolishing the status of Nakhichevan autonomy that are voiced through various channels in Azerbaijan.

The issue of granting Nakhichevan the status of an autonomous republic is organically connected with the Russian-Turkish Treaty of 1921 signed in Moscow and the Turkish-Transcaucasian Treaty signed in Kars and the political settlements achieved on their basis. Therefore, the dissolution of the status of Nakhichevan can be considered a unilateral violation of the above agreements.


"To give legitimacy to Azerbaijan’s aspirations on such a geopolitically important issue, the ruling administration is implementing both the process of creating an appropriate narrative-public demand and political-economic centralization. This involves the removal of the traditional Nakhichevan clan from the 'feeding trough'; that is, a multi-content policy of directly connecting and subordinating the beneficiaries of that feeding trough vertically to the political power center," reads the statement issued by the Union.



Haghartsin Monastery in Armenia becomes next target of Azerbaijani falsification

Karlen Baghdasarian
News.am, Armenia
Jan 29 2024
09:50, 29.01.2024
Region:Armenia, Azerbaijan

Artificial entity Azerbaijan continues its territorial claims to the Republic of Armenia at the state level, deepening its invasive policy day by day. “Ombudsman of Culture of Hayk,” Hovik Avanesov, noted this on Facebook. He added as follows:

After Tatev Monastery Complex, Echmiadzin Cathedral and Arichavank, Haghartsin Monastery Complex became the target of Azerbaijani falsification.

The Haghartsin monastic complex is located 18 km north of the city of Dilijan, Tavush region, in the village of Haghartsin.

The educational center of Haghartsin has been mentioned in the bibliography since the XIII century and in a short time it turned into a famous cultural center. The flourishing of the center is mainly connected with the fruitful activity of Khachatur Taronatsi.

The originality of the monastery complex is ensured by three churches built in different historical periods, two narthexes (one destroyed) and a refectory. The oldest of them is the church of St. Gregory (about X century), which is a cross-shaped-dome construction. A large vestibule with 4 columns adjoins to the west, which was built by Ivane Zakaryan at the end of the XIII century. The bas-reliefs on the angular single-pitched ceilings of the vestibule (images of people, rosettes, a bird, an angel, etc., as well as small inscriptions) are characteristic of the Armenian sculpture of the XIII century. The remains of tombstones are preserved near the southern wall of the vestibule. The vaulted chapel adjoins the Church from the north, and the domed church of St. Stephen, built of bluish basalt with exquisite details, rises in the eastern part of the church (1244)/ https://hushardzan.am/archives/11727/ /

The Azerbaijani state propaganda machine not only distorts the history of this famous monastery complex, but also presents the town of Dilijan and the village of Haghartsin as "historical Azerbaijani settlements".

All this once again proves that Azerbaijan has neither history nor culture, but appropriates the history and culture of the indigenous peoples of the region, which were created over thousands of years.

The fact that everything in Azerbaijan is fake and artificial is aptly noted in the work of Lieutenant General Denikin. "Everything in the Republic of Azerbaijan was artificial, "fake", starting with the name taken from one of the provinces of Persia. An artificial territory including the Lezghin Zakatala, the Armenian-Tatar provinces of Baku and Elizavetpol, and the Russian Mugan, united by Turkish policy as a stronghold of pan-Turkism in the Caucasus. Artificial statehood, since these lands, which lay on the path of the great migration of peoples and were influenced by the different cultures of successive conquerors, were always inhabited by scattered small tribes that feuded with each other while retaining features of nomadic life.

In the end, the Azerbaijani government was artificially supported. first at the will of Nuri Pasha, then General Thomson, and later simply by inertia" (source: General A. I. Denikin, "Sketches of the Russian Rebellion", Volume 4, Armed Forces of Southern Russia, Slovo Publishing House, Berlin, 1925, p. 164)"

Recently, Azerbaijani TikTok channels published videos in which the Haghartsin monastery complex is presented as Albanian ….

These and many other facts clearly demonstrate the features of Azerbaijan's anti-Armenian policy conducted at the state level.

https://news.am/eng/news/804401.html

Israel’s Cofix enters Armenia with Yerevan store

Karlen Baghdasarian

Jan 26 2024

The value-focused coffee chain and local franchisee Galaxy Group are seeking to open 10 further outlets across the west Asian country within the next 12 months

Israeli fixed-price coffee chain Cofix has entered Armenia with a store at the Yerevan Mall shopping centre. 
 

Cofix and its local master franchisee Galaxy Group are seeking to open a further 10 outlets in Armenia this year, with a 766sq ft flagship site set to open in the capital city Yerevan in February 2024. 


The coffee chain said it will offer a four-tier pricing system in Armenia, with its cheapest beverages costing AMD 600 ($1.49) and the most expensive AMD 1,500 ($3.71). 


“By aligning with strong local partners like Galaxy Group, we ensure that our global growth is grounded in local market understanding and operational excellence. We don't believe in a one-size-fits-all strategy. Our approach is to tailor our presence, ensuring that while Cofix’s core values remain constant, each outlet reflects the local character and preferences. Cofix Armenia exemplifies this approach, and we are excited to bring this unique experience to our guests in Yerevan,” said Shaun Lewis, Chief Operating Officer, Cofix Global. 


Founded in 2013, Cofix now operates more than 400 outlets across Israel, Russia, Kazakhstan, Belarus, Poland, Spain and Armenia.  


Yerevan-based Galaxy Group manages a portfolio of 15 businesses across Armenia, Georgia and Belarus. Its hospitality division includes French bakery chain Paul, premium café SantaFe and local bar-restaurant concept Pahest 33. 


President of Cyprus announces support for Armenia’s ‘Crossroads of Peace’ project

Karlen Baghdasarian

 19:59,

YEREVAN, JANUARY 25, ARMENPRESS. The Armenian National Assembly delegation in the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) is participating in the first part of the Annual Session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe taking place in Strasbourg on January 21-27, the National Assembly of Armenia said in a statement.

At the ordinary session, the member of the National Assembly delegation Sona Ghazaryan asked a question to the President of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides.

“Your Excellency,

It is an honour to welcome you to this Assembly.

Recently, the Government of Armenia came up with the Crossroads of Peace initiative, which is about unblocking the infrastructure, increasing the interconnectivity in the region. This project will greatly contribute to prosperity, lasting peace and cooperation among the nations of our regions and beyond.

Mr. President, what does Cyprus think of this project?

Thank you.”

“Now with regard to the Armenian proposal, well we, the Republic of Cyprus, in other words, support this particular effort” the President Nikos Christodoulides stated, adding that any effort that involves co-operation between countries, we support it. We feel that it is in the right direction: the crossroads of peace.




In negotiations with Azerbaijan, the content is fundamental for Armenia,says Armenian Foreign Minister

Karlen Baghdasarian

 17:58,

YEREVAN, JANUARY 23, ARMENPRESS. For Armenia, it is not a matter of principle whether the negotiations with Azerbaijan are conducted through direct contacts or mediators. However, the content of the negotiations and the principal points, which have been repeatedly emphasized and around which the negotiations should take place, are a matter of principle.

Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan emphasized this during a press conference while responding to a question from "Armenpress" regarding the preference for negotiations with mediators or direct contacts.

"For us, this issue is not fundamental. But the content of these negotiations and the principles around which these negotiations should take place are fundamental," said Mirzoyan.

According to the Foreign Minister, the meetings, including the negotiations on the text of the peace treaty, could be described as either mediated or direct, as desired.

“By and large, various partners assisted us in organizing meetings. In some cases, tripartite meetings were held or proposals were made for specific formulations. But at the same time, if desired, we can say that they were direct negotiations because the main part was agreed upon by both parties with each other,” said the Armenian Foreign Minister.

“Armenia is ready to continue negotiations,'' said Armenian Foreign Minister.

Asbarez: Friends of ANCA-WR Rally to Support Portantino’s Congressional Campaign

Karlen Baghdasarian
by Contributor

 

 

 

in Featured Story, Latest, News, Top Stories

Senator Anthony Portantino with representatives of the Friends of ANCA-WR and supporters at a fundraiser reception held in support of run for Congress


Friends of ANCA Western Region held a fundraiser reception on January 21 in support of Senator Anthony Portantino’s bid to continue his journey of public service at the U.S. Congress. The event was hosted by Mr. & Mrs. Levon and Silva Kirakosian and attended by friends of ANCA-WR, ANCA-WR board members, and representatives of the Armenian American community in California. 

In February of 2023, ANCA-WR announced its endorsement of Senator Portantino’s campaign to succeed Rep. Adam Schiff of the 30th Congressional District of California, which is home to the largest Armenian-American population in the United States.

“The ANCA Western Region enthusiastically supports Senator Anthony Portantino’s campaign for Congress. We have full confidence that Senator Portantino will maintain and enhance his impressive record of supporting Armenia, Artsakh, and our broader community when he steps into his role in Washington DC,” said Nora Hovsepian Esq., Chair of the ANCA Western Region.

Senator Anthony Portantino addressing attendees at the fundraiser reception

Senator Portantino has been a formidable force in championing the causes of the Armenian community, demonstrating an unwavering commitment that resonates deeply with his constituents. During his visit to Artsakh as the first elected official from the United States since the end of the 44-day war, Senator Portantino observed the impact of Azerbaijan’s acts of aggression and also engaged with local leaders and heroes, solidifying his resolve to advocate for the recognition of Artsakh and to support the rights and dignity of its people.

Building on Senator Portantino’s record of achievements and recognition, Portantino has been honored twice with the “Legislator of the Year” award by the ANCA-WR at its Annual Awards Gala Banquets. The first recognition came in 2011, during his tenure as a State Assemblymember for California’s 44th Assembly District, and the second in 2017, a year after he was elected to his current role as State Senator for California’s 25th Senatorial District.

In 2018, Senator Portantino and other state and local leaders visited Armenia as part of an ANCA-WR-led delegation focused on deepening economic ties between California and Armenia. In his still-standing tenure as the Senate Appropriations Committee Chair, Senator Portantino secured a $10 million allocation for the Armenian American Museum in Governor Newsom’s budget, and during his time as Chair of the Senate Budget Subcommittee on Education (2018-2019), he successfully earmarked $500,000 for Armenian Genocide education in California’s State Budget.

Executive Chairman of the Armenian American Museum Berdj Karapetian addressing attendees at the event

In 2021, he led the charge with Senate Bill 457, co-introduced with Senator Scott Wilk, to halt California’s funding to the Turkish Government, a move aimed at protesting Turkey’s denial of the Armenian Genocide. This legislation led to California’s largest state-employee pension funds, CalPERS and CalSTRS, ceasing investments in Turkish government-backed securities. Furthermore, in April of 2023, Senator Portantino co-authored Senate Resolution 28, which seeks to annually reaffirm California’s recognition of the 1915 Armenian Genocide.

More recently, Senator Portantino and 21 other California legislators penned a letter to President Biden, addressing and condemning Azerbaijan’s blockade of Artsakh, and following Azerbaijan’s full-scale assault and ethnic cleansing of Artsakh in September of 2023, the Senator called upon the United States to “hold Azerbaijan accountable and immediately cut military aid.”

Senator Portantino with representatives of the Armenian American community

“On behalf of the friends of the ANCA Western Region, we were delighted to host this fundraiser for Senator Portantino’s Congressional campaign. Having worked closely with the Senator for numerous years, we are certain that he will continue to champion the Armenian cause and advocate for the interests of the Armenian American community once his bid for congress is successful,” said Levon Kirakosian, Esq., who hosted the fundraiser at his home in California. 

Senator Portantino’s leadership has also been instrumental in his founding of the Senate Select Committee on California, Armenia, and Artsakh Mutual Trade, Art, and Cultural Exchange. This committee, the first of its kind, aims to enhance business opportunities, cultural awareness, and education between California, Armenia, and Artsakh, promising a brighter future for mutual economic and cultural prosperity.

“We are in the home stretch of the campaign and I was very grateful to Silva and Levon Kirakosian for hosting my campaign along with friends of the ANCA WR. Winning campaigns are about collaboration and grassroots support. The ANCA is the largest Armenian American grassroots organization in the US and I’m honored to be the preferred candidate of ANCA Western Region. Ballots will shortly be available and we are charging toward a positive outcome.  I appreciate Western Regions’ strong, early and continued support,” said Senator Anthony Portantino at the fundraiser hosted at the home of Mr. & Mrs. Levon and Silva Kirakosian.  

The Armenian National Committee of America – Western Region is the largest and most influential Armenian American grassroots advocacy organization in the Western United States. Working in coordination with a network of offices, chapters, and supporters throughout the Western United States and affiliated organizations around the country, ANCA WR advances the concerns of the Armenian American community on a broad range of issues.

Aram Khachaturian 120th anniversary celebrated in China with competition, concerts

Karlen Baghdasarian

 11:33,

YEREVAN, JANUARY 17, ARMENPRESS. A number of events honoring the 120th anniversary of birth of prominent Armenian composer Aram Khachaturian were organized in China in 2023. 

For the first time, Beijing hosted the Khachaturian International Competition.

The 19th Khachaturian 120th Anniversary International Violin Competition was organized by the Aram Khachaturian Cultural Foundation, China National Opera and China’s state organizations. The competition was supported by the Armenian Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sport.

The Armenian State Symphony Orchestra was invited by the Chinese side to play with participants in the final round, and perform at a gala concert. The orchestra, conducted by Sergey Smbatyan, then delivered 3 concerts in late December 2023, one in Beijing’s national Opera House and two at the Xinjiang Culture Center.

Azerbaijan arrests French national on charges of espionage

Karlen Baghdasarian

 18:35, 9 January 2024

YEREVAN, JANUARY 9, ARMENPRESS. Azerbaijan authorities arrested a Frenchman on espionage charges in December, the Azerbaijani ambassador to France told Agence France-Presse (AFP) on Tuesday, January 9.

"Suspected of having committed acts of espionage, Martin Ryan, a French national, was arrested on December 4, 2023," said Azerbaijan's ambassador Leyla Abdullayeva. She said the Azerbaijani judicial authorities have ordered that Ryan be detained for four months.

"The French embassy in Azerbaijan was notified as soon as he was arrested," the ambassador added.

Martin Ryan's father, Richard, said that the family had spoken to him.

"We spoke to him four times, each time for two minutes. He says he's being treated well and is getting on well with his lawyer," Richard Ryan told AFP.

According to French Le Monde, diplomatic tensions between Paris and Baku escalated at the end of December, when Azerbaijan ordered two French diplomats to leave the country. France declared two Azerbaijani diplomats "persona non grata" as a reciprocal measure.