On the occasion of the birthday of the politician, former Prime Minister Andranik Margaryan, third President of Armenia Serzh Sargsyan visited Komitas Park Pantheon to pay tribute to the famous politician. He was joined by former defense minister Vigen Sargsyan, Speaker of Parliament Ara Babloyan and other politicians.
There was a funeral procedure on the spot and a boon was made. People bowed flowers to the tomb of the former Prime Minister Andranik Margaryan.
Karina Melikyan. The state debt of Armenia, demonstrating a monthly growth of 1.5% in the first quarter of 2018, declined only slightly (by 0.3%) in April, which "delayed" it at $ 6.9 bln. In the annual cut (in April 2018 by April 2017), the state debt of Armenia increased by 14.2%. According to preliminary data of the RA Ministry of Finance, provided by the ArmInfo National Statistical Service, foreign debt increased by 12.2% per annum – up to $ 5.5 billion (2.7 trillion drams), with an annual growth of domestic debt by 8.3% to $ 1.3 billion (644.5 billion AMD).
On a monthly basis, external debt, after rising 1.8% in the first quarter of 2018, declined in April, and domestic debt continued to grow, a total of 4.2% in January-April.
By way of comparison, in April 2017, by April 2016, the growth of the external debt by 8.9% and domestic debt by 50% increased the total state debt of Armenia by 14%. Only in January April 2017, external debt grew by 2.1%, domestic debt – by 9.1%, which increased the total national debt by 2.4%. In the structure of external debt 89.1% or $ 4.9 billion accounted for by the government, and the remaining 10.9% or $ 606.1 million – by the Central Bank. And the external debt of the government increased by 14% in April 2018 by April 2017, which is slightly lower than the growth rate of the external debt of the Central Bank by 15.9%, against the more modest growth rates in April 2017 by April 2016 – 8.3% and 6, respectively, 6%. Only in January-April 2018 the government's external debt increased by 0.8% and the same growth was recorded in the external debt of the Central Bank (against growth of 0.7% and 3.6% a year earlier, respectively). Moreover, the external debt of both the government and the Central Bank, after monthly growth in the I quarter of 2018, in April showed a decline – by 0.7% and 0.8%, respectively, while a year earlier in January-April both the government and the Central Bank monthly increased external debt.
In the structure of the domestic state debt, government bonds dominate, in April 2018 the share was 87.9% ($ 1.2 billion or 567 billion AMD), with an annual growth of absolute value of 9.1%. Then followed the Armenian Eurobonds – $ 151.3 million or 73.1 billion AMD, which accounted for 11.3%, with an annual increase in the absolute value of 24.7%. The rest is covered by guarantees – 0.8% ($ 9 million), with an annual unchanged. Only for January-April 2018 domestic debt on government bonds increased by 9.1%, and on eurobonds, on the contrary, fell by 2.5%. A year earlier, in April 2017, government bonds accounted for 89% of the internal state debt structure, with an annual increase in the absolute value of 57.1%, followed by Eurobonds – 10.2%, with an annual increase in absolute value of 42.4%, and the share guarantees was 0.8%, with an annual increase in the absolute value of 7.1 times.
To note, according to the World Bank's updated forecasts in May, the share of Armenia's state debt in GDP is expected to be at 58.6%, with a slight decrease to 58.3% in 2019. On the economic growth of Armenia, the World Bank has improved its forecast for 2018 from the previous 3.8% to the current 4.1%, and by 2019, the growth expectations have been kept at 4%.
To note, Armenia's state debt increased by 15.3% to $ 6.8 billion (3.3 trillion AMD) in 2017 due to the growth of external debt by 14.6% to $ 5.5 billion (2.7 trillion AMD) and the growth of domestic debt by 18.2% to $ 1.3 billion (619.5 billion AMD). By way of comparison, we note that for 2016, the growth of the external debt by 11.6% and domestic debt by 49% increased the total state debt of Armenia by 17%. The growing national debt and continuing migration in Armenia have already deepened the specific debt load per capita to $ 2.3 thousand by January 1, 2018, of which over $ 1.8 thousand comes from external debt, against $ 2 thousand and $ 1.6 thousand, respectively, by January 1, 2017. Taking into account the real scale of migration, the burden of public debt per capita would be much higher (according to statistical data as of January 1, 2018, the population of the RA was 2.973 million, against 2.986 million a year earlier and 3.274 million five years earlier). In 2017, the degree of coverage of external debt with gold and foreign exchange reserves decreased from 45.9% to 39.6% amid a significant increase in external debt, with a meager decline in reserves. The share of national debt in Armenia's GDP reached 58.8% by the end of 2017, against 56.6% in 2016.
Mariana Mkrtchyan. Armenian Foreign Minister Zohrab Mnatsakanyan congratulated everyone on the Day of Europe.
"The symbol of the day – peace and unity, best characterizes modern Europe." In fact, the lessons learned by Europe, which went through the test of two destructive wars, can become a guidebook for all mankind. If only with respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, on the basis of democracy and the rest of universal values, a stable and developing society is being built, a real citizen is being formed, since historical times Armenia has been a part of European civilization and has tried to make its modest contribution to its development. Today Armenia continues to expand relations with the EU and its Member States to strengthen its position in the European structures, in particular the Council of Europe, contributing to the work of the OSCE", the head of the Armenian Foreign Ministry said.
According to him, since last year's celebrations of the Days of Europe in Armenia, significant progress has been made in the relations between Yerevan and Brussels. He recalled that in November of last year an agreement on an expanded and comprehensive Armenia-EU partnership was signed, and already in April of this year the Armenian parliament ratified this document. "This is not just a legal document regulating Armenia-EU relations, but a reflection of the interaction based on a common system of values." Moreover, in February this year, a decision was signed to approve a document on Armenia-EU partnership priorities, which, together with the agreement, is the main guidebook I can say with confidence that the new agreement is a project of specific development, with its clear goals and road map, the successful implementation of which will have a profound impact Practical all spheres of public life", stated the Armenian minister.
At the same time, he stressed that the interest in the events in the framework of the Days of Europe is obvious both in Yerevan and in the regions of the country. Mnatsakanyan said that he would like these interests and approaches to spread to the whole range of Armenia-EU relations, the entire bilateral agenda and its successful implementation. According to him, the new government of Armenia is committed to continue close partnership with the EU, remaining true to the agenda, joint vector and commitment to regional stability, strengthening peace and stable development.
Targeted News Service Tuesday 9:20 AM EST Rep. Hoyer Issues Statement on Anniversary of Armenian Genocide WASHINGTON House Minority Whip Steny Hoyer, D-Maryland, issued the following statement on the 103rd anniversary of the Armenian genocide: "As we mark the 103rd anniversary of the beginning of the Armenian Genocide, we remember the 1.5 million people killed and the millions of other lives uprooted. America has a responsibility to be a moral leader in the world by promoting tolerance, human rights, and justice - just as we have a responsibility to partner with the international community to prevent and deter ethnic violence wherever it occurs. Today, the most fitting remembrance of the Armenian Genocide, the first genocide of the twentieth century, is to recommit ourselves to the work of stopping ethnic violence in the twenty-first century - in Myanmar, in Darfur, and elsewhere. "I join with the Armenian-American community, many members of which are descendants of the Genocide's survivors, in marking this somber anniversary. No one can deny history, nor can we shun the obligations that history bequeaths us: to remember, to educate, and to be agents of peace and refuge when confronted with the evils of hatred and injustice."
Three of them have started well in the competition, winning their respective fights: Benik Nikoghosyan (64kg) beat Slovakia representative, Vakhtang Harutyunyan (69kg) defeated the Bosnian boxer, and Rafael Hovhannisyan (75kg) won over his Turkish opponent.
Today Armenia will send to the ring Seyran Yeghikyan (49kg), Armen Aloyan (60kg), Gor Nersisyan (81kg) and Sargis Poghosyan (+91kg).
April 6, 2018 Western Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church of America H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate 6252 Honolulu Avenue La Crescenta, CA 91214 Tel: (818) 248-7737 Fax: (818) 248-7745 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.westernprelacy.org EPISCOPAL DIVINE LITURGY AT THE NORTH HOLLYWOOD PARISH - PRESENTATION OF "ST. VARTAN" & "KAYL VAHAN" SCOUTING MEDALS On Sunday, April 8, 2018, which is called New Sunday or Second Easter, H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, will celebrate Divine Liturgy and deliver the sermon at the Armenian Apostolic Church of North Hollywood (13050 Vanowen St.). The service begins at 2:00 p.m. During Divine Liturgy, the Prelate will present "St. Vartan" and "Kayl Vahan" medals to Homenetmen scouts who have successfully completed the religious curriculum. *** PRESENTATION OF KEVORK BEDIGIAN'S LATEST BOOK TO BE HELD AT THE PRELACY On Thursday, April 19, 2018, writer and educator Kevork Bedigian's latest book dedicated to Aleppo will be presented at the Western Prelacy "Dikran and Zarouhie Der Ghazarian" Hall. The event is being held under the auspices of H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, and is organized by the Western Prelacy Cultura-Education Committee in conjunction with Asbarez and the Karen Jeppe College Alumni Association Los Angeles chapter. The book will be presented by Mrs. Dzovinar Ghazarian-Melkonian. The program will feature cultural performances by ARS "Talin" Chapter Saturday School students. The event begins at 7:00 p.m. *** EASTER SERVICE AT ARARAT HOME On Wednesday, April 4, 2018, a special Easter service was held at Ararat Home in Mission Hills presided by H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, and with the participation of clergy members. The celebration began at the Nursing Facility with the singing of Easter hymns and the home blessing service. Prior to the service, the Prelate greeted and conveyed his blessings and well wishes to the administration, staff, and residents, praying for good health for all and the healing touch of our Lord Jesus Christ. Mr. Bedros Seferian, a resident, read a letter he had written addressed to the Prelate and clergy asking for their blessings and praying for God to protect and keep our Holy See, churches, and Ararat Home. Mr. Derik Ghoogasian, Ararat Home CFO, thanked the Prelate and clergy for their regular visits and continuous care and conveyed his Easter well wishes. Divine Liturgy followed at the Chapel. Archpriest Fr. Vicken Vassilian celebrated Divine Liturgy and delivered the sermon on the Resurrection of Christ and the resurrection of the Armenian nation following the Armenian Genocide. At the conclusion of the service, Mr. Michael Surmeian, Ararat Home Board Chairman, conveyed his gratitude and best wishes. The blessing of the home service at the Assisted Living Facility followed. Mrs. Rita Noravian, Assisted Living Facility administrator, greeted and thanked the clergy and conveyed her well wishes. A luncheon hosted by the Board and administration followed. *** EASTER CELEBRATION AT ST. MARY'S CHURCH IN GLENDALE On Sunday, April 1st, 2018, the Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ with its message of hope and renewal was joyfully celebrated in Prelacy Churches. H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, celebrated Easter Divine Liturgy and delivered the sermon at St. Mary's Church in Glendale. Parish Pastors Archpriest Fr. Vazken Atmajian and Rev. Fr. Ardak Demirjian assisted at the altar. Prior to delivering the sermon, the Prelate joyfully greeted the faithful and gave thanks to God for granting the opportunity to once again celebrate the glorious Resurrection of Christ with renewed faith and triumphant spirit and congratulate one another with chants of "Christ is risen from the dead." He wished for the spirit of the Resurrection to lead us all on our faith journey and for the Risen Christ to reside in our hearts and souls. "God arose, His enemies were scattered and those who hated Him fled." Jesus had many enemies and opponents throughout His earthly life who attempted to hinder His salvific mission, but through His Resurrection He triumphed over all who sought to extinguish His Light, said the Prelate. Citing from the day's Gospel reading from Mark 16:1-8, His Eminence emphasized that the fear and awe of the women who found Christ's empty tomb was alleviated and they were filled with hope, spiritual joy, and strengthened faith when they saw the risen Christ. Along with the disciples they spread the good news of His Resurrection to the world, and centuries later we exchange the same good news with one another with the same joy, hope, and triumphant spirit, he said. "The Resurrection is the victory of righteousness, truth, goodness, and light over death, sin, evil, and darkness. As faithful servants of Christ, we are invited to partake of His gift of renewal and new life, to overcome and triumph over selfishness, hatred, pride, and a sinful life and be clothed in the virtues of love, respect, and longsuffering," stressed the Prelate. He concluded by wishing for the triumphant spirit of the Resurrection and the 100th anniversary of the first Republic of Armenia to lead to renewed faith, renewed patriotism, and renewed drive in our collective service to our church, nation, and homeland. On Monday, April 2nd, Easter Memorial Day, requiem service was held at Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills "Hall of Liberty" and Forest Lawn Glendale "Church of the Recessional." Very Rev. Fr. Torkom Donoyan, Vicar General, delivered the day's message. The Prelate offered a prayer for the martyrs of the four-day Artsakh war as the day coincided with the 2nd anniversary of the war. Afterward, the Blessing of the Four Corners of the World (Antasdan) service was conducted in the courtyard. The service concluded with Cilicia and the Armenian national anthem. *** EASTER EVE CELEBRATION AT HOLY MARTYRS CHURCH IN ENCINO On Saturday, March 31, 2018, Easter Eve was celebrated in Prelacy Churches with Divine Liturgy and eve of the feast candle-lighting service. H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, celebrated Divine Liturgy and delivered the sermon at Holy Martyrs Church in Encino. Parish Pastor Archpriest Fr. Razmig Khatchadourian and deacons assisted at the altar. The Prelate began his sermon with the following words from the Easter introit, "Christ is risen from the dead. He conquered death by death and with His Resurrection He granted life to us. Glory be to Him forever." His Eminence reflected on the seven week period of Great Lent of introspection, self-examination, and self-correction, as well as on the profound messages of Holy Week, adding that our Lord Jesus Christ concluded His earthly ministry with great suffering, crucifixion, and ultimately death for the sins of mankind, and three days later with His victory over death, He granted mankind the triumphant and hopeful promise of salvation and eternal life. "Through His Resurrection, our Lord and Savior granted us the gift of life; but it was not just any life, but a new, bright, and triumphant life. Through His Resurrection, mankind was once again reconciled with God and became worthy of His mercy," stated the Prelate, and stressed that the Resurrection is the promise of eternal life but is also an invitation for renewal and a new life during our time here on this earth. His Eminence concluded by calling for renewal of faith, for the hope offered by Christ to strengthen all, and for Christ to reside in our hearts and His love to guide us. At the conclusion of Divine Liturgy, eve of the feast lighting of the candles service was held symbolizing the Light of Christ radiating throughout the world. Afterward, faithful received Holy Communion. *** GOOD FRIDAY COMMEMORATION AT HOLY CROSS CATHEDRAL IN MONTEBELLO On Friday, March 30, 2018, the burial of our Lord Jesus Christ was commemorated in Prelacy Churches. H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, presided over the service at Holy Cross Cathedral in Montebello and delivered his message. Very Rev. Fr. Muron Aznikian, Parish Dean, Rev. Fr. Ashod Kambourian, Parish Pastor, and deacons participated in the service. Speaking on the message of Christ's burial, the Prelate stated that as faithful Christians, Christ's tomb represents immortality, victory, the vanquishing of death, conquering of sin, and unfading light, for although our life-giving Christ died and was laid in a tomb, through His Resurrection He defeated evil and death, and granted us the promise of eternal life, of salvation and the hope of resurrection. The Prelate concluded by encouraging all to live an honest and upright life with good conscience and to bury all of our shortcomings, iniquities, vices, and sins to prepare our hearts for the victorious Resurrection of our Lord. ***
Armenian national team is holding a training camp with team captain Henrikh Mkhitaryan involved in the session. As the football federation reports, newcomer Petros Avetisyan who is expected to replace injured Aras Ozbilis is taking part in the training as well.
The football federation has released a footage of an intense outdoor session of the squad.
To note, Mkhitaryan arrived in Armenia for international break as the national team will play two friendly matches in Yerevan with Estonia on March 24 and Lithuania on March 27.
Una piccolissima isola di appena 7.000 metri quadri nei pressi di Venezia, ospita uno dei luoghi più affascinanti d’Italia: Il monastero di S. Lazzaro degli Armeni, sede di una delle più grandi collezioni di manoscritti del mondo.