ASHIB LAUNCHES BISTRAYA POCHTA RUBLE TRANSFERS
/PanARMENIAN.Net/
15.12.2009 11:53 GMT+04:00
/PanARMENIAN.Net/ ASHIB (Ardshininvestbank) announced the launch of
Bistraya Pochta ruble transfers.
Bistraya Pochta money transfer system functions in CIS countries
through more that 5000 points of service. ASHIB has been cooperating
with Bistraya Pochta since 2006. Besides, the bank operates Contact,
MoneyGram, Migom, IntelExpress and RIA transfers.
RUSSIAN MP: TURKEY SHOULD ACT JOINTLY WITH RUSSIA, NOT U.S. IN KARABAKH ISSUE
Rasul Mehdiyev
Today.Az
cs/58180.html
14 December 2009 [12:51]
Day.Az interview with Sergei Markov, director of Russia-based
Institute of Political Studies, professor at Moscow State Institute
of International Relations and member of the Russian State Duma
(parliament).
Day.Az: How serious are the recent discussions between Turkish Prime
Minister Erdogan and U.S. President Obama about Armenia’s leaving
seven occupied Azerbaijani regions around the former Nagorno-Karabakh
Autonomous Region in exchange for Turkey’s ratifying the Turkey-Armenia
protocols and opening the borders?
Sergei Markov: This is not a subject of compromise between Armenia and
Turkey. I think that relations between these countries will improve.
There is another subject of the exchange involved- Armenia rejects
claims about the "genocide of 1915" and Turkey gives up economic
restrictions against the country.
I think, the situation is still closer to resolution which will
create a fundamentally new situation in the region. Both sides will
have quite substantial benefits from these steps. The fact that there
are forces both in Armenia and in Turkey that are trying to keep the
border closed clearly indicates that there is reason for a compromise,
but not victory of one party.
As to seven regions that were not part of the Nagorno-Karabakh
Autonomous Region during the Soviet Union, I think that they are
becoming basis for future compromise between Armenia and Azerbaijan.
When the Armenian armed forces return their control to Azerbaijan,
in response they will gain some form of recognition of autonomy for
Nagorno-Karabakh, as well as some form of recognition of Armenian
control over the Lachin corridor. Because, Armenia’s control over
Karabakh without control over this corridor is hard to exercise from
a practical standpoint.
What will happen in future? I think, the Turkish side will try to
get involved in a compromise between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Russia
believes that it would be better if Turkey acted according to its
proposals together with Russia but not with the United States.
Because America today is still a major destabilizing force in the
Caucasus region. It cannot exercise full control there, because
it still does not want to contribute to it. There would be peace
in the Caucasus if some force establishes full control over the
region. But Americans are not able to establish full control there
and are unwilling to spend their own resources for this purpose.
So, I think it would be better for the U.S. and the EU leave the region
leaving behind only some economic ties and valuable policies, kindly
treating all others and Russia and Turkey, as the main leaders of the
peace process, would alone resolve all conflicts in the Caucasus. I
think one should expect success only in this case.
To what extent Russia is interested in full resolution of the
Nagorno-Karabakh conflict? Or it does not matter for Russia at all?
Russia is interested in resolving the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
Because fewer conflicts around its borders, the more calm the situation
will be.
Russia also wants to secure formation of a common economic area that
would include besides the current Kazakhstan, Belarus and Ukraine (in
the near future) also Azerbaijan, Armenia, Georgia and Turkey. That
is why it needs peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan.
First, Russia does not want foreign players to solve your problem at
the expense of their interests. Secondly, Russia wants to ensure that
this process takes place very quietly and slowly. Because there is
likelihood not only to resolve the conflict, but also to unfreeze it
and to launch a new war. We know very well that the second is obtained
more easily than the first.
Do you believe that the current format of OSCE Minsk Group mediators is
the only truly format for the parties? Is the group is able to bring
something new into the talks between the Armenian and Azerbaijani
presidents?
First, the Minsk format is the only working format which impedes
start of a war. We all say that the conflict should be solved, but we
must never forget that the existence of a peace, while not perfect,
is more important than war.
Secondly, one can think of dozens of different diplomatic formats.
So, it is wrong to assume that the OSCE Minsk Group is the only
possible format. I believe South Caucasus, including the very three
states, plus three countries around the Caucasus – Russia, Turkey
and Iran, is the most optimal format to solve conflicts in the region.
Unfortunately, the U.S. influence has a destabilizing effect on
the region. Obama has not yet been able to completely abandon the
Bush-Cheney policy.
Russia must recognize independence of Nagorny Karabakh: Vladimir Zhirinovsky
2009-12-13 13:57:00
ArmInfo. "If Nagorny Karabakh declares independence, Russia will have
to recognize that republic," said Vladimir Zhirinovsky, Vice Speaker
of the Russian State Duma, Leader of the LDPR, during the
European-Asian Media Forum in Moscow on Friday.
"Russia should recognize the NKR, otherwise Azerbaijanis and Armenians
will never settle the dispute over Nagorny Karabakh. My stance is
neither pro-Armenian nor pro-Azerbaijani," Zhirinovksy said. Asked
about Russia’s role in normalization of the Armenian-Turkish
relations, Zhirinovsky said Moscow would not like Turkey to use the
Armenian-Turkish rapprochement to gain influence over the South
Caucasus. Turks have always had such plans. "Russia needs peace and
stability in the South Caucasus. If peace and stability are ensured,
let Armenia come closer to any country whether it is Turkey, Iran,
Georgia or Azerbaijan. However, in case of aggression, we will support
the victim-country and fully liquidate the aggressor," LDPR Leader
said.
December 11, 2009
Press Release
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:
PRELATE TO PRESIDE OVER DIVINE LITURGY AT
HOLY CROSS CATHEDRAL
On Sunday, December 13th, 2009, H.E. Archbishop Moushegh
Mardirossian, Prelate, will preside over Divine Liturgy and deliver the
sermon at Holy Cross Cathedral in Montebello.
Following Divine Liturgy, the Prelate will preside over the Sunday
School New Yeas and Christmas program at "Bagramian" Hall.
PRELATE TO PRESIDE OVER GRAND OPENING CEREMONY OF HOMENETMEN WR NEW
HEADQUARTERS
The grand opening ceremony of the newly constructed Homenetmen
Western U.S. Regional Office headquarters will take place on the afternoon
of Sunday, December 13th, 2009.
The Prelate will preside over the ceremony. He will be accompanied
by Rev. Fr. Vazken Atmajian. Executive Council member Mr. Nerses Melkonian
will also attend.
PRELATE MEETS WITH HOLY TRINITY CHURCH REPRESENTATIVES AND FRESNO COMMUNITY
MEMBERS
On Tuesday, December 8th, 2009, the Prelate departed for Fresno to
meet with the Pastor Rev. Fr. Vahan Gosdanian, Board, Delegates, and Ladies
Auxiliary of Holy Trinity Church, as well as representatives of community
organizations.
On the evening of Wednesday, December 9th, the Prelate attended a
dinner reception at the church hall, during which he conveyed his
commendations to the parish volunteers for their devoted service.
On Thursday afternoon, the Prelate attended the New Year and
Christmas luncheon organized by the Ladies Auxiliary where he conveyed his
well wishes and blessings.
PRELATE CONGRATULATES
COUNCILMAN-ELECT PAUL KREKORIAN
On Tuesday, December 8th, 2009, elections for the Los Angeles City
Council 2nd District took place, for which Assemblyman Paul Krekorian was a
candidate. The seat was left vacant by former Council member Wendy Greuel
after she assumed the office of City Controller earlier this year.
Paul Krekorian won the election by a margin of 13 points over his
opponent. The Prelate congratulated Councilman-elect Paul Krekorian on his
victory and wished him success in his new position.
"YEAR OF THE YOUTH" COMMEMORATED AT
FORTY MARTYRS CHURCH
On the afternoon of Sunday, December 6th, 2009, an event dedicated
to the "Year of the Youth" proclaimed by H.H. Catholicos Aram I took place
at Forty Martyrs Church in Orange County. The event took place under the
auspices of the Prelate and was organized by the parish Pastor, Board of
Trustees, and Ladies Auxiliary.
Archpriest Fr. Dr. Mesrob Tashjian lectured on the topic "The Role
of the Armenian Youth in our National, Religions, and Cultural Life". The
Prelacy "Lousavorich" Youth Choir led by Very Rev. Fr. Barthev Gulumian
participated in the artistic program.
A reception followed the lecture, during which remarks were
delivered by Executive Council Chairman Dr. Garo Agopian, parish Board of
Trustees Chairman Mr. Kevork Der Alexanian, Ladies Auxiliary Chair Mrs.
Marie Yaghmourian, and members of the youth choir.
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
December 9, 2009
Contact: Press Department
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (202) 393-3434
HOUSE-SENATE CONFEREES APPROVE AID LEVELS
$41 MILLION FOR ARMENIA AND $8 MILLION FOR KARABAKH
Washington, DC – Finalizing its work on six different appropriations
measures, the Conferees in the House and Senate approved a Consolidated
Appropriations Bill for 2010, which provides $41 million for Armenia and
$8 million for Nagorno Karabakh, reported the Armenian Assembly of
America (Assembly). The bill also maintained parity with respect to
Foreign Military Financing (FMF) to Armenia and Azerbaijan at $3 million
each. The Conferees did not delineate funding to either country
regarding International Military Education Training (IMET).
"The Assembly appreciates the continued support of its friends in the
House and Senate in helping secure a positive outcome," said Assembly
Executive Director Bryan Ardouny. "Given Turkey’s ongoing blockade of
Armenia, which is reinforced by Azerbaijan, U.S. assistance remains
critically important," added Ardouny.
The Conferees stated that they "expect the Department of State to
continue to emphasize the use of civil society in implementing programs
and activities in Armenia." The $41 million approved reflects a $7
million drop from the Fiscal Year (FY) 2009 level, but is $11 million
over the Administration’s request.
On assistance to Artsakh, the "conferees direct[ed] that up to
$8,000,000 be made available for programs and activities in
Nagorno-Karabakh." This matches the level of funding allocated by
Congress in FY 2009.
Earlier this year, in support of robust assistance to Armenia and
Nagorno Karabakh, Board of Trustees Member Van Krikorian testified
before the House Appropriations Subcommittee on State, Foreign
Operations, and Related Programs, outlining the Assembly’s priorities
with respect to funding and U.S. policy in the South Caucasus region.
See testimony here:
_Q1/Foreign_Ops_Testimo
ny_FY_2010_VAN.pdf
With the work of the Conferees completed, the full House is expected to
vote on the Consolidated Bill as early as this friday. Once voted on by
the House and Senate, the Bill will be sent to President Barack Obama
for his signature into law.
Established in 1972, the Armenian Assembly of America is the largest
Washington-based nationwide organization promoting public understanding
and awareness of Armenian issues. The Assembly is a 501(c)(3)
tax-exempt membership organization.
ST. SARGIS CHURCH RECONSTRUCTED AND SANCTIFIED IN JAVAHK
PanARMENIAN.Net
09.12.2009 20:46 GMT+04:00
/PanARMENIAN.Net/ St. Sargis Church was reconstructed and sanctified
in the village of Diliska, Georgia’s Javahk region, populated by
Armenians.
The initiative was financed by Samvel Nahatakyan.
As Armenian Foreign Ministry reported, today’s opening and
sanctification ceremony was attended by Armenian Ambassador to Georgia
Hrach Silvanyan, representatives of Armenian population and Armenian
organizations in Georgia.
Sanctification ceremony was held by the Primate of Georgian Eparchy
of Armenian Apostolic Church, Archbishop Vazgen Mirzakhanyan.
CHURCHILL, KARSH AND A CIGAR: THE STORY OF A FAMOUS PORTRAIT
By Chris Must
le/Churchill,+Karsh+and+a+cigar:+The+story+of+a+fa mous+portrait
Posted Dec 10, 2009
EMC Lifestyles – "Never in the field of human conflict was so much
owed by so many to so few."
With these words, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill immortalized
the badly outnumbered Royal Air Force fighter pilots who thwarted
the Luftwaffe’s best efforts and ended the threat of a Nazi invasion
of England.
Churchill, who placed number one in a recent list of the top 100
Britons of all time, inspired a nation to fight on against all odds
with speeches that are well remembered today.
Another of Churchill’s most memorable speeches took place in December
of 1941, when he spoke to Canada’s House of Commons a few days after
the United States entered the war.
The day of that speech, Dec. 30, was also the day Churchill met one
of the most famous residents of Ottawa: photographer Yousuf Karsh.
Churchill visited Canada seven times during his lifetime. His first
visit was during the winter of 1900-1901.
Then 26, he was already a veteran of four military campaigns,
author of five books, and a newly-elected member of Britain’s
House of Commons. Churchill was a descendent of the aristocratic
Spencer family. He was born in a room at Blenheim Palace, the son
of politician Lord Randolph Churchill and the former Jennie Jerome,
the daughter of an American millionaire.
The embodiment of the principle that much is expected from those to
whom much is given, Churchill held many high offices in the British
government in the early decades of the 20th century. He served as
First Lord of the Admiralty from 1911 to 1915 and was appointed to
that post again on the same day the Second World War broke out, Sept.
3, 1939. Shortly afterward, Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain
concluded that he did not have the confidence of the government,
and resigned.
In May 1940, Churchill was appointed Prime Minister, and led Britain
for the remainder of the war.
The opening months of the war were dark days indeed for the allies.
France surrendered in 1940 after a lighting strike by the German army,
leaving Britain to fight alone. Hitler planned to clear the skies of
the Royal Air Force, and then invade and conquer Britain. Only the
determined efforts of those "few" RAF fighter pilots stopped this
from happening.
By the time Churchill visited Canada in December of 1941, he had more
reason for optimism. Spurred on by the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor,
the United States had entered the war a few days earlier.
When Churchill spoke to Canadian MPs Dec. 30, he had this to say:
"When I warned (France) that Britain would fight on alone whatever
they did, their generals told their Prime Minister and their divided
Cabinet, in three weeks England would have her neck wrung like a
chicken. Some chicken!"
Waiting for the laughter to die down, Churchill added: "Some neck!"
Shortly afterwards, a historic meeting took place between the top
Briton of all time and the man who went on to become one of the
world’s most famous photographers. For Armenian-born Ottawa resident
Yousuf Karsh, it would be the highlight of a long and distinguished
career. What happened is best told in Karsh’s own words:
"After the electrifying speech I waited in the Speaker’s Chamber where,
the evening before, I had set up my lights and camera. The Prime
Minister, arm in arm with Churchill and followed by his entourage,
started to lead him into the room. I switched on my floodlights,
a surprised Churchill growled ‘What’s this, what’s this!’ No one
had the courage to explain. I timorously stepped forward and said
"Sir, I hope I will be fortunate enough to make a portrait worthy of
this historic occasion." He glanced at me and demanded ‘Why was I not
told?’ When his entourage began to laugh, this hardly helped matters
for me. Churchill lit a fresh cigar, puffed at it with a mischievous
air, and then magnanimously relented. ‘You may take one.’ But to
get the giant to walk grudgingly from his corner to where my lights
and camera were set up some little distance away was a feat! To this
day I consider it my greatest diplomatic triumph. Churchill’s cigar
was ever present. I held out an ashtray, but he would not dispose
of it. I went back to my camera to make sure that everything was all
right technically. I waited, he continued to chomp vigorously at his
cigar. I waited. Then I stepped toward him and without premeditation,
but ever so respectfully, I said ‘Forgive me, sir,’ and plucked
the cigar out of his mouth. By the time I got back to my camera,
he looked so belligerent he could have devoured me. It was at that
instant that I took the photograph. The silence was deafening.
Then Mr. Churchill, smiling benignly, said ‘You may take another one.’
He walked toward me, shook my hand, and said, ‘You can even make
a roaring lion stand still to be photographed.’ In my archives the
photograph of Churchill is filed under ‘The Roaring Lion’."
The resulting photograph is one of the most famous and frequently
re-printed pictures ever taken.
Karsh’s reputation derived from an ability to seemingly capture the
essence of his subject in the instant the portrait was taken. In his
book Karsh Portfolio in 1967, he wrote: "Within every man and woman
a secret is hidden, and as a photographer it is my task to reveal it
if I can."
PRESIDENT OF LATVIA VISITS ARMENIAN GENOCIDE MEMORIAL COMPLEX
ArmInfo
2009-12-10 12:31:00
ArmInfo. President of Latvia Valdis Zatlers laid flowers on the
Memorial for the Victims of Armenian Genocide "Tsitsernakaberd"
on Thursday.
Armenian Foreign Minister Edward Nalbandian, Yerevan Mayor Gagik
Beglaryan and Director of Armenian Genocide Museum-Institute Hayk
Demoyan accompanied the Latvian president. V. Zatlers also put notes
in the Book of Honorable Guests of the Genocide Museum and planted
a fir-tree in the Alley of Remembrance by tradition.
The Latvian president is expected to meet with Armenian President
Serzh Sargsyan, the students of the Yerevan State University and the
Yerevan Mayor.
MEDIA PUBLICATIONS OF NGOS’ FINANCIAL REPORTS TO PAVE WAY FOR BUREAUCRACY
PanARMENIAN.Net
08.12.2009 18:52 GMT+04:00
/PanARMENIAN.Net/ Armenia’s public sector has certain tasks to fulfill,
according to Hovhannes Hovhannisyan, Head of Public Council’s committee
dealing with civil society issues. Justice Ministry-proposed amendments
to RA law "On Public Organizations" may prevent NGOs from becoming
accomplished bodies, he told today a news conference.
At that, he noted that the clause envisaging media publications of
NGOs’ financial reports (1000 copies) may pave way for bureaucracy,
"resulting in the termination of many NGOs’ activities." In that
regard, Hovhannisyan stressed the role of providing state support to
public organizations.
INDICES OF NATURAL INCREASE AND MECHANICAL MIGRATIONS OF NKR POPULATION IN NOVEMBER, 2009
NKR Government Information and
Public Relations Department
December 08, 2009
According to the primary data, in November, 2009, 204 children were
born in the Republic against the 193 children in November, 2008, and 97
persons died against 114 in November, 2008. In the result the natural
increase exceeds the index of the same period in 2008 by 46 persons.
In the accounting period 117 marriages and 12 divorces were recorded
against 56 marriages and 7 divorces in November, 2008.
In November, 2009, the number of persons having arrived in the Republic
formed 99 against 74 persons of the same period, 2008.
The number of persons having left the Republic formed 26 against 52
persons of the same period in 2008.