Author: Yeghisabet Arthur

Zaman, Turkey
Aug 7 2004

ETYEN MAHCUPYAN

Which Armenian Issue?

During Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s tour of France, one of
the most anticipated meetings was the one with Socialist Party leader
Francois Hollande.

Because in previous statements, the party had emphasized that it
expected the Armenian issue to be taken up in the human rights
context. It seems that the prime minister’s visit did not change the
other side’s expectation. In other words, the French Socialist Party
wants Turkey to make a gesture concerning the events that happened in
1915, which perhaps will not even necessitate a debate on “genocide.”
That is to say, it wants Turkey to accept that these events took
place. On the other side, it is obvious that there is no such
condition in terms of the Copenhagen Criteria because these criteria
were determined collectively for all the countries concerned.
Therefore, handling specific historical, geographical or cultural
problems of countries in the “human rights” context, could turn into
a sort of psychological condition according to the disposition of the
person or institution dealing with the issue. This is extremely
natural because European Union (EU) membership is both a legal and
political issue; and the political aspect of the issue cannot be
independent of the perceptions, expectations and domestic policies of
the societies.

However, this situation causes historical events, like those in 1915,
to be protracted and become a natural part of today’s politics.
Hence, many different Armenian issues surface… Today, European Union
(EU) institutions, the Armenian diaspora, Armenia, the government of
the Turkish Republic as well as the state, and finally, the Armenian
congregation in Turkey, all have different perceptions of the
“Armenian issue,” and the political functions and meanings of these
approaches may differ from one other. Therefore, the critical point
is how to shape the required strategy that will make Turkey play an
active role both in the EU process and in its own geography. Here,
three important factors come to the fore: The first one is naturally
Turkey’s own objectives, its responsibility before its own eyes and
its position before its own society. The second point is what the
right attitude should be when looking forward in light of the
globalization process in the world. And the third is to what extent
honesty over historical facts would be adopted…

Such an analysis cannot arise independently of the mentality you
possess; however, if being active in the future world is desired,
then the probable mentality of the future needs to be shared. What
this implies is that a solution to the Armenian problem needs to be
sought with a democratic mentality. Above all, this approach implies
being open to talks, and basically, Turkey talking to itself. For
example, the fact that Turkish historians with different approaches,
still cannot come together on the same platform, is an attitude that
implies that they are dodging the truths. Turkey taking this
[positive] step will bring two advantages: On one side, “a moment to
take a breath,” that will ensure the elimination of accusations
reflected from “abroad” will be gained, and the depression caused by
the “illegitimate” attitude carried out so far will be eradicated. On
the other side, Turkey will be able to come closer to some of the
“different Armenian issues” hovering around, it will particularly be
able to bring to the agenda different aspects of this event thanks to
approaches that will include Armenians living in Turkey and various
coalitions.

The distinguishing aspect of the “genocide” concept kills the debate
and makes the quest of living together more difficult. However, it is
necessary to see that the logic of mutual conflict, that reaches the
point of rejecting historical events, will not benefit any of the
sides. The Turkish Republic overlooking this fact is a burden too
heavy to bear before the international community.

Aug 6, 2004

La Tribune
30 juillet 2004

EN ROUTE POUR L’AVENTURE

Un choix de bonnes bandes dessinées pour des voyages dans le temps et
dans l’espace. Aventures assurées.

“Les Mille et Une Nuits”, version noire

Nous sommes à Bagdad, en l’an 808, sous le règne du calife Haroun
al-Rashid. La très discrète corporation des chercheurs de trésor
représente à peu près tous les peuples et religions du Moyen-Orient.
On y trouve un juif, bourreau du calife, un voleur chiite, un médecin
arménien, etc. Le mystère auquel elle s’attaque est terrifiant :
certaines personnes perdent leur ombre. Il ne faut pas longtemps aux
chercheurs de trésor pour comprendre que le coupable est le prophète
voilé, dont personne n’a jamais vu le visage, et qui fut tué jadis
dans une grande bataille. Sauf qu’il n’est pas vraiment mort (sans
être réellement vivant, d’ailleurs), et qu’il veut désormais se
venger.

Dans cette histoire folle, on croise démons et génies, un fantôme et
l’ange de la mort. Ainsi d’ailleurs que la favorite du calife et son
bébé. On plonge surtout dans une atmosphère envoûtante, nourrie de
l’ensemble des contes, légendes et mythes des Mille et Une Nuits, en
version plutôt noire.

Ce récit délirant est servi par une virtuosité graphique
époustouflante. Le dessin faussement naïf de David B. évoque parfois
les BD les plus enfantines, tout en livrant des images à couper le
souffle avec un étonnant travail sur les ombres et les couleurs.
L’auteur n’hésite pas à rompre avec tous les codes de la BD pour
donner des planches à la mise en pages complètement éclatée où la
lecture se fait parfois circulaire et où l’on retrouve le style des
miniatures persanes.

“Les Chercheurs de trésor”. Tome 1, l’Ombre de Dieu et tome 2, la
Ville froide, par David B. Dargaud. 9,45 euros le volume.

La quête des origines, dans le New York du XIXe siècle

Situé en 1879, ce récit met en scène un jeune Anglais qui débarque
aux Amériques à la recherche de ses origines partiellement indiennes.
Dans un New York de la fin du XIXe siècle parfaitement reconstitué,
il se trouve rapidement mêlé aux trafics des gangs locaux et recruté
en parallèle par la police fédérale. De facture classique, ce premier
tome est prometteur de par la personnalité hors norme de son héros, à
cheval entre deux mondes et deux cultures. On attend la suite.

“Ethan Ringler, agent fédéral.” Tome 1, Tecumska, par Gilles Mezzomo
et Denis-Pierre Filippi. Dupuis, 9,50 euros.

Deux visions de l’Amérique latine

D’un côté, Medellin en Colombie, l’enfer de la drogue et des mafias.
Tel est la toile de fond de Cuervos, une série centrée sur les
enfants recrutés comme tueurs à gage par les trafiquants. Violent et
impossible à lcher.

De l’autre, le Nicaragua, pendant la dictature de Somoza. Le jeune
séminariste de bonne famille de Muchacho découvre les réalités
sociales et la répression dans un village perdu. Beau et émouvant.

“Cuervos.” Tome 1, le Contrat et tome 2, Sicaires de la sainte Coke,
par Richard Marazano et Michel Durand. Glénat, 12 euros le volume.

“Muchacho.” Tome 1, par Emmanuel Lepage. Dupuis, 12,94 euros.

Road-movie dans le Lot

Comment la rencontre d’un jeune auto-stoppeur conduit un paisible
bouquiniste à se retrouver aux prises avec des tueurs à la Tontons
flingueurs. Une aventure parfaitement loufoque dans la France
profonde…

“Blues 46.” Tome 1, la Chanson de septembre, par Laurent Moënard et
Eric Stalner. Dargaud, 13 euros.

MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS OF THE REPUBLIC OF ARMENIA
—————————————— —-

PRESS AND INFORMATION DEPARTMENT

375010 Telephone: +3741. 544041 ext 202

Fax: +3741. .562543

Email: [email protected]:

PRESS RELEASE

27 July 2004

Foreign Minister Oskanian Meets With Ambassador Janez Lenarcic of
Slovenia, Incoming Chairman of OSCE Permanent Council

On 26 July, Minister Oskanian received Ambassador Janez Lenarcic,
Slovenia’s Permanent Representative to the OSCE. Slovenia assumes the
chairmanship of the OSCE in 2005 and Lenarcic, as Incoming Chairman of
the OSCE Permanent Council was on a get-acquainted visit to Armenia
and the region.

In view of Slovenia’s imminent OSCE chairmanship next year, Ambassador
Lenarcic requested that Foreign Minister Oskanian share Armenia’s
views on cooperation with and within the OSCE. The Minister stressed
that the OSCE is an important organization for Armenia, both as a
supporter of democratization efforts, and in its support of media, of
the government’s anti-corruption strategy and in other civic
programs. The Minister spoke about the useful and effective role of
the OSCE Yerevan office in these programs.

The Foreign Minister also commented on the recent declaration by CIS
member countries on the need for OSCE reform, for greater transparency
and inclusivity, and pointed out that Armenia’s Permanent Mission in
Vienna repeatedly raises this issue with the OSCE leadership.

At the same time, both parties stressed that the OSCE, as the forum
within which the OSCE Minsk Group operates, is very important in its
role in conflict resolution and peace building. The parties exchanged
opinions on the various directions and areas of OSCE operations in
terms of their relevance to regions in transition, specifically the
South Caucasus.

Minister Oskanian also informed Ambassador Lenarcic on the latest
developments with the Nagorno Karabagh conflict settlement process as
well as Armenia-Turkey relations.

Ambassador Lenarcic was accompanied by Ambassador Vladimir Pryakhyn,
Head of the OSCE Yerevan Office, and Ambassador Andrej Kasprzyk,
Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairman for the Nagorno Karabagh
conflict.

PRESS RELEASE

July 23, 2004

American University of Armenia Corporation
300 Lakeside Drive, 4th Floor
Oakland, CA 94612
Telephone: (510) 987-9452
Fax: (510) 208-3576

Contact: Gohar Momjian
E-mail: [email protected]

State Department Supports AUA Initiatives

Oakland, CA – American University of Armenia (AUA) President, Dr. Haroutune
Armenian, announced that on July 19, 2004, the United States Ambassador to
Armenia, the Honorable John Ordway, provided a grant of $284,000 to AUA to
continue the final phases of the accreditation process, and $51,300 to plan
and develop a regional student recruitment program. The amount of funding
will be used over a two-year period.

AUA is seeking accreditation from the Western Association of Colleges and
Schools (WASC), one of the six regional accrediting associations covering
the United States. AUA began the process several years ago and reached an
historic milestone when it received Candidacy status in the fall of 2002.
This was the first time that WASC had ever considered a university outside
territorial United States. Candidacy status indicates that the institution
has achieved initial recognition and is progressing towards accreditation.
The final phases of the process will culminate in site visits in October
2005 and 2006. The grant provides resources in several critical areas
required for accreditation and which demonstrate institutional capacity.
Research and evaluation of academic programs and various studies on AUA
alumni will be expanded, in addition to updating information systems.

President Armenian noted that the University has been working with the U.S.
Embassy on a number of initiatives critical to Armenia’s and the region’s
development. He stated that, `collaboration and cooperation among Armenia’s
institutions remains the key to overall success and that the confidence the
Embassy and Ambassador have in the University speaks to the pivotal role AUA
has in transforming a country where everyone enjoys the benefits of
democratic institutions and free markets.’ Armenian also expressed his
appreciation to the Congress of the United States for its continued support
of University efforts. `The Armenian Caucus co-chairmen, Congressman
Knollenberg and Congressman Pallone are especially supportive and recognize
the link between education and economic progress. Senator Sarbanes, member
of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and Senator McConnell, Chairman
of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Foreign Operations,
particularly continue to encourage AUA to achieve new heights,’ Armenian
stated.

AUA Vice-President for Government Relations and Special Projects, Dr. Steve
Maradian, will take the lead in the international recruitment effort.
`Historically, the University enrolls 5-10 students from the region,’ stated
Maradian. `This program will allow for expansion of enrollment while
strengthening the academic programs. Most agree that the region is served
best when people work together, understand each other’s cultures and values,
and share common goals. Higher education is the ideal setting to accomplish
these activities.’ The program is part of a companion effort to increase
diversity in the classroom. The University is seeking student housing to
support this project with the goal of creating learning communities in which
students study, work, and live together.

`AUA has an important role in Armenia and the entire Middle East,’ Armenian
noted, `including regional stability and cooperation. Accreditation will
encourage students’ interest from the region and the Diaspora to come to
Armenia, earn a graduate degree, and form lifelong linkages to Armenians and
Armenia’s institutions. Nothing is more important for the University at
this stage of its development.’

——–

The American University of Armenia is registered as a non-profit educational
organization in both Armenia and the United States and is affiliated with
the Regents of the University of California. Receiving major support from
the AGBU, AUA offers instruction leading to the Masters Degree in eight
graduate programs. For more information about AUA, visit or

Picture: L to R: Kimberly Hargan, Public Affairs Officer, US Embassy; Dr.
Haroutune Armenian, AUA President; Ambassador John Ordway; Dr. Michael
Thompson, AUA Acting Vice-President; Dr. Steve Maradian, AUA Vice-President
for Government Relations and Special Projects.

GIBRAHAYER
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ARMENIANS AND CYPRIOTS “GREET” ERDOGAN IN PARIS

* Thousands participate in demonstration organised by Dashnaktsoutiun and
Ramkavar parties
* Cypriots demand withdrawal of Turkish troops from Cyprus
* Armenians demand Armenian Genocide recognition

PARIS (AYFFM1/Aztagdaily.com)–Thousands of demonstrators on Tuesday
converged on the spot where Prime Minister Erdogan was expected to
give hispress conference.

Ramkavar and Dashnaktsoutiun party representatives as well as
representatives of the Cypriot and Kurdish communities of France
addressed the demonstrators. Also participating was the Dashnak
representative of Holland. That country will assume the Presidency of
the European Union in the coming months.

ARF Dashnaktsoutiun’s Papazian stated that representative of Armenian
communities would be visiting the European leaders with whom Prime
MinisterErdogan met during his tour.

Papazian also reported that on Monday Erdogan had addressed a
gathering of 3,000 Turks in France in an attempt to reorganize the
Turkish community there.

Angered Erdogan blackmails Armenians, tying the Genocide issue with
border opening

According to the Turkish Sabah newspaper, while in France Erdogan also
addressed the Armenian Genocide issue and said: “This is an issue for
the historians. The Armenian Diaspora makes a mistake by keeping this
issue high in its agenda. It is not beneficial for Armenia. As long as
this propaganda keeps going there will be no perspective for the
Armenian-Turkish relations. If they put an end to this then Turkey may
be willing to open the border with Armenia.”.

US HOUSE ADOPTS SCHIFF AMENDMENT ON ARMENIAN GENOCIDE

“None of the funds made available in this Act may be used by the
Government of Turkey to engage in contravention of section 1913 of
title 18, United States Code, relating to lobbying with appropriated
moneys, with respect to HRes 193, Reaffirming support of the
Convention on the Prevention and Punishmentof the Crime of Genocide
and anticipating the 15th anniversary of the enactment of the Genocide
Convention Implementation Act of 1987 (the Proxmire Act) on November
4, 2003.”

— Amendment to Foreign Operations Bill prohibiting Turkey from
usingUS foreign aid to lobby against Genocide Resolution

— Rep. Knollenberg’s Leadership key to maintaining military aid
parity for Armenia and Azerbaijan

WASHINGTON, DC – In a powerful rebuke to the Turkish government’s
campaign of genocide denial, the House of Representatives this evening
adopted the Schiff Amendment, prohibiting the Turkish government from
using U.S. foreign assistance in its multi-million dollar campaign to
defeat legislation (H.Res.193) recognizing the Armenian Genocide,
reported the Armenian National Committeeof America (ANCA).

The amendment, introduced by Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA), was passed by a
voice vote and added to the fiscal year 2005 foreign aid bill
(H.R.4818). The foreign aid bill was later passed by a vote of 365 to
41.

In his remarks on the House floor introducing the measure, Rep. Schiff
told his colleagues that, “today I offer a simple amendment that will
honor the one and a half million Armenians who perished in the
Armenian Genocide of the 1915 and 1923. I consider this a sacred
obligation to ensure that the men, women, and children who perished in
the Armenian Genocide are not lost to history and that this Congress
not fund shameful efforts to deny that the Genocide occurred.”
Commenting after the vote, Rep. Schiff said, “We are another step
closer to silencing those who would deny the murder of 1.5 million
Armenians,” adding that, “This amendment stands true to the memory of
the victims.”

“The passage of this amendment is a major victory,” said Armenian
Caucus Co-Chairman Frank Pallone, Jr. “It clearly sends a message
that the United States House of Representatives will not tolerate
Turkey’s lobbying against the recognition of the Armenian Genocide.”

In his remarks during consideration of the measure, the New Jersey
legislator stressed that “it is time for this body to stop defending
and funding a government that continues to deny its own history, and
refuses to break with the pattern of intolerance established by past
Turkish governments which dealt with minority issues by committing
genocide against Armenians, massacring and driving Greeks from its
shores, restricting the rights of Christians to worship, and denying
the existence of its Kurdish citizens.”

“We want, first and foremost, to thank Congressman Schiff for his
tireless leadership in advancing this amendment, to recognize the
strong support of Armenian Caucus Co-Chairmen Frank Pallone and Joe
Knollenberg, and to note the pivotal role that Chairman Kolbe played
in helping this measure reach the House floor – where, as we all saw
this evening, it enjoyed overwhelming bi-partisan support,” said ANCA
Chairman Ken Hachikian.

The Genocide Resolution, H.Res.193, reaffirms U.S. support for the
Genocide Convention and cites the importance of remembering past
crimes against humanity, including the Armenian Genocide, Holocaust,
Cambodian and Rwandangenocides, in an effort to stop future
atrocities. It faces intense opposition fromthe Turkish government,
which has enlisted the backing of the White House in its efforts to
block this measure from being scheduled for a vote of the full House.

The Genocide Resolution was introduced, in the House, in April, 2003,
by Representatives George Radanovich (R-CA), Adam Schiff (D-CA), and
Congressional Armenian Caucus Co-Chairs Frank Pallone (D-NJ) and Joe
Knollenberg (R-MI). Its Senate companion measure was introduced, in
June, 2003, by Senators John Ensign (R-NV) and Jon Corzine (D-NJ).
H.Res.193 was adopted unanimously by the House Judiciary Committee
last May. Support for the measure has been widespread off of Capitol
Hill as well, with a diverse coalition of over 100 ethnic, religious,
civil and human rights organizations calling for its passage,
including American Values, National Organization of Women, Sons of
Italy, NAACP, Union of Orthodox Rabbis, and the National Council of La
Raza.

CYPRUS PRESIDENT ADDRESSES TURKISH ANTI-OCCUPATION EVENT

Nicosia, Jul 20 (CNA) – Cypriot President Tassos Papadopoulos said
tonight that although the non-solution of the Cyprus problem was not a
solution, the Greek Cypriot side could in no way choose a non-viable
solution, noting that if the non-solution festers the peril of
uncertainty, then a bad solution cultivates and guarantees the
certainty of a disaster.

Speaking at an event organised by the Cypriot government under the
title ”Cyprus 1974-2004, No to the occupation, Yes to reunification”
President Papadopoulos said the Greek Cypriot side does not apologise
for rejecting asolution plan proposed by UN Secretary General Kofi
Annan in the April 24 referendum, noting that ”our answer was right
and so was our position.”

He added that ”we want a solution urgently and we are sincerely
working for the reunification of our homeland and its people, for a
solution on the basis of a bizonal, bicommunal and functional
federation, which the Annan plan can offer with the appropriate
improvements to it.”

President Papadopoulos said that lifting the Turkish occupation of the
island’s northern third could be achieved through an agreed solution,
adding that such a solution could be found on the basis of the Annan
plan.

TWO EXPEDITIONS TO SEEK NOAH’S ARK

MOSCOW (ARMENPRESS) A Russian group began an expedition of Mount
Ararat last Saturday. The organizers hope to prove that an object
nestled amid the snow and ice is Noah’s Ark. The group will present
the Turkish authorities an icon of George the Triumphant, who is
thought to be the protector of Caucasian Mountains. The expedition
marks Andrey Polyakov’s second attempt at locating the ark.

A joint US-Turkish team of 10 explorers also plan to tackle the
mountain this summer in an attempt to uncover a mammoth structure of
some 45 feet high, 75 feet wide and about 450 feet long that was
partly exposed during last summer’s European heat wave.

Explorers have long searched for an ark on the high slopes of Mount
Ararat, where the biblical account of the Great Flood places it. In
1957, Turkish air force pilots spotted a boat-shaped formation in the
Agri province. The government did not pursue the sighting,
however. The entire area, includingMount Ararat, was placed off limits
to explorers, after the USSR accused them of serving as US spies.

PYUNIK GO THROUGH… just

FC Pyunik weathered a spirited fight-back from FK Pobeda before
booking a second-round meeting with FC Shakhtar Donetsk of Ukraine
courtesy of a 4-2 aggregate win.

The Armenian champions, 3-1 victors in the first leg, were given a
scare after 23 minutes when Dragan Dimitrovski gave the
F.Y.R. Macedonian visitors the lead. A 2-0 victory would have put
Pobeda through on away goals, however Galust Petrosyan finally calmed
Pyunik’s frayed nerves with an equaliser 13 minutes from time.

Pobeda’s Borce Manevski was sent off in the 89th minute as the tie
slipped away from his side.

INTRODUCING YOUR BUSINESS TO GIBRAHAYER

Gibrahayer has been receiving requests from Armenian businesses, to
promote their products and services through the pages of Gibrahayer
e-newsletter. I call upon Armenian Cypriot businesses to make
donations to Armenian organisations and Charities for the advertising
space provided by Gibrahayer and urge all of you support Armenian
businesses and our advertisers ! Simon Aynedjian Gibrahayer
e-newsletter –

PAPPAGALLO CLOTHING INDUSTRY LTD. Company Profile

Pappagallo Clothing Industry Ltd are pioneers in the clothing
manufacturing industry specialising in Sportswear, Active Outerwear
and Promotional Corporate identity clothing, using silk-screen,
embroidery and transfer technology.

Products include, Polo shirts, Sweat Shirts, Jogging Suits, T-Shirts,
Athletic Attire for Sports Teams, Bodysuits, Windproof Jackets,
Parkas, Babywear, Hunting wear, Caps & Workwear.

The Pappagallo team can also customise any design of your choice and
tailor your requirements to suit your individual needs, to include
colours, sizes, ratios and quantities of your choice.

Invitation We invite you to visit our website at
and place your orders for September 2004. Contact us by email on
[email protected] call us at 22 353860.

Donation Pappagallo Clothing Industry Ltd have decided to donate
Athletic T-shirts for the AYMA football team.

NEWS IN BRIEF
– Turkey’s showcase express train derailed yesterday (Thursday )in the
northwest, killing at least 36 people and injuring about 60, after
critics warned the old tracks along the Istanbul-Ankara line could not
handle the new high-speed cars.

– At least three Armenian chess players Vladimir Hakobian, Levon
Aronian and Karen Asrian will be eligible to compete for the World
Chess Cup which is expected to begin in 2005, in a newly designed
contest organized by the World Chess Federation.

– Armenia topped its Davis Cup Group at the Europe/Africa Zone Group
IV in Chisinau, by defeating Botswana, Malta and Mauritius.

– 900 high school graduates in Karabagh participated in Stepanakert
University’s entrance examination – the only one in the country – on
July 20.

– A five-year Italian child with leukaemia was saved after her genetic
makeup matched that of 22-year-old Armenian student, Vahe
Vardanian. The bone marrow transplant operation was performed on July
6 in Italy.

– 33 million drams in emergency assistance was allocated to the
province of Syunik, which was recently devastated by strong hailstorms
and winds that destroyed tens of homes.

– According to Sevan Observatory sources, Lake Sevan is currently
situated 1897.95 meters above the sea level. Last year, the level was
half a meter lower.

-Authorities of Mountainous Karabagh Republic said that after
consultations with the International Red Cross, they handed over a
19-year old Azeri soldier that had been detained when crossing a
cease-fire line last month.

– An Armenian magazine employee Pail Peloyan’s died after being
stabbed and beaten in Moscow.

g i b r a h a y c a l e n d a r

* THE TEKEYAN YOUTH MOVEMENT OF CYPRUS is organizing a unique
excursion to Armenia, 7-14 August. Participants will exclusively be
Armenian youth (ages13 to 35) from all over the world. The one-week
programme is specially organized to include an optimum amount of
sightseeing, led by expert guides. Trips to Shushi, Stepanakert,
Noravank, Gladzor, Lake Sevan, Dilidjan, Barz Lidj, Khor Virab,
St. Etchmiadzin, Zvartnots, Sartarabad, Garni, Keghart,
Dzidzernagapert are included in the meticulously prepared
programme. Lodging will be at the “Lousakert” Hotel, 20 kilometres
North of Yerevan, ideally situated in an orchard. The hotel rooms are
fully equipped with all the necessary facilities. The price of the
WHOLE PACKAGE, including FULL BOARD, all the excursions, transfers
from and to the airport, return air fare from Cyprus and visa to
Armenia is only 335 Cyprus pounds. Those interested should immediately
call 99747798 or 99929343, as availability is very limited.

* The Armenian Youth Federation is organising its 17th Annual Summer
Camp at the Camp Site of Morphou Prelature at Kalopanayiotis from 9-15
August 2004.A rich educational and fun programme including Martial
Arts, Swimming, Trekking, Treasure Hunt, and Kisherayin Arshav. To
receive more information or to register please contact the following:
Nareg Tavitian 99488926, Nora Sarian 99439956 or Simon Aynedjian
99437073.

* The Armenian Youth Federation organised a youth gathering at Aktea
Beach in Ayia Napa for the weekend of 17-18 July. Enclosed some images
from the weekend at the
link: Once you
enter the site, click on view as slideshow on the right.

* The Armenian Youth Federation is organising Beach Party on Saturday
31 July, 2004 from 7:00 p.m. at The Fig Tree Bay in Protaras
Beach. Skiing, snacks, drinks, music, dancing and midnight
swim. Special package: All-inclusive participation to the Beach Party,
accommodation and breakfast at Aktea Beach in Ayia Napa for only
17.00. Contact Jirayr Sarkissian 99445018, Hagop Ipdjian 99476305,
Bedo Mouradian 99319415 and Marie Louise Kouyoumdjian 99839768 for
more details.

* CHANGE OF VENUE Khanasor and Lisbon 5 Expeditions commemoration at
Troodos Picnic site of “Loumada ton Aeton” (last year’s site and the
site of 1981-1982 AYF Camps, one mile before the American Academy Camp
site. As always follow the tricolours) Sunday July 25, 2004, organised
by AYMA, Dashnaktsoutiun Cyprus Committee, The Armenian National
Committee of Cyprus, AYF, Larnaca and Limassol Armenian Clubs,
Hamazkayin and ARS (HOM) Cyprus Chapters. Hayer hishek nviragan ayn
ore, Houlis amsoun ksanhinkin gadaretsek mer done. Commemorative
Programme begins at 12:00 noon. Speaker of the Day, President of
A.Y.M.A, Adour Karaguelian.

* A Tour to Armenia is being organised by the Central Executive of
Hamazkayin from August 20-September 3, 2004 with the participation of
members and friends from Armenian diaspora communities. Trips to
Karabagh are also scheduled. To receive more info and to apply for the
trip please contact the Cyprus Hamazkayin Committee members
immediately.

* POSTPONED The Annual General Meeting of The Hamazkayin Cultural and
Educational Association “Oshakan” Cyprus Chapter has been postponed
for Tuesday September 14, 2004.

The Armenian Prelature announces that the next permit for the Armenian
Cemetery visitation at Ayios Dhometios on the Green line, is scheduled
for Sunday 25 July, 2004.

* Armenian Radio Hour on The Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation can be
heard via real audio on . Broadcast times 17:00-18:00
local Cyprus time (14:00-15:00 GMT) News bulletins at 17:15 local time
on Sundays, Tuesdays, Fridays. Armenian Cypriots can also tune in on
the following radio frequencies 91.1 FM (Mount Olympus – for Nicosia
listeners) 94.2 FM (Paralimni/Protaras/Agia Napa) 92.4 FM (Larnaca)
96.5 FM (Paphos).

Gibrahayer is an independent electronic environment, now in its fifth
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ASBAREZ ONLINE
TOP STORIES
07/21/2004
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1. Thousands Participate in ARF/ADL-Organized Demonstration
2. ARF-ADL Joint Press Conference
3. Turkish PM in Paris, Peppered With Probes on Genocide
4. Political Representatives Meet with Journalists on Karabagh Issue
5. Regional Stability Focus of Georgia FM Visit to Armenia
6. NEWS BRIEFS

1. Thousands Participate in ARF/ADL-Organized Demonstration

PARIS (AYFFM1/Aztagdaily.com)–Thousands of demonstrators on Tuesday converged
on the spot where Prime Minister Erdogan was expected to give his press
conference.
ARF and ADL representatives as well as representatives of the Cypriot and
Kurdish communities of France addressed the demonstrators. Also participating
was the ARF representative of Holland. That country will assume the Presidency
of the European Union in the coming months.
ARF’s Papazian stated that representative of Armenian communities would be
visiting the European leaders with whom Prime Minister Erdogan met during his
tour.
Papazian also reported that on Monday Erdogan had addressed a gathering of
3,000 Turks in France in an attempt to reorganize the Turkish community there.

2. ARF-ADL Joint Press Conference

At the very moment that French President Jacques Chirac and the Turkish Prime
Minister were meeting in France on Tuesday, the Armenian Revolutionary
Federation and the Armenian Democratic League (the Ramgavar party) held a
joint
press conference.
Also participating in the conference was Michel Tubiana, President of the
French League for Human Rights and Vice-President of FIDHthe International
Federation of Human Rights (La Fédération Internationale des Ligues des Droits
de l’Homme).
First to address reporters was Mourad Papazian, Representative of the Western
Europe ARF Central Committee. Referencing reports by FIDH and other human
rights organizations, he pointed out the dismal state of the human rights
situation in Turkey.
Papazian referred to Turkey’s policy of genocide denial and the conditions
set
forth by the 18 June 1987 decision of the European Parliament. He also
discussed the Copenhagen Criteria, saying that the reforms being carried
out in
Turkey are entirely insufficient and superficial, and the newly adopted laws
have simply remained dead letters.
The ARF representative concluded that Turkey is not ready for entry into the
European Union. He explained that the decision to open accession talks are
given only for those countries that have met the conditions set by Europe,
whereas Turkey ignores European courts, which every year issue numerous
condemnations of and verdicts against Turkey.
Varoujan Sirabian spoke on behalf of the ADL, presenting the numerous reasons
why Turkey is ineligible for entry into the European Union. He spoke of the
threats to human rights and democracy in Turkeyand the dangers of the Turkish
regime, in particular the Islamist ideology of Erdogan’s Justice and
Development Party (AKP) and his ideological orientation and statements.
Michel Tubiana spoke about the current situation in Turkey. He criticized
Turkey’s delays in implementing its recently adopted laws and considered its
continual denial of the Armenian Genocide unacceptable.

3. Turkish PM in Paris, Peppered With Probes on Genocide

PARIS (AYFFM1 )–Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, during his
official visit to France, held a press conference in Paris on Monday, July 19,
in the course of which he attempted to alleviate widespread concerns in French
public opinion regarding Turkey’s candidacy for accession to the European
Union.
Erdogan said there is no need for concern in France, because December 17,
2004
is not the date by which Turkey would be joining the European Union. Rather,
that is when a date would be set for starting negotiations, he stressed.
Erdogan was in France July 19-20, after having visited Germany and
Holland, in
an attempt to secure support.
Turkey has recently undertaken a massive public relations campaign in an
attempt to show that it is making significant progress toward meeting the
European Council’s Copenhagen Criteria for Turkey’s accession to the Union and
should therefore receive a date for beginning accession talks.
Five of the approximately 15 questions put to Erdogan during the press
conference were on Armenian topics, including the Armenian Genocide. In his
responses, Erdogan did not attempt to term the Genocide “alleged” or “so
called” or otherwise refute the fact of its occurrence.
He did say, however, that the Armenian Genocide is a matter of the past and
should be left up to historians. He stressed that it is necessary to focus on
the part of the glass that is full and to look toward the future.
Erdogan was asked about what assurance he could give that Turkey would adhere
to the decisions of the European Parliament if Turkey were to become a member
of it, when in fact it has not complied with the 18 June 1987 decision of the
Parliament, which set forth the recognition of the Armenian Genocide and the
resolution of the Cyprus and Kurdish problems as preconditions for Turkey’s
entry into the European Union.
Erdogan replied, “We respect and implement [only] those decisions that are
binding.”
An Azerbaijani television reporter asked the Prime Minister, “Previously you
used to say that to normalize relations with Armenia it is necessary to
resolve
the Karabagh question, but now you talk about the Genocide issue and final
recognition by Armenia of Turkey’s borders. Which is the more fundamental
issue?”
Erdogan replied that regarding both sets of issues all sides must work
hand-in-hand to reach just resolutions and live in a peaceful environment. He
added that in any event the populations of the Armenia-Turkey border area wish
to see the Armenia-Turkey border opened.
The reporter of the Turkish Zaman paper asked what Turkey would do if the
French Parliament passes a law criminalizing denial of the Genocide, and
whether that issue had been a subject of discussions with the French President
and Premier. Erdogan replied that no such discussions have taken placeand, in
any event, he does not wish to interfere in the internal affairs of another
country.
The Turkish Prime Minister also referred to France-Turkey relation, economic
matters, the Middle East crisis, and Iraq… always attempting to present
himself
as a peace-loving and democratic leader.

4. Political Representatives Meet with Journalists on Karabagh Issue

YEREVAN (Noyan Tapan)–Representatives of various political forces and several
journalists met in Yerevan on July 21 to discuss the official position along
with public perception about the Mountainous Karabagh conflict resolution
process.
Organized by the Armenian Press Club, the event attracted Armenian
Revolutionary Federation (ARF) and Republican party representatives, and
members of the Constitutional Rights Union.
The most outspoken critic of returning liberated territories under some sort
of mutual agreement was ARF’s Giro Manoyan who categorically ruled out the
option, saying those territories serve as a protective zone around the
Mountainous Karabagh Republic.
He instead proposed that the liberated territories be defined, and MKR
declare
sovereignty over the liberated territories. “We shouldn’t forget that blood
was
shed there,” he declared
Manoyan explained that if the status of liberated territories remains
unclear,
not only will speculation about its surrender to Azerbaijan persist, but its
population will also face constant threat.
“We should do our best to establish a situation, in which those living within
the liberated territories cannot be exiled,” he emphasized, saying
negotiations
need to become more active.

5. Regional Stability Focus of Georgia FM Visit to Armenia

YEREVAN (Noyan Tapan)–Georgia’s Foreign Minister Salome Zurabishvili, arrived
in Armenia on Wednesday to discuss bilateral cooperation and regional issues
with Armenia’s leadership.
Zurabishvili and Armenian counterpart Vartan Oskanian spoke about the
advantages of forging and strengthening existing partnerships with European
and
Euroatlantic structures, namely, the European Union and NATO. The two bodies
have recently shifted their focus to the stability of the South Caucuses, and
have stepped up activity there.
Addressing regional economic development, Oskanian targeted the
development of
road and transport corridors extending east-west, and north-south in order to
make the South Caucasus a lively trade route. In this context, the full
reopening of regional railroads–specifically the Kars-Gyumri-Tbilisi, and the
Abkhazian section of the Russia-Georgia-Armenia railroads–were emphasized.
Regional energy safety was reviewed, along with possible approaches to
resolving issues in Mountainous Karabagh, Ossetia, and Abkhazia.
Later in the day, Zurabishvili met with Armenian National Assembly Speaker
Artur Baghdassarian and Prime Minister Andranik Margarian who stressed that
healthy bilateral relations between their two countries is key to regional
stability.
Margarian, who co-chairs the Armenian-Georgian Inter-Governmental Commission
on Economic Cooperation with his Georgian counterpart Zurab Zhvania, is due to
visit Georgia for a regular meeting of the commission to review cooperation in
the economic, energy, and transportation sectors.
Margarian offered Armenia’s assistance in implementing socio-economic
development programs in Georgia’s impoverished region of Javakhk, and
expressed
confidence that Georgia would pay due attention to the economic, cultural, and
education problems that Javakh’s majority Armenian population faces.
Zurabishvili also met with representatives of the Georgian community in
Armenia at the Georgian Embassy, and visited the Parajanov house-museum, and
the Armenian Genocide memorial. She will also be meeting with President Robert
Kocharian.

6. NEWS BRIEFS

7,000 Urban Residents in Lori to Receive Food Aid

VANADZOR (ARMENPRESS)Some 7,000 urban residents in the province of Lori will
be the recipients of food aid from the UN World Food Program. The aid
distribution is set to begin later on this month. Each individual will receive
29 kg of flour, vegetable oil and lentil. Under an agreement with the Armenian
government, the World Food Program will continue its assistance into 2006.

Ambassador to Italy Gives Talk on Karabagh Conflict

YEREVAN (ARMENPRESS)Armenian Ambassador to Italy Gagik Baghdasarian, made an
hour long presentation about the Mountainous Karabagh conflict during the
`Identity and Memory: Europe and the Management of Conflicts’ seminar,
organized by the Italian San Marino Summer University. The seminar, which was
held between July 16 and 18, was attended by students, young researchers and
professors from across Italy.

Armenian Youth Particpate in Italian Soccer Competition

YEREVAN (ARMENPRESS)The Italian embassy in Yerevan said on Tuesday that it
has
issued visas to a group of young Futbol Federation of Armenia players. The
Armenian soccer players, who are between the ages of 9-14, have invited to
participate in a competition in Italy organized by the Federazione Italiana
Gioco Calcio (FIGC).
The competition is scheduled to take place in the Summer Center of the
FIGC in
Norcia, Italy from July 25 to 31. The FIGC has also invited a delegation from
Azerbaijan. It is likely that the two teams may face each other in a friendly
match. All trip-related expenses will be covered by the FIGC.

Javakhk Artists Display their Work In Yerevan

YEREVAN (ARMENPRESS)An exhibition featuring the work of artists from Javakhk
opened in Yerevan on July 20. Approximately 100 paintings are on display. A
similar event was last held about ten years ago.

Armenian Wrestler Wins Silver Medal

YEREVAN (ARMENPRESS)Greco-Roman wrestler Khosrov Melikian snatched the silver
medal at a Europe youth championship in Slovenia. Melikian, who is a resident
of Gyumri, defeated all four of his rivals in the 50 kg weight class.

Writers Union Condemns Review Court Decision

YEREVAN (ARMENPRESS)In a move that is likely to further exacerbate relations
between Armenian writers and judicial authorities, the Union of Armenia’s
Writers issued a statement on July 20 `to express the deep indignation about
the rude violation of the Union’s rights by a court of review.’
The statement followed a court of review verdict that cancelled a lower court
decision in favor of the Union concerning a hospital that was run by the Union
for decades. The hospital was sold by the Arabkir community to a businessmen
through an agreement, which the writers say is non-existent and that the
community had no right to regulate the fate of the hospital.
In a letter addressed to the president, the Union asked Robert Kocharian to
interfere. On Monday, the chairman of the Union stated that they were not
going
to surrender and will take the case to the Court of Appeals.

Reporters Demands Investigation into Azeri Case

BAKU (ARMENPRESS)On Tuesday, the Paris-based Reporters Without Borders called
upon Azerbaijan’s law enforcement bodies to find out and punish the
perpetrators of last Saturday’s assault of Aydin Guliyev, who serves as the
chief editor of opposition daily Baki-Khabar (Baku-News). Guliyev was abducted
and beaten by four unidentified assailants in Baku on July 17.
Guliyev said on Monday that the four masked men accused him of dispersing
anti-Islamic propaganda through his publication and being disrespectful to
Azerbaijan’s `statehood.’ He emphasized that his newspaper never published
articles against Islam and that the accusations were intended to cover the
real
reason for the attack, which he believes could have been ordered by the
government. Guliyev added that he had been receiving phone threats for around
ten days prior to his abduction. The editor has since appealed to the various
embassies in Baku in search of asylum.
Baki-Khabar serves as the publication of the opposition Azerbaijan Democrat
Party, which is currently chaired by Rasul Guliyevan ex-parliamentary speaker
who now lives in exile in the United States. A former ally of the late
President Heydar Aliyev, Aydin Guliyev split with the leader in 1996 and
founded the opposition party. He is accused of appropriating large amounts of
state funds while working as the head of an oil refinery plant in Baku during
the early 1990s.

PM Meets with Outgoing American Ambassador

YEREVAN (ARMENPRESS)On Tuesday, Armenian Prime Minister Andranik Margarian
received the outgoing United States Ambassador to Armenia, John Ordway.
`During
our first meeting three years ago I was sure that we were going to cooperate
successfully. Today it is a reality,’ the ambassador stated during his
farewell
meeting with the prime minister. He thanked the Armenian government, and the
prime minister personally, for the work the two sides were able to accomplish
during his tenure.
In turn, Margarian commended the ambassador’s efforts in deepening the ties
between the two countries and noted that visible political and economic
relations and cooperation within international organizations has emerged.
Margarian specifically referred to Armenia’s eligibility in the Millennium
Challenge Account (MCA) program, and assured the ambassador that Armenia will
comply with the deadline and submit its suggestions and approved program to
the
US government.

Agency to Ask Court To Dissolve 58 Political Parties

YEREVAN (ARMENPRESS)According to State Registration Agency of the Justice
Ministry, only 63 of the 121 formerly registered political parties, have
submitted the proper paperwork required for formal registration. Agency head
Gurgen Sarkisian stated that they will ask the courts to dissolve the 58
parties that have not fulfilled the required criteria under the country’s
legal
code.

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ArmenPress
July 20 2004

ARMENIAN PRIME MINISTER RECEIVES OUTGOING GERMAN AMBASSADOR

YEREVAN, JULY 20, ARMENPRESS: Armenian prime minister Andranik
Margarian commended today the outgoing German ambassador Hans Wulf
Bartels for his heavy contributions to further development of
bilateral political and economic relations and underscored closer
ties with one of the most influential member of the European Union.
Margarian also noted that despite the evident progress, the available
potential is not used at full extent, particulalry, in trade,
establishment of joint ventures and other areas.
Ambassador Bartels expressed hope that the prime minister’s recent
visit to Germany for participating in a German-Armenian business
conference would serve as an additional impetus to deepening ties.

El Pais (Uruguay)
July 20, 2004

Puerta del Sur construira nueva terminal de pasajeros por US$ 30
millones;
Manana presentan diseno del nuevo edificio del aeropuerto

El consorcio Puerta del Sur, concesionario del Aeropuerto de
Carrasco, presentara manana su proyecto de construccion de la nueva
terminal de pasajeros, la que estara a cargo de Rafael Vinoly,
arquitecto uruguayo radicado en Nueva York responsable del diseno de
la obra que insumira una inversion de unos U$S 30 millones.

Si bien el propio pliego de la licitacion, celebrada en noviembre de
2003, por la que se concedio la operacion del aeropuerto establecia
la construccion de la nueva terminal, los detalles de la misma se
conoceran recien manana.

Fuentes cercanas al emprendimiento dijeron a El Pais que el
empresario armenio-argentino Eduardo Eurnekian, principal accionista
de Puerta del Sur y tambien del grupo que opera todos los aeropuertos
argentinos, dio luz verde a la presentacion de la obra despues de
reunirse con Tabare Vazquez en Buenos Aires, y que este le asegurase
que en caso que el Frente Amplio sea gobierno respetara las
privatizaciones aprobadas por sus predecesores.

Eurnekian y Vazquez se encontraron en la capital argentina a
principios de junio cuando el lider de la izquierda se presento ante
la clase empresarial local.

Hoy Vazquez se adelantara a la presentacion oficial y la anunciara a
un grupo de empresarios locales con los que se reunira.

El presidenciable ya hablo del asunto durante su gira por Estados
Unidos, oportunidad en la que se reunio con Vinoly quien le mostro la
maqueta de la obra que en Uruguay se conocera manana.

El pliego de condiciones de la concesion del Aeropuerto de Carrasco
establece que Puerta del Sur debera encargarse de la “puesta a punto”
de la termi- nal aerea y el tema se presenta como la primera
controversia que surja entre el Estado y los pri- vados.

La concesion del aeropuerto a Puerta del Sur indica que la empresa
debera construir una nueva terminal aerea antes del 2008, la que
estara ubicada a unos mil metros de la actual en la zona en la que
hoy se unica el radar del aeropuerto.

Fuentes consultadas de la empresa y tecnicos del aeropuerto indicaron
a El Pais que el edificio actual tiene un deterioro edilicio
importante y destacaron que su refaccion costara entre U$S 4 y U$S 5
millones.

AGBU Southern California
Central Sports Committee
2495 E. Mountain St.
Pasadena, CA 91104
(626) 794-7942 (Office)
(626) 794-2662 (Fax)

Second Annual AGBU-AYA Basketball Clinic

The Second Annual AGBU-AYA Youth Basketball Clinic was held at the
AGBU Center in Pasadena, CA on July 17, 2004. The AGBU Southern
California Central Sports Committee organized the event. AGBU-AYA
boys, 10-12 years of age, participated from both the Valley and
Pasadena AGBU chapters. Each clinic participant received team and
individual instruction in the fundamentals of basketball, and competed
in games and contests.

6’11”, 290-pound center Rafael Araujo, who was selected eighth in the
2004 NBA Draft on June 24 by the Toronto Raptors, spoke to the
participants and signed autographs for them. Araujo instructed the
youth in various basketball drills and took photos with them. Araujo
also encouraged the AGBU-AYA athletes to focus on their academics and
on the fundamentals of basketball.

If you are interested in becoming a member of the AGBU-AYA basketball
program, please contact the AGBU Pasadena Center at 626-794-7942 or
AGBU Valley Chapter at 818-313-9449.

Interfax
July 12 2004

Islamabad for Azerbaijan as integral state – Musharraf

Baku. (Interfax-Azerbaijan) – The Pakistani authorities have always
stood for preserving Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity, visiting
Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf said in the Azerbaijani
parliament on Friday.

“Pakistan’s official authorities have always wanted Azerbaijan’s
territorial integrity to remain intact. This is our unwavering
position. The Pakistani government and every Pakistani citizen will
always support
Azerbaijan on the Nagorno-Karabakh issue,” Musharraf said.

“We think that the Azerbaijani government needs to restore the
country’s territorial integrity. We would like to give our assurance
that the Pakistani people will spare no efforts in this issue,” he
said.

Azerbaijan lost control over Nagorno-Karabakh and seven neighboring
districts as a result of a conflict with Armenia in the 1990s.

The UN Security Council has issued a number of resolutions denouncing
Armenia’s occupation of the Azerbaijani district and urging Armenia
to withdraw its troops.

The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe’s Minsk
Group, comprising the United States, Russia, and France, has been
involved in helping to settle the dispute between Azerbaijan and
Armenia over Nagorno-Karabakh.