ARKA News Agency
April 22 2004

RA Foreign Minister made a report `New Caucasus in Context of
Changing Geopolitics’ in London

October 16 to be celebrated in Armenia as Press Worker Day

RA NA Speaker receive deputies of Bundestag

RA President and German Foreign Minister discuss bilateral relations

John Ordway, the US Ambassador in Armenia: Support of the opposition
doesn’t concern the US and is not in the US interest

On April 21 the House of the Parliament of Canada acknowledges the
Armenian Genocide of 1915

*********************************************************************

RA FOREIGN MINISTER MADE A REPORT `NEW CAUCASUS IN CONTEXT OF
CHANGING GEOPOLITICS’ IN LONDON

YEREVAN, April 22. /ARKA/. RA Foreign Minister Vardan Oskanian made a
report `New Caucasus in Context of Changing Geopolitics’ in London,
RA MFA told ARKA. The Minister emphasized four basic problems of
Armenia: security, development, eurointegration and Karabakh
conflict.
Today Oskanian will meet with GB MFA Jack Strow in the frames of his
working meeting in London. L.D. –0–

*********************************************************************

OCTOBER 16 TO BE CELEBRATED IN ARMENIA AS PRESS WORKER DAY

YEREVAN, April 22. /ARKA/. In accordance to RA Government decision,
October 16 will be celebrated in Armenia as Press Worker Day, RA
Government told ARKA.
On Oct. 16, 1794 first Armenian printed periodic magazine Azdarar was
issued in Madras (India). L.D. –0–

*********************************************************************

RA NA SPEAKER RECEIVE DEPUTIES OF BUNDESTAG

YEREVAN, April 22. /ARKA/. RA NA Speaker Arthur Baghdasarian received
deputies of Bundestag Folker Ruche, Ludger Folmer and Rudolph Bindig,
RA NA told ARKA. The parties discussed expanding of interparliament
relations between Armenia and Germany and eurointegration of South
Caucasus region. `Armenia is ready to regional dialogue for peaceful
settlement of the conflicts’, the Speaker said. L.D. –0–

*********************************************************************

RA PRESIDENT AND GERMAN FOREIGN MINISTER DISCUSS BILATERAL RELATIONS

YEREVAN, April 22. /ARKA/. RA President Robert Kocharian and German
Foreign Minister, Vice Chancellor Joschka Fischer discussed bilateral
relations. Kocharian highly estimated the level of bilateral
political cooperation and stressed that the visit of Vice Chancellor
is estimated as continuation of dialogue and growth of interest to
South Caucasus in the region.
Talking about Karabakh settlement the parties noted the importance of
creation of atmosphere of trust between the parties. Kocharian said
that he offered Azerbaijan settlement formula by means of
cooperation, which is however is not accepted by Azeri party. He also
represented position of Armenia on Armenian-Turkish relations.
`Armenia has always been for conduction of dialogue without
pre-conditions and always stressed that relations between the parties
must not be determined with our relations with third country’,
Kocharian said.
The parties discussed wide spectrum of Armenian-German bilateral
cooperation and regional issues. The parties noted that activation of
political dialogue between the countries is obvious. The countries
also actively cooperation in international structures. Armenian party
highly estimated realization of development programs with Germany,
namely realization of programs in the sphere of energy, water supply,
infrastructures and small and medium business.
Fischer arrived today in Armenia in the frames of regional visit.
L.D. –0 –

*********************************************************************

JOHN ORDWAY, THE US AMBASSADOR IN ARMENIA: SUPPORT OF THE OPPOSITION
DOESN’T CONCERN THE US AND IS NOT IN THE US INTEREST

YEREVAN, April 22. /ARKA/. `Support of the opposition doesn’t concern
the US and is not in the US interests’, stated John Ordway, the US
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary in Armenia, during the
briefing. As he said, political quest and the issues of further ways
of development of Armenia are to be solved only by Armenians
themselves. `As during the elections, as now we do not support any of
the sides’, said Ordway. He also noted that it’s in the interests of
the US to see Armenia as economically developed and stable country in
the region. A.H. –0–

*********************************************************************

ON APRIL 21 THE HOUSE OF THE PARLIAMENT OF CANADA ACKNOWLEDGES THE
ARMENIAN GENOCIDE OF 1915

YEREVAN, April 22. /ARKA/. On April 21 the House of the Parliament of
Canada acknowledged the Armenian Genocide of 1915. According to the
press release of RA Embassy in Canada, the decision was adopted by
153 votes to 68. According to the press release, in the adopted
resolution Ì-38 it’s stated that the House acknowledges the Armenian
Genocide of 1915 and condemns this as a crime against humanity. The
resolution was proposed by a member of Bloc Quebecois opposition
party, Ms. Madeline Dalphond-Guiral. According to the press release,
before voting that took place on April 21, the resolution passed two
discussions on February 25 and April 20, in the course of which the
majority was for adoption of the resolution. `Notwithstanding the
threats on the part of the Turkish Embassy in Ottawa, the majority of
the opposition and part of the ruling party voted for the adoption of
the resolution’, according to the statement of the Armenian Embàssy.
According to the press release, acknowledgement of the Armenian
Genocide is a result of consistent work of decades of the Armenian
community in Canada. Besides, many influential figures and community
organizations also have their input in this, as well as the
monotonous and goal -oriented position of RA regarding the issue of
the Armenian Genocide acknowledgement. As it’s stated in the press
release, the Senate of Canada adopted resolution which acknowledged
the Armenian Genocide already on June 13, 2002.
Beginning from the seconds half of the 19th century till 1920 the
Ottoman Empire regularly prosecuted Armenians. The barbarity of the
Ottoman Turkey towards Armenians took place in 1915, when in various
regions of West Armenia, which was a part of Ottoman Turkey, over 1.5
mln of Armenians were massacred. A.H. –0–

Armenian Assembly of America
122 C Street, NW, Suite 350
Washington, DC 20001
Phone: 202-393-3434
Fax: 202-638-4904
Email: [email protected]
Web:
 
PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 22, 2004
CONTACT: David Zenian
E-mail: [email protected]
 
ASSEMBLY LEADERSHIP CONGRATULATES MP ASSADOURIAN ON PASSAGE OF GENOCIDE
RESOLUTION — DESCRIBES MOVE AS VICTORY FOR JUSTICE

Washington, DC – The Armenian Assembly of America Wednesday night
congratulated Canadian Parliamentarian Sarkis Assadourian, the
Armenian-Canadian community and all Canadians on the recognition of the
Armenian Genocide by the House of Commons.

The historic vote passed by a margin of 153 to 68 Wednesday evening. The
passage was a crowning achievement for Assadourian who has fought for
Canada’s recognition since the early days of his election to the House in
1993.

“What the Canadian House of Commons did was a victory for upholding the
truth and honoring the memory of the 1.5 million Armenians who perished in
the first Genocide of the 20th century. We urge President Bush to re-affirm
the Armenian Genocide following this historic North American development,”
Assembly Board of Trustees Chairman Hirair Hovnanian stated.

Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues Co-Chairs Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) and
Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ), for their part, said: “We applaud the Canadian
Parliament for its decision to recognize the Armenian Genocide as a crime
against humanity. This action should serve as an impetus for our Executive
Branch to take a principled stand and reaffirm the U.S. record on the
Armenian Genocide.”

Brought to the floor of the chamber as Motion M-380, the Canadian
Parliamentarians gave their resounding approval to “acknowledge the Armenian
Genocide of 1915 and condemn this act as a crime against humanity.”

Hours after the historic vote, Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Bill Graham
distanced his government from the House of Commons decision.

“We agree with the members of the House that the events of 1915 to 1923 were
tragic. Canada has condemned the atrocities committed against hundreds of
thousands of Armenians, including massive deportations and massacres … The
Canadian government also believes that the issue is essentially for the
Armenian and Turkish governments and experts to resolve,” Graham said.

In a footnote, Graham’s office said: “Debates and votes on private member’s
business in the House of Commons are an integral part of the Canadian
democratic process, but private member’s motions are not binding on the
Government of Canada.”

But despite the reaction from the Canadian government, the vote remained a
major victory for the supporters of recognition, which was almost ten years
in the making.

“We have all been waiting for this moment for ten years. It was a very
emotional moment for the more than 200 Canadian-Armenians who were in the
visitor’s galleries of the House. As one MP stood up after another in
support of the resolution, and the Speaker announced its passage, the crowd
roared in applause and shouts of Bravo! Many people could not hold back
their tears as they embraced each other,” Assadourian’s Legislative
Assistant Daniel Kennedy said.

In a telephone communication shortly after the House of Common’s vote
Wednesday night, Anthony Barsamian, Chairman of the Board of Directors
personally thanked Mr. Assadourian.

This was immediately followed by a letter of congratulations which read:

“On behalf of Hirair Hovnanian and Carolyn Mugar, Chairman and President of
the Trustees of the Armenian Assembly of America, we congratulate you, the
Armenian-Canadian Community and all Canadians on this historic passage and
recognition of the Armenian Genocide by the House of Commons.”

“We specifically thank Ms. Dalphond-Guiral of Laval Center for offering the
resolution and you for your persistent effort and commitment in condemning
this act as a crime against humanity and toward full acknowledgement and
re-affirmation of the Armenian Genocide of 1915.”

“Armenian-Americans join today in thanking all Canadian citizens for your
courage in standing up for truth and justice in order that the world shall
never forget this crime committed against the Armenian people.”

The Armenian Assembly of America is the largest Washington-based nationwide
organization promoting public understanding and awareness of Armenian
issues. It is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt membership organization.

NR#2004-043

From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress

PRESS OFFICE
Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern)
630 Second Avenue, New York, NY 10016
Contact: Jake Goshert, Communications Officer
Tel: (212) 686-0710; Fax: (212) 779-3558
E-mail: [email protected]
Website:
April 22, 2004
___________________

Week of April 16 to April 22, 2004
* * *

GENOCIDE COMMEMORATION EVENTS ORGANIZED AROUND DIOCESE

This weekend, a variety of events commemorating the Armenian Genocide
committed by Ottoman Turks during World War I will take place in
communities throughout the Diocese. New York City’s St. Vartan
Cathedral will hold a special service at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday (4/24),
with a requiem at noon. A Martyrs Day Divine Liturgy will be celebrated
by the Primate at 10 a.m. on Sunday, April 25, 2004, at the cathedral.

New York City’s Times Square will be the site of a massive commemoration
on Sunday, April 25, 2004, at 2 p.m.

For more information on these events, and others throughout the diocese,
click to our website’s Calendar of Events:

Check with your local parish for any other Genocide commemoration
events.

(Source: Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern), 4/21/04)
* * *

CANADIAN PARLIAMENT RECOGNIZES GENOCIDE

On Wednesday (4/21), the Canadian parliament voted to officially
recognize and condemn the Armenian Genocide. The motion was adopted by
a vote of 153-68. Turkish officials called the legislators “narrow
minded”. Canada is the 16th nation to officially recognize the Armenian
Genocide. His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of
All Armenians, sent a letter to the speaker of the Canadian House of
Commons expressing the gratitude and appreciation of all Armenians
throughout the world for the decision.

“As we approach the 90th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, the
important issue of genocide remains before the whole of mankind,” the
Catholicos wrote in his letter. “Genocide can never be the solution to
the religious, social, and political conflicts of our times. The way to
prevent genocide is to recognize it. The only way to find justice for
its victims, both living and dead, is to condemn it. Genocide is not a
crime against one nation, but rather it is against man and against God.
It is the gravest crime against humanity.”

(Source: Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin and the Globe and Mail, 4/22/04)
* * *

DN. JEBEJIAN TO BE ORDAINED AS A PRIEST

Dn. Aren Jebejian, deacon-in-charge of the St. Gregory the Illuminator
Church in Chicago, IL, will be ordained as a priest by Archbishop
Barsamian during a two-day ceremony this weekend (4/24-25) at New York
City’s St. Vartan Cathedral. The Calling Service will be 7 p.m. on
Saturday, followed by a free reception. Sunday’s ordination will take
place during the Divine Liturgy, which begins at 10 a.m. and is followed
by a banquet. The public is invited to attend the services this
weekend.

For more information, click to the diocesan website:
;selmonth=4&sel
year=2004

(Source: Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern), 4/21/04)
* * *

DIOCESES JOIN WITH AGBU, ASSEMBLY AT WEEKEND CONFERENCE

Leaders of the Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern), the
Western Diocese, the Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU), and the
Armenian Assembly of America joined in Washington, D.C. for a weekend
conference (4/18-19) organized by the Assembly. Archbishop Khajag
Barsamian, Primate of the Eastern Diocese, represented the Eastern
Diocese, along with Bishop Vicken Aykazian, diocesan legate and
ecumenical officer, and Diocesan Council members Sarkis Bedevian and
James Kalustian.

The purpose of the conference was to discuss issues pertaining to
Armenians, such as recognition of the Genocide, permanent normal trade
relations between Armenia and the United States, U.S. assistance to
Armenia, and American foreign policy towards the Republic of Armenia.
Archbishop Barsamian delivered the benediction during a banquet Monday
night (4/19) and Bishop Aykazian helped organize an ecumenical service
which featured speeches by Cardinal William Keeler, Catholic Archbishop
of Baltimore, MD; and Bob Edgar, general secretary of the National
Council of Churches.

(Source: Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern), 4/21/04)
* * *

WORK CONTINUES AT DIOCESAN YOUTH AND CONFERENCE CENTER

Over the weekend (4/17-18), 14 volunteers from five parishes helped
renovate the diocese’s new Youth and Conference Center in upstate New
York. It was the second of three work-weekends scheduled to freshen the
look of the facility in time for this summer’s St. Vartan Camp. The
volunteers painted 13 rooms, a large hallway in one building, and began
installing shades in another building.

Volunteers are still needed for the last work weekend, May 21 through
23. Any number of people can come help. Volunteers will be able to
stay at the Ararat Center overnight while they work that weekend. For
information and to sign up, contact Karen Durgarian by e-mailing
[email protected].

Click to our website to learn more about the recent work weekend, see
pictures, and learn more about the Youth and Conference Center:
;selmonth=4&sel
year=2004

(Source: Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern), 4/19/04)
* * *

APPLY TO SUMMER CAMP TODAY

Spaces are going fast at the Diocese’s St. Vartan and Hye Camps. To
save your child’s space today, click here:

(Source: Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern), 4/15/04)
* * *

SPEND YOUR SUMMER GUIDING OUR FUTURE

Looking for something to do this summer? Why not become a counselor or
staff member for St. Vartan Camp – with two sessions, running from June
27 to July 24. This year counselors and staff will be paid.
Application deadline is April 30, and camp organizers are particularly
looking for male counselors. Staff and counselors can work the full
four-week schedule or staff just one of the two-week sessions. They
must arrive at camp the day before the session starts and attend
pre-camp training, date to be determined. You must be 18 or older to
apply.

Camp organizers are also looking for hidden kitchen wizards to volunteer
in the kitchen. You don’t need to be a professional chef, just want to
have fun and like kids. Accommodations are available.

For more on these opportunities, e-mail Yn. Arpi Kouzouian at
[email protected].

(Source: St. Vartan Camp, 4/22/04)
* * *

ARMENIAN-AMERICAN SOLDIER RETURNS FROM IRAQ

John Merguerian, one of the Armenian-American soldiers fighting to bring
democracy to Iraq, recently returned from his tour of duty there. While
there, he was in contact with the Armenian community in Baghdad and
reports that they are working to rebuild their community. Click to the
Eastern Diocese’s website to read his most recent update on the Armenian
community of Baghdad, see photos of the people there, learn more about
the historic Armenian presence there, and see how you can help. Click
to:
;selmonth=4&sel
year=2004

(Source: John Merguerian, 4/19/04)
* * *

ST. NERSESS TO HOST CLERGY CONFERENCE RECEPTION

St. Nersess Armenian Seminary in New Rochelle, NY, will host a special
reception for clergy of the Eastern Diocese next Thursday (4/29) at 11
a.m. The reception is in conjunction with the annual Clergy Conference
and Diocesan Assembly hosted this year by the St. Gregory the
Enlightener Church in White Plains, NY.

You can click to the Eastern Diocese’s website for more information on
this reception and the clergy conference. Be sure to check there next
week for live updates from the Assembly. Just click to the special
Diocesan Assembly e-diary:

(Source: St. Nersess Seminary, 4/20/04)
* * *

ST. NERSESS ALUMNI TO MEET

Next Sunday and Monday (4/25-26), alumni of the St. Nersess Armenian
Seminary will meet at the seminary to discuss the status of their alumni
association. The intent of the gathering is to decide whether the
alumni want to resurrect the association. Alumni from the New York
area, California, Illinois, and Michigan will attend. For information
on the gathering and the association, e-mail alumna Nancy Basmajian at
[email protected].

(Source: St. Nersess Alumni, 4/22/04)
* * *

RI CHILDREN’S CHOIR PERFORMS IN CANADA

The Junior Choir and the Nazeli Dance group of the Sts. Sahag and Mesrob
Church of Providence, RI, performed in Montreal, Canada, last weekend
(4/16-18) at the invitation of the Bishop Bagrat Galstanian, Primate of
the Diocese of the Armenian Church of Canada. Under the direction of
Maestro Konstantin Petrossian, the young singers took part in the Divine
Liturgy at Montreal’s St. Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral. The choir
and dance group also performed a special concert at the Armen-Quebec
Alex Manoogian Armenian School.

(Source: Sts. Sahag and Mesrob Church, 4/19/04)
* * *

APPLY FOR A SCHOLARSHIP TODAY

The William E. Doctor Fund (Yervant Hekimian) will give out $60,000 in
scholarships to approximately 25 deserving Armenian-American students
this year. Criteria for selection include strong academic performance,
American citizenship, financial need, and Armenian community
involvement. Applications can be obtained by e-mailing [email protected]
or calling (202) 364-1440. The fund is an independent charitable trust
administered by members of the St. Mary Armenian Church of Washington,
D.C. Applications for the fall 2004 semester scholarships are due June
30, 2004.

The Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern) also manages
many scholarship funds created by individual endowments. For
information on those, and an application, click to our website:

(Source: Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern), 4/19/04)
* * *

TRAVEL TO ARMENIA THIS YEAR

Traveling to Armenia strengthens your faith and dedication. If you
haven’t gone yet, there are five opportunities this year.

In June:

* Young Professionals Trip — June 12 to 26 / $2,250. Specifically
designed for travelers between the ages of 23 and 40, this trip offers a
chance to see the sights of Armenia and build life-long friendships with
other Armenian American professionals. Call the Fund for Armenian
Relief (212) 889-5150.

* Diocesan Pilgrimage to Historic Armenia and the Republic of Armenia —
June 17 to July 7 / $3,450. Travel to Istanbul, historic Armenian
locations in modern day Turkey such as Musa Dagh, Cappadocia, Mt.
Ararat, and Ani. Continue to Armenia to tour important historical and
cultural sites. For more information call Armen Aroyan (626) 359-9510.

In September:

* Women’s Guild Pilgrimage to Armenia — September 16 to 27 / $2,400.
Tour Etchmiadzin, Yerevan, ancient holy sites, and current cultural
activities. For more information call Ann Devejian (203) 838-5758.

* Pilgrimage to Armenia — September 18 to October 3 / $2,350. A
Diocesan-sponsored trip to all the highlights of Armenia. For more
information call Sidon Travel at (818) 553-0777.

To get more information on any of these travel opportunities, e-mail
[email protected].

And don’t forget — you can also help fund the trip of a young person in
your parish, who will return more eager to be involved in parish life.

(Source: Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern), 4/15/04)

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ASBAREZ ONLINE
TOP STORIES
04/22/2004
TO ACCESS PREVIOUS ASBAREZ ONLINE EDITIONS PLEASE VISIT OUR
WEBSITE AT <;HTTP://

1) Country with a Conscience, Canada Passes Armenian Genocide Legislation
2) Sen. Kerry Calls for International Recognition of Armenian Genocide
3) European Armenian Federation Hails Canada
4) Turkey Chides Canada over Armenia Genocide Vote

1) Country with a Conscience, Canada Overwhelmingly Passes Armenian Genocide
Legislation

OTTAWA (Combined Sources)–The Canadian Parliament on Wednesday ignored
long-standing government policy and angered Turkey by formally declaring that
Ottoman Turks committed genocide against Armenians in 1915. The non-partisan
vote was 153 for and 68 against. When the result of the vote was announced,
the
House of Commons chamber, packed with Armenians from Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto
and other Canadian cities, burst in applause, shouting “bravo.” Tears of joy
could be seen in the eyes of many Armenians.
Motion M-380, which reads: “That this House acknowledges the Armenian
genocide
of 1915 and condemns this act as a crime against humanity,” was moved by MP
Madeleine Dalphond-Guiral and was seconded by MPs Sarkis Assadourian, Jason
Kenney, and Alexa McDonough. Voting, which began at 6:15 PM, lasted 30
minutes.
The governing Liberal leadership paved the way for this vote by allowing a
“free vote,” meaning that individual members are allowed to vote their
conscience, without any pressure or negative repercussions from their
respective party leaderships. Although Minister of Foreign Affairs Bill Graham
used every means available to him to defeat the Motion, he was unable to
change
the historic outcome.
In the vote, several leading members of the Liberal Party, including
parliamentary secretaries, voted in favor; however, no full cabinet minister
voted against.
Aris Babikian, of the Armenian National Committee of Canada, pointed out that
several key cabinet ministers, including Justice Minister Irwin Cotler and
even
Prime Minister Paul Martin, were absent for the vote.
“It’s a terrible double standard for Paul Martin to force his ministers to
vote against it and not even show up himself,” said Tory foreign affairs
critic
Stockwell Day. “That is a hypocritical double standard.”
At a celebration party after Tuesday’s vote, Babikian said he owed this
victory to his grandfather who “lost six brothers and sisters in the genocide”
and “saw his own six-year-old sister burned to death.”
On February 21, the Parliament held its first reading of Bill M-380, which
included an hour of debate on the measure. Among those speaking in favor of
the
Resolution during the first reading were Derek Lee, Eleni Bakopnaos, Francine
Lalonde, Stockwell Day, and the Hon. Lorne Nystrom.
The second reading of M-380, to recognize the Armenian Genocide, took
place on
April 20. During the one-hour debate, only one member of the House spoke
against the motion. The other seven speakers were favored of the motion.
In the last two days, the Turkish Embassy and its public relations firms had
launched a concerted campaign against the adoption of the bill. A delegation
from the Armenian National Committee of Canada (ANCC) was on hand to counter
the Turkish Embassy’s campaign of falsification and distortion of the
historical facts. An ANCC team has been in the nation’s capital for the past
several weeks representing the community’s views on this matter.
The passing of this resolution was the culmination of a 25 year process which
encompassed similar resolutions being passed by city councils, provinces, and
the Canadian Senate (July 13, 2002).
Dr. Girair Basmadjian, president of the Armenian National Committee of Canada
(ANCC), was elated by the result of the vote. “As an Armenian, I was moved and
felt grateful for the respect that was shown by the Canadian Parliament to the
memory of the victims of the Armenian Genocide. As a Canadian, I am proud that
the House of Commons adopted this historic motion.”
“This is a victory for truth and justice.” stated Dr. Basmadjian.
“Implicated in this course of action for over two decades, the ANCC has
constituted the driving force behind the process towards the adoption of this
motion,” commented Basmadjian. “The accomplishment of this task was made
possible through the mobilization, as well as the implication of our grass
roots members who made sure that all Members of Parliament were aware of the
importance of this issue for our community.”
The ANCC was actively involved in promoting the passing of the motion. For
the last six months, the ANCC worked very closely with parliamentarians and
foreign affairs critics of all the political parties represented in the
House.
ANC of America Executive Director Aram Hamparian also lauded Canada’s
lawmakers. “The Canadian Parliament, in rejecting intense Turkish government
pressure, took an important step in further isolating Turkey for its shameful,
international campaign of genocide denial.”
The ANCC mailed a specially-prepared brief to all members of the House. The
ANCC also mobilized the Canadian-Armenian community to counter the Turkish
Government’s propaganda campaign through e-mails, postcards and telephone
calls
to parliamentarians.
Canada, a NATO ally, now joins a long list of nations including France,
Italy,
Greece, Switzerland and Russia which have recognized the Armenian Genocide of
1915-1923.

2) Sen. Kerry Calls for International Recognition of Armenian Genocide

DEMOCRATIC PRESIDENTIAL HOPEFUL OUTLINES STRONG HISTORY OF SUPPORT FOR
ARMENIAN
AMERICAN CONCERNS IN APRIL 24TH STATEMENT

SENATOR’S RECORD ON ARMENIAN ISSUES DETAILED ON

WASHINGTON, DC (ANCA)–Democratic Presidential hopeful, Sen. John Kerry,
called
for international recognition of the Armenian Genocide today, in a statement
issued to Armenian Americans marking the 89th anniversary of that crime
against
humanity.
An outspoken advocate of US recognition of the Armenian Genocide, Senator
Kerry stated, “I join Armenian Americans and Armenians worldwide in mourning
the victims of the Armenian Genocide and I call on governments and people
everywhere to formally recognize this tragedy. Only by learning from this dark
period of history and working to prevent future genocides can we truly honor
the memories of those Armenians who suffered so unjustly.”
Earlier this week, Senator Kerry joined 22 of his Senate colleagues
calling on
President Bush to “refer to the mass slaughter of Armenians as genocide in
your
commemorative statement.” He was amongst the earliest cosponsors of the
Genocide resolution (S.Res.164), which marks the 15th anniversary of the US
implementation of the Genocide Convention.
“With this most recent statement honoring the victims of the Armenian
Genocide, Sen. Kerry builds on his two decade long record of support for
proper
US recognition of this crime against humanity,” stated Aram Hamparian,
Executive Director of the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA.) “This
election season, we look forward to ensuring that our community is fully aware
of the Senator’s record on the Armenian Genocide and all issues of concern to
Armenian American voters.”
In the statement, Sen. Kerry outlined his longstanding support for a broad
range of Armenian American concerns. “In 1992, I authored an amendment to the
Freedom Support Act making US aid to Azerbaijan conditional on it taking steps
to end its blockades against Armenia and Nagorno Karabagh. I supported the
Humanitarian Aid Corridor Act in 1996, which prohibits US assistance to any
country that restricts the delivery of US humanitarian aid to another country.
In 2003, I cosponsored legislation to extend “permanent normal trade
relations”
(PNTR) to Armenia. This January, I joined Senators Barbara Boxer, George
Allen,
Paul Sarbanes, Russ Feingold, and Jon Corzine in asking the President to urge
Turkey to lift its embargo of Armenia.”
Senator Kerry’s complete record on Armenian American concerns is posted on
the
Armenians For Kerry website– The website includes
previous statements by the Senator and provides ways for Armenian American
supporters to become active in the Kerry campaign through donations or other
volunteer efforts.
The complete text of Sen. Kerry’s statement follows.

Statement by Democratic Presidential Candidate John Kerry In Remembrance of
the Armenian Genocide:

“April 24th marks the 89th anniversary of the beginning of the Armenian
Genocide. Between 1915 and 1923 the rulers of the old Ottoman Empire killed or
deported over 1.5 million Armenian men, women and children in a systematic
policy of ethnic extermination.”

“I thank Armenian Americans for their persistence in the struggle to gain
international recognition of this atrocity. By keeping the memory of this
tragedy alive, Armenian Americans remind us all of our collective
responsibility to insure that such horrors are not repeated.

“I am proud of my work with the Armenian American community to gain broader
recognition of the Armenian Genocide, including fighting alongside Senator
Robert Dole in 1990 for designation of April 24 as a national day of
remembrance for this tragedy.”

“I have been an unwavering supporter of many other important Armenian issues.
In 1992, I authored an amendment to the Freedom Support Act making US aid to
Azerbaijan conditional on it taking steps to end its blockades against Armenia
and Nagorno Karabagh. I supported the Humanitarian Aid Corridor Act in 1996
which prohibits US assistance to any country that restricts the delivery of US
humanitarian aid to another country. In 2003, I cosponsored legislation to
extend “permanent normal trade relations” (PNTR) to Armenia. This January, I
joined Senators Barbara Boxer, George Allen, Paul Sarbanes, Russ Feingold, and
Jon Corzine in asking the President to urge Turkey to lift its embargo of
Armenia.”

“I join Armenian Americans and Armenians worldwide in mourning the victims of
the Armenian Genocide and I call on governments and people everywhere to
formally recognize this tragedy. Only by learning from this dark period of
history and working to prevent future genocides can we truly honor the
memories
of those Armenians who suffered so unjustly.”

3) European Armenian Federation Hails Canada

BRUSSELS–The European Armenian Federation applauded Canada’s passage of
Armenian Genocide legislation on Wednesday, congratulating those organizations
and individuals who doggedly pursued official recognition, as well as
parliament members who backed the motion, ensuring its passage by a vote of
153
to 58.
“In restoring truth, Canada also restores justice and paves the only possible
way to a frank and fair reconciliation. That’s why we ask the European
Union to
demand without delay Turkey to acknowledge and to give reparation for the
Armenian Genocide before examining its application for membership,” said the
director of the European Armenian Federation Laurent Leylekian.

4) Turkey Chides Canada over Armenia Genocide Vote

ANKARA (Reuters)–Turkey on Thursday condemned the Canadian parliament’s
decision to recognize the 1915 killing of Armenians by Ottoman forces as
genocide and warned of damage to bilateral ties.
“We strongly condemn the approval by Canada’s Federal Parliament of this
decision which follows (the pressure of) marginal groups despite our
objections,” the Turkish Foreign Ministry said in a statement.
“This decision will benefit neither Canadian Armenians nor Armenia.
Responsibility for all the negative consequences of this decision belongs to
the Canadian politicians,” it added.
The ministry did not say what these consequences might be, but Fazli Corman,
the Turkish embassy councilor in Ottawa, earlier cited the example of Canadian
companies seeking to sign contracts in Turkey.
Canadian Foreign Minister Bill Graham said the motion would not alter
Ottawa’s
official policy, that while the events of 1915 were a tragedy, they did not
constitute genocide.
Canada’s embassy in Ankara issued a statement calling for reconciliation
between Turks and Armenians. It also urged their governments to deal with the
issue of the alleged genocide and to work for greater stability in their
“volatile region.”
Turkey’s Foreign Ministry accused “narrow-minded Canadian politicians” of
fomenting ethnic and religious hatred between “people of different ethnic
backgrounds who live in peace.”
Earlier this week, Turkey also criticized a reference to the alleged genocide
on an Armenian monument unveiled in Poland. The word “slandered” the Turkish
nation, the Foreign Ministry said, and hurt Turkey’s historically warm ties
with Poland.
Parliaments in Russia, France and Switzerland, have also adopted motions
describing the events of 1915 as genocide.
Turkey froze official visits to France and temporarily blocked French firms
from entering lucrative defense contracts in 2001 after the French parliament
backed the Armenian case. France is home to Europe’s biggest Armenian
Diaspora.

The US Congress dropped a similar resolution in 2000 after the White House
warned it would harm US security interests in the Middle East.

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Armenian Assembly of America
122 C Street, NW, Suite 350
Washington, DC 20001
Phone: 202-393-3434
Fax: 202-638-4904
Email: [email protected]
Web:
 
PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 22, 2004
CONTACT: David Zenian
E-mail: [email protected]

ASSEMBLY PRAISES KERRY STATEMENT

Washington, DC – The Armenian Assembly of America Thursday praised
Democratic presidential candidate Senator John Kerry (D-MA) for his
statement of support on the occasion of the 89th anniversary of the Armenian
Genocide.

Kerry, a long time supporter of Armenian issues, in a statement said, “By
keeping the memory of this tragedy alive, the Armenian Americans remind us
all of our collective responsibility to insure that such horrors are not
repeated.”

The statement came two days after a group of 20 Armenian-American activists,
led by Assembly Massachusetts State Chair Herman Purutyan and Regional Chair
LuAnn Ohanian, met with senior members of Kerry’s staff during the
Assembly’s National Conference which was held in Washington April 18-21.

“Senator Kerry has always been an ardent supporter and a true friend of the
Armenian community and we appreciate his solid commitment on issues of great
importance to Armenian-Americans,” said Assembly Board of Trustees President
Carolyn Mugar. “We will never forget all that he has done and continues to
do as a leading advocate for our cause.”

Following is the text of Senator Kerry’s statement:

“April 24th marks the 89th anniversary of the beginning of the Armenian
Genocide. Between 1915 and 1923 the rulers of the old Ottoman Empire killed
or deported over 1.5 million Armenian men, women and children in a
systematic policy of ethnic extermination.

“I thank Armenian Americans for their persistence in the struggle to gain
international recognition of this atrocity. By keeping the memory of this
tragedy alive, Armenian Americans remind us all of our collective
responsibility to insure that such horrors are not repeated. I am proud of
my work with the Armenian American community to gain broader recognition of
the Armenian Genocide, including fighting alongside Senator Robert Dole in
1990 for designation of April 24 as a national day of remembrance for this
tragedy.

“I have been an unwavering supporter of many other important Armenian
issues. In 1992 I authored an amendment to the Freedom Support Act making
U.S. aid to Azerbaijan conditional on it taking steps to end its blockades
against Armenia and Nagorno Karabakh. I supported the Humanitarian Aid
Corridor Act in 1996 which prohibits U.S. assistance to any country that
restricts the delivery of U.S. humanitarian aid to another country. In 2003
I cosponsored legislation to extend “permanent normal trade relations”
(PNTR) to Armenia. And this January, I joined Senators Barbara Boxer,
George Allen, Paul Sarbanes, Russ Feingold and Jon Corzine in asking the
President to urge Turkey to lift its embargo of Armenia.

“I join Armenian Americans and Armenians worldwide in mourning the victims
of the Armenian Genocide and I call on governments and people everywhere to
formally recognize this tragedy. Only by learning from this dark period of
history and working to prevent future genocides can we truly honor the
memories of those Armenians who suffered so unjustly.”

The Armenian Assembly of America is the largest Washington-based nationwide
organization promoting public understanding and awareness of Armenian
issues. It is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt membership organization.

NR#2004-044

PRESS OFFICE
Armenian Holy Apostolic Church Canadian Diocese
Contact; Deacon Hagop Arslanian, Assistant to the Primate
615 Stuart Avenue, Outremont Quebec H2V 3H2
Tel; 514-276-9479, Fax; 514-276-9960
Email; [email protected] Website;

Communiqué
His Holiness commends Canadian Parliamentarians for Genocide Recognition

On Thursday April 22nd, 2004 the Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All A
rmenians His Holiness Karekin II, sent a letter to the Members of the Houseof
Commons and in particular to Mr. Sakis Assadourian for his tireless effortsin
successful passing of M-380 during the Parliament Session the day before.

The Primate of the Armenian Church of Canada His Eminence Bishop Bagrat
Galstanian, who headed the Diocesan faithful and attended the parliamentary
session, communicated by telephone and informed His Holiness Karekin II Catholicos of
All Armenians that the Canadian Parliament recognized the Armenian genocide
and condemned it as a crime against humanity.

Attached is the letter of His Holiness.

April 22,2004
The Honorable Peter Miliken, M.P.
Speaker
House of Commons
Ottawa, Canada

Dear Mr. Speaker and Members of the House of Commons,

We offer glory and thank to Almighty God, having learned from the
Primate of the Armenians of Canada His Grace Bishop Bagrat Galsdanian,
that on Wednesday, April 21,2004 , the Armenian Genocide was
officially recognized by the Parliament of the great country of
Canada. We are grateful that following the brutal years of 1915
through 1923 the Armenian people found shelter and acceptance in the
blessed county in Canada, as in many other countries throughout the
world. The children of the first genocide of the twentieth century not
only survived in their new homes, but they thrived, becoming
contributing, loyaland worth citizens.

However, as we approach the 90th Anniversary of the Armenian Genocide
in 2005,the important issue of genocide remains before the whole of
mankind, Genocide can never be solution to the religious, social and
political conflicts of our times. The way to prevent genocide is to
recognize it. The only way to find justice for its victims, both
living and dead, is to condemn it. Genocide is not a crime against one
nation, but rather it id against man and God. It isthe gravest crime
against humanity. God’s primary grace is the gift we offer to God. All
should be made aware that any action directed against the life of man,
shall be condemned from its inception. Human suffering can be stopped,
through the actions of brave men and women such as you, which help
justice to prevail.

We highly appreciate and value your consideration of this issue and
readiness to champion its resonance to greater awareness. The humane
and caring act encourages all in this troubled and turbulent world who
have been victims of man’s inhumanity towards man.

On behalf of the worldwide Armenian Church and People, We as
Catholicos of All Armenians, commend the Parliament of Canada for
their recognition and condemnation of the Armenian Genocide. From the
spiritual center of our nation, The Mother See Of Holy Etchmiadzin, We
offer Our prayers up to God in heaven, asking for His bountiful
blessings and His ever provident care to be with the people of Canada
and all of Mankind.

With Blessings,

Karekin II
Catholicos of All Armenians

“Lawn Display Commemorates Armenian Genocide”

CSUN Daily Sundial
Thursday, April 23, 2004

By Ani Asatryan
Contributing Writer

More than 500 red carnations and two piles of bloody bones have been
placed on display in the middle of the Oviatt Lawn this week as part
of an event organized by the Alpha Omega Alpha Armenian sorority to
commemorate the 89th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide.

`We wanted to promote awareness in the CSUN community regarding
thetragic events that took place in 1915, which has been continually
denied by the Turkish government,’ said Armine Asatryan, director of
cultural affairs forthe sorority.

The flowers scattered across the quad each represent approximately
2,700 men, women and children who were massacred by the Ottoman Empire
during World War I.

The bones, one pile slightly smaller than the other, symbolically
represent two mountains in Armenia’s history: Mount Ararat and Mount
Masis.

`The mountains have been twin pillars of hope and strength for the
Armenian people all throughout history,’ said Sylvia Barsegian,
treasurer for the sorority. `Even though the Ottoman Empire tried to
exterminate us, those mountains, just a few feet from our border,
still stand, just like the Armenian people still exist and will
continue to exist.’

The display has been attracting the attention of people passing by who
can’t help but notice the pile of bloody bones in the middle of
campus.

`When I first saw it I got goose bumps,’ said Jerry Avetisyan, junior
business major. `I’m not very involved in the Armenian community or
educated about the history. Being an Armenian myself, … if there’s
one thing every Armenian knows about, it’s the Genocide, and this pile
of bones actually puts that history into reality and you really get a
sense of what happened.’

Others didn’t react the same way toward the display and thought it was
improper.

`Some people are disturbed by it because they think it’s too harsh;
imagine the suffering of the people who had to go through it,’ said
Christina Malyan, vice president of the sorority. `If you find it
disturbing, you canalways walk away, but 1.5 million Armenians
couldn’t and the generations to follow can’ t walk away from their
history.’

Jon Pinnere, graduate senator for Associated Students, was impressed
with the display and said he was delighted to see the organization was
getting the word out.

`When I first saw it, I thought there was a funeral going on and then
I read the signs and realized it was for the Armenian Genocide,’ said
Pinnere. `I think something like this is very effective.’

`We wanted to do something to catch someone’s attention, something
unusual to entice a person to stop and look at it,’ said
Asatryan. `CMen, women and children were massacred without any
mercy and we wanted to honor their memory with our display and show
the world we have not forgotten and we never will.’

News of the display quickly spread among the Armenian community, which
reacted with support and encouragement for the organization.

`The most important thing is that students are taking a stance on this
very important issue, because students are the ones that affect social
and political change,’ said Ardashes Kassakhian, Armenian National
Committee government relations director for the Western region. `This
generation didn’t suffer the Genocide or its aftereffects and
it’s very encouraging to see them carrying the torch of justice.’

The Turkish government actively continues to deny the Armenian
Genocide. According to the Web site , Turkey
blames wartime traditions on the death of so many Armenians.

Levon Marashlian, a history professor at Glendale Community College,
believes there are two reasons why the genocide is being denied.

One of the reasons for denial is based on human nature. According to
Marashlian, it is human nature to deny faults because the Turkish
government knows they did something wrong and they are embarrassed by
it.

Another reason for the denial is the consequences Turkey will face if
it admits to the genocide.

`Admitting guilt is harmful to their national image, and Turkey is
afraid that admittance will lead to consequences and to justice,’ said
Marashlian. `It’ s like getting a speeding ticket. There are
consequences: you have to pay a fine, attend traffic school and your
insurance might go up.’

The AOA sorority is a fairly new organization on campus, having been
officially recognized as a club since November 2003.

`Our main goal with anything we do on campus is to educate the
CSUNcommunity about the Armenian culture and Armenian causes,’ said
Angineh Abed,president of the sorority. `We work toward the
advancement of our culture notonly within ourselves but with other
cultures as well.’

In its short time of existence the sorority has hosted and
participated in a series of community events, including toy drives for
Northridge Hospital and Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles, a `Feed
the Homeless’ program, and a college fair.

At the display, Abed stood silent for a moment and then sighed deeply
as she rearranged a carnation that had fallen to the ground.

`We put a lot of hard work into this project, and our main goal wasto
educate the CSUN community about the first genocide of the twentieth
century,’ said Abed. `It needs to be recognized and it still hasn’t
and even if just one person learns something new from this and knows
about our history, then we’re one step closer to justice.’

LA PRESSE (Montréal)
Le mercredi 21 avril 2004

Ottawa reconnaît l’existence du génocide arménien

Presse Canadienne
Ottawa

Le Canada est devenu mercredi l’un des rares pays à reconnaître
officiellement l’existence du génocide des Arméniens en Turquie pendant
la Première Guerre mondiale. Les députés ont voté par 153 voix contre 68
en faveur de cette reconnaissance officielle.

Les libéraux avaient été enjoints de voter contre la motion pour ne pas
choquer davantage le gouvernement turc, qui n’a jamais admis son rôle
dans le massacre de 1,5 million d’Arméniens, en 1915.

Toutefois, les députés libéraux d’arrière-banc ont voté massivement en
faveur de la motion présentée par le Bloc québécois, après un débat à
huis clos chargé d’émotion. Tous les membres du cabinet de Paul Martin
ont voté contre.

Quant au premier ministre, il n’était pas présent pour le vote et c’est
au ministre des Affaires étrangères Bill Graham qu’est revenu la tâche
de défendre la position gouvernementale.

La Turquie avait déjà fait savoir avant le vote que l’adoption de la
motion pourrait avoir des répercussions sur les relations économiques
entre les deux pays. Pour sa part, M. Graham a déclaré que le Canada
voulait maintenir les meilleures relations possibles avec le
gouvernement d’Ankara.

«La Turquie est une alliée importante de l’OTAN dans cette région et son
gouvernement musulman est modéré», a-t-il dit.

«Notre position en matière de relations étrangères est de promouvoir une
vision d’avenir. Nous préférerions que nos amis arméniens et nos amis
turcs collaborent et ne retournent pas en arrière.»

La Turquie n’a jamais reconnu l’existence du génocide arménien.
L’histoire officielle est que les désordres civils survenus à l’époque
ont coûté la vie à 600 000 Arméniens et 2,5 millions de musulmans.

Plus d’une vingtaine de pays ainsi que les Nations unies ont reconnu
jusqu’ici la véracité historique du génocide arménien.

Les députés d’opposition, incluant le chef conservateur Stephen Harper,
ont voté en faveur de la motion.

Parmi les députés d’arrière-banc libéraux qui ont voté en faveur de la
motion, on note plusieurs anciens ministres, dont Martin Cauchon,
Stéphane Dion, Lyle Vanclief, Lawrence MacAulay et Herb Dhaliwal.

Radio Canada
22 Avril 2004

Les Communes reconnaissent le génocide arménien

La Chambre des communes a adopté, mercredi, un texte reconnaissant
que la Turquie avait commis un génocide contre les Arméniens en 1915,
et elle a condamné cet acte comme étant un crime contre l’humanité.

Une vaste majorité de députés de la Chambre (153 contre 68), dont de
nombreux libéraux, ont voté en faveur de cette motion, déposée par
une députée bloquiste, malgré l’avis défavorable du ministre des
Affaires étrangères, Bill Graham.

M. Graham souhaitait éviter de froisser le gouvernement turc, qui n’a
jamais admis son rôle dans le massacre de 1,5 million d’Arméniens.

La Turquie a déjà fait savoir avant le vote aux Communes que
l’adoption de la motion pourrait avoir des répercussions sur les
relations économiques entre les deux pays.

.
Bill Graham
.
Pour sa part, le ministre Graham a déclaré que le Canada voulait
maintenir les meilleures relations possibles avec Ankara.

Il a souligné que la Turquie était un partenaire important au sein de
l’OTAN et que la politique étrangere du Canada encourage actuellement
le rapprochement entre l’Arménie et la Turquie.

Il a dit espérer que la Turquie comprendrait que ce sont les députés
qui s’expriment inidividuellement sur une question de conscience.

Parmi les députés libéraux qui ont voté en faveur de la motion, on
note plusieurs anciens ministres, dont Martin Cauchon, Stéphane Dion,
Lyle Vanclief, Lawrence MacAulay et Herb Dhaliwal.

Plus d’une vingtaine de pays ainsi que les Nations unies ont reconnu
jusqu’ici le génocide arménien.

En 1996, la Chambre des communes a reconnu la tragédie qui a frappé
les Arméniens à la chute de l’Empire ottoman. Elle a cependant refusé
d’évoquer un génocide.

A1 Plus | 15:11:46 | 22-04-2004 | Politics |

ASHOT MANUCHARYAN BEATEN

Ashot Manucharyan was taken to hospital. He was beaten at “Grand Holding”
side street in Tumanyan Street.

Witnesses tell those beating were skin-head young men. We phoned Manucharyan
‘s house and found his family members don’t yet know the accident.

At 3:00 PM data, Manucharyan is in Rehabilitation Department. His face and
chin were operated on. Doctor informs he has recovered consciousness.
Neither the representatives of defense organizations nor Media were allowed
to meet him.