the armenian Number 20 July 14, 2007 reporter

International Will Armenian-Azerbaijani dialogue continue? President Kocharian in On June 28, 2007, a joint Arme- Hrachya Arzumanian, a Step- nian-Azerbaijani delegation visited anakert-based contributor to the working visit to France Karabakh, Armenia, and Azerbai- Armenian Reporter interviewed jan. This initiative was realized Dr. Ludmila Grigorian, a physician after a year and a half of bilateral and civic activist from Stepanakert, discussions. The visited was a de- who was part of this unique del- meets President Sarkozy parture from Azerbaijan’s usual egation. Her thoughts and insight hostile rhetoric and policy. But it make for a compelling story. is still unclear, if the trip will open the way for more dialogue or be- Concludes Year of come an exception from the norm. See story on page A3 m Armenia in France

International by Emil Sanamyan Armenian congressional caucus member Rep. PARIS – President Nicolas Sarkozy John Tierney talks about his trip Azerbaijan of France and President Robert Ko- charian of Armenia held an hour- Representative John Tierney (D.- Azerbaijani government put out a long meeting at the Élysée Palace Mass.) has been a longtime sup- press release saying that “consider- on July 12, continuing the close porter of the Armenian causes in ing the activities of the Armenian high-level relationship the two Congress. As part of his work on community” the congressman was countries’ successive leaders have the congressional Select Intel- happy to hear the other side. Our developed over the last decade. ligence Committee, Rep. Tierney Washington Editor Emil Sanamyan “We have reconfirmed all the was in Azerbaijan last week where talked to Rep. Tierney to see if that goals we set in the past, and we he discussed U.S. concerns about made a difference in his views on have also tried to outline new areas Iran and other issues with Azeri of- Karabakh. of cooperation,” Mr. Kocharian said. President Sarkozy received President Kocharian at the Élysée Palace. Photolure. ficials. “It was a very specific and pragmatic On the issue of Karabakh, the See story on page A2 m discussion, and I am satisfied with and Bernard Accoyer of the Nation- Mr. Sarkozy’s predecessor as its outcome and the atmosphere of al Assembly. president, Jacques Chirac, made a our meeting. We are going to con- Armenia’s president was last in state visit to Armenia last fall. Mr. Armenia tinue our contacts.” France in February of this year, Chirac’s visit kicked off the Year of Pres. Kocharian’s working visit when he first met with Mr. Sarkozy, Armenia in France. Mr. Kocharian’s on July 11–13 also included meet- who was then the French interior visit marks the conclusion of the ings with the presidents of the two minister and a presidential candi- program on July 14, which com- chambers of the French legislature date. Mr. Sarkozy was elected presi- prised some 400 cultural events all – Christian Poncelet of the Senate dent in May. over France. f Alex and Marie Manoogian’s earthly remains arrive in Holy Etchmiadzin

YEREVAN – The earthly remains of Alex and Marie Manoogian will be reinterred in Holy Etchmiadzin on July 17, the Mother See an- nounced last week. Mr. Manoogian, a National Hero of the Republic Aram Antonyan, blacksmith, sculptor, Armenian, is the hero of a new in- of Armenia, was Life President of stallment of Armen Hakobyan’s Armenia at Work series. the Armenian General Benevolent See story on page A6 m Union. He died in 1996. Mrs. Ma- noogian had died in 1992. They had previously been interred in Detroit. Community On Friday, July 13, the caskets arrived in Armenia. Louise Manoo- gian Simone, the daughter of Alex Crime Beat: In gang-related shootings in Southern and Marie Manoogian, and other California, police get little cooperation Manoogian family members were The remains of Alex and Marie Manoogian lie in state in the St. Gayane monastery in on hand, as was Berge Setrakian, Vahgarshapat, awaiting the June 17 reburial at Holy Etchmiadzin. Photo: Photolure. Marat Manukyan, 18, was killed ate and allow killers to roam the president of the Armenian General on April 26 in gang violence, Jason streets than to put themselves Benevolent Union. caskets were placed inside the sanc- of our people dispersed throughout Kandel writes. in a position where they’d have His Holiness Karekin II, the Ca- tuary, where they will lie in repose the world,” Karekin II said. A 17-year-old boy was held on to testify,” Pinner said. “We need tholicos of All Armenians, National until July 17. “They created the luminous path suspicion of murder. But the Los general, everyday community Assembly Speaker Tigran Torosian, Inside the monastery, the ca- of their own lives, as well as the Angeles District Attorney declined members to make the system Prime Minister Serge Sargsian, and tholicos offered a solemn requiem. lives of countless Armenians, with to file charges for lack of evidence. function properly. Without that other dignitaries were at the air- “Our free land receives today its the faith and vision of a renewed, Witnesses wouldn’t cooperate, De- cooperation, we end up with cases port to greet the Air France flight. dedicated scions . . . who lived and prosperous, and flourishing home- tective Martin Pinner said. like this.” The cortege moved from the contributed selfless efforts for the land.” f The case remains unresolved. airport to the Monastery of Saint love of the renaissance and vibran- “They’d rather not cooper- See story on page B8 m Gayane in Vagharshapat, and the cy of the spiritual and national life See editorial on page A10 m

Huberta von Voss The Lark Farm draws portraits of Armenians here, there, and Jazz against racism everywhere Page C8 Page C3 Page C10 A2 The Armenian Reporter | July 14, 2007 International Genocide scholars honor Ambassador John Evans

by Emil Sanamyan for calling upon the United States While “nothing can fully com- unclaimed policies held by Arme- government to recognize the Ar- pensate the Armenian people for nians who were murdered in the menian Genocide.” the death and destruction they suf- Genocide, saying “more needs to YEREVAN – The diplomat whose ca- In his prepared remarks, made fered,” Mr. Evans added, “at a mini- be done.” reer was cut short by the U.S. State available to the Armenian Reporter, mum the truth should be affirmed,” “Bottling up the truth and Department after he spoke openly Mr. Evans stressed that his effort as has been done in various national treating it as taboo gets us pre- about the Armenian Genocide was was certainly in a different league parliaments and can be done in the cisely nowhere,” he stressed. honored by the International Asso- from that of Mr. Wallenberg, the U.S. Congress should the House of “This long-standing problem dat- ciation of Genocide Scholars (IAGS) Swedish humanitarian who under Representatives’ leadership sched- ing from the early years of the this week. diplomatic cover in World War II ule a vote on House Resolution 106, 20th century needs to be fairly Former U.S. Ambassador to Ar- Hungary helped protect Jews from supported by 221 members of Con- and honestly dealt with, for the menia John Evans received the as- the Nazi Holocaust. gress as of July 12. good of both Armenians and sociation’s Raoul Wallenberg award “I simply violated a strict taboo, IAGS, which is chaired by the Is- Turks, and for the future stabil- on July 12 during the association’s and differed publicly with my raeli scholar Dr. Israel Charny, has ity of the region.” week-long conference in Sarajevo government, when, at UCLA and previously spoken out in support At the same conference, another in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Berkeley in 2005, I used the term of defining as genocide the Arme- IAGS award went to Turkish publish- The IAGS conference agenda said ‘genocide’ to describe – accurately, nian experience in the Ottoman er Ragip Zarakolu for “outstanding that the award went to Mr. Evans in my view – what happened to Empire contributions to the battle against “for speaking out when diplomats the Armenians of Anatolia in 1915,” Mr. Evans also pointed to the deniers of the Armenian Genocide are expected to remain silent, and Mr. Evans said. recent insurance settlements over and all denials of Genocides.” f John Evans. U.S., Azerbaijani officials discuss security issues

Azerbaijan’s flict in one of its reports. (The State self-determination.” And, he added, Washington-based Freedom House Department later reversed that de- “there’s no universal formula… to reported the same day. democracy record cision.) do that.” The organization’s executive di- While the United States is seek- Mr. Bryza did not raise Azerbai- rector Elizabeth Windsor said in and threats over ing Azerbaijan’s cooperation to jan’s continued threats to launch a statement that Azerbaijan, like undermine Russian energy domi- a war in Karabakh. He described Cuba and Egypt, “arrests journal- Karabakh are nance in Eurasia and help contain cooperation on security, energy, ists for practicing their profession, Iran, Azerbaijan’s own domestic and democratic reform as the stifles meaningful political compe- glossed over record and threatening posture to- three focal issues in bilateral dis- tition, shows a blatant disregard ward Armenia appear to be taking cussions. for internationally recognized hu- by Emil Sanamyan a back seat. Asked by the Armenian Reporter man rights, and seeks to isolate its In a July 9 press conference, whether the matter of the recently people from the global dialogue on Mr. Azimov said that his govern- intensified crackdown on mass me- freedom.” WASHINGTON – U.S. and Azer- ment was ready for an “increased dia in Azerbaijan, particularly the Unlike Cuba, which is under U.S. baijani officials discussed se- partnership with the U.S. whose imprisonment of Eynulla Fatul- embargo, both Egypt and Azerbai- curity cooperation in talks held commitment to Azerbaijan’s . . . layev, had been raised in talks, Mr. jan, including their security agen- here this week. Deputy Foreign sovereignty and total integrity re- Bryza said, “We’re going to do it cies directly implicated in human Minister Araz Azimov led a del- mains unswerving,” a veiled ref- probably tomorrow.” rights violations, are recipients of egation to the U.S. that included erence to Azerbaijan’s claims on But Mr. Azimov retorted that U.S. assistance. officials from six of Azerbaijan’s Karabakh. such issues are not “related to When first announced last week, seven militarized agencies for the Deputy Assistant Secretary of the current agenda of my pres- the Congressional hearing was “10th annual bilateral security dia- State Matt Bryza weighed in that ence here” and that security co- titled “Is there a Human Rights logue.” while his government has a “deep operation and democratic issues Double Standard: U.S. Policy to- The visit was originally scheduled commitment to Azerbaijan’s . . . should be addressed separately. Deputy Foreign Minister Azimov of ward Azerbaijan, Cuba, and Egypt?” for April but it was postponed after territorial integrity,” in the matter Meantime, U.S. human rights Azerbaijan. Photo: Armenian Reporter. But earlier this week the title was Azerbaijan protested a decision by of the Karabakh conflict it is also advocates argued during a July changed to “Ideals vs. Reality in the State Department to correct a looking for a compromise between 12 congressional hearing that the ance human rights promotion Human Rights and U.S. Foreign passage about the Karabakh con- that principle and “people’s right to United States “could better bal- with other strategic interests,” the Policy.” f Rep. Tierney discusses Iran concerns with Azerbaijani officials Clarifies his position interview on July 13 that the focus Caucus [in Congress], so I did not operatively in the understanding was really Iran. want them to think that I was go- that Iran poses a potential threat on the Karabakh AzerTag also reported that “con- ing there surreptitiously. I also told to all of them . . . whether through sidering the activities of the Ar- them that I was married to an Ar- international terrorism or other- conflict menian community in the United menian, so [the Karabakh issue] wise.” States, [Rep. Tierney] stressed the feels closer to home.” Mr. Tierney added that in Azer- by Emil Sanamyan importance of the comprehensive Discussing his position on the baijan one of the topics discussed information he received about conflict, Mr. Tierney made it clear was “the large Azeri population in [Azerbaijan] and the Armenian- that he and other Caucus mem- Iran and how that situation can YEREVAN – Rep. John Tierney Azerbaijani, Nagorno-Karabakh bers “oppose the blockade, oppose go both ways. To some extent this (D.-Mass), a member of the Select conflict during his meetings.” violence, oppose any renewed ag- could be a force that could moder- Committee on Intelligence, was last Asked whether the description gression, and want the will of the ate things going into Iran, because week in Baku where he met senior was accurate, Mr. Tierney said he people of Nagorno-Karabakh to be they have a concern that those Azerbaijani officials on July 3. “assume[s] that the [Azeri officials] respected.” folks not turn against Iran and be- Although Azerbaijan’s state news are putting the best face on what Mr. Tierney confirmed that the come a problem. On the other hand agency AzerTag reported the next they wanted to talk about and that trip was part of his work on the it makes things difficult, because it day that talks focused on bilateral is to be expected.” intelligence committee. “The con- facilitates infiltration from Iran, relations, Rep. Tierney told the “They were quite aware that I cern that we have is that [the Cau- intelligence and other people, into Rep. John Tierney. Armenian Reporter in a telephone am a member of the Armenian casus countries] work with us co- Azerbaijan.” f Second European-Armenian convention set for October

in a news release. in a rapidly changing Europe. The t Europe’s role in peace and for the Second Convention of the Conferees to develop The pan-European convention, gathering will be an opportunity security in the South Caucasus re- European Armenians, to attend to be held October 15 and 16 in the also to meet with European leaders. gion and actively take part in its delib- new Armenian halls of the European Parliament, Among the key issues to be ad- t Ongoing Armenian Genocide erations, and to lend their unique is being organized by the European dressed are the EU’s partial freez- recognition efforts and the strug- contributions to developing a expectations of an Armenian Federation. ing of negotiations with an increas- gle to counter Genocide denial common message that we can de- The convention comes on the ingly intransigent Turkey, and the The European Armenian Federa- liver to European civic society and evolving Europe 20th anniversary of the European evolution of the union’s relations tion promises to send European- leadership,” said Hilda Tchoboian, Union’s landmark resolution rec- with Armenia and the entire South Armenian associations, groups, chairperson of the European Ar- BRUSSELS – The growth of the Ar- ognizing the Armenian Genocide. Caucasus region. and organizations a preliminary menian Federation. menian community as a powerful It promises to provide European The convention will be organized document outlining its priorities. The European Armenian Fed- voice in the civic life of Europe will citizens of Armenian heritage the around three main sessions: “We invite all the members of eration encourages all those who mark a major milestone with the opportunity to share views, discuss t Twenty years of progress our European-Armenian commu- wish to attend the Convention to convening, this October, of the sec- priorities, and build consensus on since the recognition of the Ar- nities and all the many diverse begin registering now by email ond Convention of European Ar- the current issues and future chal- menian Genocide by the European European-Armenian associations or via the http://www.eafjd.org menians, the organizers promised lenges Armenia and Armenians face Parliament to participate in the preparations website. f The Armenian Reporter | July 14, 2007 A3 International Will Armenian-Azerbaijani dialogue continue?

– the old one, where his father was who raised three orphans, that I even our hungry children would Ludmila Grigorian born, and the newer one now oc- was wounded, and I don’t want to come up to these trucks to take the cupied by a family displaced from continue that list because it would candy. recounts June 28 Getashen [under Azerbaijani con- only distance us from the goals we You could call it insanity, perhaps trol since 1991]. Polad talked to the identified. There is so much pessi- it was. But that was Artsakh’s de- meeting and looks woman living there and as he was mism in your voice that it leaves termination in those difficult years. leaving shook her hand and said: me without a hope for the future Azerbaijan could not buy us when to the future “Please, continue to live here. When – and I am not even talking about we were hungry, when we were fac- someone lives in a house, it stands. resolving our issues, I am talking ing war and had no weapons to de- It would have been worse, if no one about having a dialogue between fend ourselves. Editor’s Note: For nearly a lived here.” our nations.” Today, we can fend for ourselves, year and a half, the ambassadors After leaving Shushi we went to Pres. Aliyev appeared to become we are supported by the Armenian of Armenia and Azerbaijan to Rus- the heliport and flew to Yerevan for agitated, but I went on: Diaspora and we are not hungry. So, sia, Armen Smbatian and Polad a meeting with President Robert “You are talking about hundreds I told Polad, don’t try to bribe us Bul-bul-ogly, developed and lob- Kocharian, who welcomed us and of thousands of refugees, who live today - this demeans both you and bied for the idea of a joint trip to talked about the need for such con- in inhuman conditions. I am sorry us. Let us try to build our ties on a Karabakh and the capitals of Arme- tacts, and that such efforts were – but did this rich country, which we different basis. nia and Azerbaijan. This unique ini- long overdue. Then the heads of just saw, find no funds or a decent HA: Did the Azerbaijani Ambas- tiative finally materialized on June the Azerbaijani and our delegation place to settle your own compatri- sador understand your last mes- 28, and, in addition to the ambas- once again outlined the initiative. ots? You are keeping them in reser- sage? sadors themselves, it involved four Pres. Kocharian then suggested vations, because you cannot afford LG: I think so. During that entire other prominent individuals from that I, as the only representative to provide them with a decent liv- day, he openly expressed his inter- each side. from Karabakh, should say a few ing? I am sorry – but years ago not est in me and by extension in Kara- Dr. Ludmila Grigorian, a phy- words as well. Without violating a fewer number of refugees were bakh. He was trying to understand, sician and civic activist from Step- the mission’s format, he made it settled in the Armenian states, and how we live, what we think about, anakert, was the only female par- clear to everyone that no matter today they are full-fledged citizens. what we are striving to achieve. ticipant. She shared her impressions Ludmila Grigorian. the level of the cultural dialogue Or perhaps you are keeping refu- HA: Will the initiative be contin- with Hrachya Arzumanian on between Armenia and Azerbaijan, gees in tent cities to use them as ued? July 5, 2007, in Stepanakert. it and lost their loved ones in it. the Karabakh issue cannot be dis- a catalyst for anti-Armenian senti- LG: I would not rule it out. I told I think I do have the right to re- cussed without Karabakh itself. Af- ments, to stoke hatred and call for Pres. Aliyev that while politicians ally say what war is while sincerely ter that meeting which concluded war? are looking for a political solution, HA: How did you first become wishing for peace. on a friendly note, we were taken “We are not overestimating our two nations are drifting further involved in civic activism and hu- And I did have previous contacts to the Sergei Parajanov museum the importance of today’s meet- apart from each other, and when a man rights issues? with Azerbaijani intelligentsia which impressed everyone. ings. And I am certainly far from mutually agreed solution is found LG: I was born in a family of vet- through the Helsinki-92 Initiative Then we were taken back to our thinking that we can resolve the there will be an issue of whether eran Communist Party members - starting in 1993 I participated in bus and the plane. We landed in Karabakh problem in half an hour. our societies are ready to accept it. and our home was always full of meetings held in the United States, Baku, where we were met by rep- All we wanted is to receive your What prevents us from preparing conversations about Karabakh, its Stepanakert and Vanadzor, so per- resentatives of their Ministries of approval for our contacts in the our societies today, so that they fate, its future. So for me, civic ac- sonally I was ready for such con- Foreign Affairs and National Securi- spheres of science and culture. Our can help prod politicians towards tivism was very natural and some- tacts. ty. The atmosphere was rather calm, presidents supported us, but your a solution? what of a norm. My husband and I HA: How was the June 28 meet- even friendly. Baku has changed pessimistic tone has put an end to Another possibility is that the were living in Leninakan [Ed. – now ing arranged? significantly in recent years, with the atmosphere of good will that contacts will go back to the level of Gyumri] when the Karabakh Move- LG: Just a week earlier I got a a lot of construction taking place. we enjoyed from nine o’clock this non-governmental organizations. ment began in early 1988, and we telephone call. They told me that Some of the Armenian delegation morning until now.” This seems to be likely, consider- moved to Stepanakert to be in the such a meeting could possibly take members remembered the old There was silence in the room for ing the information campaign now middle of it all. place and asked if I could take part Baku and that was well received by a while, with everyone unwilling to underway in the Azerbaijani me- I was certainly not a public per- in it. I agreed, even though I have the Azerbaijani participants. break the pause. Then Pres. Aliyev dia [against the Ambassadors’ ini- sona or a politician back then and to tell you that to the end I doubted We went into the presidential said, “Yes, your presidents can af- tiative]. From the Armenian side my participation in this move- that the mission would go through. palace, with its Middle Eastern ex- ford to be welcoming and friendly there are no artificial obstacles ment was more a realization of my We met in Stepanakert. The travagance, and were ushered into because they are talking from the and we are ready to discuss all the spiritual drive and principles. Our meeting’s tone was set by Ambas- President Ilham Aliyev’s reception position of victors and not the van- issues raised. But is Azerbaijani home was near Stepanakert’s main sadors Polad Bul-bul-ogly and Ar- hall. We waited for 15 to 20 min- quished.” society ready? Those whom I know square, which became the focal men Smbatian. It turned out that utes. The protocol demanded that And at that moment, I have to and with whom we have been in point of non-stop demonstrations several of the participants had every one of us stood behind the say I did feel like a victor. I thought touch during the latest mission and strikes. Initially, I saw my role known each other for some time, chair on which we were to sit down. to myself: With all the riches his are probably ready. There is edu- as assisting those taking part in so it helped set an atmosphere of And so we waited standing up until country has, can Pres. Aliyev suffer cated youth that should meet and the demonstrations, and I thought good will right from the start. Pres. Aliyev arrived. from so many complexes that he debate. that politicians should be left to After a quick breakfast, we went When he did, he greeted every- could not even afford us diplomatic The issue is who will prevail in deal with serious issues. But step to meet with NKR President Arkady one rather coldly. I think all partici- tact and tone? Azerbaijani society – the initia- by step, I began to be drawn into Ghoukasian. I want to give credit pants noted the striking difference After several general phrases the tive’s participants and others like the movement, becoming an active to our President for his diplomatic between the good will of the Arme- meeting was over. them or those who are now orga- participant in various meetings tact. Azerbaijani participants spoke nian Presidents and the cold, even After that we visited the Arme- nizing the campaign against them and public addresses. first noting that the current format tense reception of the Azerbaijani nian Church building in Baku. On in the media. So far, the general Then the war came along with of the official peace negotiations one. the outside it is pretty much the atmosphere in Azerbaijan remains its brutality. The loss of my hus- does not provide for developing The meeting began with Polad same, but inside there is now a tense and intolerant. Such is Azer- band, my own serious injury and contacts between the two societies briefly explaining the point of the state library. They say the govern- baijani society, its political elite subsequent treatment in various and that the initiative was intend- initiative. Then it was Pres. Aliyev’s ment decided to put the library and it is a major problem for all cities and lengthy rehabilitation ed to fill that gap. turn. Without changing his facial there to prevent it from being de- of us. - the story of my family is typical President Ghoukasian welcomed expressions he began to repeat all stroyed by local nationalists. “We To sum up, today, we are facing for Karabakh families that bore the initiative. He said that com- the formulas that he frequently could not save it in any other way,” a paradox; while at first a hand is the brunt of the war. Following my promises are inevitable as part of uses at official meetings; about the said Polad. extended from the Azerbaijani side rehabilitation, I returned to Kara- any settlement, but compromises seven occupied districts and hun- Then there was dinner and infor- it is also being pulled back from the bakh to head a front line field hos- could not be made to an enemy. For dreds of thousands of refugees. mal conversations, during which same side. We are left to wait until pital for the army’s Assault Regi- compromises to become possible As I was listening, it became clear Polad tried to broach ways that Azerbaijani society is ready for nor- ment, then to become the army’s there must be more communica- to me that a continuation of our would bring Karabakh under Azer- mal contacts and relations, which chief therapist. Currently, I am tion, good will and trust between mission would be quite problem- baijani sovereignty. would without doubt benefit the Chief of Therapy in theNKR Health the sides. But so far Azerbaijan and atic. I am the type of person who “You know,” he said, “Azerbaijani entire South Caucasus. Ministry. its various representatives have tries to identify a constructive ele- oil is really black gold. And I no- P.S. During July 9 State Depart- HA: Why do you think you were flatly refused talking with Nago- ment in any situation, in this case ticed that life is difficult for you [in ment press conference held jointly invited to take part in this initia- rno Karabakh. In conclusion, Pres. I was just flabbergasted. I did not Karabakh]…” Then he would try to by U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary tive? Ghoukasian pledged his support want to speak up aggressively, but I present an optimistic scenario of of State Matt Bryza and Azerbai- LG: Perhaps it was my indepen- for such initiatives in the future. did not want to pretend either. All how the Azerbaijani oil could make jani Deputy Foreign Minister Araz dent image – I never parroted any- I think these points were well I wanted to do at that moment was Karabakh flourish. Azimov, the Armenian Reporter one. I can collect myself in difficult taken by the Azerbaijani delega- just to leave quietly. Well, I told the Ambassador, in asked if there was an effort to build moments and be absurdly brave at tion. And it was just then that Polad the early days of the Karabakh on the June 28 meetings. Mr. Bryza times. My experience in the inde- Following the meeting there was said, “Mr. President, I wanted a Movement in 1988 [after the anti- called the visit “a significant devel- pendence movement from its very a trip to Shushi, where Polad [Amb. participant from Karabakh to say Armenian violence began in Azer- opment… a major, serious, confi- first days and my war record - all Bul-bul-ogly] visited a mosque and a few words – Ludmila Grigorian baijan], we decided to cut off all dence-building measure,” yet “not a these factors taken together prob- his father’s home. At the mosques is a doctor, a representative of the links with Azerbaijan. The Soviet breakthrough.” ably led to the [NKR] leadership de- we, including the Azerbaijani del- humanitarian profession.” Union was still around, but Kara- Mr. Azimov said he did not an- ciding to suggest me for participa- egation, saw preparatory works So, at that point there was no go- bakh was blockaded, there was a ticipate an immediate follow-up. tion in this initiative. underway for its restoration. ing back. real threat of hunger. “The [June 28] visit has not been I do believe that I am one of those Moreover, Polad suggested that “Mr. President,” I began, “if it On occasion, Azerbaijan would charged with a concrete task, be- people who have the moral right to should our initiative be approved, was not for your words and your dispatch food supplies by rail or cause it was, again, an initiative speak in the name of those who he would request that Azerbaijani tone, which differed so much from on trucks to curry favor with us, of the two ambassadors of Azer- saw that war, those who fought in masters be allowed to take part in what we heard from two of our but we would refuse it. [At the baijan and Armenia to Russia.” He restoration works. Presidents earlier, I would just time Stepanakert was controlled described it more as an exercise Hrachya Arzumanian, Ph.D., is a Step- Then we walked down to the limit myself to a simple greeting. by Soviet internal security forces.] to collect “more objective infor- anakert-based contributor to the Arme- home of the Ambassador’s late fa- But you decided to go beyond the There would be unguarded trucks mation” rather than a confidence- nian Reporter. Washington Editor Emil ther [prominent folk singer Mur- framework of the mission, and I with candy, pastries, coffee in building effort the two ambassa- Sanamyan contributed to this story. tuz Mamedov known as “Bul-bul”] am forced to say that I am a widow Stepanakert’s main square. But not dors talked about. f A4 The Armenian Reporter | July 14, 2007 International

A “gathering of visionaries and futurists” at first ArmTech Conference

by Michael McAllister most open and liberal, Oskanian address deficiencies in the educa- ditional human resources. It was funding in basic and long-term said Armenians should take great tion of Armenia’s rural students. also recommended that Armenia research projects. pride in the political and economic Oskanian called research and begin educating their students at Challenges to Armenia’s high SAN FRANCISCO – The growth of reforms made in the past fifteen development the “weak link in the younger ages in developing com- tech industry, as discussed at the Armenia’s high technology industry years, but cautioned that further chain of our economic develop- puter skills. conference, included the delay and was the major goal of the ArmTech work was needed. “Let’s admit it,” ment.” He urged conference par- Rich Goldman, ArmTech co-chair mishandling of computer equip- conference this past weekend in he said. “Those reforms were the ticipants to become more engaged and CEO of Synopsis Armenia, a ment in Customs; the lack of main- San Francisco. ArmTech, the debut easier ones. The most obvious ones. in deepening the cooperation be- high tech company specializing tenance for sophisticated computer conference organized by the Silicon The most necessary ones. To be able tween scientists in Armenia and in electronic design automation equipment; the inadequate collec- Valley-based Armenian Technology to tap new resources, we’ve got to scientists throughout the world. (EDA), informed ArmTech partici- tion of taxes; the need for more Congress, was held at San Francis- engage with the second generation “Our scientists need to be nurtured,” pants that concrete developments reliable broadband Internet con- co’s Fairmont Hotel July 4–7. Orga- of political and economic reforms.” he said. “They need to be engaged. had occurred due to discussions nection; and the situation with nizers brought together represen- According to Oskanian, part of They need to be exposed to the made at the conference. First was the dram, which can prohibit new tatives of industry, government, Armenia’s recent prevalence in its Western style of doing things.” the formation of a coalition of Ar- investments. and higher education from both region was due to the comparative Echoing many of Oskanian’s menia’s EDA companies to address ArmTech ‘07’s closing session Armenia and the United States to problems of its neighbors. Those comments, ArmTech program co- the educational issues raised at the also included a panel on the future present potential investors with a neighbors, Oskanian said, were in ordinator Yervant Zorian present- conference. The coalition’s first of ArmTech, which is envisioned look at the current economic cli- the process of searching for and un- ed a summary of the concerns and meeting will be in Yerevan in Sep- as occurring every two years. Or- mate in Armenia, and with various locking their potential. But today conclusions discussed during the tember. Secondly, Synopsis agreed ganizers solicited feedback from investment opportunities. those potentials have materialized conference’s various panels and to fund a named professor seat in participants during this session, The conference, which attracted and Armenia’s neighbors are reap- presentations. Again and again, the microelectronics department and while most who gave feedback over two hundred registrants from ing the benefits. “So the nature of representatives of industries such at Russian-Armenian State Univer- spoke encouragingly of the debut around the world, arranged presen- our competition in the region has as software, telecommunications, sity. To attract younger professors, conference, they did make several tations and panels into various pro- changed,” he said. “We cannot and superconductors, spoke about the seat would have an age limit, suggestions, including a greater gram tracks, including Education, maintain our competitiveness in the challenge of “human capital.” and would be funded at a more at- emphasis on professional network- Software, Telecommunications, the region if we do not constantly Today the most pressing issue fac- tractive salary. The professorship ing; a greater emphasis on present- Research and Development, and seek out new resources. Those re- ing Armenia’s high tech industry, at would be introduced this coming ing the collective capabilities of Professional Networking. Between sources will come from Armenian least according to conference par- fall semester. Armenians to non-Armenians; a panels the conference participants and Diaspora,” he said. “It is pre- ticipants, was the need for a larger Aside from educational issues, focus on getting larger American socialized over coffee in a lunch cisely these kinds of gatherings pool of educated high tech work- program coordinator Yervant Zo- companies, such as Intel and Mi- room where various government that provide those resources. You ers, and a larger pool of high tech rian mentioned other recommen- crosoft, to participate in the next agencies and high tech companies represent nationhood across bor- educators at the university level. dations for Armenia’s high tech conference; providing simultane- with headquarters or branches in ders,” he told the conference par- Today’s young technologists invari- industry: the creation of an IT ous translation of the conference Armenia had set up informational ticipants. ably find work in the high tech in- zone, with tax incentives; the cre- into Armenian; and a greater par- displays. Other social events in- Oskanian highlighted two areas dustries, leaving possible careers in ation of a venture capital fund in ticipation from Russian represen- cluded a bay cruise on Thursday that Armenia needs to address in higher education for larger salaries the software industry; the forma- tatives. night and a formal banquet with its development; education, and at corporations. Armenia’s educa- tion of a single government body More than one participant re- dancing on Friday night. research and development. Citing tors are aging, and its educational to look after the industry, to pro- marked that two years was a long Armenian Foreign Minister the growth of the knowledge-based institutions are losing potential re- vide a bridge to the outside world, time to wait between conferences, Vartan Oskanian addressed the economy, Oskanian said that Ar- searchers to the companies. and to promote the industry in and recommendations were made participants at Saturday’s closing menia must revamp its educational But even the corporations, with Western markets; the formation to form smaller conferences in session, calling the conference a system, to provide its students not their larger pockets, are having of Armenian “presences” in vari- the interim, possibly in Arme- “gathering of visionaries and fu- only with facts and information, trouble recruiting the necessary ous high tech centers like Silicon nia itself, as well as in locations turists.” He mentioned the issues but to also enable them to turn numbers of skilled workers. Vari- Valley; the encouragment of Dias- with considerable Diaspora rep- that Armenia faced in its first years that knowledge into assets with ous recommendations were made: pora executives to bring business resentation. At the very end of of independence, issues largely of which they can remain competitive greater collaboration between to Armenia; the creation of an on- the closing session, registrants survival. “But Armenia’s demands in the increasingly globalized world. higher education and industries; line “portal” for the sharing of sci- from various countries, includ- have changed,” he said. “We move He challenged the conference par- revision of current university cur- entific discoveries, developments, ing Brazil, Canada, and France, from humanitarian needs to devel- ticipants to become involved in riculum; more on-the-job training; and documents; the creation of had volunteered themselves for opmental needs.” Pointing to stud- the Rural Development Program, the establishment of a two-year as- another portal to provide infor- regional committees, in an effort ies that have ranked Armenia’s re- recently adopted by the Armenian sociate’s degree in high tech fields mation on funding and research to extend the work done at the cent economy as among the world’s Fund mandate, which in part will to populate the industry with ad- grants; and more government conference. f Oskanian calls for partnerships among specialists and professionals

What follows is the text of the remarks them. Armenian statehood is con- perspective of the economic and delivered by Foreign Minister Vartan solidated. We are on the path of de- political elites and their interests. Oskanian at the ArmTech 2007 confer- mocracy. We do have an economy Let’s not forget that those reforms ence in San Francisco. that is consistently rated open and were the most obvious. They suc- I want to congratulate all of you, liberal. Each of these triumphs is a ceeded due first and foremost to and especially Tony Moroyan and source of pride. the resiliency of our people, faith the committee that succeeded in and commitment in the future, and attracting you here for what can their hard work. Now, we have com- only be described as a gathering of Don’t build school pleted and exhausted those initial, visionaries and futurists. buildings or construct straightforward transformations. This is the second time in a week Today, we need additional, deeper, that I’ve had a chance to address a water pipes. There indispensable, second-generation large, organized group of specialists are already generous reforms which are more difficult to from Armenia and the diaspora, to- identity, formulate and adopt. Foreign Minister gether. Last Saturday morning, in donors who will do Second, regionally, we man- Vartan Oskanian. Yerevan, I spoke to 1700 health care that. You help to aged to compete with and beat File photo: professionals who were exploring our neighbors in this decade and Photolure. ways of bringing their know-how to devise a program a half when our neighbors were Armenia’s health care institutions. that will provide our still in the process of seeking their day, we have statehood and we have occasion of this gathering to com- I’m not a physician. Nor am I an advantages. Today, the situation territory. But our traditions, history, mit to nurturing the innovators of IT professional, but I flew 20 hours village students with is strikingly different. Today, our identity and connections – and of today and tomorrow. to tell you what I told them: part- computer skills. neighbors’ strengths are no lon- course potential -- extend beyond First, we must invest thought nership among specialists and pro- ger just potential tools; they are that territory. “You don’t belong to a and money in education: Capital- fessionals is the way of the future already exploiting their real assets place,” William Saroyan once wrote, ism has mutated in a way that puts for Armenia-Diaspora relations. and reaping the benefits. Therefore, “until one of your family has been a premium on a knowledge econo- Fifteen years and more have now that the nature of our compe- placed into its ground.” With that my, on technologies, on individual passed since we gained, or re-gained, Our triumphs, as well our fail- tition has changed, Armenia must logic, we belong everywhere. skills and on flexibility in both la- independence. Since we are living ures, were created by all of us, to- exercise the resiliency that is part The Diaspora expands the geo- bor and business. It is education this history and not watching it gether, inherited by us all, together, of our national character to find or graphic reach of our nation. It also that is going to produce self-reliant from afar or reading about it, the and like it or not, will serve as the create new resources, in order to expands our capacity. We thrive on citizens and feed the knowledge- full import of this transformational basis of the agenda we develop to- preserve our favorable position. synthesis. We soak up what oth- based economy that is the basis of event is not yet fully clear for us. gether for our country’s develop- Some of those new resources will ers have to offer and adapt it for the new capitalism. If our children Of course, there are already vari- ment in the next period of our his- come from Armenia, some from the our own use. In turn, we create, used to learn for the sake of learn- ous assessments of this period. But tory. No group should take credit Diaspora. None of those are under innovate, contribute to the pool ing, now they must learn to survive. there is one achievement that is for our successes, no group should the earth, our resources are around of knowledge that is modern civi- Our schools and institutions must unquestionable: despite the most be blamed for our mistakes. the earth. Groups such as this are lization. In this increasingly knowl- do more than teach dates and fig- dire, most restrictive, most acute To move forward, we must ac- part of those new resources. You rep- edge-based global economy, the ures, they must teach how to turn social and economic conditions, to knowledge two important, new re- resent nationhood without borders. wealth of a nation is determined by knowledge into an asset in order everyone’s great astonishment, not alities. First, domestically, all that Or, more accurately, across borders. its capacity for innovation. to enable us to compete in a global- only did we survive, but we com- we have achieved we owe to re- For centuries, the idea of our na- Our challenge – Armenia’s and ized, shrunken world. peted with our neighbors, and, in forms that were the less controver- tionhood was uncoupled from both Diaspora’s – is to enhance our ca- many areas, we came out ahead of sial changes, particularly from the statehood and from territory. To- pacity for innovation. Let’s use the Continued on page A5 m The Armenian Reporter | July 14, 2007 A5 Armenia From Armenia, in brief

ing in Gyumri, the local Tsayg TV Born in 1948 in the village of President Kocharian reported. According to the Office Shahumian of Azerbaijan’s Khan- of the Prosecutor General an au- lar district, Ms. Nanian graduated tells Spiegel Online topsy showed that the likely cause from the economics department Armenia, Karabakh of death was an accidental grenade of the Yerevan State University in to form “asymmetric explosion. 1968. She is married and has two The boy had been missing since children. federation” May 20, the day of the widely re- Ms. Nanian’s predecessor as Shi- After fifteen years of indepen- ported shootout between the sons rak governor Romik Manukian of dent life, the matter of Kara- of the Gyumri mayor Vartan Ghu- the Armenian Revolutionary Fed- bakh’s international recognition kasian and a prominent local busi- eration resigned following the new is no longer an issue that defines nessperson, Artashes Sargsian, that power-sharing deal reached follow- its independence, President Rob- President Robert left at least two people wounded in ing the May 2007 election. ert Kocharian of Armenia told Kocharian. the center of the city. There were Germany’s Spiegel magazine on- Photo: Photolure. suspicions that the boy may have line on July 11, PanArmenian.net been caught in the cross fire. Regulators decline reported the same day. Descendants of Since 2004 the U.S. New York Life In the shootout case, three per- “I see Armenia’s and Karabakh’s insurance company has transferred sons, including the sons – Spartak tariff hike requested by future as an asymmetric confed- Genocide-era AXA $8 million to the Genocide victims’ Ghoukasian and Rustam Sargsian, Armentel eration. But currently the Kara- insurance policyholders descendants, including $3.6 million as well as Tigran Gasparian, are still In July 13 ruling, Armenia’s Public bakh republic is a full-fledged urged to file for to those now living in Armenia, wanted by police with two arrests Services Regulation Commission state, which copes with many who were able to confirm that their made so far. Rustam Sargsian’s (PSRC) declined Armentel’s request tasks better than Azerbaijan,” he compensation ancestors held life insurance poli- friend Telman Karapetian was lo- the existing fixed telephone service said. France’s insurance giant AXA set cies with the company and were cated and arrested on June 26. And tariffs, Panorama.am reported the Lack of progress in negotiations aside $11.5 million to compensate not previously compensated. Spartak Ghoukasian’s cousin (and same day. on Karabakh’s status is caused by descendants of its life insurance mayor’s nephew) Kolya Ghouka- Customers currently pay a fixed Azerbaijan, which is “unwilling to policy holders who died in the Ar- sian turned himself in on July 9. 1,100 dram monthly tariff for six accept reality,” Mr. Kocharian ar- menian Genocide, lawyers repre- Three killed in Yerevan hours of outgoing telephone calls gued. He encouraged Azerbaijan to senting the beneficiaries in a class and are charged five drams (1.5 U.S. realize that it is not possible to turn action suit said at a press confer- cemetery shooting cents) for every additional minute. the wheel of history: a people who ence in Yerevan on July 10, local A vendetta-like feud between two Armentel owners from Russia’s have gained self-determination will news agencies reported. wealthy related families from Ye- Vympelkom company requested never give it up. Vartkes Yeghiayan and Par- revan’s Shengavit district claimed a reduction of the six hour allow- In response to Azerbaijan’s segh Kartalian who led the le- another three lives on July 8, RFE/ ance and an increase of additional boasts that its increased military gal team in a class action lawsuit RL and other outlets reported the per minute charges to nine drams. spending means that it is now against AXA spoke at the press next day. Artavazd Vardanian, his While that request was declined, militarily stronger than Armenia, conference. Mr. Kartalian said ­brother-in-law and driver were talks between regulators and the Mr. Kocharian said that while the that the compensation is to be shot dead at the grave of Artavazd’s company will continue and a com- threat of war would continue to paid as a result of a May 12 verdict father, who was himself murdered promise decision is anticipated by exist for a while, “you must take handed down by Judge Christina last year. No arrests have been next October. into account the fact that the sol- Schneider. made. Vympelkom purchased Armentel dier who defends his homeland Mr. Kartalian said that while it The latest killing came in appar- from Greece’s OTE last November has another motivation than the is unknown exactly how many Ar- ent response to the May 9 killing for about $500 million. one who acts on a foreign terri- menian Genocide victims held AXA of Stepan Vardanian from the ri- tory.” insurance policies, a partial list of val family. Following that incident, Mr. Kocharian also said that policyholders has been published a nearby restaurant owner Levon Millennium Challenge while he would prefer not to draw online at www.armenianinsurance Gulian was summoned by police as Corporation arrives in analogies between the Karabakh settlementAXA.com. a witness and subsequently died Lida Nanian. and Kosovo conflicts, “undoubt- Potential claimants who believe in controversial circumstances in Meghri edly the Karabakh people have their ancestors are on the list are custody. Meghri’s aging irrigation network the same right to independence urged to fill out relevant forms Gulian’s family insists that his First woman governor is to be replaced with a gravity ir- as Albanians of Kosovo; more so available on that website in ei- death was either a direct result of rigation system funded by the Mil- [considering that Karabakh Ar- ther English and Armenian to be police brutality or that brutality re- appointed in Armenia lennium Challenge Corporation menians] protected their right mailed to Kurkjian & Ouzounian sulted in an effort to escape and his For the first time since Armenia’s (MCC)-Armenia, Mediamax re- [to self-determination] without vs AXA Settlement Administrator, subsequent death. Police interroga- new provincial division was es- ported on July 11. As part of this interference by the international AXA Settlement Claim Fund, 900 tors claim that Mr. Ghulian died as tablished in 1996, a woman was project a water reservoir with ca- community.” Wilshire Blvd., Suite 614, Los he tried to escape through a win- appointed as provincial governor, pacity of two million cubic meters Meanwhile, on July 10 Foreign Angeles, CA 90017, U.S.A by dow and fell to his death. That case the Armenian government report- will be constructed in the village of Minister Vartan Oskanian of Ar- October 1, 2007. too remains unresolved. ed on July 12. Lichik and the entire system will be menia again met with interna- As part of the $17.5 million settle- Lida Nanian became governor repaired. tional mediators dealing with the ment the company agreed to pay of the Shirak province (marz). The Alexan Hovhanesian, head of Nagorno-Karabakh issue during $11.5 million to descendants and the Missing 12 year-old government press service told the Meghri water supply company, a visit to France to see how the rest to France-based Armenian or- Armenian Reporter that Ms. Na- noted that Meghri currently has talks could be moved forward fol- ganizations and to cover legal fees. found dead in Gyumri nian was nominated by the rul- the most expensive irrigation wa- lowing the June 10 presidential This is a second successful Arme- The decomposing body of 12-year- ing Republican Party. Prior to the ter in Armenia, priced at 61 drams summit that failed to produce nian Genocide-related case filed old Robert Simonian was found appointment she headed Gyumri’s per cubic meter, due to high energy headway. against a major insurance company. on July 11 in an abandoned build- taxation department. consumption required. f Oskanian calls for partnerships among specialists and professionals

n Continued from page A4 the world we want for ourselves to- thought and money to research exposure to western management low an unrepentant Turkey to de- morrow and to create it. and development. This is a neglect- practice, experience in business, termine our agenda, we will also To talk about education today In Armenia, within the frame- ed area of Armenia-Diaspora coop- good governance and ethical con- not limit our choices and options means talking about IT and the work of the Rural Development eration. We have dozens of invalu- duct – we will reap achievements by the lack of a willingness on the internet, about bringing those re- Program which we announced at able programs to help our orphans, disproportionate to our reality. part of Azerbaijan to enter into sources to every school child – in the last Armenia Diaspora Confer- but not nearly enough to support Dear Friends, a lasting agreement. They do not and out of Armenia. Yes, even out ence, we want to enable compre- research and development. Institu- Armenia has come full circle. Two want to acknowledge either the of Armenia, because the Diaspora, hensive development in our vulner- tionally, the cohesion, the linkages years ago, we surpassed the pro- past, or the present. As a result, too, needs educational tools that able border villages. The borders of that are required between science, duction capacity of the Soviet level. they are not interested in discuss- will disseminate and re-enforce our our country, today, are dependent technology, education, economy I’m sure you’ve been told by other ing a common future. The mental common culture. An online public on villagers who don’t have water and society are weak. speakers from Armenia that we’ve state of war persists in Azerbai- sphere has already been created, or gas, electricity or fertilizer. They I ask you to develop partnerships been, for seven years, experiencing jan. In Armenia and Karabakh, I thanks to Groong, and to a whole also have never seen a cursor and with our scientists to enhance their double digit economic growth. The am proud to say that our outlook host of thoughtful, contentful sites, can’t speak English. ability to innovate. Let’s harness our prospects are promising and we is towards the future, towards an voluntarily maintained from Swe- We have a lot of work to do. In- age-old capacity for individual cre- believe this trend will continue. All eventual peace, towards progress, den to Orange County, which have formation technologies must play ativity, feed it and channel it back this, as I said, was possible, because stability and prosperity. managed to link our dispersed peo- a significant role in our program into our society. Some of the best of of our people’s commitment, but Dear Friends, ples, double and triple our popula- to bring sustainable rural develop- Armenia’s scientific and technologi- also because of the domestic and With determination, pragma- tion, and provide an easy, noncom- ment to Armenia. For that, we need cal community are here today and regional stability that we were able tism and most of all, unity, we can mittal, inexpensive avenue for ac- you. Don’t build school buildings or they will tell you, as I will, that if to maintain all these years. develop adopt the right policies to tion, without legislation, elections, construct water pipes. There are we have brain circulation, we won’t Indeed, despite the unresolved identify and utilize new resources taxation, transport burdens or costs. already generous donors who will need to worry about brain drain. If conflict that is a part of our reality, for the common good, and to as- These, together with electronic me- do that. You help to devise a pro- we can support and nurture peer- we have not and we will not allow sure our continued and compre- dia, offer new resources and new gram that will provide our village reviewed, peer-selected researchers that state of no-peace no-war to hensive development. disciplines for the construction of students with computer skills. and partner them with those with a guide our history. This determina- If yesterday, we dared to struggle our new modern selves. Together, Second, to enhance our capacity deep knowledge of the home coun- tion has driven our growth of the and survive, today, we must dare to we have the opportunity to imagine for innovation, we must commit try, advanced western education, last decade. Just as we will not al- prevail. f A6 The Armenian Reporter | July 14, 2007 Armenia

at work at armenia armenia Aram’s iron-forged triangle: faith, family, work

by Armen Hakobyan

YEREVAN – “I would say it in the words of our Lord: Labor was the result of Original Sin. When Adam and Eve sinned, God said to the woman, ‘In pain shall you give birth,’ and to Adam he said, ‘You shall earn your bread by the sweat of your brow.’ That is to say, to gain our daily bread, we have to suffer pain, we have to sweat. That’s it. And we have to live with that. “But there is an important caveat: what we lost with Adam is being re- Left: Aram stored to us through Christ. In oth- Antonyan in front er words, when we turn to Christ, of Triangle. Below sorrow is taken away from us. La- left: blacksmithing bor is not a torture for us anymore; is a family it can go on with ease, and in some tradition. Below: sense it can even become a bless- some of the work ing.” on display. Right: The insight comes from Aram the forge. Antonyan, a blacksmith and the Photos: Armenian hero of this installment of our Reporter. “Armenia at Work” series. He was responding to my concluding in- terview question, about his percep- tions of work. When he talks about these things, it’s clear that Aram is not just spouting fine words. “The words of our Lord” are things that come very naturally to his mind, because it’s the way he really thinks – the way he lives and works, and above all the way he creates. And he does indeed create. Be- cause Aram, who will celebrate his 50th birthday this year, is more than a blacksmith. Those hands now dedicated to the hammer and anvil once held a sculptor’s chisel. Aram was initiated into the art of chiseling at the Panos Terlemezian Art College, and only years later chose to take up blacksmithing as a profession. Just like in the movie zyan [the well-known screenwriter is the greatcoat of a Soviet army In ancient Greece they would say of the movie] has not visited this infantryman draped on a hanger that nothing is accidental in this place yet, but Armenia TV’s ‘The made by the ironmaster. And life, nothing happens by chance, Story of a Film’ segment about The then there’s the modern computer, and even seeming coincidences Triangle movie was shot here.” standing starkly against a backdrop have a cause-and-effect explana- The forge is where our interview of ancient utensils. tion. is taking place, but it’s hard to tell I think about that as I reflect on at first glance whether you’re in a Blacksmith dynasty my prior failed efforts to find a blacksmith’s shop or a sculptor’s Entering a small office of the “Tri- blacksmith in Yerevan. One forging studio – or whether you’ve wan- angle” I notice among some old shop I found had closed and moved dered into some kind of ethno- musical instruments on the wall away; another shop was nowhere graphic exhibit. a 15- to 20-year-old photograph. to be found at the address I was “This is not our workshop,” Aram Aram catches my glance and ex- given; and when I finally did meet explains. “We have one, but “Tri- plains: “Here we are with my broth- with a blacksmith, he didn’t want angle” is something different. We ers and apprentices. In the upper to talk to me for some reason. don’t like to call it an ‘office’; this row are the apprentices. And below But maybe it was for the best. is our ‘art studio,’ if you wish.” He you can see my brothers, my cousin, Because it led me to Yerevan’s smiles: “Our poets in the times of and me, with my elder son.” Leningradian Street, to a small Toumanian had their Vernatun, and It’s at this point that I learn that house with a strange faзade and a this is our Vernatun, if you like.” Aram has three brothers. In fact, signboard reading “Blacksmithing” Everything is neatly ordered and all four Antonyans are engaged in and “Triangle.” And when I looked in its place. Numerous pieces testi- blacksmith work. This was a great through the half-opened door, I un- fying to a distinctive creative imag- surprise to me. Although it was not derstood that here, at last, was not ination and the gifted hands of an possible to talk to all the brothers only a blacksmith worth writing ironmaster are on display through- – they were busy with work – I’m about, but one that I had to write out the place. But nothing is ob- satisfied that the meeting with about! trusive; nothing hinders the view; Aram Antonyan will be something Since Soviet times,” Aram Ant- you work as an artist, that you are When you are looking for a everything is a pleasure to observe. to remember for a long time. I ask onyan says. in the world of art.” blacksmith or a forge in Yerevan, On the right of the forge is the bel- him to tell me about himself and Who was his teacher or master in I ask, “What is your most origi- it’s impossible to ignore the name lows, on the left hang the ironmas- his brothers in greater detail. blacksmithing? I ask. nal work, Aram?” “Triangle.” The Triangle is one of Ar- ter die and other instruments. The “There are four of us: the oldest “My masters were my brothers, “Each one is original,” he says. menia’s favorite movies, which tells sledgehammer rests on the anvil. Tigran, then me, then Armen and Tigran and Armen. Later the three “Especially if it is a special order.” the story of the Mkrtich family of An original chandelier hangs from Arthur. All four are blacksmiths, al- of us served as masters for Arthur. Then which is his favorite? blacksmiths from Gyumri. It’s clear the ceiling; a pitcher sits on a sinu- though this is not a hereditary thing. As for Tigran and Armen, they “There are many of them,” he re- that in choosing this name Aram ous, ornamented rest. To left and Our father, Samvel Antonyan, was learned blacksmithing from the flects, “but maybe the first one. I meant to pay tribute both to his right are pieces of newly forged rail- an architect. By the way, we also are Gyumri masters Gagik and Gevork. made a torch. Usually craftspeople favorite movie and to the tradition ings; right across is a garden lamp not blacksmiths by training. Two Both are still safe and sound, but like to demonstrate some tricks, it portrays. in the shape of a tangled vine deco- of my brothers are artists, another not in Armenia anymore. And if and I too wanted to show my mas- The forge in the movie got its rated with iron grape leaves. Next is a teacher. As for me I am a pro- we are speaking about artistic iron- tery, and I made this torch from a name from its triangular shape, to it, a Venetian lantern; on the fessional sculptor, graduated from mongering, then we must mention single piece of iron. It was quite and Aram says that he tried to fol- walls and table, ancient pots and Terlemezian College. We come the person who restored those tra- a laborious work. I wasn’t very low the same plan when it came to pans. Then a sideboard, and above from Kapan, Syunik, where we still ditions in our country: an artist pleased with the work back then, building his own shop: “It was the – a picture of Ararat, of course. In maintain ties with many relatives, named Vardan. Now he is in the but now when I look at it, it catches movie that suggested the idea of one corner radio sets from the and visit them regularly. States; but in the late 80s he actu- my eye.” In response to my wish naming the forge ‘Triangle.’ Besides, 1950s sit on handmade stands. In “Do you remember, in the mov- ally revitalized this field.” he demonstrates the iron-forged it does have a triangular shape: the the next corner, right in front of ie they were all Mkrtiches? And Judging by his output, I ask, can “evidence” of that first step on his ceiling and walls cut in to make a the icon of Christ, is a hand-made likewise we are all Antonyans. It we say that he finds work in his 20-year road to mastery. triangle, and in the front part both candlestick. turned out that all of us liked this chosen profession? the glass and stone segments have Among all this, the first thing trade, this profession, and it’s al- “Well, we can say so,” he returns, a triangular shape. Aghasi Ayva- that strikes the eye of a newcomer ready 22 years that we are into it. “but what is more important is that Continued on page A8 m The Armenian Reporter | July 14, 2007 A7 A8 The Armenian Reporter | July 14, 2007 Armenia Aram’s iron-forged triangle: faith, family, work

n Continued from page A6 “It’s not a philosophy,” he contin- “Well, many things have changed. ues; “it is the truth. The truth is that Fake things that don’t mesh well “The work must have a spirit today we call ourselves Christians, with each other are the norm.” of blacksmithing in it,” Aram says, but we do not involve ourselves in Fake things in the city? Or in affixing the torch back on the wall. the deeds of Christ. You can stop any people? I ask. “Vardan was good at that. He ham- Armenian in the street today and ask Aram Antonyan “It has to change in people first mered the iron and gave it a shape. him whether he is a Christian, and shows off his to change in the city. If nothing It can seem that there is noth- the answer will be Yes. Ask whether first and favorite changes in your inner self, nothing ing difficult in making a farmer’s he loves Christ, and the answer will work, a torch will change in your speech, in your spade, that it’s quite a straightfor- be Yes. But ask him whether he fol- made from a appearance. Everything comes ward tool. Moreover, with modern lows Christ’s commandments, his single piece of from inside. I do not see any ar- tools you can ‘stamp’ and make words, and the answer will be No. iron. chitecture. I could have used some hundreds of those spades in sev- But Christ said: ‘Whoever performs Photo: Armenian other plaster for this wall, couldn’t eral minutes. But a blacksmith my commands, he is the one who Reporter. I? But I chose to use a plaster made makes a spade from a whole piece loves me.’ You have to believe with of lime and straw. But others do the of iron, and when you take it in your heart and soul.” is precious, and the price for com- value it – we do not treat each other standard thing and call it Euro-res- your hands you can feel that it’s missioned pieces is naturally high. kindly, because we do not under- toration. There is no such thing as the real thing, rather than one of The greatest difficulty For example, one square meter of a stand why we have been created.” Euro-restoration. There’s good res- those machine-stamped ones; and Our conversation with Aram is in- decorative window bar would start A little bit later, returning to my toration, good work. And this good you know that you can work with terrupted by the visit of a client: a at around $40 to $50. Naturally, the question on the meaning of work, work they compare with European it for long.” big man of 35 to 40 years, a fash- more elaborate and artistic the he summarizes his own philoso- standards. This is a standard they He goes on: “In my thinking, the ion interior magazine tucked under work, the higher its price. phy: “To work and to live: These compare with.” blacksmith has to create some- his arm. He has seen a picture of What is the most difficult thing two things are always together. Aram expands on his relation- thing definite from an indefinite a grand, ornamented mirror, and in your profession? I ask Aram. There is one important thing I of- ship with the capital city. “I am mass. And to create it in such a way he wants to have a similar one. “The most difficult thing in our ten think about and observe, but a ‘city guy,’ born and raised on that it would please the viewer’s “Do you already have a house or a profession is dealing with a client only recently the meaning of it has Abovian Street. As in the famous eye, and give birth to some positive room ready for the installation?” who does not understand black- crystallized for me. In the sense of song, ‘I was born here, I grew up feelings.” the master asks, and when he gets smithing,” he says. “This is really correlating work and life, they live here, I drank this cool water. . . .’ Among many decorative ele- a negative answer he offers some the most difficult thing. It is diffi- the right way in European coun- I used to love Yerevan, but now I ments one notices the dominance friendly advice: finish the interior cult because they do not value your tries. But we Armenians do not live don’t like it anymore. I don’t like it of a pomegranate. Aram notes that work first, and then they can exam- work. I am not talking about the the right way. We live to work. But because it has changed, and it has the pomegranate is one of our most ine the room together and decide financial aspect; I mean that they these are things that we have to not changed for the better – you beautiful and typically Armenian what to do to decorate the mirror do not appreciate the work as it is. distinguish.” know what I mean? There used to fruits: a symbol of fertility and and the room in general. There are some who say: This is just “We do not have to live for the be fine buildings here. Everybody blessing. Besides, he says, “Every Taking the reasonable advice, a piece of iron. But I try to explain sake of work, but we have to work would say: ‘This is a dump, this is a artist has his own signature, and the client leaves, and I asked Aram them, this is iron only before going for the sake of living. You under- rat hole, let’s destroy it’ – and they we prefer picturing pomegranates.” what kind of orders he usually into the forge; but after emerging stand me, don’t you?” he asks, and did destroy it. But there were good The pomegranate is the Antonyan takes. As it turned out there are no from the forge, iron in the hands of my expression suggests he should things as well, things which they brothers’ trademark, by which limitations: people order all kinds master becomes a forged piece. It is go on. “There are men who live, could keep. On Pushkin Street, for their work can be distinguished of things: decorative bars, railings, not correct to call it ‘iron’ anymore. work, and do not enjoy. But there example, it brought tears to my eyes from others. gates, sometimes even house furni- Some people do not understand are people who work and enjoy. For to see them pull down those build- However, no symbol is ever cho- ture, torches, furniture accessories, this, and it is not very pleasant to example, in Europe they do work ings. They were amazing buildings, sen without a particular reason. I beds, cradles, and so on. deal with such people.” and enjoy life. But Armenians work with excellent architecture. Mean- recall again that the pomegranate “You can divide clients into and work – this is for my child, this while, in all these modern build- is a symbol of fertility. “Do you three groups,” Aram says. “There The most important is for this, this is for that, etcetera. ings there is a certain falsity.” have you a big family?” I ask. are people who understand and That is to say: They live to work. I Such are the thoughtful insights “Oh, sure. My wife and I, we have appreciate blacksmithing and or- thing in the world think this is not right. Although of Aram Antonyan: blacksmith, five children. The oldest, Ara, is 23 der something for their pleasure, In Master Aram’s philosophy, the there are certain circumstances sculptor, Armenian, citizen of Ye- years old.” He’s the one who fol- rather than for pleasing somebody most important and crucial thing that would make us behave like revan. lowed his father into blacksmith- else, or just for prestige. Then there in the world is belief in God. “And that, it can be an excuse for only We say goodbye to each other, ing. “The youngest is in the sixth are people who do not understand to believe in God means to obey to a limited period of time. Now, for and Aram goes back to his work. grade. I have two sons and three and do it for show, or out of certain his words,” he explains. instance, people are finally start- With his permission, I wander daughters. By the way, my brother ambitions. And there are also some “There has to be a divine nature ing to breathe little by little. They around the Antonyan brothers’ Tigran is also a father of five chil- people who do have some money in man, as man was created in the used to live for the sake of work; “Triangle” for a little while lon- dren, as well as Armen. Only our as in the previous group, and have image and likeness of God,” the but some people are now started to ger, and depart from it with a younger brother Arthur has just seen beautiful things and decora- master says. work for the sake of living.” greater feeling of warmth deep three,” Aram says; then he adds: tions in other places or in the hous- And on the subject of human in my heart. I leave with a hope “We are a Christian family. What es of their friends or competitors, qualities, he notes: “I love simplic- “Not the same Yerevan that I will meet Aram again – and do I mean? I mean Christian in the and they ask themselves: Why can’t ity. I do not like baseness. I love why not? After all, Yerevan isn’t true sense of the word.” we have the same?” openness. I don’t like baseness in anymore” exactly the biggest city in the And what meaning does he put It’s worth mentioning here that any of its manifestations: lying, Do you like Yerevan, Aram? I ask world. into that word? there are not many working black- lechery, meanness. It’s good that him. But most of all, I hope and wish “That one should be a Christian smiths in Yerevan. And rarer still are the human being is human. You “Today’s Yerevan I do not like; no. to see more Armenians like Aram. not only in name, but by one’s masters like the Antonyans, who know why? Because God created Once there was another Yerevan. As for the city of Yerevan, we deeds. Isn’t that so?” he asks, and are engaged in artistic ironworking. man in his image; but we do not But today’s Yerevan I do not like.” will come back to that theme soon immediately answers: “It is.” For them, each piece of handwork accept it completely: we under- What has changed? enough. f Karabakh election offers voters a real choice Masis Mayilian’s The presidency was established Ghoukassian was elected with 90 “The most worthy candidate is Saha- tem that exists in countries like ours, in Nagorno-Karabakh in 1994. On percent of the vote. His opponents kian. I connect the future of Kara- the incumbent president should all candidacy is a December 21, the Karabakh parlia- were Mr. Arushanian and Professor bakh with that name. I am certain the same abstain from open inter- ment voted to institute the presi- Artur Tovmasian of Artsakh State that he can secure the continuation vention in the political process.” challenge not only to dential system, and on December University. of the course of democratization President Kocharian of Armenia 22, it elected Robert Kocharian On August 11, 2002, the third and the building of a country that has not publicly supported any the ruling elite but president in a secret ballot. The presidential election took place. Mr. corresponds to European values. He candidate. On July 10, Garnik Isa- vote was 50 in favor, 2 opposed, Ghoukassian was reelected with 89 is a man who can gather the people gulian, a presidential advisor on also to Karabakh’s and 1 abstention. Prior to that and percent of the vote. His opponents, of Karabakh around him for the res- national security matters, support- young democracy starting on August 15, 1992, Mr. Albert Ghazarian and Grigori Afa- olution of the major problems and ed Mr. Sahakian and criticized Mr. Kocharian had served as president nasian, were not very well known. all issues on the agenda today.” Mayilian in a press conference. of the State Defense Committee. Analysts believe that the upcom- In Mr. Ghoukassian’s view, the According to a high-rank- by Tatul Hakobyan On November 24, 1996, Kara- ing July 19 election will offer vot- conditions are ideal for elections in ing source in Armenia’s govern- bakh held its first popular election ers a meaningful choice. There are Karabakh. Elections in Karabakh ment, there was no consensus in for president. Mr. Kocharian re- five candidates. The focus is on two are “the best in the [post-Soviet] Armenia’s ruling circles about a STEPANAKERT – All the elections ceived 89 percent of the vote. His of them: Former head of the state Commonwealth of Independent successor to Mr. Ghoukassian. Mr. held in Nagorno-Karabakh, includ- opponents were Boris Arushanian, security apparatus Bako Sahakian, States,” he said. “Elections in Kara- Mayilian announced his candidacy ing the three presidential elections who had been a senior member of and former deputy foreign minister bakh will be free, fair, and trans- on the last possible day for filing to date, have been free and fair. This the State Defense Committee and Masis Mayilian. Mr. Sahakian has a parent. I am certain that the most nomination papers. Karabakh’s top is the assessment of international served in other official positions, greater chance of being elected as worthy will prevail. And I see that officials promptly criticized him for observers that monitored them and the local Communist Party he is the “unity candidate” of the worthy person.” doing so and began trying to per- and many Armenian analysts and leader Hrant Melkumian. ruling group, enjoying the support Stepan Safarian, a member of Ar- suade their counterparts in Arme- political scientists. It is also true, A few months later, the president of the main political parties, includ- menia’s National Assembly and an nia that Mr. Sahakian was the only however, that voters did not have of Armenia, Levon Ter-Petrossian, ing leaders of the parliamentary op- analyst at the Armenian Center for worthy candidate. serious alternatives in these elec- invited Mr. Kocharian to Yerevan position in Karabakh. The resources National and International Stud- Mr. Mayilian, who has held tions, the exception being the most and offered him the post of prime of the state are working in his favor ies, criticized Mr. Ghoukassian. He various positions in Karabakh’s recent municipal election, in which minister of Armenia, which he and against Mr. Mayilian. said that Karabakh’s president can Foreign Ministry since 1993, says, an opposition candidate was elect- accepted. On September 1, 1997, On July 3 in Yerevan, President support a candidate but should be “The authorities started using ad- ed mayor of Stepanakert, defeating Karabakh held an early presidential Ghoukassian announced that he careful in his statements: “Keeping a pro-government nominee. election. Foreign Minister Arkady supports Mr. Sahakian’s candidacy. in mind the state of the political sys- Continued on page A9 m The Armenian Reporter | July 14, 2007 A9 Armenia For Azerbaijan, the Council of Europe is a podium for anti-Armenian propaganda

by Tatul Hakobyan take the floor only twice and in the of Europe in 2001 with Armenia, it end didn’t speak at all. Azerbaijan’s did so with a commitment to find a delegation signed up 13 times, and solution through a peaceful settle- STRASBOURG – Armenia’s foreign almost all of their interventions ment. minister has submitted a formal began and ended with anti-Ar- letter of protest to the secretary menian rhetoric and accusations. New lies general of the Council of Europe in When the Greek delegate Nikolaos The Azerbaijanis, who in the past response to unfavorable statements Dendias presented a report on the put into circulation the “One mil- made by the Secretariat over the situation of refugees and displaced lion refugees and 20 percent of ter- last two weeks regarding presiden- persons in the Balkans, four Azer- ritory” legend, today spread new tial elections in Nagorno-Karabakh baijani delegates immediately reg- lies in various European organiza- slated for July 19. Vartan Oskanian istered to speak. tions. made this announcement during Here is a part of Raphael Delegate Ganira Pashayeva in a joint press conference with Amb. Housein’s speech which remained her speech reiterated, “Merely 70 Per Sjogren, head of the Council of unanswered: “Azerbaijan is a coun- years ago, Azerbaijanis consti- Europe’s Ago Monitoring group. try that has suffered most, not only tuted more than 40 percent of the When asked by the Armenian Re- in Europe but in the world, from population of Armenia, but today porter what diplomatic measures this problem. Azerbaijan with its not a single Azerbaijani resides Armenia is undertaking to ensure AGO monitoring group head Amb. Per Sjogren and Foreign Minister Vartan population of 8 million people has there.” This is a falsification that that European bureaucrats refrain Oskanian at Armenia’s Foreign Ministry. Photo: Photolure. nearly 1 million refugees and dis- did not receive a response from from such statements, Mr. Os- placed persons. Repeating is not the Armenian side. kanian said, “Lately, the secretary in Nagorno-Karabakh will try to two instead of the normal four pleasant and I realise that rehear- When there was a discussion general of the Council of Europe has use the situation in Kosovo as a members of parliament. (Owing ing these known statistics is boring about combating anti-Semitism made statements, carelessly and precedent, but I think they will be to the National Assembly elections, the Council of Europe, but living in Europe, delegates spoke about unconsciously, or perhaps inten- disappointed.” Mr. Davis labeled Armenia’s delegation to PACE was the life of a refugee or displaced the Holocaust as the first geno- tionally, which do not correspond as separatist regimes the govern- not finalized at the time.) person over 15 years is surely more cide in human history and neither with reality. We have presented a ments of the four unrecognized re- One of the themes to be dis- oppressive than being disturbed by of the two Armenian delegates written letter of protest. I have put publics of the former Soviet Union cussed at this session was the ob- rehearing the same word and fig- spoke. In their place, three Azer- this issue before the ambassadors – Nagorno-Karabakh, Abkhazia, servation of the parliamentary elec- ure. . . . Armenia, which exposed 1 baijanis and one delegate from that are part of the Ago group and South Ossetia and Transniestria. tions in Armenia. Other themes million Azerbaijani citizens to such Turkey made remarks. The lead- requested that they, on my behalf Before that, in an interview to dealt indirectly with Armenia; but tragedy, nevertheless remains a er of the Azerbaijani delegation relay this message to the secretary A1+, Mr. Davis stated: “Legally, Na- they were themes about which the member of the Council of Europe to PACE, Samed Seyidov, spoke general. Terry Davis’ announce- gorno-Karabakh is seen as an oc- members of the Armenian delega- and goes unpunished. That state about Azerbaijan as though it ments are unacceptable and in my cupied territory. Legally, Nagorno- tion had the right to speak. For ex- needs sanctions or another form of was the most tolerant country estimation are careless and do not Karabakh is part of Azerbaijan. I ample, “Promotion by Council of punishment”. in the world not only toward its correspond to today’s terminology support the territorial integrity Europe member states of an inter- There is no need for Armenia’s Jewish citizens but toward all its nor to the current process.” of all [Council of Europe] member national moratorium on the death delegates to get involved in a back- national minorities. It was only Mr. Oskanian added that official countries. Nagorno-Karabakh is penalty.” A PACE resolution urged and-forth debate. It is however one of the Greek delegates who, Yerevan always reacts to statements not part of Armenia.” the international community, par- possible to declare from the podi- in his speech, reminded everyone made by officials at the Council of I have on several occasions re- ticularly European countries, to um that as a result of the Karabakh in passing that the Armenians at Europe or any other organization ported on the sessions of the Par- eliminate the death penalty. In a conflict, yes, more than a million the turn of the twentieth century which do not correspond to reality, liamentary Assembly of the Coun- separate article in the resolution, people were displaced from their were victims of Genocide; to this are not in tune with the spirit and cil of Europe (PACE) and have the unrecognised territories within the places of permanent residence, and the Turks retaliated vehemently, letter of the process, or are inac- impression that Azerbaijan became CIS – Abkhazia, South Ossetia, and to add that of those almost 750,000 saying that it was unacceptable to curate, regardless of who is making a member of the Council of Europe Transniestria – were also called were Azerbaijanis and close to make comparisons to the “annihi- the statement. not to fulfil this European organi- upon to eliminate the death penalty. 500,000 were Armenians. It is im- lation of 6 million Jews to tragic On June 25 in Strasbourg, in re- zation’s requirements or to join in- Nagorno-Karabakh was not men- portant to convey that the issue of events in history.” sponse the Armenian Reporter’s re- ternational agreements or conven- tioned in this resolution because displaced persons did not just ap- In the Council of Europe, Azer- quest for comment on the upcom- tions. Nor are they interested in it has long ago eliminated capital pear on its own; rather, Azerbaijan baijani propaganda is not limit- ing presidential elections in Nago- enshrining European standards or punishment. This was an opportu- through unbridled aggression tried ed to speeches. They spread lies rno-Karabakh, Mr. Davis said. “Na- values within their country. Rather nity for our delegates, ARF member to find a solution to the Karabakh through thousands of copies of gorno Karabakh is not recognized their objective is to spout anti-Ar- Armen Roustamian and the Repub- issue through war. It lost the war letters. During this session, they internationally; it is not regarded menia and anti-Karabakh rhetoric. lican Party’s Hermine Naghdalian and in turn has also lost the neigh- distributed a letter, “The serious as a separate recognized state; and In this respect, it isn’t Baku’s to underscore that Karabakh, not- bouring territories of Nagorno- threats arising from Armenia’s in- the so-called elections will not have anti-Armenian hysteria that is in- withstanding its treatment by the Karabagh, which do not comprise vasive plans towards the Autono- affect.” Asked how the Kosovo case comprehensible; what’s surprising international community, is mov- 20 percent as they insist but only mous Republic of Nakhichevan will impact Nagorno-Karabakh, the is the Armenian delegation’s pas- ing toward democratization with 7 percent of Azerbaijan overall. It of Azerbaijan and responsibility secretary general stressed: “I will sivity. This assessment refers not a value system that the Council of is imperative to continually stress of the Council of Europe.” In the be surprised if the people of Na- only to PACE’s June 25–29 session, Europe espouses. that Azerbaijan today continues letter they deny the destruction gorno-Karabakh will not try to use nor only to this particular delega- Over the course of five days, Ar- to threaten war although, when it of thousands of stone crosses in the decision about Kosovo. People tion, which was comprised of only menia’s two delegates signed up to became a member of the Council Jugha. f Karabakh election offers voters a real choice

n Continued from page A8 has already been said. Mayilian’s The other two presidential can- campaign started six months ago. didates are parliament member ministrative resources and power Many people go to Sahakian’s ral- Armen Abgarian and Communist structures a few months before the lies because they want to meet the Party leader Hrant Melkumian. campaign [officially] started. This likely next president.” The latter works in the govern- is black propaganda against our Mr. Sahakian’s supporters say ment but claims to represent the country and it pains me. They tried they have the advantage that all of only true opposition party in to persuade people that everything the main political groups in Kara- Karabakh. Oddly, he occasionally is predetermined. In such circum- bakh support him as their unified appears at Mr. Sahakian’s rallies. stances, it is difficult for us to have candidate. The Artsakh Democratic Mr. Abgarian is a very well known free and transparent elections, Party, has the biggest delegation in figure in Karabakh. For eight years which always leaves a good impres- parliament; the party leader Ashot from 1992 he served as a senior sion abroad. We have said over and Ghulian is the speaker of parlia- logistics official in the Karabakh over that as a more democratic ment. The party’s Vania Avanesian, army. He is not campaigning. Masis Mayilian country, we cannot be annexed to a member of parliament, is running Sergey Minasyan of the Cauca- campaigning. unfree Azerbaijan.” for president. But his party is sup- sus Media Institute believes the Photo: He insists that administrative porting Mr. Sahakian, who is not elections offer voters a real choice. KarabakhOpen. measures are being taken to under- affiliated with any party. If Mr. Sahakian is the unified candi- com mine his candidacy. “They make it Mr. Sahakian also enjoys the sup- date, then Mr. Mayilian is the al- difficult for people to come to our port of the second largest party in ternative. Mr. Minassian and Mr. Safar- voters. Aharon Adibekian of Yere- rallies. But that has the opposite parliament, Free Homeland, and of “Of course, it is possible to say ian of ACNIS say that Mr. Mayil- van’s Sociometre Center says that effect,” he says. the Armenian Revolutionary Fed- there’s no choice because all can- ian faces almost impossible odds. Mr. Sahakian is likely to win 80 per- David Babayan, an aide to Presi- eration (ARF), which has for the last didates are from the ruling circles. But they consider his willingness cent of the vote, with 15 percent go- dent Ghoukassian, insists that no ten years been considered to be in But what’s happening with May- to enter the fray and fight hard a ing to Mr. Mayilian. Mr. Mayilian’s administrative or other leverage is opposition to President Ghoukas- ilian, who used to be part of the positive development. This is a case campaign considers the poll unreli- being used against any candidate. sian – although the foreign minister political elite, shows that the elite of democracy being built from the able. The polling was done with the “To raise his popularity, Mayilian and other ministers are members of is not monolithic; I don’t consider inside and not imposed from the youth organization of the Artsakh wants to look like a fighter. Few the ARF. Some analysts believe the that a bad thing. This opens the outside. Freedom Fighters’ Association, people show up for his rallies be- unity of all parties is a good thing. door for real choices in the next Opinion polls also show that Mr. which is actively supporting Mr. cause whatever needed to be said Others consider it absurd. election,” he said. Sahakian has the support of most Sahakian’s candidacy. f A10 The Armenian Reporter | July 14, 2007

Editorial the armenianreporter Commentary One nation across all Letters divides The earthly remains of Alex and Marie Manoogian were moved this week from Detroit to Armenia so that they may be reinterred at Holy Etchmiadzin next week. The generosity of the Manoogians is legendary. The sheer amount of money they -do nated over their lifetimes is but one indication of their charity. The widely cited estimate is $90 million; this is probably an understatement because it adds sums from different periods; a million 1960 dollars are the equivalent of well over six million 2007 dollars. But numbers tell only part of the story. It is an important story that remains very Copper relevant today. tailing being Many of the survivors of the Armenian Genocide identified with the village, town, dumped into or region from which they and their families were driven. They formed compatriotic the river societies that brought the survivors back together. Eventually, many of these societies at Aghtala compiled their local histories, traditions, and remembrances into thick volumes that are village. the jewels of our collective memory. Photo: Narine The vision of Alex and Marie Manoogian, however, was pan-Armenian. They saw one Kirakosyan. nation across all divides. In his organizational leadership and in his charitable giving, Alex Manoogian, a native of Smyrna, saw Armenians from Adana or Akhalkalaki, from (the size of 1,125 American football fields) Karabakh or Kharpert, from Zeitun or Zangezur as part of one great Armenian nation. No mining in Teghut of forest in preparation for an enormous Nor did it matter to him where these Armenians now lived: across the globe, Armenians open-pit strip mining operation in search were one nation, indivisible. Sir: of copper and molybdenum ore. The ore will The Armenian General Benevolent Union, founded one hundred years ago by an- Thank you for bringing attention to the current be separated from the soil by adding various other great Armenian, Boghos Nubar, became the perfect venue for Alex Manoogian’s challenges and choices which will impact Ar- toxic chemical compounds to it. The resulting visionary leadership. And the evidence is everywhere to be seen: the Alex and Marie menia’s environmental integrity long into the sludge is planned to be dumped in a nearby Manoogian School in Southfield, Mich.; the Marie Manoogian Center in Buenos Aires, future. The June 23 and July 7 articles about pristine gorge in Shnogh village. Argentina; the Alex Manoogian School in Montevideo, Uruguay; the Marie Manoogian the nation’s environmental policies which al- Given the government’s history of being School in Los Angeles, Calif.; the Alex Manoogian School in Montreal; the Alex Manoo- low for destructive mining practices and the unable to monitor and enforce protection of gian Center in Beirut, Lebanon; the Alex Manoogian Center in Zahleh, Lebanon; the newly released study on illegal logging high- the environment, it is highly likely that the Marie Manoogian School in Tehran, Iran – all under the auspices of the AGBU. light important issues that should be of con- toxins and heavy metals will leach into the Then there is the Armenian Community Center in Almelo, Holland; the Alex and cern to everyone who cares about the survival ground and nearby river, creating a perma- Marie Manoogian Seminary in Jerusalem; the Alex and Marie Manoogian Museum in of the culture, land, and people of Armenia. nent death zone in the area and threaten- Etchmiadzin; the Alex and Marie Manoogian School in Boca Raton, Fla., and the the Armenia is a very special place for many ing the water quality for people downstream. Alex and Marie Manoogian Cultural Center in Miami. reasons, and I would like to bring to your Witness the damage being done by the cop- Tens of thousands of Armenian children and young adults, most with no ties with or attention a few more that may be less well per tailing dump in Aghtala village, or the knowledge of the AGBU, were educated in these schools – and others supported by the known. Located at the convergence of 3 ma- unfiltered toxins belching from the smelter AGBU or by the Manoogians directly – and are educated there today. jor biogeographic regions, Armenia has with- in Alaverdi, or the many other examples of The Manoogians’ commitment to raising generations of Armenians across all bound- in it seven of the world’s nine climate zones. damage being done to the land and health of aries went beyond their enormous role in the AGBU. At the University of Michigan, Ann Although it consists of only 29,000 square Armenians by the mining industry, as docu- Arbor, there’s the Alex Manoogian chair in Modern Armenian History and the Marie kilometers, amounting to 0.05 percent of the mented in the new film Poisoning for Profit Manoogian chair in Modern Armenian Language and Literature. The Manoogians also land mass of the northern hemisphere, it is produced by Vem Media Arts. contributed substantially to Armenian studies programs and chairs at UCLA, Columbia home to 40 percent of all landscape types The need for economic development in Ar- University in New York, New York University, the University of Massachusetts, Boston found there. menia, where nearly half the population lives University, the University of Leiden, Holland, the University of California, Berkeley, the As a result, Armenia has enormous bio- below the poverty line, is enormous. But University of Southern California, and Bentley College in Waltham, Mass. logical diversity, including 8,800 plant spe- should economic growth be blindly pursued They also established the AGBU Alex and Marie Manoogian Cultural Fund in 1968. It cies, half of which are at risk of extinction; regardless of the long-term cost and dam- has supported the publication and translation of many scholarly and literary works, 13 species and 360 varieties of wheat, which age that will be inflicted on the land and the cultural activities, and has provided assistance to needy Armenian intellectuals and was first cultivated there ten thousand years health of the people? educators throughout the world. ago; 260 species of trees and bushes; 17,500 Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., once stated, “Peo- The Manoogians supported the church. They gave to Holy Etchmiadzin; they gave to invertebrate and 500 vertebrate species of ple make the argument that the time has the Saint Vartan Cathedral and to Diocesan Endowment Fund in New York; they gave to animals, of which 346 species are birds (of come in our nation where we have to choose Saint John’s Armenian Church and cultural complex in Southfield, Mich. They also gave the 500 vertebrate species, 300 are rare or between the environment on one hand and to the Mekhitarist Monasteries in Vienna and Venice. declining, and 18 are at risk of extinction); economic prosperity on the other, and that ttt and one-third of the 156 reptile species found is a false choice. In 100 percent of the situa- The Manoogian legacy continues through a healthy and dynamic AGBU, through the in the former Soviet Union. tions, good environmental policy is identical ongoing work of their foundations, through the continued operation of the institutions Today, Armenia’s forest cover is at its low- to good economic policy. . . . Some industries they endowed, and through their family: their daughter Louise and their son Richard est point in history, estimated to be at less want us to treat the planet like it is a busi- and their grandchildren. In a larger sense, their legacy continues through the survival than 8 percent of its territory. The loss of ness in liquidation, to convert our natural re- and dynamism of the Armenian nation. forests is caused by poverty and unemploy- sources to cash as quickly as possible, to have Louise Manoogian Simone navigated the formidable organization that is the AGBU in ment, a lack of alternate fuel sources, legal a few years of pollution-based prosperity. the crucial years after the earthquake in Armenia. Even as the organization responded and illegal commercial cutting and export “We can generate an instantaneous cash in a fulsome manner to the humanitarian needs that emerged from the earthquake and of wood, and improper management. For- flow and the illusion of a prosperous econ- the economic collapse of the early years of Armenian independence, Ms. Manoogian ests perform important environmental and omy, but our children are going to pay for Simone had the vision to endow the American University of Armenia. Beyond education, socioeconomic functions, and when they our joy ride, and they are going to pay for it the AGBU addressed spiritual needs through the church and by investing in Armenia’s disappear, long-term consequences result, with denuded landscapes, poor health, and cultural life. Meanwhile, the AGBU continued to address the needs of the diaspora. such as erosion, flooding, landslides, climate huge cleanup costs. . . . Pollution is deficit Although Ms. Simone in 2002 relinquished many of her duties at the AGBU, she continues extremes, loss of water supply, reduction of spending. It’s a way of loading the costs of to be an active supporter and participant in building the future of the Armenian nation. topsoil fertility, loss of plant and animal bio- our prosperity and our profits on the backs Alex and Marie Manoogian’s life’s work, their vision, and their leadership have in- diversity, and severe air pollution. The harsh of our children.” spired many others to follow in their footsteps to the best of their abilities. Not least reality is that all of Armenia’s forests may If final approval is given to proceed with among them are the next generations of Manoogians. be gone in as little as 20 years at the current this mine, eventually the ore will be depleted, In 1996, when Alex Manoogian died, the Catholicos of All Armenians flew to Detroit rate of deforestation, leading to irreversible and the jobs it created will be gone. The prof- to officiate at his funeral. Now the remains of the Manoogians are in Armenia. They environmental damage. its will be exported, and left behind will be will lie in state at the Monastery of Saint Gayane until July 17, after which they will be In the small agrarian village of Teghut in the legacy of a poisoned landscape unsuit- reinterred on the hallowed grounds of Holy Etchmiadzin, in the shadows of the Mother northern Armenia, the Armenian Copper able for agricultural production, the perma- Cathedral, and in sight of the museum they sponsored. Program, a foreign-owned company, is seek- nent loss of innumerable habitats that sup- May they rest in peace in the soil they tilled throughout their lives. f ing final approval from the government to begin clear cutting as much as 1,500 acres Continued on page A11 m

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by Catholicos Aram I it has also established large networks of com- the self-understanding and self-expression munity schools. of a community, articulated through its val- Our church must preserve the multi-di- ues, aspirations, and way of life. The renewal of the Armenian Church is so mensional, comprehensive nature of its mis- For some, modernity means rejecting the complex in nature and so extensive in scope sion. But in view of the growing and diver- old and turning to the new. Again, this is a that it is not possible to deal with it properly sifying challenges of our communities, the misunderstanding. Modernity signifies the within the framework of a pastoral letter. By church is called, first, to review its traditional human effort to keep pace with changing raising questions pertaining to the subject, methodologies in order to make its witness times and realities. We cannot build and sus- I intend to remind us of the pivotal impor- more efficient and relevant; and second, it is tain community without tradition. It is equal- tance of renewal; by sharing a few thoughts called to clearly spell out its priorities, laying ly true that we cannot make a community with our youth, I intend to challenge them a particular emphasis on the spiritual and credible, viable, and an integral part of mod- to engage in this process through reflection moral aspects of its witness. ern societies without opening its traditions and discussion. (3) A participatory church. One of the and values to new conditions and challenges. The church is essentially a community of features of our church is the full participa- A critical and creative interaction between faith built on Jesus Christ. The church is not tion of the people in the church’s total life. tradition and modernity is imperative. We a reality “out there” – it does not exist outside Men and women, the disabled and the youth must avoid extremes: neither blindly reject of our lives, our thoughts, or our concerns. We – people from all walks of life, without any conservatism, nor uncritically embrace mod- are the church: the people of God united in discrimination – contribute in one way or ernism. Through a critical dialogue, tradition Christ, joined together with the bond of love, another, on a larger or smaller scale, to the and modernity strengthen and challenge and sustained by a common hope and vision. witness of the church. The Armenian Church each other. We must develop new approach- The prevailing misconception that the is not strictly a clerical church: it is open to es and outlooks in dealing with our church church is a mere institution needs to be cor- the laity, which takes an active part in almost traditions. We must keep the essence and His Holiness Aram I. rected. The institutional expression of the all aspects of the church’s life and mission specificity of the ancient traditions, while church must not be confused with its nature; – including its decision-making processes making them more responsive to new con- logue, which has become a major feature of its essence must not be altered by its form. – often with a determinative voice. cerns and expectations. Adapting the church modern societies, cannot be ignored by the In the church, the divine and the human, the The people-based character of the church to new times is a critical and arduous task Armenian Church. Neither can our church ig- ecclesial and the societal, the eternal and the must be further enhanced. However, the na- requiring a clear strategy, new methodology, nore socio-ethical issues facing modern soci- timely, the transcendent and the imminent ture and limits of participation by the laity in and long-term planning. eties. These factors also affect the self-under- embrace each other. However, the qualitative church matters needs to be clearly defined. (b) Strengthening the relation be- standing and self-fulfillment of our church. difference between the divine and the human Otherwise, it may eventually weaken the tween the local and the global. The dimensions need be clearly distinguished. church’s spiritual character, ecclesial integ- church is both a local and a global reality, A responsive church As we seek to renew the Armenian Church rity, and prophetic vocation. The Armenian and these dimensions condition each other. These are a few observations that need to in a new global context, I believe we must Church both in Armenia and the diaspora Our church lives in different local contexts; be given due consideration in the quest for consider the following: must be extremely attentive to this potential it is also a global church exposed to global renewal of the Armenian Church. (1) The Armenian Church is the peo- danger during a period when secular inter- changes and a multitude of influences. Ours is one of the ancient churches of ple’s church. This reality is articulated in ests and values are becoming increasingly Today, in many parts of the world, including Christendom. It must know how to remain all areas of the church’s life. The concept of a dominant in the life of societies. Armenia, our church displays a picture of dis- young; it must not become a petrified institu- “national church” has different connotations (4) The church as an identity marker. torted traditions, disconnected practices, and tion, but a church for the 21st century. Our in different settings; but in the Armenian Religion is a strong identity marker in many disoriented perceptions almost in all spheres church must be in tune with its time. Its theol- Church it denotes the intimate interaction societies; in Christianity, the inter-relation of of its life. To respond to the changing circum- ogy must become more intelligible, its liturgy between church and people. Through its spir- faith and culture has profound implications. stances and expectations of the people, our more attractive, its clergy more educated, its itual, educational, social, and humanitarian Due to its ecclesiological self-understanding dioceses and even some parishes have already mission more evangelistic, its education more activities the Armenian Church is so deeply and historical circumstances, the Armenian engaged in “reformation.” But the continu- spiritual, its service more effective, and its involved in the daily life of the people that it Church has become a major player in nation- ation of these hasty changes could lead the message more prophetic. It must reach the is impossible to draw a line of demarcation building. It has become a powerful promoter church to even greater disintegration. unreached and even the unreachable. I would between “church” and “people.” Our church’s of national values and aspirations. The trend towards localization on the one not call this being a “progressive” or “modern” living presence and transforming role perme- Today, particularly in the diaspora, com- hand, and the lack of meaningful interaction church, but rather a responsive church. (I touch ate the entire life of the nation, as a source munity life revolves around the church, between the global and the local on the oth- on similar issues in a new book, For a Church of spiritual renewal, richness, and strength which maintains cultural and educational er hand, may eventually endanger the very Beyond its Walls, Antelias, 2007.) both for the church and the nation. roles, is a custodian of national values and identity and the wholeness of our church. Our church faces challenges related both However, excessive emphasis on the na- traditions, and plays an instrumental part In the renewal process the basic traditions, to its internal life and to its relation with tional character of the church may expose it in forming, preserving, and enhancing the teachings, and practices of the church must its environment. These problems may soon to the blunt intervention of state or political Armenian identity. In globalized societies be maintained – namely those elements that become intractable if we do not wrestle with structures into internal church affairs. Such – particularly in the West, where all sorts of ensure the continuity, unity, and specificity them responsibly. Cosmetic approaches, behavior weakens the church’s strength, un- distinctions and specificities are disappear- of the Armenian Church. At the same time, provisional arrangements, and superficial dermines its authority, and jeopardizes its ing – this unique role of the church has be- our church must have the courage to adapt changes will not ensure the renewal of the Ar- integrity. come especially crucial. its traditions to local conditions and needs. menian Church. We must go beyond slogans: (2) A church with a multi-faceted mis- (c) Making the church’s interaction we need new paradigms, a new vision, and sion. In its mission our church embraces Guidelines for renewal with its environment more dynamic and a critical self-assessment. Renewal is crucial most of the dimensions of the community’s All of these considerations must be taken creative. Aside from its attachment to val- for the future of the Armenian Church, and life. Not only did the church invent the Arme- into account in our definition of renewal in ues, traditions, and dreams, the survival of a we must take it seriously. nian alphabet, it has also played a significant the Armenian Church. Abrupt decisions and community in a given society is determined I consider the active participation of the part in enriching the nation’s culture. Not arbitrary changes will create further confu- by its openness and relevance. A self-cen- youth to be of paramount importance in the only has the church defended the rights of its sion. Change is not always constructive: it tered, introverted community cannot sur- renewal of the Armenian Church. With their people for justice and freedom, it has also as- can distort the identity of the church and vive. Interaction and interdependence, inter- fresh ideas, creative imagination, challenging sumed a role in pursuing the Armenian cause. endanger its integrity. connection and inter-penetration, brought views, and critical approach, they can bring a Not only has the church emphasized the vital So what guidelines should be established about by globalization, are hallmarks of new vitality to our church. The growing in- importance of social justice and humanitar- to lead the church in its renewal efforts? In modern societies. volvement of the youth in various functions ian aid, it has also established welfare insti- this regard I would like to make a few obser- The Armenian Church cannot organize it- of the church is encouraging. But in order to tutions, orphanages, and hospitals. Not only vations. self, reactivate its missionary outreach, or re- make the youth identify with their church, has the church promoted educational values, (a) Blending tradition and modernity. vitalize its community life as a self-centered, the church must have the vision to identify Generally, people think that tradition and self-sufficient institution. It must engage in itself with the youth: with their concerns and modernity are in conflict. In my view, they a meaningful dialogue with its environment. perspectives, frustrations and expectations. His Holiness Aram I is the Catholicos of the Great complement each other. For some, tradition It must constantly grapple with issues and Our church must be a spiritual haven for its House of Cilicia, in Antelias, Lebanon. This essay means old, outdated, referring to the past challenges facing the society in which it is youth, where they can protect themselves is part of Catholicos Aram’s Dialogue with the Youth and with no relevance to the present. This is called to give witness to the Gospel. Besides from the powerful storms and tsunamis of series. a misconception. Tradition is always alive in inter-church collaboration, inter-faith dia- new times. f Letters website www.armeniatree.org. Anyone inter- ancestors left to us on this precious land, and It made me regret that my absence from m Letters start on page A10 ested in supporting the effort to preserve the be responsible to the generations of Arme- Beirut coincided exactly with the exhibition landscape there and advocate for more sus- nians to come to do the same for them. dates, which from all accounts was a memo- port unique plants and animals, and a dump tainable development can participate in SOS rable and even inspirational event. But read- site that will be a blight on the environment Teghut’s Action Alert by sending an electronic Very truly yours, ing your article and sidebar gave me some and long-term threat to the health of future letter to the president and other government Jeff Masarjian consolation for not having been there. Thank generations in northern Armenia and pos- officials from the website as well. Watertown, Mass. you very much for publishing them. sibly even neighboring countries. Throughout history there are many exam- The author is the executive director of the SOS Teghut is a coalition of 26 environ- ples of civilizations which flourished, then ­Armenia Tree Project. Very truly yours, mental organizations in Armenia working mysteriously disappeared. The author Jared Rev. Nishan Bakalian together to inform the Armenian public Diamond, in his book Collapse: How Societ- Beirut, Lebanon and concerned citizens around the globe ies Choose to Fail or Succeed, researched and The writer is the Campus Minister of Beirut’s of the ecological disaster that is looming documented evidence of what many of these Almost like being there Haigazian University. in Teghut. We are asking the Armenian civilizations had in common – in every case, government to further analyze the costs the demise of the civilization was preceded Sir: and benefits of approving this mine and by an unsustainable use of their natural re- Your fine and insightful profile of Harry to consider instead other forms of more sources, including complete deforestation of Koundakjian (“Celebrating the works of a Let us know what’s on your sustainable economic development possi- the land, which became unable to support master photojournalist,” Arts & Culture, mind. Write to us at bilities for the region. the population. Jun. 30) expressed the man as he is, and ex- More information and photos about Teghut As Armenians who managed to survive for actly the way he approaches his work: hon- [email protected] and can be found at Armenia Tree Project’s millennia, we must consider the legacy our estly and warm-heartedly. A12 The Armenian Reporter | July 14, 2007