21 YEAR The #9 Noah’s Ark (1049) 2 March 2015 Published Since 1993

Weekly Newspaper HIGHLIGHTS ÜáÛÛ³Ý î³å³Ý ß³μ³Ã³Ã»ñà (³Ý·É. / ýñ³Ýë.) Armenian opposition in limbo after government crackdown

Armenia's major opposition parties remain vague on their immediate steps after Prosperous Armenia (BHK), admit- tedly the most influential of them, came under huge government pressure earlier this month. The BHK led by tycoon Gagik Tsarukyan dramatically toned down its criticism of President Serzh Sargsyan and his government after suffering the consequences of what appeared to be a crackdown unleashed by the head of state. Serzh Sargsyan and senior members of his ruling Republican Party of Armenia (HHK) lashed out at Tsarukyan on February 12 after the BHK leader effectively presented them with an "ulti- matum" - to give up controversial plans for a constitutional reform or face sus- tained street protests seeking to oust the current administration. remarks, calling for "peaceful ways" of is one of the key demands of the HHK for After a number of BHK members settling disputes. The BHK effectively the pressure to stop. were detained on suspicion of "illegally stopped its criticism of the government Meanwhile, the two opposition par- possessing weapons" and the govern- and scheduled a party convention for ties - the Armenian National Congress ment ordered tax inspections of business- March 5. Many political observers expect (HAK) and Heritage - that formed an es owned by Tsarukyan's extended fami- Tsarukyan to step down as chairman of informal coalition with the BHK last year ly, the BHK leader made conciliatory the BHK and retire from politics, which continued on page 10

In This Issue Armenian Parliament rejects opposition Noyan Tapan Printing House bill on 'Government Crisis' p.3 is offering coloured and black and white offset and digital ANC leader announces two month printing of books, brochures, booklets, journals, etc with break in street protests p.4 high quality and low prices Tel: 060 27 64 62 Address: Isahakyan 28, 3rd floor, Yerevan 0009 Electricity tariff hike not excluded p.6 South Dakota House recognizes Noyan Tapan Video Studio Armenian Genocide p.14 is offering professional video and photography for indoor and outdoor events such as weddings, birthday parties, Pope Francis declares Armenian official events, seminars and conferences. Tel: 060 27 64 62 Saint Gregory of Narek Doctor Address: Isahakyan 28, 3rd floor, Yerevan 0009 of the Church p.16

2 March #9 (1049) Š 2015 2 www.nt.am The Noyan Tapan Highlights POLITICS Armenia, Qatar keen to develop mutually beneficial relations Ali Bin Hamad Al Sulaiti, the newly- Armenia and a series of Arab countries has appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and been rooted in an age-old and honest Plenipotentiary of the State of Qatar to the friendship between the Armenian and Arab Republic of Armenia,on February 24 hand- peoples, the Armenian President expressed ed over his credentials to President Serzh confidence that it could provide a firm Sargsyan. foundation for Armenian-Qatari relations The President congratulated the newly- to successfully develop in all mutually ben- appointed ambassador and wished him eficial sectors. success, expressing the hope that during Ambassador Ali Bin Hamad Al Sulaiti his tenure he would spare no effort to assured that he would put every effort into strengthen and enhance cooperation developing bilateral relations and realizing, between Armenia and Qatar. as he characterized, the full cooperation Serzh Sargsyan noted that Armenia potential. attached great importance to deepening of The interlocutors placed great value on laboration between Armenia and Qatar. relations with Gulf states, including Qatar. the activities of the inter-governmental At the meeting, the sides also touched Stressing that the current effective and commission and the expansion of legal upon current regional and international multifaceted collaboration between framework to stimulate multi-sectoral col- issues. Minsk Group Co-Chairs have not called for return of Azeri saboteurs: Armenian FM Armenian Foreign Minister Edward humanism. But what humanism can one Nalbandian has dismissed reports that the speak about in case of OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs raised the Azerbaijan?"Minister Nalbanian said. issue of return of the two Azeri saboteurs He reminded that a number of during the recent visit to Yerevan. Armenian nationals were humiliated and "The crimes committed by the two killed in Azerbaijan. He further recalled Azeri saboteurs, including the kidnapping Baku's refusal to accept the calls of the and brutal killing of a teenager, have been international organization, including the revealed, documented and proved," International Committee of the Red Cross, Minister Nalbandian said at the National the OSCE and the Minsk Group Co-Chairs Assembly. to create conditions for retrieving the bod- tion and humanism," Edward Nalbandian "The international community is well ies of the pilots of the downed helicopter. added. aware of how Azerbaijan welcomes and "I do not even speak about how "the "All this comes to prove that glorifies the murderers, as it happened in great humanists" in Baku are persecuting Azerbaijan has its unique perception of the case of Safarov and not only. Naturally, their own citizens every day, especially the humanism, and uses it to deepen hatred and the international community speaks about proponents of peace, tolerance, reconcilia- xenophobia," the Foreign Minister stated. Iraq's Transport Minister visits Armenian Genocide Memorial The guests laid wreaths at the temporary exhibition hall of AGMI and Armenian Genocide Memorial and paid watched the expo on the Armenian tribute to their memory with a minute of Genocide. silence. Deputy Director of the Armenian Genocide Museum Institute Suren Manukyan presented the history of construction of the Tsitsernakaberd The delegation headed by Iraq's memorial. Transport Minister Jabr Al-Zubeidi visited Members of the Iraqi the Tsitsernakaberd Memorial in Yerevan. delegation visited the

2 March #9 (1049) Š 2015 POLITICS The Noyan Tapan Highlights www.nt.am 3 Armenian Parliament rejects opposition bill on 'Government Crisis' Heritage and the Prosperous Armenia Party The BHK's absence in the parliament (BHK), still last fall took place in the was construed differently by the govern- absence of the latter. The BHK faction that ment and opposition parties. During the has more than three dozen members said debate on the opposition bill Deputy on Monday it would boycott the four-day Parliament Speaker Eduard Sharmazanov, session to protest the government crack- a senior member of the HHK, implied that down on their leader, embattled tycoon among other things the BHK walkout Gagik Tsarukyan. meant that the Tsarukian party did not want On February 12, President Serzh to take part in the debate and the vote on Sargsyan, who also heads the HHK, lashed the resolution. out at Tsarukyan, describing him as "evil" Hermine Naghdalyan, the other deputy The Armenian National Assembly on and saying that he should not be allowed in speaker of parliament representing the February 25 turned down an opposition- politics. In the following days a number of HHK, also attacked the opposition, saying drafted resolution describing the current Tsarukyan loyalists were detained on sus- that if there was any crisis in Armenia it situation in the country as a "government picion of illegally possessing weapons in was within the opposition itself. crisis" and calling for measures to deal cases that the police said had nothing to do "The opposition is lame in both feet," with it. with their party affiliation. But the BHK Naghdalian charged. "I don't share the opti- Sixty-seven members of the 131-seat said the detentions were an attempt to mism that the opposition can overcome legislature dominated by representatives of impose political pressure on announced this ailment quickly, because it started to the ruling Republican Party of Armenia plans for a joint opposition protest on limp not recently, but a long time ago." (HHK) voted against the bill, with only 16 February 20 to demand Sargsyan's resigna- Earlier, HAK parliamentary leader deputies supporting it. Six lawmakers tion. The party called off the rally after Levon Zurabyan warned the government abstained from voting. Tsarukyan issued a statement two days against further pressure on the BHK, say- The debate and vote on the resolution prior to the gathering, saying that he was ing that "even if the opposition is lame drafted jointly by the opposition Armenian ready to settle all disputes through "peace- today, it will quickly recover from its foot National Congress and its two allies, ful, lawful, and political means". injury." Tsarukyan Party confirms meeting with Prime Minister A group of members of the Prosperous scale tax evasion. assumption, stressing that the reform is Party of Armenia (BHK) led by embattled What many BHK members described needed for the further democratization of tycoon Gagik Tsarukyan recently met with as political reprisals followed an angry Armenia and strengthening of its political the Armenian prime minister to discuss speech by President Serzh Sargsyan at the system. "problems related to small and medium- meeting of senior members of his ruling After several days of a tense standoff, sized enterprises", a senior party member HHK on February 12 when he described Tsarukyan reportedly met with Sargsyan confirmed on February 25. Tsarukyan as a man of low intellectual abil- and shortly after that unconfirmed meeting Talking to RFE/RL's Armenian Service ity who was "evil" for the country and had he came up with a statement advocating a , Naira Zohrabyan, the secretary of the to be excluded from the political process. "peaceful way" of settling disputes. BHK parliamentary faction, declined to Sargsyan was apparently irked by After those conciliatory remarks the elaborate on the agenda of the meeting with Tsarukyan's earlier "ultimatum" to give up a BHK has been vague on its further opposi- Hovik Abrahamyan or name the party planned constitutional reform or face large- tion to the Sargsyan government that members who participated in it. scale street protests. Many in the opposition appears to be adamant in its demand that The meeting with Prime Minister camp in Armenia believe Serzh Sargsyan Tsarukyan quit politics. Abrahamian, a senior member of the ruling plans the reform to be able to stay in power The BHK plans to hold its "extraordi- Republican Party of Armenia (HHK) who after leaving his presidential post in 2018. is also in-laws with Tsarukyan, took place Sargsyan himself has repeatedly denied the continued on page 4 against the backdrop of a government crackdown against the BHK that included Noyan Tapan Press-Center detentions of several members and inspec- tions of some of the businesses belonging to Noyan Tapan Press Center holds different discussions, press confer- Tsarukyan loyalists. Earlier this month ences, round tables, teleconferences, seminars each week which Abrahamian himself ordered members of are broadcast live on the Internet. We invite you to take advantage his government to look into "unverified of the Center, as well as to place your banner in our Press Room. reports" implicating Tsarukyan in large- Tel: 060 27 64 62. Address: Isahakyan 28, 3rd floor

2 March #9 (1049) Š 2015 4 www.nt.am The Noyan Tapan Highlights POLITICS March 1 Rally: Armenian authorities show proof ANC leader of Permyakov handover request announces two- Armenian authorities have presented a photocopy of an official document sent month break in from Russia acknowledging the receipt of Yerevan's formal request for the transfer to street protests Armenian custody of a Russian soldier accused of killing seven members of a sin- The opposition Armenian National gle family in Armenia last month. Congress (ANC) will hold no rallies for In a statement released on Tuesday, the Permyakov, a 19-year-old solider from the at least two months, the opposition Prosecutor's Office also said that the Russian military base stationed in Gyumri, party's leader Levon Ter-Petrosyan told request submitted by Armenian to be handed over to Armenian jurisdic- several thousand supporters who gath- Prosecutor-General Gevorg Kostanyan in a tion. ered in Yerevan's Liberty Square on letter addressed to his Russian counterpart The man charged with killing seven March 1 afternoon. Yuri Chaika on February 3 is "being con- members of the Avetisyan family, includ- sidered by partners in the Russian ing a two-year-old girl and six-month-old Federation." boy, in a January 12 shooting rampage in The publication of the document dated Gyumri is currently kept at the base and, as February 20 follows a series of media pub- authorities in Moscow say, will be tried by lications in Armenia casting doubts that a Russian military court. the Armenian authorities have ever sub- On January 15, hundreds of protesters mitted a formal request for Valery demanding that Permyakov be transferred to Armenian custody clashed with police in the northwestern Armenian city. Prosecutor-General Kostanyan promised Ter-Petrosyan said the decision was then that he would seek Armenian jurisdic- based on the current reality in which, tion over the case. according to him, the ANC again remains The statement issued by the alone in the opposition camp. He said Prosecutor's Office follows protests by rel- that time is needed to assess the potential atives of the murdered family, who gath- for further struggle by means of rallies. ered in the provincial prosecutor's office in The ANC had planned to participate Gyumri on Monday demanding a meeting in a joint rally with Heritage and the with Kostanyan. They also called on the Prosperous Armenia Party (PAP) on authorities to provide definitive answers, February 20, but after the PAP effective- including on the Permyakov custody issue, ly pulled out of the opposition coalition and threatened to hold more protests in the following a government crackdown ear- city on Friday if their demands are not met. lier last month, the Ter-Petrosyan-led party decided to schedule its rally for March 1, which marks the seventh Tsarukyan Party confirms meeting... anniversary of the deadly 2008 post-elec- From page 3 closed any details of the agenda of the tion clashes. upcoming convention. In explaining his decision to declare a nary" convention on March 5 and, accord- Earlier, some Armenian media alleged pause in rallies, Ter-Petrosyan also said ing to Zohrabyan, Tsarukyan, who has not that Tsarukyan may step down as BHK that the ANC did not want to obstruct in been seen in public in recent days, is going leader soon, becoming "honorary chair- any way the organization and holding of to attend the event. Neither Zohrabyan nor man" of the party with no real instruments events commemorating the centennial of other representatives of the BHK have dis- to influence its policies. the Armenian Genocide in Ottoman Turkey. The main events are due to take place on April 24. After the rally, ANC supporters marched towards the Myasnikyan Statue, the scene of the most violent clashes between demonstrators and security forces on March 1-2, 2008. They laid flowers at the monument in memory of the 10 people who were killed in the unrest that night.

2 March #9 (1049) Š 2015 ECONOMY The Noyan Tapan Highlights www.nt.am 5 Armenia considers tax advantages for large exporters

Service, Armenian exports fell by 22 per- defended the bill, saying there is no issue cent last month as compared with the vol- of concrete personalities in it. HHK mem- umes reported for January 2014. Copper, ber Vardan Ayvazyan said he would wel- other base metals and ore concentrates tra- come any businessman who makes invest- ditionally account for a large part of the ments for setting up an exporting business export revenue. The government said the in Armenia. proposed tax advantages do not apply to Earlier, during the first day of the companies engaged in the mining industry. debate on Wednesday, another majority Despite the government's assurances party lawmaker Garegin Nushikyan said that the proposed bill will stimulate exports that even if a scenario presented by the A government-drafted bill setting a and will also mean more jobs and other tax opposition lawmakers is realized and considerably reduced profit tax rate for revenues, many opposition members in the everything is concentrated in the hands of large-scale exporters has sparked debate in parliament voiced skepticism and pointed just one organization, there will be "noth- Armenia after reaching the National at what they believe are pitfalls in the new ing terrible" about it. Assembly this week. legislation. Member of the Armenian In an effort to attract more foreign "We consider it as a step aimed at Revolutionary Federation Artsvik investment, the Armenian government last monopolizing foreign trade, another dis- Minasyan, meanwhile, expressed concern month unveiled its plans to cut the tax from graceful step that will ensure super profits about possible situations when essential 20 to just 2 percent for manufacturing com- for those in the government and will again goods will be exported from Armenia in panies annually exporting at least 50 bil- deprive small and medium-sized enterpris- large quantities which would lead to a lion drams ($106 million) worth of goods es of all opportunities," said Levon sharp rise in prices. He called on the gov- other than metals and ores. Zurabyan, the head of the opposition ernment to find ways to prevent such pos- An elaborated bill setting the export Armenian National Congress faction. sible scenarios. volume threshold at $40 billion drams Hovannes Markaryan, of Orinats In postponing the debate and vote on (about $84 million) and envisaging a 5- Yerkir, meanwhile, noted that the legisla- the bill Parliament Speaker Sahakyan said percent corporate profit tax was put on the tion primarily targets foreign investors as on Thursday that the decision will give the agenda of this week's four-day session at there are no such large exporters among lawmakers more time to discuss the bill. the National Assembly. manufacturing companies inside Armenia. Meanwhile, opposition lawmaker The parliament leadership first desig- "It is clear that our citizens who are Khachatur Kokobelyan believes the reason nated the bill as "urgent" that required that engaged in exporting businesses will not for the decision was "technical". The HHK it had to be debated and voted on within 48 be able to take advantage of these tax priv- did not have enough deputies in the cham- hours, but on February 26 Parliament ileges," he said. ber to ensure the passage of the bill, he Speaker Galust Sahakyan said that the vote Opposition lawmaker Hrant Bagratyan, said. on the bill is likely to take place in early who headed the Armenian government in Kokobelyan voiced concerns that March. 1993-1996, spoke in favor of providing exports in Armenia may be monopolized, Still when presenting the bill at the businesses with tax breaks, but he called which, in his opinion, is fraught with risks Cabinet meeting on January 23 Prime for a level-playing field, saying that all of more government corruption. "In prac- Minister Hovik Abrahamyan said: "This is exporters should be able to use this oppor- tice it will be the government that will one of the unconventional government tunity. decide who should be provided with these steps aimed at stimulating exports." Meanwhile, members of the ruling privileges and who should not," the oppo- According to the National Statistical Republican Party of Armenia (HHK) sition lawmaker said. World Food Program Representative, Armenian FM discuss issues of future cooperation Nalbandian. and kind wishes, Pascal Misho assured that Welcoming the guest, Minister she will do her utmost to productively Nalbandian wished good luck in the real- implement the projects currently being ization of her mission, and expressed hope realized in Armenia. that the Representative would foster the During the meeting questions on the deepening of the cooperation between the cooperation between the World Food On February 24, Representative of Government of Armenia and the World Programme and the Government of World Food Programme Pascal Misho pre- Food Programme, productive implementa- Armenia and the local authorities were dis- sented the copies of her credentials to tion of joint projects. cussed, current programs and perspective Foreign Minister of Armenia Edward Expressing gratitude for the reception projects were touched upon.

2 March #9 (1049) Š 2015 6 www.nt.am The Noyan Tapan Highlights ECONOMY Electricity tariff hike not excluded Armenia is conducting negotiations "In this connection at this moment the with Russia for the price of natural gas Armenian side is conducting negotiations not to be raised in the near future, the with the Russian side for the natural gas chief of a state regulatory body has told price not to be raised because of the Armenian lawmakers. dram-dollar fluctuations," said Nazaryan During a question-and-answer session without disclosing any details of the in the Armenian parliament on February negotiations. 25, Robert Nazaryan, the head of the He said that only after the completion Public Services Regulatory Commission of these talks electricity producing sta- (PSRC), was asked whether a rise in elec- tions in Armenia and companies partici- tricity prices was expected this or next pating in the country's energy market will financial losses incurred by the year. be able to evaluate the situation and make Electricity Networks of Armenia, a Nazaryan first said that the tariffs for corresponding requests related to elec- Russian-owned national power utility. electricity and natural gas are "directly tricity tariffs. "At this moment the situa- Remarkably, in December 2013 when interrelated" and then cited "fluctuations" tion is still uncertain," the official said. Armenia sold its remaining 20-percent of the national currency exchange rate as The PSRC raised the energy price by share in the domestic gas distribution net- a major factor in determining energy tar- 27 percent in July 2013, pointing to the work to Russia's state-run gas monopoly iffs. increased cost of Russian natural gas, Gazprom, chief of the Armenian presi- The Armenian dram lost more than 15 which generates more than one-third of dent's staff Vigen Sargsyan declared that percent of its value against the U.S. dol- Armenia's electricity. The price went up as a result of the sale the price of Russian lar and other major international curren- by another 10 percent in July 2014 as the natural gas supplied to Armenia would cies late last year. PSRC cited the need to end mounting not be changed in the next five years. Armenian IT Firms Capacity building for six startup to Showcase Products teams from Armenia and Turkey in Germany Eighteen young entrepreneurs from ed mentors from Armenia and Turkey and Several Armenian IT companies will Armenia and Turkey will start an inten- will get together in Armenia for a 4-day showcase their products at CeBIT 2015, sive 4 months capacity building program crash course at Microsoft Innovation the largest technology exhibition in as part of the Technology Goes Beyond Center. In the first stage of the capacity Europe set for March 16 to 20 in Hanover, Borders project (TGBB) funded by the building program (February23-March 23, Germany, the Union of Information U.S. Embassy in Armenia. The project 2015) the mentors will work with teams Technology Enterprises (UITE) of gives young ICT entrepreneurs from to identify and address their needs Armenia reports. Armenian companies Armenia and Turkey an opportunity to through online sessions. The course in that will be in attendance include Volo, build their capacity through mentorship Armenia (March 26-29) will be tailored to Altacode, E-Works, IU Networks, support and training, advancement of the needs of teams and will also focus on Technology and Science Dynamics, and their startups and collaborative partner- such areas as technological capacity, cus- others. "Armenia has traditionally partici- ships. The project is implemented by the tomer development/acquisition, business pated in this largest European exhibition, Microsoft Innovation Center and Public modelling and developing an impressive but this year is different. This year Journalism Club in collaboration with the pitch. During the second round of mentor- Armenia participates with a separate pavil- Economic Policy Research Foundation of ship sessions (April 2015) the teams will ion called 'Surprising Engineering and Turkey (TEPAV). get support in fine-tuning their ideas and Why Armenia,'" UITE deputy director Three teams from Armenia and three preparing their pitches. In May, the repre- Hayk Chobanyan said. teams from Turkey are enrolled in the sentative of the teams will meet in The participation of Armenian compa- project. The teams will have two rounds Armenia once again to pitch their ideas to nies is being coordinated by UITE with the of online mentorship sessions with select- investors from Armenia and Turkey. assistance of a specialized agency of the Netherlands' Ministry of Foreign Affairs for promotion of developing countries. CeBIT is an international platform for discovering the latest IT trends, establish- ment of business relations and showcasing of products. CeBIT annually attracts more than 4,000 companies from 70 countries, while the number of visitors exceeded 310,000 from about 110 countries.

2 March #9 (1049) Š 2015 POLITICS The Noyan Tapan Highlights www.nt.am 7 EU remains committed to strengthening bilateral cooperation with Armenia Armenia's EEU commitments and their Commission sent a fact finding mission to possible implications on future relations assess the possibility of preparing a man- with EU. Both sides agreed to "safeguard" date for negotiations. We will also need to the negotiated but not initialled strengthen our cooperation within the AA/DCFTA and to use it as reference to EaP's multilateral dimension in 2015, in this aim," Hristea added. particular the four multilateral platforms "As long as good governance, reform and the flagship initiatives and contribute of the judiciary, rule of law, human rights together to the success of the 4th EaP do not form part of the official Eurasian Summit in Riga. And last but not least to "Despite Armenia's decision in integration process, there is plenty of room continue the EaP-related dialogue during September 2013 not to sign the for the EU to engage Armenia, and for the Euronest meeting in Yerevan at the par- Association Agreement/DCFTA with the Armenia to demonstrate their commitment liamentary level," Hristea stated. EU but rather join the Eurasian Economic to reform. The upcoming human rights sec- The envoy said "the EU is seriously Union (EEU), the EU remains committed tor budget support is in that regard a wel- concerned over the security situation in the to further engage with Armenia, and to come step - and at the same time a litmus region, especially after the unprecedented strengthen bilateral cooperation within the test, for which the more-for-more principle increase of tension and recent events at the Eastern Partnership, in all areas compatible also applies," the Head of EU Delegation line of contact in Nagorno-Karabakh." with Armenia's more recent policy choic- said. "The protracted Nagorno-Karabakh con- es," Head of the EU Delegation to Armenia He also attached importance to making flict does not have a military solution and Traian Hristea at the conference on "EU- best use of the significant EU assistance of the status quo is unsustainable. Although Armenia Cooperation: Perspective in the 140-170 million EUR for the period of we are not part of the OSCE Minsk group Actual Political Environment" 2014-2017, focusing on private sector negotiation mechanism, the EU further "Currently, we are reflecting jointly development, public administration reform supports efforts towards peace through the with our Armenian counterparts on the and justice sector reform. EUSR and peacebuilding activities." scope for future EU-Armenia relations. "Moreover, we need to further promote "The EU also continues to supports the Following the Joint Statement issued at mobility of citizens of Armenia and peo- normalisation of Armenian-Turkish rela- EaP Vilnius summit November 2013 both ple-to-people contacts once a steady and tions and encourages both sides to remain sides have started a joint reflection on how satisfactory implementation of the visa committed to the process of normalisation to revisit the legal basis for their relations," facilitation and readmission agreements is without preconditions, despite the with- he said. confirmed. Negotiating a Comprehensive drawal of protocols signed back in 2009 "On 4 November 2014, the EU and Air Transport Agreement with Armenia is a from parliaments of both countries. This Armenia have launched in Brussels a scop- policy objective outlined in the Eastern year's commemoration of atrocities com- ing exercise on the future legal and politi- Partnership Road Map. Armenia has mitted by the Ottoman Empire also is con- cal framework for EU-Armenia relations, expressed interest and readiness to negoti- sidered by us a test-case for Armenia- based on information as regards to ate the agreement and the European Turkey relations," he stated. Rep. Sherman calls on Secretary Kerry to "show courage" and recognize the Armenian Genocide Congressman Brad Sherman (D-CA) - cide to describe what happened in Committee, explained, "Today, at a hear- speaking today from the dais of the U.S. Anatolia 100 years ago," urged Rep. ing of the House Foreign Affairs House Foreign Affairs Committee - direct- Sherman, as part of a series of questions to Committee, I directed questions to ly called upon Secretary of State John Secretary Kerry during today's House Secretary of State John Kerry regarding Kerry, and by extension the entire Obama- Foreign Affairs Committee hearing, titled, our bilateral relationship with Armenia Biden Administration, to stop enforcing "Advancing U.S. Interests in a Troubled and the Armenian Genocide. As we pre- Turkey's gag-rule against an honest World: The FY 2016 Foreign Affairs pare to mark the 100th anniversary of the American recognition of the Armenian Budget." Armenian Genocide, it is especially Genocide, reported the Armenian National Secretary Kerry's response to this important to raise awareness of these Committee of America (ANCA). question and others submitted by atrocities and work to ensure that the "As Senator Kerry, you championed Congressman David Cicilline (D-RI) and world never again experiences a similar recognition of the Armenian Genocide. several Committee members on a broad tragedy. I will continue to closely monitor We are now at the 100th anniversary and I range of Armenian American concerns are these issues and I look forward to continu- would hope that you would show the anticipated in the upcoming weeks. ing to work with advocates both in my dis- courage, that you are personally known Rep. Cicilline, a leading voice for trict and across the country, especially the for, and on April 24th use the word geno- Armenian Genocide justice on the continued on page 13

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Abovyan str., 2nd floor,70sq.m., 1 bed- repaired, h-5m., cellar. Price: Negotiabel capitally repaired, heating system swimming pool, room, capitally repaired, heating system. Price: 2013.Tumanyan str., Ground floor of the build- garden, sauna, 2 car parking. Price-1.500.000 135.000 USD ing, 265sq.m.,1st line, capitally repaired, heating USD system, cellar. Price: 1.300.000$ negotiable 3574.Blur, Land-779sq.m.,2 storied building- 2 ROOMS 2012.Mashtots Ave., 5/1,2, 140sq.m.,window 720sq.m.,4 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, study, capi- glasses, capitally repaired, AC. Price: 850.000 tally repaired, heating system,sauna swimming USD negotiable pool, garden. Price: 2.000.000 USD 3038.Aram str, Newly built, 15/15, 115sq.m,2bed- 2155.Mashtots ave., 3storied building, 3590 Blur, rooms, 2bathrooms, capitally repaired. Price: 540sq.m., each floor-180sq.m, window Barbyus str., 200.000 USD negotiable glasses,parking. Price:3.600.000 USD Land-450 3037. Paronyan str., Newly built, 11/9, 2edrooms, 2020.Hr. Kochar str., Land-300sq.m,1st line, sq.m.,4 storied 1 bathroom, capitally repaired. Price: 2000 USD per 4storied building, 1080sq.m.,each floor-270sq.m, building- sq.m. h-3.6m,without divisions, parkings, 3 access. 470sq.m.,3bed- 3015.Tsitsernakaberd Highway Newly built, 4th Price:1.200.000 USD negotiable rooms, 3 bath- floor, 2bedrooms, zero state. Prece: 1100USD per 1986.Cascade, Land 1000sq.m. 3storied build- rooms, capitally sq.m. ing1200sq.m., unfinished, parking. repaired, heating 3003.Sayat-Nova str, 5/3, 105sq.m, 2bedrooms, Price:1.000.000 USD. system, AC, gar- stone building, capitally repaired. Price: Negotiable 2167.Sayat Nova str., newly built, 38sq. m, den. Price: 1560.Northern Ave., Newly built,10/3, 130 sq.m., capitally repaired. Price: 200.000 USD 680.000 USD 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, capitally repaired,climate 2175.Tumanyan str, Ground and 1st floorof the  3651.Blur, control, parking. Price: 400.000 USD. building, 600sq.m, ground floor300sq.m, 1st Barbyus str., 2818.Northern Ave., Newly built, 3rd floor, floor-220sq,m, basement-80sq.m, - 1st line, zero Land-900sq.m.,5 120sq.m, 2 bedrooms,2 bathrooms,capitally level, 2 entrances, facade-15m, 4 window glasses, storied building- repaired, heating system, Ac, furnished. capitally reapired, heating system, AC, Price: 800sq.m.,4 bed- Price:400.000USD 3500 USD per sq.m, rooms, 3 bath- 1156.Komitas Ave., Hambardzumyan str. 5/3, 2172. Isahakyan str, 92sq.m, 1st line, 7 rooms, capitally 110sq.m, 2 bedrooms, capitally repaired, heating degrees above zero level, facade-9m, 2 window repaired, heating system, kitchen is furnished. Price: 150.000 USD glasses, h-3.20m, 2 halls, cabinet, bathroom, cap- system, AC, gar- negotiable. itally repaired, heating system. Price: 450.000 den. Price: 2300.Northern ave., Newly built, 6/2, 130 sq.m., USD 1.700.000 USD. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, capitally repaired, heating system, AC,parking. Price: 400.000 USD. LANDS 3401.Antarayin str, Newly built, land-700sq.m, 3 storied bld-690sq.m, 5 bedrooms, capitally 3 ROOMS 2122.Davitashen, 1800 sq.m., water, gas, elec- repaired. Price: 1.300.000 USD tricity, possible to sell separately 600 sq.m., and 3712 Cascade Newly built, land-450sq.m, 4 sto- 3025.Northern Ave., Newly built, 10/8, 196sq.m, 1200 sq.m. Price: 150 USD per sq.m. ried bld-600sq.m, zero state. Price: 550.000 USD 3bedrooms, 2bathrooms, capitally repaired, parking. 2121.Demirchyan str., 1338 sq.m.,building Price: 650.000 USD negotiable permits. Price: 2million USD. NEWLY BUILT RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS 2918.Tumanyan str. 4/4, 182sq.m ., stone bld, 2013.Cascade. 1000 sq.m. building permits, first 3bedrooms, 2 bathroome, capitally repaired. Price: line, gas, water and electricity possibilities. Price 132. Vagharshyan str. 11floors, 1-2 floor-com- 370.000 USD 460.000USD mercial areas, from 3rd floor-residential-54- 2801.Vardananc str. Newly built, 23/20, 179sq.m, 1402.Hr. Kochar Str., 1100 sq. m.,facade -25 120sq.m, no exploitation fees. Price: Commercial 3bedrooms, 2bathrooms, capitally repaired. m. Price negotiable. areas-2600 USD per sq.m, Residential- 1100 Price:negotiable 2090.Lori region, close to Stepanavan, sq.m, Parking: 13.000 USD 3012.Aram str, Newly built, /7th floor, 136sq.m, 3 Gyargyar village, 6 hectares, forest 2 hectare has 137.Nalbandyan str, Construction works will be bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, capitally repaired, heating building permits, 3 water source, electricity. Price: completed at the end of 2015, Price: Negotiable system, AC, parking, facing to bulvar, Price:300.000 100.000USD. 74.Cascade, Verin Antarayin. 136-315 sq USD negotiable. 2406.Avan, Mher Mkrtchyan block, 1000 sq.m., m.,walls plastered, electricity, water, gas, euro 2998.North Ave, Newly built, 9/6, 181sq.m, 3bed- electricity, gas, water, the district is inhabited. windows,no exploitation fees. Price:1200 USD per rooms, capitally repaired, climate control, parking, Price: 30USD per sq.m sq.m, parking -15.000 USD. Price: 700.000 USD 2107.Monument, 2400sq.m, building permits, 107.Monument, Verin Antarayin. inhabited, 8 2682.Aram Str., Newly built,13/6 187sq.m., 3 building project. Price: 400 USD per sq.m. floors, gas, windows, street view -1000 USD per bedrooms,2 bathrooms, 2 open balconies, capitally 2413.Ashtarak roadway, 1000sq.m, building sq.m., city looking -1500 USD per sq.m., parking - reapaired,heating systen, 2AC, 2 garages, view to permits, building project. Price: Negotiable 4 million USD preliminary. garden. Price: 600.000 USD with furniture. 2414.Demirchyan str. land-750sq.m., building 87.Sayat-Nova str., 21 floors, 3 bedrooms -188 2895.Northern Ave., Newly built, 3rd floor, permits. Price:750.000 USD. sq.m., 199 sq.m., Price 1900 USD per sq.m., 2 300sq.m,3bedrooms, 2 bathrooms,capitally repaied, bedrooms have a beautiful sight - 117 sq.m., 120 climate control, AC. Price: negotiable PRIVATE HOUSES sq.m., 124 sq.m.,Price: 1700 USD per sq.m., cli- 1104.Komitas Ave., Aram Khachatryan str., mate control, gas. 5/2, 125sq.m.,stone bld, h-2.75m.,3 bedrooms, 94.Masiv. 3floors,8 flats,each flat has 3 bed- office, 2 bathrooms, old repair, gas, garage. Price: 3348.Blur, Barbyus str. Land - 800 sq.m, 3 sto- rooms, 210 sq.m., parking. Price: negotiable. 130.000 USD ried bld.-700 sq.m, 4bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 130.Antarayin str., 34 flats, 110-275 sq.m., 4 2836.Pushkin str., 4/4,5, 400sq.m., 3 bedrooms, capitally repaired, climate control. Price: 1.2 mil- penthouses-200-275sq.m,available sevices-car 3 bathrooms, capitally repaired, heating system, AC. lion USD wash, cleaning service, garbage removal service, Price: 460.000 USD. 3146.Aygestan, Land-500 sq.m., 5 storied bld- parking. Price: Negotiable 2990.North Ave., Newly built, 11th floor, 295sq.m, 765 sq.m.,each floor-180 sq.m, 4 bedrooms, 5 131.Busand str., commercial, office and res- 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, capitally repaired, climate bathrooms, study, capitally repaired, hjeating sys- idential areas, penthouse, available sevices-car control, parking. Price: Negotiable. tem,elevator. Price: 2.300.000 USD. wash, cleaning service, garbage removal service, 3583.Nork-Marash, Land-1100sq.m,2 storied parking. Price: Negotiable bld-520sq.m,6 bedrooms,5 bathrooms, capitally

2 March #9 (1049) 2015 FOR RENT The Noyan Tapan Highlights www.nt.am 9 YOUR CHOICE IS OUR CHOICE www.mrealty.am (010) 564631 (010) 562181 [email protected] 12 G. Lusavorich str., Yerevan, Armenia 2301. Blur Newly built, 18/7, 128sq.m, 3bed- nished, swimming-pool, garden. Price: 4.000 USD 1 ROOM rooms, 2 bathrooms, capitally repaired, furnished, negotiable. parking. Price:2500 USD 1142.Djrvej, Bagrevand community. Land-1000 2037.Baghramyan str., 5/2, 60sqm, 1 bedroom, 2286.Sose str, Newly built, 12/2, 154sq.m, 3bed- sq.m., 3 storied bld.-700 sq.m., 5 bedrooms, 5 euro repaired, gas, heating system, AC, modern rooms, 2 bathrooms, capitally reapired, furnished, bathrooms, pantry, playing room, capitally repaired, furnished,equipped. Price:negotiable equipped. Price: 1700 USD no furniture/ can be furnished, if necessary /garage 2189.Vardanants str., Newly built,24/12, 90 2257.Northern Ave., Newly built, 17/16, 160 for 2 cars. Price: 4 000 USD. sqm, 1 bedroom, capitally repaired, furnished, sq.m.,3 bedrooms, capitally repaired, heating sys- 1293.Nork-Marash, Land-1100sq.m,2 storied equipped. Price: 1000 USD. tem, AC, parking. Price: Negotiable bld-520 sq.m, 6 bedrooms,5 bathrooms, capitally 2099.Sayat-Nova Ave., 12/6, 1 bedroom, capi- 2021.Teryan Str., Newly built,9/8,9, 245 sq.m., 4 repaired, heating system, AC, swimming pool, gar- tally repaired,gas, heating system, AC, furnished, bedrooms, 3 bathrooms,capitally repaired, heating den.Price7.000 USD equipped. Price:600 USD. system, furnished. Preliminary price: 3500 USD. 327. Nork-Marash, Land-500sq.m.,4 storied 1972.Northern ave., 8/4, 80sq.m.,1bedrrom, 2 2005.Northern Ave., Newly built,8/8, 130 sq.m, building-600 sq.m., 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, cap- bathrooms, open kitchen, capitally repaired, climate 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, capitally repaired, itally repaired, heating system, furnished, equipped, control. Price: 1200 USD heating system, furnished, parking. Price: 2200 swimming pool, garden, sauna, 2 car parking. 2171.Tumanyan str., Newly built, 5th floor, 94 USD. Price-4000 USD sq.m., 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, capitally repaired, 1723.Northern Ave., Newly built,8/4., 170 sq.m 1306. Tsarav Akhbyur /near Botanical garden/, central heating, furnished, equipped. Price: 1000 3 bedrooms,3 bathrooms, open kitchen, capitally Land-1000sq.m., 3 storied building-750sq.m., 6 USD repaired, furnished, equipped. Price: 2000 USD. bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, 2 kitchens, capitally 2367.Northern ave., Newly built, 9th flloor, 98 1793.Teryan str., Newly built, 8th floor, 260 repaired, heating system swimming pool, garden, sq.m., capitally repaired, heating system, furnished sq.m.,3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, study, capitally sauna, 2 car parking, with or without furniture. equipped. Price: Negotiable. repaired, climat Price:6000-8000 USD negotiable control, parking, 1288. Tsarav Akhbyur /near Botanical garden/, unfurnished Land-560sq.m., 4 storied building-560 sq.m., 4 2 ROOMS (possible to fur- bedrooms, 4bathrooms, a kitchen, office, capitally nish), Price: repaired, heating system, furnished, equipped, 2308 Vardanants str. Newly built, 18/15, 3500 USD. swimming pool,garden, 2 car parking. Price: 5000 135sq.m, 2bedrooms, 2bathrooms, open kitchen, 1720.Amiryan USD capitally repaired, furnished. Price: 2000 USD str., Newly 1197. Blur, Land-779sq.m.,2 storied building- 2302. Hin Yerevantsi Newly built, 11/4, built,16/10, 179 720sq.m.,4 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, study, capital- 137sq.m, 2bedrooms, 2bathrooms, capitally sq.m, 3 bed- ly repaired, heating system, sauna swimming pool, repaired, furnished, parking. Price:2000 USD rooms, 2 bath- garden. Price:8000 USD 2298. Baghramyan str. Newly built, 17/14, rooms, capitally 1312. Blur, Barbyus str., Land-450sq.m., 4 sto- 127sq.m, 2bedrooms, 1 bathroom, capitally repaired, central ried building-470sq.m., 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, repaired, furnished. Price: 1500 USD heating, AC, cel- capitally repaired, heating system, AC, garden. 1780.Amiryan str, Newly built, /13th floor, 82 lar- 25sq.m, with Price: Negotiable sq.m, 2 bedrooms, capitally repaired, heating sys- or without furni- 1317. Blur, Barbyus str., Land-900sq.m.,5 sto- tem, AC, furnished, equipped. Price: 1700 USD ture, parking, ried building-800sq.m., 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, negotiable. Price 3000 USD capitally repaired, heating system, AC, garden. 942.Teryan str. 4/3, 130 sq.m.,2 bedrooms, cap- negotiable Price: Negotiable. itally repaired, heating system, furnishred, 1323.Monument, Babayan str, Land - 400 sq.m, equipped. Price: 1500 USD. 2195.Northern ave., Newly built, 3rd floor, 3 storied bld-300sq.m, each floor-100sq.m, 4 bed- 1950.Buzand/Mashtots area. Newly built,8th 300sq.m, 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 2 kitchens, rooms, 4 bathrooms, capitally repaired, heating sys- floor, 163 sq.m.,2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, capital- capitally repaired,climate control, AC, parking. tem, AC, furnished, equipped. Price: Negotiable ly repaired,climate control, furnished, open bal- Price:5000 USD cony. Price: 2500 USD. 2261.Hin Yerevantsi, /North Avenue/, Newly PREMISES 1681.Northern Ave., Newly built,6/2,130 built, 10/3, 124sq.m., 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, sq.m.,2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, capitally repaired, capitally repaired, heating system, AC, furnished, heating system, AC,parking. Price: 2000 USD. equipped, parking. Price: 1700 USD 2049.Teryan str, ground floor+basemnet, 1st 1535.Busand str., Newly built, 7/4, 82sq.m,2bed- 2084.Tumanyan str., 4th floor, 200sq.m, 3 bed- line, 200sq.m, repaired. Price: 6.000 USD rooms, capitally repaired, heating system, AC, rooms, 2 bathrooms, capitally repaired, climate 1693.Malatia-Sebastia 4 storied building, parking, furnished, equipped. Price: Negotiable. control, parking. Price:5000 USD 1200sq.m, each floor-300sq.m, 2 separate 2089.Northern ave., Newly built,8/6, 120sq.m., 2252.Northern ave, 7th floor, 350 sq.m., 3 bed- entrances, climate control, 2 elevators, basement, 2 bedrooms,2 bathrooms, capitally reapired, cli- rooms, 4 bathrooms, study, open balconies, capital- parking. Price: 15USD per sq.m. mate control, furnished, equipped. Price: 2500 USD ly repaired, climate control, parking. Price 1526.Byuzand str., 5/semi-basement, 170 sqm., 1738.Amiryan str., 8/8, 159sq.m.,2 bedrooms, 2 Negotiable. 4-5 degrees below zero level,window glasses, cellar bathrooms, capitally repaired, heating system, park- - 50 sq.m.,6 rooms, the largest is 30 sq.m., 2 ing. Price: Negotiable PRIVATE HOUSES entrances, 2 lavatories. Price 2000 USD per month, 1951.Busand str., Newly built, 13th floor, negotiable. 122sq.m, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, capitally 1408.Zarobyan str., /parallel to Baghramyan repaired, climate control. Price: 2500 USD 852. Aygedzor 2storied bld-365sq.m, 3bed- str./, 2 storied building,600 sqm. ground floor- hall 1406.Sayat Nova ave., 7/3, 110sq.m., 2 bed- rooms, 2 bathrooms, capitally repaired, furnished. and kitchen,1st floor 5 rooms, bathroom, open bal- rooms, 2 bathrooms, capitally reapired, heating sys- Price: 3500 USD cony, capitally repaired, gas, heating system,park- tem, furnished, equipped. Price: Negotiable 1335 Baghramyan str., Land-200sq.m, 3storied ing. Price: Negotiable. 2109.Northern ave., Newly built,10/4, 137sq.m, bld-300sq.m.,4 bedrooms, 3bathrooms,capitally 1462.Teryan str., 3 storied building, 800 sq.m., 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, capitally repaired, cen- repaired, furnished. Price: 3000 USD capitally repaired, AC, parking, Price: 10.000 USD. tral heating, furnished, equipped, parking. Price: 1336 Aygedzor, Land-1000sq.m, 2 storied bld- 1945.Mashtots Ave., 5/1,2, 140sq.m., window 2000 USD. 240sq.m, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathroosm,capitally glasses, capitally repaired, AC. Price: 8000 USD 2243.Buzand str, Newly built, 17/4, 125sq.m, 2 repaired, furnished. Price:2000 USD 1943.Tumanyan str., Ground floor of the build- bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, capitally repaired, heating 1337 Davtashen Land-406sq.m,3 storied bld- ing, 265sq.m.,1st line, capitally repaired, heating system, AC, furnished, equipped. Price: 2000 USD 306sq.m, 4bedrooms, 2bathrooms, capitally system, cellar. Price: 7000 USD  Amiryan str, Newly built, 14/5, 120sqm, 2 repaired, furnished. Price:3900 USD 1868.Tumanyan str., Ground floor of the build- bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, capitally repaired, heating 1323.Monument, Babayan str, Land-400sq.m, ing, 220sq.m.,1st line, facade-55m.,capitally system, AC, partly furnished. Price 2000 USD 3storied bld-300sq.m, 4bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, repaired, h-5m., cellar. Price: 15.000 USD. capitally repaired. Price: Negotiable 2033.Abovyan str, 388sq,m, Ground floor of 999.Aygedzor, Land -1000 sqm, basement + 2 the building, 3 degrees above zero level, windoq 3 ROOMS AND MORE floors- 310 sqm, capitally repaired, 4 bedrooms, 4 glasses, h-3m.,basement-235sq.m, capitally bathrooms, newly furnished, equipped, sauna, repaired, heating system, AC. Price: 15.000 USD 2290 Bayron str Newly built, /5th floor, 220sq.m, swimming-pool. Starting Price: 5000 USD. 2031.Vardanants str, 500sq.m, ground floor of 2bedrooms, study, 2 bathrooms, open kitchen, cap- 1094.Noy block, Land-450sqm, 2 storied building the building, 2 entrances, facade-20m, window itally repaired, climate control, furnished, parking. - 220sq.m, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, capitally glasses, without divisions, ,basement-250sq.m, Price: 4000 USD repaired, heating system, furnished, equipped, Price:8000 USD 2309.Vardanants str. Newly built, 23/19, swimming pool, garden. Price: 2000USD. 2027.Sayat Nova str, 95sq.m, ground floor of 192sq.m, 3bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, guest toilet, 1195.Nork, Armenakyan str., Land - 2000 sq.m, the building, 2 entrances, 7 degrees above zero capitally repaired, furnished, parking. Price:2500 4 storied bld.-520 sq.m., 4 bedrooms, 4bathrooms, level, 4 window glasses, capitally repaired. USD negotiable. capitally repaired, heating system, sauna, gym, fur- Price: 4.000 USD

2 March #9 (1049) 2015 10 www.nt.am POLITICS Armenia ready to receive assyrian refugees spective of nationality, granting them the Assyrians have applied to the right to legal residency and social rights. Armenian government with a request to "The problem is that those people have give shelter to Christian Assyrians. Also, to reach Armenia in some way so that they have called on the world powers to they can present their problems to the save the Assyrian people from genocide. Armenian authorities," Yeganyan said. Assyrians say what has been happen- "They have to write an appeal at the bor- ing in the Middle East since August 2014 der, after which the process prescribed is a classic example of genocide. by law begins." Speaking about the situation in the Representative of the Assyrian com- Middle East, genocide scholar Anahit munity of Armenia Razmik Khosroev Khosroeva reminded that on the morning called on the Government of Armenia to of February 23 militants from the Islamic take an adequate decision and allow the State attacked over 30 Assyrian villages The Armenian authorities on Assyrians having been displaced from and abducted hundreds of Assyrians. February 27 immediately responded to their homes in Syria by the Islamic State "Assyrians intend to release a video, calls by the Assyrian community to host to freely enter Armenia. Professor of the urging US President Barack Obama to Assyrian refugees who have been dis- University of Chicago and expert on stop the military strikes against the placed from their native lands in Syria at genocide studies Anahit Khosroeva men- Islamic State, as otherwise the captives the hands of the Islamic State. tioned that on the night of February 22, will be killed," she said. Head of the State Migration Service the Islamic State attacked nearly 32 "What's happening in the Middle East of Armenia Gagik Yeganyan said during Assyrian-populated villages along the should become a priority issue not only a press conference that the Republic of Khabur River in Syria, after which near- for Assyrians and Yazidis, but also the Armenia is committed by law to protect- ly 1,200 Assyrian families became whole Christian world, "Razmik ing persons subject to persecutions, irre- refugees. Khosroev said. Armenian opposition in limbo... From page 10 in the wake of the recent developments. to push for regime change in Armenia, said on Friday that they Meanwhile, the leader of an extra-parliamentary opposition will clarify their actions after the congress of their embattled party said on Friday that a number of forces opposed to ally. Armenia's membership in the Russian-led Eurasian Economic Speaking at a press briefing in the National Assembly, the Union (EEU) have been holding discussions and a new "politi- HAK's parliamentary leader Levon Zurabyan said that the cal pole" may be emerging in Armenia as a result of these nego- future cooperation of the alliance known as the trio depends on tiations. the BHK now. Paruyr Hayrikyan, a Soviet-era dissident heading the Union "We are ready for cooperation with the BHK if this party for National Self-Determination (AIM), named several parties maintains its resistance and continues to struggle against the and groups, including Heritage, the Armenian National regime and against the planned constitutional reform," he said. Movement, Free Democrats, Founding Parliament, Democratic According to Zurabyan, the rally that the HAK plans to hold Homeland and the Conservative Party, whose representatives, in Yerevan on March 1 will also become a test for opposition he said, participated in a series of meetings over February. (But parties that feel determined to seek regime change. The rally Free Democrats issued a statement later on Friday, confirming will also mark the seventh anniversary of the deadly 2008 post- an invitation from Hayrikyan and a meeting between Free election clashes. Democrats leader Khachatur Kokobelyan and Hayrikyan, but Ruben Hakobyan, the parliamentary leader of the Heritage the party denied that its representatives had participated in the party, also said that further opposition steps will be specified meetings in the format mentioned by the AIM leader). after the upcoming BHK congress. "It is not a secret that the "Instead of the pseudo-political pole we ought to create and BHK had a political weight [in the trio]," he said, observing that present to the people a real pole that can be trusted," Hayrikyan in the recent days the Tsarukyan-led party has "frozen" its posi- told RFE/RL's Armenian Service (Azatutyun), stressing that the tions. first meeting in the format took place before the government Speaking at a rally in Liberty Square in Yerevan on Friday, began its campaign against the BHK and that their efforts Heritage party leader Raffi Hovannisian reiterated that the trio should not be directly linked to these developments. format did not exist any longer. He stressed, however, that Hayrikyan did not hide that the initial ground for coopera- struggle for a change of government is continuing. tion among these parties is that all of them are against Armenia's The leaders of Heritage, the HAK and Orinats Yerkir, anoth- membership in the EEU. "But during our first meeting one of er parliamentary minority party, met with diplomats of more our participants suggested that we forget the "against" part. In than a dozen European Union-member states accredited to other words, instead of being against Putin's Russia, we are for Armenia earlier today. During the meetings the sides also Armenia's self-determination, we are for democracy and human reportedly addressed the internal political situation in Armenia rights protection in Armenia," he said.

2 March #9 (1049) Š 2015 www.nt.am 11

2 March #9 (1049)  2015 12 www.nt.am The Noyan Tapan Highlights SOCIETY OSCE and Unison NGO present report on access to higher education in Armenia for people with disabilities The findings and recommendations of an OSCE-supported survey exploring the main obstacles encountered by people with disabilities in accessing Armenia's higher education system, was presented on February 24 in Yerevan. The report commissioned by the OSCE Office in Yerevan was produced by the Unison NGO that supports people with special needs. It provides comprehensive statistical data and focuses on physical and programmatic, as well as the academic inclusiveness of higher education. "The report is a good example of innovative thinking. It ana- lyzes the system of higher education from the perspective of students with special needs. The report's recommendations and the effort invested are positive steps toward increasing the integrity of higher education in Armenia," said Oliver McCoy, Democratization Programme Officer at the OSCE Office in Armen Alaverdyan, Executive Director of the Unison NGO, Yerevan. said: "The survey outcomes show that Armenian universities The report finds that only one of the 29 higher education mostly lack inclusive policies, facilities and academic pro- institutions surveyed is physically accessible to people with grammes for students with disabilities. I strongly believe we mobility issues. The majority of universities think that inclu- should fill this gap by heavily promoting equal opportunities to siveness of higher education should be guaranteed only to get a decent education in Armenia." young people with mobility, sight, hearing, speaking or general The survey is based on opinions of students with and with- disabilities, excluding those with mental issues. There are no set out disabilities, administrative and academic staff of higher edu- mechanisms within universities to adapt the educational process cation institutions and young persons with disabilities, as well to the needs of people with disabilities. It is only the good will as the general public. Twenty-nine universities in Yerevan, of faculty members and fellow students to make the learning Gyumri and Vanadzor were included in the survey which was process favorable to disabled students, the report notes. conducted during September-November 2014. USAID provides new flow-meters to Armenia's Ministry of Nature Protection The United States Agency for resources in the Ararat Valley. The flow International Development (USAID) pre- meters will be used by respective divi- sented flow-meters to the Ministry of sions of the Ministry and the WRMA to Nature Protection of Armenia at the offi- regularly monitor the level of groundwa- cial handover ceremony, held on ter extraction by fisheries - currently the February 24 at "Masisdzuk" fish farm in largest water consumers in the area. Sayat Nova village of Ararat province. The assessment of the current status oversight, and the introduction of innova- Susan Fritz, USAID's Acting Assistant of groundwater resources in the Ararat tive water conservation technologies will Administrator for the Europe and Eurasia Valley, conducted by USAID/CEWP in help mitigate and eventually reverse the Bureau, Karen Hilliard, the head of 2014, raised publicly the alarming situa- damaging effects of the unregulated use USAID/Armenia, Simon Papyan, the tion with the shrinking level of ground- of the groundwater reserves in the Ararat Deputy Minister of Nature Protection, water supplies in the Ararat Valley, Valley. Vahan Davtyan, the head of the Water Armenia's vital agricultural hub. The USAID Clean Energy and Water Resource Management Agency of the Uncontrolled with drawal and use of the Program is designed to improve water Ministry of Nature Protection, and other groundwater by numerous fisheries, and energy management practices in state officials attended the event. which have started to expand in the val- Armenia, as well as help the country bet- The USAID Clean Energy and Water ley over the past years, was reported as ter respond to climate change challenges. Program (CEWP) purchased latest gener- one of the major causes. The program implements a number of ation portable flow-meters as part of Recommendations in the study included water and energy projects in several rural USAID's technical support to the provisions for the temporary close down communities in Armenia to demonstrate Ministry of Nature Protection and the or liquidation of illegal or damaged best practices in the management of ener- Water Resources Management Agency groundwater wells, and the introduction gy and water systems. These projects (WRMA), with the aim of strengthening of mandatory monitoring of water quanti- focus on water supply, efficient lighting, the control mechanisms over the exten- ties consumed by all fisheries. Stricter space and water heating, use of biogas, sive exploitation of groundwater water permitting practices, consistent and solar energy.

2 March #9 (1049) Š 2015 SOCIETY The Noyan Tapan Highlights www.nt.am 13 Los Angeles Cancels $845,000 Contract with Turkey's Lobbyist Gephardt Group

2014, Janice O'Connell, Gephardt's col- February 23, ANCA-WR announced that league, contacted Brian McKeon, Chief of Los Angeles World Airports [LAWA], a Staff of the National Security Council at wholly-owned entity of the City of Los the White House and Chad Kreikemeier, Angeles, has decided to terminate its con- Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for tract worth over $845,000 with the Legislative Affairs, to modify Pres. Gephardt Group, after ANCA called upon I wrote a column last August warning Obama's annual statement on the Mayor Eric Garcetti last December, "to end that the Armenian-American community Armenian Genocide, following Prime any ties between the City of Los Angeles and all people of good will would boycott Minister Erdogan's deceptive and disin- and Dick Gephardt." the products and services of Anheuser- genuous apology for all victims of World ANCA-WR Chair Nora Hovsepian Busch, Boeing, Chevron, Enterprise Rent- War I in Ottoman Turkey. applauded "LAWA and City of Los A-Car, General Electric, Goldman Sachs, Justice Department's records also Angeles officials for their principled stand Google, Los Angeles Airport, National reveal that Gephardt and O'Connell trav- enforcing a zero-tolerance policy against Football League, Port of Oakland, and eled to Istanbul and Ankara on Turkish deniers of genocide. LAWA's action United Airlines, unless these companies Airlines on March 3, 2014 to meet reflects the highest standards of good gov- cancelled their contracts with the Gephardt Turkey's National Security Advisor. ernance and reinforces the proud standing Group, one of Turkey's notorious lobbying Gephardt flew from Paris to Istanbul and of Los Angeles as a leader - nationally and firms. Ankara at a round trip cost of $1,513, while internationally - on issues of genocide pre- Ironically, former House Majority O'Connell flew from Washington, DC to vention and human rights. As a genocide Leader Dick Gephardt had championed Istanbul and Ankara at a round trip cost of denier, Gephardt does not deserve a single recognition of the Armenian Genocide dur- $6,986. The two lobbyists stayed at the dollar from the citizens of Los Angeles, ing his long years in Congress. Yet, soon- Conrad Hotel in Istanbul for three nights at and should have no association with our after his retirement, Gephardt became a the cost of $710 each. While in Turkey, city." staunch opponent of Armenian issues by they spent $600 on limousine service. According to U.S. Government docu- peddling Turkish denials of the Armenian Last month, the Armenian National ments obtained by ANCA-WR, the Genocide. The latest contract on file with Committee of America, Armenian Gephardt Group "had a contract worth the U.S. Justice Department reveals that Assembly of America, and Armenian over $845,000 with LAWA, which was the Gephardt Group is paid $1.4 million a Youth Federation (Eastern and Western agreed to in 2012 during the term of former year to lobby for Turkey in Washington. U.S.) sent over 200 letters to businesses, Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. Documents filed by the Gephardt universities, and NGOs that are clients of Since the approval of the contract with Group with the Justice Department under the Gephardt Group and four other lobby- LAWA, the Gephardt Group has been the 'Foreign Agent Registration Act' indi- ing firms for Turkey: Dickstein Shapiro, drawing over $23,000 a month for its work cate that Gephardt and his colleagues con- LLC; Greenberg Traurig; Alpaytac; and for the airport, while simultaneously repre- tacted dozens of House and Senate LB International. One such letter asked the senting the interests of the Turkish Members last year to lobby against: United Airlines to demand the lobbying Government against the interests of the 1. Congressional resolutions on the firm to end its contract with the Turkish Armenian-American community." Armenian Genocide and return of government, if not, the airline should then After this first major victory, Christian Churches by Turkey, and terminate its own contract with the lobby- Armenian-Americans should continue urg- 2. Revelations that Turkey supported ing firm. If neither action is taken by Feb. ing the remaining 200 companies that are Islamic Jihadists during their invasion of 28, Armenian-Americans would carry out clients of the Gephardt Group and other the Armenian-inhabited town of Kessab in a protest campaign against both the lobby- lobbying firms hired by Turkey to termi- Syria. ing firm and United Airlines. nate their contracts, because hiring More ominously, Justice Department The efforts to counter Turkey's lobby- Genocide denialists is patently unethical records show that just before April 24, ing firms already bore its first fruits. On and bad for business! Rep. Sherman calls on Secretary Kerry...

From page 7 "With Representative Sherman today - as en by a moral imperative," said Armenian National Committee of he spoke his powerful words - were the Hamparian. America." spirits of those killed in this still unpun- Secretary Kerry has participated in a ANCA Executive Director Aram ished crime, and the hopes of all those marathon set of Senate and House hear- Hamparian expressed appreciation to Rep. working for the day when America's ings this week focusing on President Sherman, Rep. Cicilline and all response to genocide is not determined by Obama's proposed Fiscal Year 2015 for- Committee members submitting inquiries. a geopolitical calculation, but rather driv- eign aid budget.

2 March #9 (1049) Š 2015 14 www.nt.am The Noyan Tapan Highlights SOCIETY Billionaire Kirk Kerkorian funding epic feature film about Armenian Genocide Kirk Kerkorian is 97 years old and up, and some of that may become clear worth $4 billion. The one time owner of soon. The movie has been described by MGM, and wealthy Las Vegas real estate the director- who asked not to reveal his and casino over ( he also owned the name yet- as a "Reds" or "Dr. Zhivago", a MGM Grand), is not done, however. He sweeping World War I romance set still has one more wish. Kerkorian is against the Armenian genocide. funding a secret feature film about the Kerkorian, who's always been fasci- Armenian genocide that took place con- nated with Hollywood, is said to have current with World War I, contributed over $1 billion to Armenian showbiz411.com reports, quoting its charities and causes over his long life sources. time. large historic scale, unseen for many Kerkorian is hoping to produce the Author of the article Roger Friedman years. Armenian "Schindler's List" to memorial- reveals that the still untitled film wil Friedman is assured the Kardashians, ize the Genocide. begin shooting this summer in Europe. the most famous Armenian Americans There is already an Oscar nominated And the budget should be pretty big, con- since the great writer William Saroyan, director and screenwriter signed to the sidering there's one backer. This movie will be not be appearing in the film under project. Various actors' names have come has the potential to be something on a any circumstances. South Dakota House recognizes Armenian Genocide The South Dakota House of "Designating 2015 as the 'Year of Representatives on Thursday in a vote of Remembrance for the Centennial Since 51 to 17 passed a resolution recognizing the Commencement of the Armenian the Armenian Genocide, becoming the Genocide of 1915-1923? in South Dakota 43rd state to call for justice for the and urging Congress and the President of Genocide, Asbarez reports. the United States to formally and consis- With 28 original co-sponsors, the res- tently recognize and reaffirm the histori- olution calls for a "just resolution," con- cal truth that the atrocities committed demns denial and encourages the teach- against the Armenian, Greek, and other ing of the Armenian Genocide in South Christians living in their historical home- Dakota schools. It also discusses the lands in Anatolia constituted genocide and durable Armenian-Turkish relations," genocides of Greeks and Assyrians. and to work towards equitable, stable, read the text of the resolution. US Congressmen to introduce new Armenian Genocide bill Four members of Congress in the U.S. "Forty-two U.S. states have recognized last week invited their colleagues to the Armenian Genocide, as have 11 of our become an original co-sponsor of the NATO allies. On this special year, it is time Armenian Genocide Recognition for the United States government to offi- Resolution, which accuses the Ottoman cially join with those voices standing Empire of committing genocide in 1915 against this genocide denial. We can help and asking President Barack Obama to bring closure to this longstanding moral pressure the Turkish government to resolve issue that continues to impact U.S. inter- House Resolution 227, which last year the issue. ests," the letter read. became obsolete, urged President Obama A letter addressed to U.S. congress- Representatives declared that they to work toward durable Armenian-Turkish men, penned by Robert J. Dold would be introducing the resolution on relations based upon Turkey's full (Republican from Illinois), David Valado February 24 and the same language as in acknowledgment of the facts and ongoing (Republican from California), Adam B. House Resolution 227 from the 113th consequences of the Armenian Genocide. Schiff (Democrate from California) and Congress would be used. The draft resolution also cites President Frank Pallone (Democrat from New Adam Schiff's spokesman Patrick Obama's statements before entering office, Jersey), claims that the Ottoman Empire Boland confirmed to Hürriyet that the bill saying he held the conviction that the killed 1.5 million Armenians between would be presented in the coming weeks. Armenian genocide is not an allegation but April 24, 1915 and 1923, Daily Sabah Boland did not mention the reason for the rather a widely documented fact supported reported. delay. by historical evidence.

2 March #9 (1049) Š 2015 SOCIETY The Noyan Tapan Highlights www.nt.am 15 Emmy award winning composer Denise Gentilini to stage musical on Armenian Genocide and children across the Syrian desert to I Am Alive, a dramatic musical that spans concentration camps. But a Turkish man a nearly 75 year love story of my grand- had pity on this little boy. He rescued him parents, celebrating the strength and and placed him in an orphanage. He never resilience of the Armenian people. There saw his family again. My grandmother have been plays and movies and marches, Malvine also lived in Turkey. Her father but I've never heard a musical. I believe was poisoned in the genocide and because music is a universal language, so even she had too many siblings for her mother those who don't know about this time in to handle, she was given away to another history might be interested because the A three time Emmy award winning family to be raised by them. As surviving music makes it accessible." composer Denise Gentilini, along with Armenians were deported from Turkey, Gentilini, an Emmy award winning singer, songwriter Lisa Nemzo, has creat- both Kourken and Malvine wound up in a composer, says I Am Alive, directed by ed I Am Alive, a dramatic musical that refugee camp in Greece where they found Christy Montour-Larson, is a continuation spans a nearly 75 year love story of her each other. When she was 14 and he was of the work she's been doing in music for grandparents, celebrating the strength and 19 they married, and spent nearly 75 years years. "As part of the "We Are Voices" resilience of the Armenian people. together," Denise Gentilini said, speaking project I've composed music for Denise Gentilini is the granddaughter to Fox 31 Denver. Children's Hospital on Autism, for the of Kourken and Malvine Handjian, "My Gentilini says while she's known her Iliff School of Theology for their Courage grandfather, Kourken, became an orphan history for decades, she chose this year to Award for Judy Shephard and for geno- at the age of eight. His father was killed share what her family went through. "In cide awareness. I grew up with my grand- when the Armenian genocide started in April it will be the 100th commemoration parents nearby and always knew what central Turkey, in 1915, where he lived of the Armenian Genocide, and I wanted they lived through and handed down to us with his family. Along with his surviving to tell the story in a different way. So was amazing. It made me want to be an family, he was sent on what would along with internationally celebrated activist and do something: to be the voice become the death march of men, women singer songwriter Lisa Nemzo, we created for the voiceless." A concert in Jerusalem commemorates the Centennial of the Armenian Genocide Veteran Armenian composer Stepan and soloists Evgeny Kissin, Maxim Rostomyan, the initiator of the concert, Vengerov, Mischa Maisky, Julian Rachlin explains that the performance in and Sergei Nakariakov." Jerusalem is the first in a series of inter- In regard to the Armenian Genocide, national concerts. Rostomyan says that this tragic page in "The Centennial of the Armenian his people's history is a wound that every Genocide will be noted by remarkable Armenian bears in his/her heart. concerts all over the world," he says. "This was not only the loss of human "Two dozen renowned musicians will lives but also of our cities, which are now give memorial concerts in the world's in Turkey, and of our cultural monuments most prestigious concert halls through a that were destroyed," he says. series of concerts under the title "With He stresses, "I have nothing against A special concert will take place on you, Armenia," which will start in Israel. the Turkish people; I have musician March 5 at the Jerusalem Theatre. The Further venues include St. John Church friends in Turkey. But the world - and Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra, under in Tallinn; the Beaux Arts Palace in Turkey in particular on the governmental the baton of internationally acclaimed Brussels; the Mariinsky Theatre in St. level - has to accept the fact that this ter- Estonian violinist cum conductor Andres Petersburg; Carnegie Hall in New York; rible thing happened at all. Otherwise, it Mustonen, will perform a program dedi- Santa Cecilia Hall in Rome; Cadogan can be repeated - and that is the fear that cated to the commemoration of the Hall in London; and Musikverein Hall in every Armenian feels." Centennial of the Armenian Genocide, Vienna. The roster of top-class musicians The program features the following the Jerusalem Post reports. includes the Belgium National and La pieces: Komitas's Fragments from The JSO, in collaboration with the Scala philharmonic orchestras; the Royal Liturgy (arranged for violin and orchestra music festival Yerevan Perspectives Philharmonic and Mariinsky symphony by Andres Mustonen); Rostomyan's (Armenia), will perform music written by orchestras; Camerata Salzburg; conduc- Fourth Symphony; Adagio from the bal- the foremost Armenian composers, as tors Valery Gergiev, Pinchas Zukerman, let Spartacus by Aram Khachaturian; and well as Beethoven's "Eroica" Symphony. George Pehlivanian and John Axelrod; Beethoven's Symphony No. 3, "Eroica."

2 March #9 (1049) Š 2015 16 www.nt.am The Noyan Tapan Highlights CULTURE Pope Francis declares Armenian Saint Gregory of Narek Doctor of the Church Pope Francis has declared Armenian to excel in music, astronomy, geometry, poet and monk, Saint Gregory of Narek, a mathematics, literature, and theology. Doctor of the Universal Church. Meeting He became a priest at the age of 25 and with Cardinal Angelo Amato, Prefect of the dedicated himself to God. He lived most of Congregation for the Cause of Saints on his life in the monastery of Narek, where Saturday ahead of his departure for Aricca he taught at the monastic school. St. on Lenten retreat, the Pope confirmed the Gregory began his writings with a com- proposal put forward by the Plenary mentary on the "Song of Songs," which Session of the Congregation to confer the was commissioned by an Armenian prince. title of Doctor of the Universal Church on Despite his reservations that he was too the 10th century saint, Vatican Radio young for the task, the commentary the heart." A central theme is man's separa- reports. became famous for its clarity of thought tion from God, and his quest to reunite St. Gregory of Narek is widely revered and language and its excellence of theolog- with Him. St. Gregory described the work as one of the greatest figures of medieval ical presentation. this way: "Its letters like my body, its mes- Armenian religious thought and literature. He also wrote a number of famous let- sage like my soul." He called his book an Born in the city of Narek in about 950 ters, sharagans, treasures, odes, melodies, "encyclopedia of prayer for all nations." It A.D., St. Gregory came from a line of and discourses. Many of his prayers are was his hope that it would serve as a guide scholars and churchmen. included in the Divine Liturgy celebrated to prayer for people all over the world. St. Gregory received his education each Sunday in Armenian Churches After the advent of movable type, the book under the guidance of his father, Bishop around the world. was published in Marseille in 1673, and Khosrov, author of the earliest commentary St. Gregory's masterpiece is considered has been translated into at least 30 lan- on the Divine Liturgy, and from Anania to be his Book of Lamentations. Also guages. Vartabed, abbess of Narek Monastery. He known as Narek, it is comprised of 95 St. Gregory of Narek is remembered by and his two brothers entered monastic life prayers, each of which is titled the Armenian Church in October of each at an early age, and St. Gregory soon began "Conversation with God from the depth of year. "Digging into the Future - Armenia" to premiere on PBS stations Digging into the Future - Armenia will premiere on select PBS stations in April as part of the commemoration of the 100th Anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, Massis Post reports. Hosted by Joseph Rosendo, Digging into the Future is pro- duced by the Emmy-winning team behind the PBS series, Joseph Rosendo's Travelscope®. Joseph joins archaeologists from UCLA's Cotsen Institute of Archaeology on a journey through Armenia. During this archeological adventure Joseph crisscrosses Armenia to ancient sites where some of the world's oldest artifacts have been discovered. Every site offers viewers insights into how the Armenians of the distant and near past lived - and what is discovered about the past serves the present. In keeping with the show's focus on cultural connections, Joseph meets modern-day Armenians in roadside fruit stands, riverside wine stalls, bustling markets and is welcomed into Thursday, April 16, 8:00 p.m. their homes to witness traditional artisans at work and join in Friday, April 17, 5:00 p.m. religious and communal celebrations that inspire, enlighten and Boston - WGBH/Channel 2 reveal the Armenian heart and soul. While this documentary Sunday, April 19, 11:30 a.m. encompasses more than the Armenian Genocide, it is covered in San Francisco / Bay Area - KQED the show and illustrates the resiliency of the Armenian people. Sunday, April 19, 6:00 p.m. KQED Broadcast Dates: Saturday, April 25, 4:00 p.m. KQED World Chicago - WYCC Saturday, April 25, 6:00 p.m. KQED Plus Monday, April 6, 9:00 p.m. New York - WYNE/NYC Life Tuesday, April 7, 2:00 a.m. Sunday, April 19, 7:30 p.m. Los Angeles - KVCR Friday, April 24, 1:00 a.m.

2 March #9 (1049) Š 2015 The Noyan Tapan Highlights www.nt.am 17 "KAAR-MED" PRIVATE CLINIC CENTER FOR WOMEN'S HEALTH

The Private Clinic "KAAR-MED" has been function- ing on the market for medical services for more than 15 years. The Clinic is located in Warsaw (10 Bitwy Warszawskiej street) close to the centre of the city within easy reach of Dworzec Zachodni railway sta- tion and other city communications networks. Our Patients can use a private parking located directly at the entrance to the Clinic with special places for ambulance and disabled people. Clinic is fully adapted and friendly for wheelchair users. The Clinic specialisation is gynaecology and obstetrics including full pregnancy care, "one day surgery" and aesthetic medicine procedures as well as plastic and cosmetic gynaecology. "KAAR-MED" employs gynaecologists and physicians of all special- isations who have clinical experience gained in lead- ing Warsaw hospitals. We offer a wide range of laboratory, microbiolog- ical and genetic tests, diagnostic imaging techniques (USG) including prenatal tests such as pregnancy ultrasound, prenatal imaging findings, Harmony Prenatal Test, Doppler ultrasonography tests and many others. The "KAAR-MED" Clinic is fully outfitted with the latest medical equipment used for diagnosis and treatment of the entire range of gynaecology and obstetrics diseases: - Voluson ultrasound imaging system (pictures) - Toschiba ultrasound imaging system - Colposcope - Cryosurgery machine - Electrocoagulation apparatus - ELLMAN Pelleve Unit (radio frequency surgery and wrinkle reduction system) - Other equipment by "Aesculap" and "Stainless" companies Our clinic fulfils all the official norms (stated by the Direction of the Health Minister of Poland of 02.02.2011) concerning professional, technical and sanitary conditions for health care organizations. We are looking forward to see You in "KAAR- MED" Clinic and shall do out best to make You feel comfortable, safe and professionally treated here. 10 Bitwy Warszawskiej, 02-362 Warsaw, Poland

Information and registration: +48 22 823 04 52 +48 22 201 90 95 + 48 50 910 74 05

2 March #9 (1049) Š 2015 18 www.nt.am The Noyan Tapan Highlights SOCIETY WHAT? WHEN? WHERE? Enjoy your leisure 16:00. The Adventures of Tom Sawyer. 19:00. Karine. Tigran Chukhajian. 2 March Mark Twain. Stage Director: Hranush Operette in 2 acts. Play | State Theater of Chichakyan. Play for kids | State Musical Comedy after H. Paronyan 19:00. Raped Wedding or Deception in Marionette Theater 19:00. Ah, Women, Women. Robert the Armenian Way. Director of Theater 18:00. How It Wasn't Staged. Play | Lamouret. Director: Vigen Stepanyan. and Artistic Director: Mkhitar Mos- State Puppet Theater after H. Tumanyan Play | Hamazgayin State Theater Musheghyan. Play | Metro Theater 19:00. Karine. Tigran Chukhajian. 19:00. Tchao!. Romantic comedy in 2 19:30. Marine Ales: Harbors of Love. Operette in 2 acts. Play | State Theater of acts. Marc-Gilbert Sauvajon. Play | Charity Concert. State Theater of Musical Comedy after H. Paronyan Yerevan Drama Theater after H. Musical Comedy after H. Paronyan 19:00. Irina Allegrova. Encore. Concert | Ghaplanyan Sports & Concert Complex after K. 19:00. Royal Concert. Author and direc- 3 March Demirchyan tor of the play - Ara Yernjakyan. Play | 12:00. The Dog and the Cat. By 19:00. All Rise, the Court is in Session. Yerevan State Chamber Theater Hovhannes Tumanyan. Play for kids | Drama in 2 acts . Author: Perch 8 March State Puppet Theater after H. Tumanyan Zeytuntsyan. Staging: Tigran Gasparyan. Play | National Academic Theater after 19:00. Don Juans in Amrseille. Staging 12:00, 14:00, 16:00. Three Piglets. and adaptation: Narek Duryan. Play | G. Sundukyan 19:00. Natalie Filion. Performance in Author: Ervand Manaryan. Russian Drama Theater after K. Director/Producer: Ruben Babayan. Play Stanislavski Russian, for adults. Play | State Puppet Theater after H. Tumanyan for kids | State Puppet Theater after H. 19:00. Raped Wedding or Deception in Tumanyan the Armenian Way. Director of Theater 19:00. ANPO & Hayk Melikyan. Soloist: Honoured Artist of Armenia, 12:30, 14:00, 15:30. Hansel and Gretel. and Artistic Director: Mkhitar Mos- Brothers Grimm. Staging: Lily Musheghyan. Play | Metro Theater Hayk Melikyan, piano. Conductor: Ruben Asatryan. Concert | National Elbakyan. Play for kids | State Marionette Theater 4 March Academic Theater of Opera and Ballet after A. Spendiarian 18:00. The Silly Man. Based on 11:00. The Little Prince. Play for kids | 19:00. Ah, Women, Women. Robert Hovhannes Tumanyan's tale. Play for State Puppet Theater after H. Tumanyan Lamouret. Director: Vigen Stepanyan. kids | State Puppet Theater after H. 19:00. Morgan's In-Law. Comedy in 2 Play | Hamazgayin State Theater Tumanyan acts. Author: Alexander Shirvanzade. 19:00. The Last Clown. B. Slade. 19:00. The Last Stop. Premiere. Tamar Play | State Theater of Musical Comedy Comedy in 2 acts. Play | Yerevan Drama Hovhannisyan. Serious comedy in 2 after H. Paronyan Theater after H. Ghaplanyan acts. Play | State Theater of Musical 19:00. Don Juans in Amrseille. Staging Comedy after H. Paronyan and adaptation: Narek Duryan. Play | 7 March 19:00. Sexual Chaos in the Hotel. Russian Drama Theater after K. Author: Ray Cooney. Director: Honored Stanislavski 12:00, 14:00, 16:00. Little Ida's Artist of RA, David Hakobyan. Play | Flowers. Author: Hans Christian State Musical Chamber Theater 5 March Andersen. Staging: Larisa Mangasarova. 19:00. Scotch & Whisky. Optimistic Play for kids | State Puppet Theater after comedy. Director of the play: Arshaluis 19:00. The Curtain of Time. Premiere. H. Tumanyan Harutiunyan. Play | Yerevan State Hasmik Ter-Karapetyan's mono-per- 12:30, 14:00, 15:30. The Real Friend. Chamber Theater formance. Staged by Garnik Seyranyan. Musical performance. Ruben 19:00. Endless Return. By Sevak Play | Yerevan State Chamber Theater Marukhyan. Staging: Anna Elbakyan. .Theatrical fantasy in 2 parts. Play | 19:00. Lorkiana - Carmen-Suite. Ballet | Play for kids | State Marionette Theater Yerevan Drama Theater after H. National Academic Theater of Opera and 14:00. Beauty and the Beast. French Ghaplanyan Ballet after A. Spendiarian folk tale. Director: Armen Margaryan. 19:00. March 8 with Grand Life. Show | 20:00. Love Bridge. Musical | State Play for kids | State Musical Chamber Ararat Hotel Theater of Musical Comedy after H. Theater 19:00. The Family of Orphans. Paronyan 17:00. The New Adventures of The Premiere. Gurgen Khanjyan. Lyrical Three Piglets. Directed by Samson Comedy in 2 acts. Play | National 6 March Stepanyan. Choreographer: Sevag Academic Theater after G. Sundukyan Avakian. Musical | State Musical 19:00. Ah, Women, Women. Robert 14:00. Tom & Jerry. Premiere. Chamber Theater Lamouret. Director: Vigen Stepanyan. Children's Musical Fun Show. Staging: 18:00. Du-Dum the Wise Man and the Play | Hamazgayin State Theater Artur Saribekyan. Play for kids | State Ignorant. Play for kids | State Puppet Musical Chamber Theater Theater after H. Tumanyan

2 March #9 (1049) Š 2015 SOCIETY The Noyan Tapan Highlights www.nt.am 19 Zodiac Weekly Forecast ARMENIAN POETRY

Aries (Mar. 20--Apr. 19) : Libra (Sep. 23--Oct. 22) Varouzhan Khastour See the lead paragraph on the "home" You may have a tendency during this page. This Jupiter/Uranus trine is partic- period to slide into old and outmoded pat- THE SONGS’ SONG ularly favorable for you in the romantic terns of emotional behavior. Maybe this Do not hesitate and creative activity department. There will be brought on by the re-entry of I will clean with my loughs might also be good news concerning your someone in your life. While it may be fun all your beared chagrins, children (another type of creative activi- for a short time, very quickly you will and from your small teeth ty). Whatever you do that involves high become fatigued with it and shake loose on your lips will skim over suns. tech or the internet is given a "go" signal. of that outdated habit. Your golden hears, Taurus (Apr. 20--May 19): Scorpio (Oct. 23--Nov. 21) : I will paint with my kisses People of the past may resurface. You It appears that a new work position or and like a fertile fields will be glad to see these individuals, but job is coming your way that will ease the they will ripple gained. more likely you will be reminded why pain in your wallet. It requires effort but I will give your feet power they are no longer in your life. Somehow that doesn't scare you away. Those with with my heart breaking carreses, they are associated with old wounds in rental property will find a new tenant this and you in my soul’s winepresses your life and you would just as soon let week. Relationships with coworkers are will crush the bunches of wonder. those memories go back to the ethers. favorable. If you have been lonely, a stray And the wine-breath juice of love cat or dog may come to you. will flood. Gemini (May 20 -- June 20) : You have been studying something Sagittarius (Nov. 22 --Dec. 20): I will decorate your hands, while Mercury was retrograding through You have plenty of activity in your with my dreamy bracelets, January and February. Now it is time to solar 5th house of children, romance, and and they will hover apply what you have learned. A promi- creativity. Whatever you want or need in in endless blues. nent idea is emerging from the many these areas, the answer is "yes". Take a thoughts and ideas with which you have risk and pursue romance where you find I will sow on your breast toyed. It may be well worth a greater it. You're unlikely to be turned away. the light’s grains, investment of time or energy. Activities involving the law, travel, pub- keeping in my fairy’s lishing, and higher education are favored. and they will become noble Cancer (June 21--Jul y 21) : and mysterious, Conversations over the weekend will Capricorn ( Dec 21 -- Jan 19) : like the airsink mountains, tend toward reminiscence and recollection Give attention to caring for "old" and I will atomize of bygone events and eras of our lives. things or people in your life. Clean out in their magical flower-smell of mists. Past experiences and relationships have the basement or attic in your home. Give I will hang from your neck contributed heavily to who you are today. away or sell whatever you know you will of my festive day’s stars, They offer a powerful psychological foun- not use in the future. It is a good time to and they will float like a swan, dation from which to grow but leave them tend to repairs of aging property. It is also in my palms dreams. in memory. Don't try to recreate your past. favorable for taking actions to secure your future. And nights will change to talismans. Leo (July 22 --Aug. 21): See the lead paragraph on the "home" Aquarius (Jan. 20--Feb. 17) : At last I will put my destiny page as it pertains to you. Jupiter is offer- This week especially favors travel, in your esey heavenly deeps, ing you "go" signals in the areas of legal communications, education, and giving and they will reduce activities, publishing, higher education, attention to community concerns. You to glee of temple travel, and other pursuits that you find may be serving as the center of a wheel of and the space will light meaningful. People who are established people with a common purpose. Your with its perfect and invisible colours. in these areas will be helpful as you fol- activities are likely to be purposeful and low your plans. productive. Do not hesitate... If from all that, Virgo (Aug 22--Sep. 22) : Pisces (Feb. 18--Mar. 19) : I will seem you exhausted and hopeless, Your mind is flying with thoughts, Experiences may seem surreal on you even may depart, details, questions and answers. You want some level during this week. You may be but I will irrevocable devastate, to discuss them, but you definitely do not doing something you never thought you and will again come life want someone to solve your concerns. would do. Listen to your intuition. Do for flying to creation. You seek the balance of a counterpart, this by tending to unbidden thoughts or Do not hesitate... one who may debate things without feelings that you know you did not invent. Translated by becoming emotional about it. Dream life may be strong this week. Lusine Avetisyan

2 March #9 (1049) Š 2015 20 www.nt.am The Noyan Tapan Highlights Stolen Picasso painting found in New York mated to be worth millions of dollars, US prosecutors said. It was intercepted by US customs and subsequently seized by Homeland Security Investigations. "A lost treasure has been found," said Loretta Lynch, attorney for the eastern district of New York. A Picasso painting, snatched more Painted in 1911, the oil-on-canvas than a decade ago from a storeroom in measures 33 by 46 centimeters (13 by 18 Paris, has surfaced in New York and will inches) and is part of the Musee National be returned to the French government, d'Art Moderne collection in Paris. US officials said on January 26, AFP It was last exhibited publicly in reports. Munich, Germany, where it was on loan The century-old Cubist oil was to the Kunsthalle der Hypo- smuggled into the United States last Kulturstiftung. December from Belgium with a shipping It was then returned to Paris and label that described the contents as a placed in the storerooms of the Centre handicraft holiday present worth 30 George Pompidou. Officials only real- euros ($37). ized it was missing when a loan request The painting, known as "La came through in 2001 and they could not Coiffeuse" or "The Hairdresser," is esti- find it.

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2 March #9 (1049) Š 2015 Price: 1000 dr.