MARCH 25, 2017 Mirror-SpeTHE ARMENIAN ctator Volume LXXXVII, NO. 36, Issue 4480 $ 2.00 NEWS The First English Language Armenian Weekly in the United States Since 1932 INBRIEF Paris Street to Be Schiff, Pallone Support Aid to Armenia, Named for Zabel Yesayan Artsakh in Fiscal Year 2018 US Budget PARIS (armedia.am) — A street in Paris will be named for the late Armenian writer, Zabel Yesayan WASHINGTON — Armenian Caucus Co- tization for Armenia and the people of urge the Subcommittee to support imple- in honor of the official visit of Armenian President Chair Rep. Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) and Artsakh for the FY18 budget before the mentation of the Royce-Engel peace pro- Serzh Sargsyan to France. House Intelligence Committee Ranking House Appropriations Subcommittee on posals, prioritizing the placement of inde- Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo made the announce- Member and Armenian Caucus Vice Chair State, Foreign Operations, and Related pendent monitors and equipment to deter- ment last week during a meeting with the president Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA) provided testimo- Programs. mine the source of attacks along the line of in the Paris City Hall, the official website of ny in support of aid to Armenia and “I was deeply disturbed by the escalation contact; suspend US military aid to Sargsyan noted. Artsakh as the of violence in the last year and the major Azerbaijan until its government ceases its “We have decided to rename one of the streets of Administration military assault by Azerbaijani forces attacks against Armenia and Nagorno Paris after Zabel Yesayan. She was in the midst of released the against the people of Artsakh...In light of Karabakh, and agrees to the peaceful the suffering of the Armenian people and symbol- budget blue- the escalating violence and aggression, I see BUDGET, page 2 izes all these sufferings. In Paris we retain the print for Fiscal memory of all the sufferings of rebellions, struggles Year 2018. endured by the Armenian people, but at the same Schiff told time we are opening the possible roads which will the Armenian Jewish Right-Wing Extremists Riot During express hope, discoveries and initiatives also in Assembly of Yerevan,’’ Hidalgo said. America that “I Performance by Armenian Choir in Jerusalem Yesayan was the only woman to be rounded up remain deeply on April 24, 1915. She was a novelist, translator troubled by the Manofim contemporary arts festival event, and activist for women’s rights. ongoing cease- being held in the Clal Center mall, and Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Ca) By Nir Hasson fire violations, clashed with attendees. The event was the i n c l u d i n g finale of Manofim’s ninth annual festival. Chairman of Turkish attacks against civilians, and the strong evi- JERUSALEM (Haaretz) — Right-wing Organizers had wanted to take advantage Azerbaijani Union dence of human rights abuses on the part extremists rioted during a performance by of the circular shape of the Clal Center inte- of Azeri troops. I will continue to work a Christian choir at a contemporary arts rior, one of the oldest commercial centers Sentenced for Hate with my colleagues to advance key priori- event in Jerusalem on Thursday, March 16. in Jerusalem. ties to ensure peace and stability in the The police arrested two members of the Various choirs performed on the ground Speech region. I also look forward to strengthen- anti-assimilationist Lehava organization, floor during the evening while hundreds of THE HAGUE (Public Radio of Armenia) — Ilhan ing and expanding the Armenian Caucus.” including its leader, Bentzi Gopstein. people stood on the floors above to watch. Askin, chairman of the Turkish Azerbaijani Cultural In his testimony, Schiff discussed priori- Dozens of extremists infiltrated the The right-wing demonstration erupted Association in The Hague, has received the sentence of during the performance by the city’s 120 hours of community service as well as a suspend- Armenian Church Choir. An eyewitness ed imprisonment of four weeks in the Netherlands after said the disruption started when the choir being found guilty of hate speech and inciting violence began singing, and that it took a long time for his “Karabakh will be Armenians’ grave” chants, the for the police to arrive. European Armenian Federation for Justice and see RIOT, page 4 Democracy (EAFJD) reports. Askin led the chants during a Turkish rally in Analysis: Almelo in June 1, 2014 at the Genocide memorial erected in the churchyard of the Armenian The Sick Man on Apostolic Church. The Federation of Armenian Organizations in the Netherlands (FAON) and Dutch Armenian The Bosporus Committee for Justice and Democracy (Hay Tad), had filed a complaint against the statements made By Muriel Mirak-Weissbach during that demonstration. Special to the Mirror-Spectator The court hearing on the case on March 3 was BERLIN — In the late 19th century, attended by many Armenians and Turks, as well as the cliché phrase making the rounds Dutch, Armenian and Turkish media. The video of the imperial palaces in Europe, was played during the session showed Askin chanting that the Ottoman Empire, a creature “Karabakh will be the grave of the Armenians” sev- in which they all had their vested eral times, and a crowd of a few thousand people interests, was the sick man of Europe. repeating the slogan. The means the Great Powers devised Askin stated that he doesn’t consider his state- Turkish Authorities Interfering to cure the problem led to world war, ments offensive. He said that his expressions relate in the course of which they divvied up to a specific region, where due to the current situ- In Patriarchal Election Process the dismantled empire, carving out ation war will possibly break out and blood will be new puppet states on the geopolitical shed. He believes that he has not done anything ISTANBUL (Agos) — The Clerical map. Not a few of our contemporary wrong. He said he does not regret his statements. Assembly of the Armenian Patriarchate of political analysts trace the origins of Istanbul elected Archbishop Karekin the current wars and crises ripping Bekjian, Primate of the German Diocese through the region back to that cata- of the Armenian Apostolic Church as strophic conflict a century ago. Today INSIDE Locum Tenens — a patriarchal alternate leading figures in European democra- on March 15. (See related editorial on cies are beginning to wonder if there page 18.) might be a new form of illness mani- The voting was seen as the first step of festing itself, this time in modern-day Comic patriarchal elections. Turkey. This time the threats of con- Thirty members of the Clerical flict are emanating from the palace of Assembly participated. the would-be new sultan. Relief The Locum Tenens is responsible for Referendum for Dictatorship managing the process of electing the Armenian Patriarch of Istanbul. The ostensible casus belli in the Page 14 Vicar General Aram Ateshyan, Bishop escalating conflict between Turkey Sahak Mashalyan and Archbishop and Europe, especially Germany, is Karekin Bekjian were initially named as the April 16 referendum on the intro- candidates. However, Mashalyan, in a duction of a presidential system INDEX statement before the election, declared which would grant the Turkish presi- Arts and Living ...... 12 that would withdraw and supported dent powers so vast as to eliminate Armenia ...... 2,3 Bekjian. Still, Ateshyan is not stepping checks and balances on the part of Community News...... 6 Editorial ...... 18 Archbishop Karekin Bekjian other institutions like the judiciary down as Vicar General. International ...... 4,5 see INTERFERENCE, page 5 and parliament. In what is shaping see CONFLICT, page 20 2 S ATURDAY, M ARCH 2 5 , 2 0 1 7 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARMENIA News From Armenia Aurora Initiative Donates $1 Million in Scholarships to American University of Armenia Protest Erupts in YEREVAN — The Aurora Armenian Genocide,” said Veronika will provide enhanced diversity and Humanitarian Initiative in cooperation Zonabend, the co-founder of Scholae enrich the lives of all students. We are Armenia over Activist’s with Scholae Mundi Armenia will grant Mundi Armenia Foundation, and, proud to be a part of this initiative and, one million dollars in scholarships to together with her husband Ruben through our educational programs, be Death in Jail students from Syria, Iraq, Lebanon, Vardanyan, co-founder of the RVVZ able to express gratitude to the descen- YEREVAN (AP) — Protesters demonstrated Friday, Jordan and Egypt to study at the Foundation which helped create the dants of the people who sheltered March 17, for a second consecutive day over the American University of Armenia (AUA) Aurora Humanitarian Initiative and Armenians during the most tragic part death in prison of an opposition activist. between now and 2023. This scholar- the Aurora Gratitude Projects. of their history,” said Dr. Armen Der More than 1,000 people gathered in downtown ship fund is created as part of the “The American University of Kiureghian, president of the American Yerevan to criticize the government and demand a Aurora Gratitude Projects. Armenia is extremely grateful to the University of Armenia. proper investigation into the death of 49-year old The scholarships are for citizens of creators of the Aurora Humanitarian The recipients will continue to Artur Sarkisyan, who was in prison on charges of aid- the above-mentioned countries who Initiative, specifically Ruben Vardanyan receive the scholarships throughout ing terrorists. wish to pursue the following degrees: and Veronika Zonabend, who through their study at AUA as long as they are Sarkisyan went on a hunger strike last month to BSc in Computer Science, Engineering their immense generosity have created in good academic standing. The schol- protest his incarceration. He died of heart failure on Science, Data Science (starting 2018), an opportunity not only for students arship will cover tuition fees, travel and Thursday after being transferred from prison to a Master of Public Health, Master of from the countries that hosted housing costs of the students. The hospital, where he immediately underwent emer- Engineering in Industrial Engineering Armenian refugees from the Genocide Aurora Humanitarian Initiative and gency surgery. & Systems Management, Master of to study in Armenia, but also afforded Scholae Mundi Armenia have commit- Investigators have opened a criminal case into his Science in Computer and Information AUA an opportunity to serve these stu- ted to granting the scholarship death. Science, Economics, Strategic dents. Their presence on our campus through the year 2023. Senior Armenian officials have expressed regret Management, Master of Political over his death. Armenian Prime Minister Karen Science and International Affairs, and Karapetyan said Friday he was experiencing “deep Master of Arts in Teaching English as a pain” about what happened. Foreign Language. Young Wrestlers Win Three The demonstration Friday was significantly larger “Armenia has a potential to than a smaller protest Thursday evening in Yerevan. become a global educational hub and Medals in Tournament The unrest comes ahead of a parliamentary election we encourage the engagement of young people from the Middle East on April 2. YEREVAN — One hundred and sixty five wrestlers from 14 countries Sarkisyan had been accused of breaking a police to come and study in Armenia. This scholarship offers opportunities to took part in the Roman Dmitriev International junior freestyle wrestling cordon to deliver food to gunmen amid a two-week tournament in Yakutsk, Sakha Republic earlier this month. There were 11 standoff in July. talented youth who have been affect- ed, directly or indirectly, by wars in young Armenian wrestlers led by Avetik Vardanyan, head coach of the Two people died and several were wounded in the Armenian national youth freestyle wrestling team. standoff, when about 30 armed members of a radical their region. We believe that it makes an impact not only on these young At s the two-day competition, Armenian athletes managed to win three opposition group took hostages and barricaded them- medals out of 32 in 8 weight classes. Hovhannes Mkhitaryan (w/c 84 kg) selves inside a police station. The group was calling people who come to the country and benefit from its hospitality and quali- and heavyweight Hovhannes Maghakyan (w/c 120 kg) managed to over- for the release from prison of their leader and the power all their competitors in the initial bouts and made it to the final resignation of the Armenian government. tative education but enriches the AUA community with highly motivat- round. ed international students who will In the decisive bouts, their rivals claimed victories. Mkhitaryan lost the EU, Armenia Seek become ambassadors of Armenia and bout to our compatriot representing Belarus Arkadi Poghosyan and its culture in the future. The Aurora Maghakyan was defeated by Naeim Hassanzadeh from Iran. Both Closer Ties Humanitarian Initiative thus not only Armenian wrestlers won the silver medals. Another Armenian wrestler offers scholarships to individual stu- Mher Markosyan (w/c 84 kg) won a bronze. YEREVAN — On March 21, at a ceremony held at After Yakutsk tournament, on April 6-8, Armenian wrestlers will take the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Yerevan, represen- dents, but also expresses gratitude to the nations who were the first to part in 2017 Armenia Junior Wrestling Championship on the basis of the tatives of Armenia and the European Union signed results of which the team of the RA young wrestlers will be formed. an agreement for closer ties. open their doors to offer a helping Representing the Republic of Armenia were Garen hand to the survivors of the Nazarian, Deputy Foreign Minister and Trade lead negotiator Garegin Melkonian, First Deputy Minister of Economic Development and Investments and on behalf of the European Union (EU) Chief negotiator Schiff, Pallone Support Aid to Armenia, Artsakh in FY 2018 Budget Luc Devigne, Deputy Managing Director in the European External Action Service and Trade lead BUDGET, from page 1 build on the US-Armenia strategic rela- State, Foreign Operations and Related negotiator Petros Sourmelis, Head of Unit in the resolution of regional conflicts; [and] tionship and showcase its importance. Programs appropriation bill hold par- European Commission, initialed the Armenia – EU continue and expand on the humani- I urge this committee to invest in ticular importance given the urgent Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership tarian assistance provided to Artsakh’s peace, show our commitment as a challenges facing the nations of the Agreement (CEPA). civilians, including the continuation of nation toward stable and pro-democra- Caucasus and Eurasia. American lead- The agreement will be an important step to broad- de-mining programs as well as support cy nations, and help support Armenia’s ership can and must play a vital role in en the scope of bilateral relations between Republic for development, assistance to people continued growth and development,” promoting freedom in this strategic of Armenia and the European Union. living with disabilities, and water sup- Pallone concluded. region. It is for this reason that we It will strengthen the political dialogue and set a ply systems,” Schiff said. “We commend Congressmen Adam request continued US assistance for solid basis for the continuation of economic and He urged the Appropriations Schiff and Frank Pallone for their tes- Armenia, Nagorno Karabakh, and at- social reforms. Strong commitments to democracy, Committee to support economic and timony before the House risk minorities in the Middle East, as human rights, and the rule of law, underpin the new military assistance, which enables Appropriations Committee outlining well as for other foreign aid-related pri- agreement and Armenia-EU future cooperation. The Armenia’s membership in NATO’s key policy goals with respect to orities.” CEPA will also create the framework for stronger Partnership for Peace and participation Armenia and Artsakh,” stated The actions of the Members coincid- cooperation in sectors such as energy, transport and in peacekeeping operations. In addition, Armenian Assembly Executive Director ed with the release of the the environment, for new opportunities in trade and he requested specific language in FY18 Bryan Ardouny. “As Congressman Administration’s budget blueprint, investments, and for increased mobility for the bene- to recognize “Armenia’s efforts to serve Schiff stated, ‘the US-Armenia relation- which envisioned a 28 percent reduc- fit of the citizens. as a regional safe haven for Christians ship is founded upon a shared commit- tion for funding for the Department of and other at-risk populations fleeing vio- ment to freedom and democratic val- State and USAID and as a preliminary lence in the Middle East, and supporting ues,’ with which we strongly agree. We document, did not detail assistance to Cloudf lare to Launch these efforts through aid and interna- also concur with House Appropriations the South Caucasus region. Many Data Center in Armenia tional organizations.” Committee Chairman Rodney Members of Congress commented on Pallone submitted his testimony and Frelinghuysen (R-NJ) that the US ‘has a the Administration’s budget noting the YEREVAN — Multinational content delivery net- similarly pointed out that Armenia is vital role to play in advancing democ- importance of maintaining robust fund- work (CDN) provider Cloudflare has announced that an important safe haven for refugees racy, protecting the innocent, and offer- ing for US diplomacy and humanitari- it plans to launch a series of new data centers across and a strategic American ally, adding ing diplomatic solutions to crisis, an assistance. House Foreign Affairs five continents, beginning with a facility in Yerevan, that “US aid has also provided critical unrest, violence and economic chal- Committee Chairman Rep. Ed Royce Armenia. support for US-led peacekeeping lenges.’ As the appropriations process (R-CA), who headlined the Assembly’s The new center will be Cloudflare’s 103rd data cen- deployments and NATO interoperabili- continues, the Armenian Assembly of recent Gala, said, “I am very concerned ter globally. The company hopes that the new deploy- ty in the region.” America looks forward to advancing that deep cuts to our diplomacy will ment will allow for greater speed, agility and security Pallone requested $40 million in eco- our shared goals.” hurt efforts to combat terrorism, dis- for approximately 6 million internet platforms, serv- nomic aid and $11 million in military In addition, the Armenian Caucus tribute critical humanitarian aid, and ing traffic to Armenia and neighboring countries. aid for Armenia, including funds for the circulated a “Dear Colleague” letter to promote opportunities for American “Yerevan, one of the oldest continuously inhabited Foreign Military Financing program urge fellow Members of Congress to workers. Especially when the US is cities in the world, has a rich history going back all and the International Military sign a letter in support of strengthen- fighting ISIS and millions are at risk of the way to 782 BC. Famous for its cognac, lavash Education and Training program. He ing American diplomacy and reinforc- starvation around the world,” flatbread, and beautiful medieval churches, Armenia also recommended suspending military ing ties with Armenia. The letter stat- Chairman Royce said. “We need a is also home to more chess grandmasters per capita aid for Azerbaijan until its government ed: “It is critical, in light of recent strong reform budget that will improve than most countries,” Cloudflare said in a statement. ceases its attacks against Armenia and events, that we provide assistance to the effectiveness and efficiency of for- Artsakh and agrees to the peaceful res- support our allies and stand up for our eign assistance. And we can achieve olution of regional conflicts. nation’s core democratic principles. this without undermining vital US eco- “Taking these steps will continue to Our requests this year for the FY18 nomic and national security interests.” S A T U R D A Y , M A R C H 2 5 , 2 0 1 7 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 3 ARMENIA Simple Liquids Battery Makes A Splash

By Hripsime Mkrtchyan

YEREVAN — A new type of battery, the Simple Liquids Battery (SLB), offers an ecofriendly, safe and easily-charge- able device for emergency power generation. SLBs offer safe, non-toxic, eco-friendly electric power banks, which can be stored and activated when needed for emergency situations. They are energized by adding any of a number of commonly available liquids into the device. The

(Left to right): Hripsime Teryan, Hermine Gharagulyan, Hripsime Mkrtchyan

batteries are light, flexible, easy to use, and safe; they can be an electrochemist. The business idea of the battery was conveniently taken on trips - even on airplanes. developed during the special courses organized by New The battery is activated by adding any of a number of liq- Technology Education Fund (NTEF), a charitable organiza- uids including saltwater, buttermilk, vinegar, tea, coffee, beer, tion with a sister foundation in Santa Clara, CA. NTEF’s rainwater, and even urine to the device. A hazardless chemi- Armenian office promotes technology education and devel- cal reaction then produces electricity, which may then be opment in Armenia and Artsakh. used to operate a cell phone, a light or other electrical This year TSD participated in the Climate Launch Pad In Estonia (from left to right): Yervand Sarkisyan (UK, jury member), Hripsime Mkrtchyan (SLB project, Armenia 1st devices. competition in Estonia, and the project was selected as one place), Alon M. Cohen(Vienna), Hasmik Barseghyan (Energy The project is now in pre-prototyping process. The initial of the top 15 from a field of 88 semi-finalists. There were ini- Globe project, Armenia 3th place), Barbora Pollack (Vienna), funding for the research phase of this project was made by tially about 1,000 startups from Europe. Sveta Jaghatspanian (Green Technology, Armenia, 2nd Dr. Vahan Chakarian, the Founder and CEO of Technology To learn more about the project, contact Levon Galstyan place) and Science Dynamics (TSD) Company in Yerevan. The team ([email protected]), the Vice President of Technology & consists of five specialists: two engineers, two physicists and Science Dynamics. Another Stabbing Linked to Armenian Election Campaign

The mayor of Kuchak, Hovik Amirian, also Armenian parliamentary race. Virtually all of The HHK was also blamed for even more seri- By Narine Ghalechian would not say whether the stabbing is linked to them reportedly involved loyalists of wealthy ous pre-election violence that occurred in campaigning for the April 2 parliamentary elec- HHK candidates. another village on March 14. Three local oppo- tions. Amirian said only that Asatrian is a In another incident, a 23-year-old activist sition supporters were attacked and seriously YEREVAN (RFE/RL) — An activist with busi- “decent” and peaceful person. from Tsarukian’s bloc was stabbed in a village injured there. One of them was shot in the leg nessman Gagik Tsarukian’s electoral alliance Some Armenian media outlets claimed that near Yerevan on March 1. A top Tsarukian aide while another stabbed in the back. The party was stabbed and seriously wounded by men Asatrian and his friend Manuk Hovsepian were said the attack was the work of men campaign- denies any involvement. allegedly linked to the ruling Republican Party attacked by rival election campaigners from the ing for a local HHK candidate. of Armenia (HHK) on Sunday, March 19. HHK. The ruling party did not immediately Aram Asatrian, head of the Tsarukian Bloc’s react to those allegations. campaign office in the central Armen village of The Tsarukian Bloc likewise did not issue any Kuchak, and one of his friends were attacked statements on the incident as of Monday near their community late on Sunday. They evening. Its representatives could not be both were rushed to a hospital in the nearby reached for comment. town of Aparan. The incident occurred two days after the bloc, Asatrian was transferred to the Astghik which claims to be in opposition to President Medical Center in Yerevan the following morn- Serzh Sarkisian, said one of its election candi- ing. The chief doctor there described his condi- dates, Vahan Karapetian, was “ambushed” and tion as “grave” but said the 32-year-old does not assaulted in Yerevan’s Ajapnyak by a group of need surgery yet. HHK activists. Karapetian claimed later on In a statement, the Armenian police said the Friday, however, that the violence had nothing two men were stabbed by “an unknown individ- to do with the election campaign. ual.” It said nothing about possible reasons for The weekend stabbings were the latest in a the dispute. Nor did the police report any arrests. series of violent incidents widely linked to the

Italian Firm to Build New Power Plant in Armenia Sam Simonian, left, and Prime Minister Karen Karapetyan meet YEREEVAN (RFE/RL) — An Italian company said. officially started building on Monday, March 20, Renco has done business in Armenia since a new thermal power plan in Yerevan that will the early 2000s. It has not been involved in the Sam Simonian, Prime Minister Meet further diversify foreign ownership in local energy sector until now, investing instead Armenia’s energy sector. in luxury housing, hotels and office buildings. The company, Renco S.p.A, held a ground- But the company has built, installed or operat- On Educational Projects breaking ceremony attended by President ed power generation and distribution facilities YEREVAN — Prime Minister Karen Karapetyan received this week the founder of Tumo Serzh Sargsyan and other senior Armenian offi- in other parts of the world. Center for Creative Technologies, Sam Simonian. cials. Two new gas-fired plants have already gone The two men discussed issues related to the establishment of the Inter-University Center Renco’s chief executive, Giovanni Rubini, and on stream in Armenia in the last few years. One for Higher Education. Highlighting the importance of reforms in higher education, Italy’s ambassador to Armenia, Giovanni of them was built in Yerevan in 2010 with Karapetyan welcomed Simonian’s initiative in this area. Ricciulli, were also in attendance. In a state- a $247 million loan provided by the Japanese The Premier stressed that the Government is prepared to support the implementation of ment on the ceremony, Sargsyan’s press office government. The state-owned facility has a the program, adding that it will help not only raise the quality of education, but also improve said the construction will take just over two capacity of 242 megawatts. The new plant to be the overall environment and promote the younger generation. years and cost around $285 million. built by Renco will be adjacent to it. The other, Simonian thanked the prime minister for his willingness to support the cause and noted The gas-powered plant will have a capacity of more powerful thermal-power plant is located in that the project also will be supported by the European Union. nearly 250 megawatts and use “the most the central town of Hrazdan. The Russian gas advanced” technology of power generation, it monopoly Gazprom inaugurated it in 2013. 4 S ATURDAY, M ARCH 2 5 , 2 0 1 7 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR INTERNATIONAL International News Pope Begs Forgiveness for Church Czech Truck Company to Role in Rwanda Genocide Establish Factory in VATICAN CITY (AP) — Pope humble recognition of the failings of reluctant to apologize for genocide Armenia Francis on Monday, March 20, begged that period, which unfortunately disfig- when popes have apologized for much forgiveness for the “sins and failings of ured the face of the church, may con- lesser crimes. YEREVAN (Armenpress) — An agreement reached the church and its members” during tribute to a ‘purification of memory’ “I don’t understand why the pope between the Ministry of Economic Development and Rwanda’s 1994 genocide as the Holy and may promote, in hope and renewed would apologize for sexual offenses, Investments of Armenia and Czech company Tatra See sought to open a new phase in rela- trust, a future of peace.” whether it is in the U.S., Ireland or engaged in truck production is now being imple- tions nearly a quarter-century after the The Rwandan government has long Australia, but cannot apologize for the mented. Armenian Minister of Economic slaughter. pressured the church to apologize for role of the church in the genocide that Development and Investments Suren Karayan said In an extraordinary statement after its complicity in the genocide, but both happened here,” Kagame said at the the factory will be established in Kotayk. Francis’ meeting with Rwandan the Vatican and the local church have time. “In a meeting with the representatives of the com- President Paul Kagame, the Vatican been reluctant to do so. The church has On Monday, he tweeted his apprecia- pany we discussed the possibilities of starting pro- acknowledged that the church itself long said those church officials who tion for Francis’ words and said “a new duction in Armenia,” Karayan said. The minister had bore blame, as well as some Catholic committed crimes acted individually. chapter in relations” had begun. met with Czech businessmen on January 18. A rep- priests and nuns who “succumbed to In 1996, St. John Paul II refused to He said that Francis’ willingness to resentative of the Tatra company, Jiri Vabra, had pre- hatred and violence, betraying their take blame on the church’s part for what apologize was “an act of courage and sented a preliminary proposal to develop Yerevan’s own evangelical mission” by participat- transpired in Rwanda, saying in a letter moral high standing” that was typical of public transportation. He stated that Armenia is the ing in the genocide. to Rwandan bishops that: “The church in the pope. first post-Soviet state with which the company plans During the 100-day genocide, more itself cannot be held responsible for the Foreign Minister Louise Mushikiwab, to cooperate. than 800,000 ethnic Tutsis and moder- misdeeds of its members who have acted however, repeated charges that even Tatra was established in 1850. The capitalization ate Hutus were killed by Hutu extrem- against evangelical law.” Four years later, before 1994, Catholic institutions of the company amounts to 3.7 billion Czech Krona ists. Many of the victims died at the however, he did make a general apology helped divide Rwandans and “laid the $148 million. hands of priests, clergymen and nuns, for a host of Catholic sins and crimes intellectual foundation for genocide ide- according to some accounts by sur- over its 2,000-year history. ology.” Turks ‘Detached from vivors, and the Rwandan government Amid continued pressure from the “Today, genocide denial and trivializa- says many died in the churches where government, Rwanda’s Catholic bishops tion continue to flourish in certain Reality’ Says Tusk they had sought refuge. last year apologized for “all the wrongs groups within the church and genocide During the 25-minute meeting in the the church committed.” suspects have been shielded from jus- BRUSSELS (BBC) — Turkey is “completely Apostolic Palace, Francis “implored The ministry of local government tice within Catholic institutions,” detached from reality” in calling the Dutch fascists, anew God’s forgiveness for the sins and rejected the apology then as inade- Mushikiwab said in a statement. European Council President Donald Tusk has said, failings of the church and its members,” quate. During Rwanda’s annual dia- the BBC reports. the Vatican said. logue in December, Kagame said he did- AP writer Tom Odula contributed His remarks come amid a row between Turkey and He “expressed the desire that this n’t understand why the church was so from Nairobi, Kenya. European nations over campaigning for a Turkish referendum. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has accused the Dutch government of being “Nazi rem- nants.” He was infuriated when a minister was Lebanese-Armenian Composer Gélalian Honored by AGBU Lebanon barred from addressing a Rotterdam rally, sparking BEIRUT — On March 8, the Francophonie events, but also high- added Rahbani. On the occasion, both clashes with police. Armenian General Benevolent Union lighted the collaboration with the speakers requested that Gélalian’s Erdogan’s rhetoric intensified when he accused the (AGBU) of Lebanon — in collaboration embassy of Armenia to Lebanon and compositions be performed more Dutch of carrying out the Srebrenica massacre in with the Embassy of Armenia in the Ministry of Culture and the impor- often at the Lebanese National Bosnia in 1995. Lebanon and under the patronage of tant role that such collaborations play Conservatory. In his remarks to the European Parliament on the Lebanese Minister of Culture in bridging cultures. AGBU Lebanon will continue its Wednesday Tusk said the Netherlands was “a place of Ghattas Khoury — organized a lecture Lebiar then introduced the pan- participation in the Mois de la freedom and democracy. And for sure Rotterdam,” entitled “Boghos Gélalian et son elists who discussed Gélalian’s work: Francophonie with a lecture on April he said. apport à la musique au Liban” Etienne Kupelian, professor of piano 5 about the influence of Armenians “The city of Erasmus, brutally destroyed by the [Boghos Gélalian and his contribution and theoretical subjects at the on Lebanese architecture by architect Nazis, which today has a mayor born in Morocco,” he to music in Lebanon] as a tribute to National Conservatory of Lebanon Raffi Gergian entitled “L’architecture added. “If anyone sees fascism in Rotterdam, they the famed Lebanese-Armenian com- and the brother-in-law of Gélalian as arménienne au Liban : une question are completely detached from reality.” poser Boghos Gélalian. well as Ghady Rahbani, the son of the d’identité.” The lecture will discuss Germany and Austria have also acted to stop Boghos Gélalian (1927-2011) is prominent Lebanese composer eminent Lebanese-Armenian archi- Turkish rallies aimed at stirring support for a “yes” known for his blend of musical influ- Mansour Rahbani. While Kupelian tects of the 20th century, who pro- vote in an April 16 referendum on giving Erdogan ences, including Armenian and Middle touched on the personal side, Rahbani duced monuments that marked the greater powers. Eastern melodies. During the 1960s spoke about his experience growing history of Lebanon, such as the and 1970, Gélalian composed pieces up under Gélalian’s tutelage in music. Lebanese Parliament, El Aabed clock, Six New Suspects Nabbed for piano, violin, cello, oboe, flute, “The entire Rahbani family has grown St Peter’s Basilica and Paul de voice and orchestra for some of the thanks to Gélalian and his family,” Harissa, among others. In Dink Case greatest Lebanese musicians, such as Fairouz. He is known for having left a ISTANBUL (Public Radio of Armenia) — Six sus- strong imprint on the field of music in pects, including a journalist, were detained on March Lebanon. 21 as part of an ongoing investigation into the mur- Among the guests at the tribute Jewish Right-Wing Extremists Riot der of Turkish-Armenian journalist Hrant evening were Gélalian’s wife and son, Dink, Anadolu Agency has reported. Raymonde and Serge; the Consul of During Performance by Armenian An Istanbul prosecutor issued a detention warrant the Embassy of Armenia to Lebanon, for eight suspects for publishing images and footage Ashot Vartanian; representative of the Choir in Jerusalem of murderer Ogün Samast in some media outlets in Armenian Catholic Church, 2007 and 2016 in front of a Turkish flag shortly Monseigneur Krikor Assadourian; the RIOT, from page 1 after his apprehension in the Black Sea province of Vice Governor of the Central Bank of Meanwhile, Gopstein and other activists allegedly shouted at the choir, Samsun. Lebanon, Haroutiun Samuelian; “Christians,” “Go to Syria,” “Jew murderers” and more. The choir was Police later detained journalist Muammer Ay and Cultural Officer of the French forced to stop performing after one song. other suspects Murat Bayrak, Yüksel Avan, Birol Institute of Lebanon, François Tiger; Following the event, security guards and police blocked the entrance, Ustaoglu, Yakup Kurtaran and Ahmet Çetiner in the representative of Minister of and several Lehava members gathered in front of the building and simultaneous operations conducted in six provinces. Culture, Dr. Nizar Daher; and the protested that they were not allowed to go inside. The search for the other two suspects is ongoing. AGBU Lebanon District’s interim “Two right-wing activists were arrested after they refused to obey Meanwhile, the Istanbul public prosecutor’s office chairperson, Sylva Libaridian. police orders, and continued to interfere with the event and disrupted also demanded another arrest warrant for the “Gélalian’s music strives to transcend the public order with shouts and confrontations with police,” the police Gülenist prosecutor Zekeriya Öz, lawyer Halil all national and cultural barriers to said in a statement. Ibrahim Koca, and journalists Faruk Mercan, Adem reach a universal public,” said Mireille Rinat Edelstein and Lee He Shulov, the directors-curators of the Yavuz and Ekrem Dumanlı. Khanamirian, the cultural advisor to Manofim festival, said in a statement: “We are still shocked and pained Dink was shot dead at the age of 52 in broad day- the Armenian Ambassador Samvel about the violent and vulgar behavior of Lehava, headed by Bentzi light outside the offices of the Turkish-Armenian Mkrtchyan. “Furthermore, his work Gopstein. We wish to express our solidarity with the Armenian choir that newspaper Agos in central Istanbul on January 19, reflects the image of a civilized was forced to leave the event because of Lehava’s violence against them. 2007. Lebanon, a Lebanon we all dream of.” Rabbi Noa Sattath, executive director of the Israel Religious Action Ogün Samast, then a 17-year-old high-school The event took place as part of the Center, which organized a counterdemonstration against Lehava on dropout, confessed to the murder and was sentenced Mois de la Francophonie [Month of Thursday evening, said, “The fact that Lehava thugs do not rest for a to almost 23 years in jail in 2011. the French-Speaking World] in moment, and that while hundreds of citizens — Jews and Arabs — demon- But the case grew into a wider scandal after it Lebanon, a series of events designed strate against them, they choose to violently interrupt religious Christian emerged that the security forces had been aware of a to promote the French language as activities, is clear proof that the head of this criminal organization, plot to kill Dink but failed to act. well as cultural diversity. AGBU Bentzi Gopstein, should be prosecuted as quickly as possible, before Lebanon director Anita Lebiar not more blood is spilled in the capital.” only emphasized the importance of the participation of AGBU in the S ATURDAY, M ARCH 2 5 , 2 0 1 7 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 5 INTERNATIONAL Haigazian University Celebrates International Women’s Day

BEIRUT — On Thursday, March 9, Haigazian University celebrated the International Women’s Day, at Le Royal Hotel, Dbayeh – Lebanon, by honoring four accomplished women from diverse backgrounds and experi- ences, who had great impact on the Lebanese society in concrete ways. They were: May Makhzoumi, Cynthia Sarkis Perros, May Menassa and Dr. Arda Ekmekji. The honorees with President Paul Haidostian and Minister Jean Oghasabian as well as members of the Women’s Auxiliary The event which was under the patronage of the Minister of State for Women’s Affairs, Jean Oghassabian, and organized by the joint efforts their communities and Lebanon. of the Haigazian University Women’s Auxiliary Public Relations Director Mira Yardemian and the Public Relations Department attracted presented the lives and major milestones and a capacity audience of 250 attendees — women accomplishments of the honorees: President of representing various organizations, institutions, the Makhzoumi Foundation, May Makhzoumi unions and friends of the University. has dedicated herself for the past 20 years, to After the National Anthem, chairwoman of helping the people of Lebanon. The foundation the Haigazian University Women’s Auxiliary has provided 2.5 million services to 750,000 (HUWA), Terine Hasserjian opened the official people in the areas of health care, vocational ceremony with her welcoming words. She training, micro credit and development pro- underlined the substantial importance of this grams. Cynthia Sarkis Perros is a successful occasion sharing with the audience the history entrepreneur, who, through her company, of this celebration which dates back to 15 years, Luxury Limited Edition, has invested her during which more than 45 women from differ- longterm relationships and connections with ent Lebanese denominations and regions have internationally influential people in politics, been honored in recognition of their achieve- business, media, film industry, as well as world- ments, welfare, and breakthroughs in service of renowned luxury brands in organizing big pro-

The Armenian Youth Quartet

jects and events, mainly related to fundraising Angeles for more than 50 years. On this special and welfare. May Menassa is a prolific writer occasion, Haidostian paid tribute to two women who had a lifetime career and tremendous input who had incorporated the concept of devotion to the Lebanese literary and cultural life as an and conviction throughout their life. Sisters author, critic and journalist. Dr. Arda Ekmekji Elizabeth and Mary Webb were American mis- is a powerhouse in the field of academia and sionaries, who more than half a century ago civic engagement in Lebanon for 45 years, and saved, fed, educated and raised a generation of the Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences at girls in their house of refuge on Mexique Street Haigazian University for 20 years. in Beirut. The will of the Webb sisters stipulat- “The best of things are fruits of genuine con- ed that proceeds from the sale of their house be viction, not simply duty. We get tired of duty used for the education of girls or that the house but never of conviction. And the role of the itself be used. It was in this site, the Webb community of women who surround us is a tes- Building, that Haigazian University was found- timony of that conviction,” said University ed 62 years ago. President Rev. Dr. Paul Haidostian in his The celebration was musically animated by The honorees with President Paul Haidostian and Minister Jean Oghassabian remarks, thanking the Haigazian University the newly formed Armenian Youth Quartet, Women’s Auxiliary, both in Beirut and Los under the supervision of Garo Avessian. Turkish Authorities Interfering in Patriarchal Election Process

INTERFERENCE, from page 1 16 at the patriarchate, it is determined that Bekjian stated that a group including explain the logic of election of deghabah. Then, The Clerical Assembly is expected to form a starting the election process is legally impossi- Ateshyan and Mashalyan will go to Istanbul an announcement will be made. This will hap- commission comprising clergymen and secular ble given the facts that this process might cause governor’s office. Bekjian said, “I won’t be pen within a couple of days. I will be here in the figures to organize the transfer of power from disturbance and divisions in the society, that there. In this planned meeting, our party will meantime.” the General Vicar to the Locum Tenens. there is already an incumbent vicar and that The elections of the initiative group will be your society knows the basic proceedings and organized within 10 days after the election of practices concerning the patriarchal election.” the Locum Tenens. The group will, in turn, read the statement. Greece Eyes Strategic Partnership with Armenia, organize the elections of the Patriarch of In a response, Arch. Bekjian stated that a Istanbul within a six-month period. group including Ateshyan and Mashalyan will Foreign Minister Says However, immediate following the election, a go to the Istanbul Governor’s office to explain YEREVAN (PanARMENIAN.Net) — Greek foreign minister Nikos Kotzias on Friday, March notice was handed out by Archbishop Aram the situation. 10 expressed hope for establishing strategic relations and partnership between the Hellenic Ateshyan to the Clerical Assembly that stated “In this planned meeting, our party will Republic and Armenia. that it was illegal to start the election process, explain the logic of election of the Locum At the meeting with Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan in Yerevan, Kotzias said that according to Agos. The notice was from the Tenens,” read Bekjian’s statement. “Then an Greece possesses the political will to deepen cooperation with Armenia in a variety of areas. Governor’s office to the press and was signed announcement will be made within the next Sargsyan, in turn, hailed the friendly relations between the two states, stressing the need by Deputy Governor Aziz Mercan. couple of days.” Bekjian added that he will not for giving a new impetus to economic relations. “Given the reports in the media, it is under- be attending the meeting. The sides agreed to further cooperate in the fields of education, military training, as well stood that the procedure of patriarchal election Archbishop Karekin Bekjian, who elected as as culture, economy, transport and tourism. is intended to be started virtually by electing a the deghabah by the Clerical Assembly, made a Kotzias, who arrived in Armenia on Friday, earlier met foreign minister Edward deghabah on March 15. statement about the notice from the governor’s Nalbandian to discuss diplomatic ties between the two countries. “Considering the unfavorable developments office which states that “the election is legally that took place during the meeting on February impossible.” 6 S ATURDAY, M ARCH 2 5 , 2 0 1 7 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR Community News

Armenian Assembly HALO Trust Urges Investigation Campaign Raises Of Azerbaijan Ties, $1M, Appoints Compromising Festekjians as Materials on US Campaign Co-Chairs Officials LONDON — The Safe Steps for The People of Karabakh campaign run by the HALO Trust — WASHINGTON — Earlier this week, the world’s largest humanitarian mine clear- the Armenian Assembly of America ance organization catapulted to prominence by sent letters to the Senate and House Princess Diana of Wales in the 1990s — will Select Committees on Intelligence work with Nina and Raffi Festekjian as cam- expressing concern regarding the paign co-chairs to achieve a landmine-free undue influence of Azerbaijan on Karabakh by 2020. America’s democratic institutions. The Festekjians will help raise awareness and In their letter to the Senate support in the United States and in the world- Intelligence Chairman Richard Burr (R- wide Armenian Diaspora. They will host a NC), Vice Chairman Mark Warner (D-VA), fundraising event debuting Scout Tufenkjian’s House Intelligence Chairman David latest photographs from Karabakh which will Nunes (R-CA), and Ranking Member then travel to New York and Los Angeles for Adam Schiff (D-CA), Assembly Co-Chairs exclusive showings and events as part of its Anthony Barsamian and Van Krikorian North American tour. stated: “We are writing to express our The people of Nagorno Karabakh are more concern regarding the undue influence likely to be the victims of landmines than of yet another foreign government on almost any other country in the world. The area America’s democratic institutions, name- Guests enjoyed bidding on a wide array of items from Valentino, Hermès, Vartan is heavily fortified with mines as a result of the ly Azerbaijan. We are deeply troubled by Geudelekian, Gregg Emery, and many others. Nagorno Karabakh/Azerbaijan conflict of recent reports about Azerbaijan’s ties to 1994. The extensive presence of landmines has Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard crippled the population’s ability to farm the Corps (IRGC) and its nexus to both the land and claimed the lives and livelihoods of Mammadov family and the highest levels AGBU Young Professionals of many inhabitants. of the Azeri government. We therefore “One-third of landmine victims in Artsakh are respectfully request that the congression- Greater New York Raise $50,000 children and that haunts me,” said Nina al investigations of Russian influence be Festekjian. expanded to include Azerbaijan’s influ- For Syrian Armenians “Nina and I have become staunch supporters ence peddling and any materials it may of the ‘Safe Steps’ Campaign as we strongly have potentially compromising US offi- NEW YORK — On February 4, the AGBU Young Professionals of Greater New believe that restoring a sense of security and cials.” York (YPGNY) held their 16th annual silent auction and cocktail party at the safety for Armenians living in the affected The Justice Department has previ- Redbury in New York. The event raised $50,000 for the AGBU Humanitarian regions is not only a fundamental human right, ously brought some cases involving Emergency Relief Fund for Syrian Armenians and drew 200 young professionals but also critical to their livelihood which is a Azerbaijan through the Foreign from throughout the tristate area as well as members of the AGBU Central Board. key factor in the economic growth and stability Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), but The event was sponsored by Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Manhattan Beer Distributors of the region.” said Raffi Festekjian. much more is needed. According to the and Liquor Land. Since 2000, the HALO Trust has cleared “Azeri Oil Money Got a Pass From This Throughout the evening, guests listened to music by Greg “DJ Glo” Stepanian more than 445 minefields, 11,200 landmines, Ethics Committee” article in and enjoyed bidding on an array of gifts, luxury items and services donated by and 25,300 cluster munitions and other unex- Bloomberg News, Azerbaijan continues businesses and individuals in the fields of fine art, fashion, sports, dining and ploded ordnance in Karabakh. To remove the to shell out over $45,000 monthly to entertainment. These included items from Valentino, Hermès, Christian remaining 70 civilian minefields, HALO Trust the Podesta Group, of which the colum- Louboutin, Vartan Geudelekian, Gregg Emery and many others. has secured an anonymous donor who has com- nist states “It’s hard to tell whether it’s “The support of the non-Armenian community is what truly allowed us to make mitted $4 million in match funding specifically this creativity and generosity or any this year’s event so successful. Being able to connect with them on a human level for Karabakh. real US strategic interest that makes and bringing them on board to further such an important cause made all the dif- “Every contribution to the ‘Safe Steps’ the US overlook the country’s brutal ference. 2017 marked the fourth consecutive year that YPGNY has donated the campaign will be matched by an anonymous dictatorship. A combination of both is auction proceeds to the AGBU Humanitarian Emergency Relief Fund for Syrian foundation that is committed to achieving a likely: Without the ‘caviar diplomacy,’ Armenians. The need today is greater than it has ever been and continues to grow mine-free world. The donor has pledged half Azerbaijan might be considered too more and more each day. This year’s event raised $15,000 more than last year, and of the $8 million required to clear Karabakh’s small to defy declared US values and as the need continues to grow, we strive to increase the amount raised each year,” remaining 70 minefields – if we can raise principles for its sake.” said YPGNY chairman William Nazarian. matching funds. We are grateful to the “When it comes to the integrity of Together with the 2017 proceeds, YPGNY has raised over $125,000 for Syrian Festekjians who have taken a leadership role America’s democracy, the rule of law, and Armenians in need over the last four years. In past years, the YPGNY Silent in this effort, the global Armenian diaspora, our governance process, we must not Auction & Cocktail Party has raised funds for the AGBU Children’s Centers in and others from around the world enthused turn a blind eye to Azerbaijan’s influence Armenia and the AGBU Humanitarian Emergency Relief Fund for Iraqi by this lifesaving project. We’ve raised $1 mil- peddling, authoritarian regime and Armenians. lion of our $4-million match-funding goal and human rights atrocities,” Assembly Co- To learn more about YPGNY, visit www.ypgny.agbuyp.org we must now keep up the momentum to meet Chairs Barsamian and Krikorian said. the match challenge and seize this opportu- “Further, we must ensure that nity to make Karabakh Mine Free,” said Azerbaijan’s rampant corrupt practices James Cowan, HALO Trust CEO. do not compromise US policies and The Festekjians have spearheaded numer- objectives. Additional evidence on ous philanthropic efforts, ranging from the Azerbaijani as well as Turkish wrongdo- arts to economic development including, ing is available and growing; we would the Raffi and Nina Festekjian Foundation welcome the opportunity to help advance and the YerazArt Foundation. Additionally, a thorough investigation and United Raffi Festekjian has served as chair of States response.” the Armenia Fund and most recently has In addition to the US, Azerbaijan’s been a board member of the National caviar diplomacy is also amply docu- Competitiveness Foundation of Armenia mented in the December 2016 (NCFA). Professionally, he is the executive European Stability Initiative Chairman and managing partner of (ESI) report, wherein expensive watch- Empyrean Solutions and Nuarca LLC. He es, jewelry, computers, and large sums earned an MBA from JL Kellogg Graduate of money, among other gifts, were pro- School, Northwestern University, and a civil vided to several politicians from a num- engineering degree from the American ber of countries in Europe. ESI states University of Beirut. that “the ease with which democratic Nina Festekjian is the co-founder of institutions and safeguards can be Anoush’ella restaurant and leads numerous charitable ventures undermined has emerged as a funda- The AGBU YP Greater New York Committee. mental threat to European democracy.” including YerazArt and Aragil Foundations supporting emerging artists in Armenia. S ATURDAY, M ARCH 2 5 , 2 0 1 7 T H E A R M E N I A N M I R R O R - S P E C TAT O R 7 COMMUNITY NEWS AIWA Hasmik Mgrdichian Scholarship Applications Available

LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Affiliate Armenian schools, organizations and churches. of the Armenian International Women’s The scholarship recipients are recognized and Association (AIWA) announces that applica- receive their awards at the Los Angeles Affiliate tions are now being accepted for the Hasmik Annual Membership meeting in May 2017. Mgrdichian Scholarships. The Hasmik In addition to the Hasmik Mgrdichian Mgrdichian Scholarships were established in Scholarship Awards from the Los Angeles 2011 to annually award scholarships to univer- Affiliate, other scholarships are available sity students. Thanks to the continued generos- through the AIWA National Board in ity of the Hasmik Mgrdichian Foundation, her Watertown, Mass. Students in the sciences legacy of philanthropy and goodwill continues (including mathematics, engineering, technolo- to provide $5,000 scholarships awarded to five gy, computer science, architecture) are invited students each year. to apply for AIWA’s Lucy Kasparian Aharonian Applications are now available on line and are awards, ranging from $2,000 to $10,000. open to all California women residents of Information and applications can be accessed Armenian descent who are applying for educa- through their website: [email protected]. Young From left, Vatche Mankerian, Caroline Lais-Tufenkian, Cynthia Norian, Silva Katchiguian, tion in an accredited college or university. women are urged to apply for both scholar- Carla Garapedian and Greg Hosharian Applications are also accepted from students ships. applying for graduate or undergraduate pro- AIWA was established in 1991 to foster under- grams. Applications must be received no later standing among Armenian women worldwide than April 15. Applications are available on and to address the critical issues facing them AIWA-LA Laurel Karabian Fund Arts aiwala.org and AIWALosAngeles.org. everywhere. Headquartered in Massachusetts, Silva Katchiguian, president of AIWA-LA stat- the organization has reached out to assist ed: “We take great pride in our scholarship pro- women in Armenia through its Women’s Advisory Council Members Meet gram which was created by Hasmik Mgrdichian, Entrepreneurship Program at the American one of the founders of the Los Angeles Affiliate University of Armenia and support of the LOS ANGELES — The Armenian International Women’s Association (AIWA), Los of the Armenian International Women’s Women’s Support Center project in Armenia Angeles Affiliate and members of the newly established Advisory Council to the Laurel Association. We are also very pleased to have which provides a safe haven for abused women. Karabian Fund for The Arts came together to discuss the criteria for the allocation of Hasmik’s granddaughter Lysa serve on the In addition, programs have showcased out- grants to creative professionals in all art disciplines. The meeting took place over breakfast scholarship selection committee. It is gratifying standing women in a variety of fields through at the home of Margaret Mgrublian, vice president elect of AIWA-LA Executive Committee. each year to receive applications from young workshops, seminars and symposiums. AIWA Advisory Council members present were Carla Garapedian, producer and filmmaker; Greg Armenian women and to learn of their scholas- celebrated its 25th Anniversary this year Hosharian, composer, orchestrator and keyboardist; Vatche Mankerian, pianist and com- tic achievements and goals for the future.” (September 30 – October 2) in Boston with two poser; and Caroline Lais-Tufenkian, curator and arts professional. Unable to attend were The Scholarship Committee, chaired by Lily days of conferences followed by a gala with the Karen Kondazian, actress and author; and Karin Mushegain, mezzo soprano; and Madeline Balian, and with Committee members Hermine theme “Inspiring our Future, Honoring our Karabian, daughter of AIWA-LA’s first president, the late Laurel Karabian in whose honor Janoyan, Cindy Norian, Diana Hekimian, Diane Past.” Through a network of supporters, friends and memory the Fund for the Arts has been established. The fund is earmarked to sup- Cabraloff and Houry Aposhian, are committed and members around the world, AIWA has been port cutting-edge, high-quality young and emerging female talents that reflect the creative to reaching out to all California universities and responding to the needs, interests and futures of aspirations of the Armenian-American community. All art disciplines within a symphony, colleges to inform women students of the Armenian women with International opera, theatre and museum will be considered. opportunity to submit applications for scholar- Conferences held in London, Paris, Geneva, Cynthia Norian, sister of the late Laurel Karabian and liaison between the Council and ship awards. Flyers and notices are sent to Buenos Aires, San Francisco and Yerevan. the AIWA-LA Executive Committee said she is excited to see the Fund for the Arts finally move toward its intended purpose. “I am excited by the prospect of reviewing applications from budding artists in all fields. Through this fund we hope to showcase talented young women as they develop and pursue their chosen field of creative art,” said Norian. AIWA-LA is now accepting applications for the Laurel Karabian Fund for the Arts. For Criteria and requirements as well as applications, visit AIWA-LA website through Ambassador Evans to Speak at www.aiwainternational.org. Fill the “Request for Funding” form and submit via email to [email protected]. Conn. Genocide Commemoration Submit requests by June 30 for funding of projects in September. HARTFORD, Conn. — The Armenian Connecticut Genocide Commemoration Genocide Commemoration Committee of Committee is hosting a fundraiser reception to Connecticut will host its annual commemora- support its ongoing activities such as develop- tion program in the magnificent Hall of the ing a Genocide curriculum for public schools House at the Connecticut State Capitol at 11 and universities as well as for establishing a per- a.m. on Saturday April 22. manent Genocide monument. The event will The keynote speaker this year will be former take place at the Armenian Church of the Holy United States Ambassador to the Republic of Resurrection in New Britain from 5 to 7 p.m., Armenia, John M. Evans. the evening before the program at the Capitol. Evans, a career Foreign Service Officer who Ambassador Evans will also be present at the served as the US Ambassador to Armenia from 2004 to 2006, stirred con- troversy in February 2005 by publicly dissenting from the policy of the Bush Administration on the then 90-year-old issue of the Armenian Genocide. A native of Williamsburg, Va., educated at Yale and Columbia, Evans served in Tehran, Prague, Moscow, Brussels (NATO), the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, St. Petersburg and Washington, reaching the rank of Minister-Counselor. He is the author of Truth Held Hostage: America and the Armenian Genocide: What Then? What Now? (Gomidas Institute) and Therefore, God Must Be Armenian! Sixteen Talks Given on Armenian Issues (2007-2012) (Gomidas Institute). Now retired from the State Department, he lives with his wife, the former Donna Chamberlain, in Washington, DC. Jack Krikorian, chairman of the Ambassador John Evans Connecticut Committee stated “Ambassador Evans has a distinguished career in the Foreign Service and has event on Friday and will be available to sign demonstrated outstanding integrity and copies of his books, which will be available for courage. We are privileged to have him serve as purchase. our keynote speaker.” While no reservations are required for the The April 22 event at the Capitol is free and commemoration at the Capitol, reservations are open to the public. State Rep. Edwin Vargas Jr., required for the April 21 Friday night fundrais- who is hosting the event, has invited a number er reception. For further information about the of Connecticut’s civic, political and religious Friday night event or to purchase tickets at $25 leaders to attend. A large turnout is expected. per person, contact Melanie Brown at Additionally, on Friday April 21, the [email protected] 8 S ATURDAY, M ARCH 2 5 , 2 0 1 7 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMUNITY NEWS David Philipps Suggests Turkey Does Not Meet NATO Ideals

deportations, despite Turkey’s effort to cover up facts on the By Aline Ozinian ground by denying access to UN investigators. Do you have doubts about Turkey’s eligibility as a NATO member? NEW YORK (Agos) — David L. Phillips, the Director of the I propose that the North Atlantic Council establish a Program on Peace-building and Rights at Columbia University’s Compliance Review Committee to evaluate the performance of Institute for the Study of Human Rights, was interviewed last NATO members when it comes to democracy and human rights. week about the developments around the triangle of Turkey-US- If a NATO member receives a failing grade two years consecu- Middle East, a subject covered more in depth in his recent book, tively, their membership should be suspended. In addition to An Uncertain Ally: Turkey under Erdogan’s Dictatorship. In addi- Turkey, Hungary is also a country of concern. tion, between 2001 and 2004, he served as the chairman of the What do you think will happen after the “April Referendum” Turkish Armenian Reconciliation Commission (TARC). in Turkey? In May, what kind of Turkey should we expect? Phillips has served as a foreign affairs expert and Senior A majority of Turks will vote “no”, rejecting Erdogan’s execu- Adviser to the US Department of State during the administra- tive presidency. However, Erdogan will steal the vote and declare tions of Presidents Clinton, Bush and Obama. In addition to writ- victory. Constitutional reform establishing a dictatorship has ing for the Huffington Post about the Kurdish question, Turkish David Philipps been Erdogan’s project for years. There is no way he will lose the politics and fighting ISIS, Philips worked as an adviser in the vote. Instability and social conflict will ensue. internationally known think-tank Atlantic Council and as an Turkey has been a geopolitically important country for both adviser to the White House concerning Middle East Balkans. What kind of political changes should we expect from the Europe and Caucasus. Turkey has a huge influence on Phillips was interviewed last week on Turkey’s current politi- Trump administration regarding Turkey? Azerbaijan, and as you know, Azerbaijan continues to break cal situation and foreign policy approach, the US-Turkey rela- It’s too soon to tell. When Trump and Erdogan talked on the ceasefire agreement on a daily basis. How will Turkish tions under Trump administration, US security interests regard- February 8, they avoided contentious issues like Trump’s Muslim political uncertainties affect the region, especially in regard to ing Kurdish unity and the future of the Artsakh (Karabakh) con- travel ban and Turkey’s crackdown after the coup. Vice President the Azerbaijan-Artsakh (Karabakh) conflict? flict and Turkey-Armenia relations. Mike Pence heralded a “new era” in US-Turkish relations. The Turkey will seek to change the Minsk Group by insisting on an rhetoric has changed, but substantive differences still exist. expanded role for itself or by trying to shift mediation from the What are your thoughts regarding today’s Turkey? How Why has Turkey become “an uncertain ally” for America? Is OSCE to the UN. Turkey is a party to the conflict and cannot play would you explain what is happening in Turkey right now? Turkey’s Kurdish policy the only reason? a constructive role in mediation. The Minsk group has proven inef- If NATO [North Atlantic Treaty Organization] were being Turkey’s rapprochement with Russia raises concerns about its fective, but at least it has prevented a spiral of deadly violence from established today, Turkey would not be eligible to join. President response in the event that Russia attacks Ukraine, Poland or the which Azerbaijan and Turkey would seek to benefit. Tayyip Erdogan has revealed his true face as an Islamist who is Baltic States. About 140,000 Turks have been arrested or dis- For many years, you made efforts for Turkish-Armenian rec- anti-American, anti-European and who undermines NATO. NATO missed after the failed coup of July 15, which gutted the Turkish onciliation and opening borders without preconditions. What is more than a security alliance. It is a coalition of countries with Armed Forces. Targeting Kurdish civilians is a war crime for do you forecast for future relations between Turkey and shared values. More journalists are jailed today in Turkey than which Erdogan should be held accountable. Armenians were vic- Armenia? any other country. Recent events during which legitimately-elect- tims of genocide. Armenians know better than anyone the wrath The Protocols provide a path forward. Turkey should ratify the ed members of the parliament were arrested, denied free speech, of Turkey and the duplicity of its leaders. Protocols, enabling normal travel and trade and enhanced diplo- and deprived of other rights are indicators of Turkey’s departure What about the Kurds? You have spent some time in Iraqi matic cooperation. Erdogan does not share my view. His idea from the democratic mainstream. Using ministers for partisan Kurdistan. What do they think and expect from Turkey? about reconciliation is to humiliate and abuse Armenians. political lobbying is not welcome in Europe. Iraqi Kurds have extensive cooperation with Turkey, including Reconciliation is a process not an event. Turkish and Armenian What was the motivation for the changes inside the AKP energy transport from oil and gas fields in Kirkuk and civil society should expand their interaction and explore areas (after 2007)? Suleimania to the port of Ceyhan. Turkey and Iraqi Kurdistan for cooperation. We have already seen progress when people get Erdogan used his electoral mandate from July 22, 2007 to con- are both antagonistic towards the PKK. When it comes to fight- together and can relate in human terms, independent of their solidate his power, attack the judiciary and target Turkey’s sec- ing ISIS, Kurdish unity is critical. governments. ular elite. The election put Turkey on the path to the dictator- How important are the Kurds and the “Kurdish question” ship that it is today. for Turkey’s democratization process? (An Uncertain Ally: Turkey under Erdogan’s Dictatorship, How would you describe the relations between US-Turkey There are about 20 million Kurds in Turkey. However, their which was published recently, discusses rise of political Islam in today? What are your predictions about future relations? political and cultural rights are systematically denied. A dozen Turkey, Erdogan’s political life and ISIS. The “Kurdish ques- US-Turkey relations are at a low point. Erdogan demands that members of parliament from the pro-Kurdish HDP are in jail. tion,” which Philips has been dealing with for years, is one of the US extradites Fethullah Gülen. This is a legal, not a political Kurdish mayors have been arrested or fired. Local community the main topics in the book. The book also covers Erdogan’s decision. Also, Turkey demands that the US abandons the Syrian leaders with the KCK are targeted and imprisoned. Turkey can- childhood, teenage and high school years in a detailed way. Kurds who are proven fighters against ISIS. The Pentagon wants not be a democracy unless Kurds are fully enfranchised. Instead, The author also covers Erdogan’s introduction to Necmettin to continue US security cooperation with the Kurds over the Kurds are victimized. A recent report by the UN High Erbakan, his role in the National Vision movement and his Erdogan’s strident objections. Commissioner for Human Rights described mass killings and days as the Mayor of Istanbul.)

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CYSCA, NAASR, MIT Armenian Society to Present Panel on Climate Change

CAMBRIDGE, Mass. — The Cambridge-Yerevan Sister City Building E51, Room 315, 70 Memorial Drive, Association (CYSCA), along with the Massachusetts Institute Cambridge. The moderator will be Mike Wankum, meteorol- of Technology (MIT) Armenian Society and the National ogist, WCVB-Channel 5 Boston. Association for Armenian Studies and Research (NAASR) The panel of scientists will consist of Prof. Ashot announces a panel discussion on lightning, climate change Chilingarian, director of the Yerevan Physics Institute and and other exciting scientific challenges. head of its Cosmic Ray Division (CRD) in Yerevan, who has This event is being held as part of the annual Cambridge been invited to Cambridge specifically for this event. The five Science Festival on Monday, April 17, 7-9 p.m. at MIT other panelists will include: Dr. Areg Danagoulian, assistant professor, nuclear science and engineering at MIT; Dr. Joseph Dwyer, professor and holder of the Peter T. Paul Chair in Space Sciences, Department of Physics, University of New Hampshire; Dr. Bagrat Mailyan, from the Cosmic Ray Division in Armenia and the Geospace Physics Laboratory, Florida Institute of Technology; Dr. Ningyu Liu, associate professor, Department of Physics, University of New Hampshire; and Dr. Earle R. Williams, research scientist at MIT whose studies include physical meteorology, cloud microphysics, radar meteorology, and volcanology. The discussion is intended for the general public and will explain recent research topics dealing with atmospheric physics, thunderstorms, lightning initiation, and the influ- ence of powerful solar storms on the near-earth environ- ment. Much of this research is intended to allow prediction Mike Wankum of dangerous weather events such as lightning, hail storms, radiation storms, and geomagnetic storms; all of which can cause immense physical and economic damage. details, contact Alisa Stepanian at [email protected]. Prof. Ashot Chilingarian Admission is free and the public is invited. Refreshments This event is sponsored by CYSCA, the MIT Armenian will be provided after the program. For questions or more Society and NAASR.

Dr. Melissa Bilal to Speak at NAASR on Recording of Armenian WWI POWs

BELMONT, Mass. — Dr. Melissa Bilal, cur- songs and specific historical moment of 1916-1918, and in partnership with the Orient-Institut Istanbul rently a visiting scholar in the Department of speech in she argues that the written documents and the and Lautarchiv of Humboldt University, she pre- History at MIT for Spring 2017 of the Institute A r m e n i a n , voices passed onto us by the phonographic pared the CD “Voice Signatures: Recordings of for Liberal Arts and Interdisciplinary Studies, Georgian and commission challenge the idea of an “archive” Russian Armenian POWs in German Camps, Emerson College, will give a lecture titled Turkish cap- and/or a “museum” that the commission origi- 1916-1918” (forthcoming, 2017) and is now “Voice Signatures: Recordings of Russian tured a century nally intended to put together. planning to extend the project into an exhibi- Armenian POWs in German Camps, 1916- ago from these Bilal received her BA and MA in sociology tion and a documentary film. She is the co- 1918,” on Thursday, March 30, at 7:30 p.m., at men by the use from Istanbul’s Bogaziçi University and her author of two books in Turkish and is current- the National Association for Armenian Studies of phonograph PhD in music from the University of Chicago. ly working on her monograph The Wake Up and Research (NAASR) Center, 395 Concord and gramo- She was a Mellon Postdoctoral Teaching Fellow Lullaby: Gender Politics of the Armenian Ave. phone technolo- in Music at Columbia University and has also Revolution and a co-authored book (with Lerna During World War I, the initially secret Royal gies and provide taught at the University Chicago and Bogaziçi. Ekmekcioglu), Feminism in Armenian: A Prussian Phonographic Commission information Commissioned by Berliner Phonogramm-Archiv Sourcebook. (Königlich-Preußische Phonographische about the lives Dr. Melissa Bilal Kommission) made recordings of prisoners of of these sol- war held in various different camps across diers. While German territories. Among the detainees held questioning the conditions under which cap- in these camps were Russian Armenian sol- tives were turned into research subjects, Bilal diers. will interpret the repertoire through which the In this lecture, Bilal will present samples of Armenian soldiers expressed themselves in the

Dr. Keith Watenpaugh Lecture to Focus on Genocide And Foundations of Modern Humanitarianism FRESNO — Dr. Keith David Watenpaugh ines the particular questions that arise when (University of California, Davis), will give a pre- the problem of humanity motivating a prob- sentation titled “The Drowned, the Saved and the lem for humanity is the crime of genocide. Forgotten: Genocide and the Foundations of Looking at international humanitarian Modern Humanitarianism” at 7:30 p.m. on responses to the genocide of the Ottoman Tuesday, April 4, at the California State Armenians (1915-1922), he argues that mod- University, Fresno, ern humanitarianism and genocide have a in the University complex and intertwined history that has Business Center, shaped the critical modern concepts of Alice Peters humanitarian neutrality, humanitarian gover- Auditorium, Room nance and the role of justice in relief, and 191. human rights-based development. The lecture is Watenpaugh studies the history, theory part of the and practice of human rights and humanitar- Armenian Studies ianism and directs the Human Rights Studies Program Spring Program at University of California, Davis. 2017 Lecture Author of the award-winning Bread from Series and is sup- Stones: The Middle East and the Making of ported by the Leon Modern Humanitarianism and Being Modern S. Peters in the Middle East, he has published fre- Foundation. The quently in scholarly journals. Watenpaugh is Dr. Keith Watenpaugh lecture is co-spon- the recipient of fellowships from the Andrew sored by the W. Mellon Foundation, the American Council Department of of Learned Societies and the Social Science History, the Islamic Studies Speaker Series, and Research Council, and he is immediate past- the College of Social Sciences. president of the Syrian Studies Foundation. Genocide is unparalleled in its horror. It is the He also directs a global project supported by ultimate crime against humanity, but it is also a the Carnegie Corporation and the Open problem of humanity that evokes a problem for Society Foundations to address the higher humanity. In this talk, drawn from his award- education needs of Syrian refugee university winning book, Bread from Stones: The students. Middle East and the Making of Modern The lecture is free and open to the public. Humanitarianism (2015) Watenpaugh exam- Free parking is available. S ATURDAY, M ARCH 2 5 , 2 0 1 7 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 11 HMADS Gala Dinner Dance: A Golden Celebration

By Arpi Arukian

BAYSIDE, N.Y. — Fifty years ago, the Armenian community in Queens received a special gift that would keep on giving: Holy Martyrs Armenian Day School. HMADS first opened its welcoming doors as “Hye Bardez” in 1967 and has since become a second home to hundreds of students, staff, parents, alum- ni and supporters. It seems fated that the 50th anniversary of HMADS arrives under the leadership of its new principal, Seta Tavitian-Megherian, an alumna of the school. Since its inception, HMADS has upheld a tradition of excellence in elementary educa- tion while inspiring a love of Armenian her- itage in students from nursery to sixth grade. Surpassing the mandated New York State education standards, the school supplements its curriculum with daily lessons in Armenian language, history, and culture. Recently, due to popular demand, HMADS introduced the cooperative Hye Bardez program for 2 and 3 year olds. From a very young age, students gain knowledge, develop character and moral fortitude, and learn to become part of the bigger, unified picture as future members of the Armenian-American community. Class sizes at the fully accredited HMADS are small, allowing for a more personal, nurtur- ing learning environment in which many life- long friendships have blossomed. Graduates Young students are getting ready for the school’s 50th anniversary. of the beloved school have gone on to distin- guish themselves with various academic and professional honors. Three alumni serve as American educational institution. One of the school board co-chairman Hovannes Malikyan, Booklet Chairpersons of the gala dinner HMADS Board members during this 50th major celebratory events of this memorable has planned and executed various fundraising dance. Berj Haroutunian currently serves on school year, and many have returned to their year will be the Gala Dinner Dance, to be held activities for more than 20 years, working dili- the HMADS board, as well as the Friends alma mater as new parents, ensuring the con- on Saturday, June 3, at the North Hills gently to help HMADS keep its tuition afford- committee, and Mary Haroutunian has been tinuity of the school and its mission. Country Club in Manhasset. The gala is host- able for families. an ardent supporter of the entire Holy The celebration of this milestone anniver- ed by the Friends of HMADS fundraising com- This year, the HMADS family is grateful to Martyrs community for many years. sary allows members of the close-knit HMADS mittee, which has established itself as the have a special, dedicated mother-and-son To inquire about the Gala Dinner Dance, or family to reflect upon half a century of service financial pillar of the school since 1994. The team, Mary Haroutunian and Berj to learn more about the Friends committee, as the community’s leading Armenian- Friends committee, currently chaired by Haroutunian, take the helm as Honorary call the school office. 12 S ATURDAY, M ARCH 2 5 , 2 0 1 7 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR Arts & Living

AIWA Presents ARPA International ‘Broadway in Film Festival: 20th LA’ Evening with Anniversary Edition LOS ANGELES — Arpa International Andrea Martin, Film Festival is one of the oldest independent film festivals in Los Angeles. On November 3-5, the festival will celebrate its 20th anniversary at Seth Rudetsky the historic Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood, fol- lowed by a special Awards Banquet at the LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Affiliate Glendale Hilton on November 5. of the Armenian International Women’s This year, screenings for the 20th year will Association (AIWA) announces that it will pre- bring a diverse tapestry in global cinema, with sent “Broadway in LA: An Evening with a stimulating selection of films that cultivate Andrea Martin” hosted by Seth Rudetsky, on cultural understanding and global Saturday, May 27. Guests do not have to jour- empathy. Call for films have been announced ney to 42nd Street or Times Square to enjoy and details can be found by checking Tony and Emmy award winning actress, www.arpafilmfestival.com Andrea Martin and Seth Rudetsky, musician, The festival has solidified into the leading actor, writer and host of “Seth’s Big Fat outlet in Hollywood for international cinema, Broadway” and “Seth Speaks” on Sirius/XM exploring issues like diaspora, war, genocide, Satellite Radio’s on Broadway. Martin is also dual identity, exile and multiculturalism, while known to millions as “Auntie Voula” from “My inspiring our local and global community to Big Fat Greek Wedding.” This amazing duo connect and advance progressive cinematic art. will be traveling to Los Angeles for a one-night The Armin T. Wegner Humanitarian Award is comedy show in the heart of the NoHo Arts extended to a special filmmaker for their cre- District appearing at the El Portal Theater, ativity that fulfills our mission. Our 5269 Lankershim Boulevard, North International jury from the professional film Hollywood. The evening will begin at 7 p.m. community acts as a supportive body to encour- with dinner followed by the performance at age filmmakers to re-examine, explore and con- 8:30 p.m. Dessert and coffee will be served Artur Makaryan centrate on their own creative development. after the show with an opportunity to meet In previous years the festival has screened and mingle with the stars. hundreds of films that have touched us, and Silva Katchiguian, president of AIWA-LA, more recently films such as “Women of 1915,” reports that this star-studded event is in honor “Crows of the Desert,” “Hot Country-Cold of AIWA’s 25-plus years of accomplishment in On the Wings of a Winter,” “Lost Birds,” “When My Sorrow Dies: serving Armenian women across the globe. The Legend of Armen Ra,” “Sumbat: The Life Katchiguian stated “We are truly honored that and Art” and our special screening at our 19th Andrea Martin has generously offered to take Dream with the Luys Annual opening night “Behind the Scenes of time from her busy schedule to perform her the ‘Promise’” with Dr. Eric Esrailian and pro- one woman show for the benefit of AIWA. ducer Mike Medavoy, and many more have cre- Martin has been a longtime strong advocate Foundation ated a great insight to the unbelievable imagi- and supporter of AIWA. nation and talent of filmmakers leaving many of This fundraiser will assist the Women’s us in awe of their creativity. Support Center in Armenia which provides a Scholar Artur Makaryan Reaches for His Dream Arpa International Film Festival committee safe haven for abused women and children; members spend countless hours working self- lessly to make one of the most important forms NEW YORK — A big dreamer and extremely talented soul, Artur Makaryan likes of art- FILM, reach our community, through to say that “if you have a determined mind, you have already done half of the job. this amazingly talented individuals from around The fulfillment of your dreams requires time to world, to inform, enrich and bring awareness and hard work. You can never have more to our community via their art. Yet, in order to By Lilit Petrosyan unless you do more.” continue growing our festival and its positive The academic and professional achieve- impact on the multinational film community, ments of a 26-year-old dramatic director, a and to promote our own filmmakers in their nominee and a winner of national and international outstanding festivals, are truly creativity, we need the SUPPORT of our com- inspiring. Makaryan has a bachelor’s and a master’s degree from Yerevan State munity. Let us join in to bring this branch of Institute of Theatre and Cinematography. He studied at the “Acting International” the art to amazing levels. It will only happen professional school in Paris and now (since September 2015) he is one of six the- with togetherness, support, and hard work ater directors to have been selected as a candidate for a Master of Fine Arts degree Arpa Foundation for Film, Music and Art at Columbia University. He was also enrolled in the master’s program at the Paris- (AFFMA) a non- profit organization, encourages Sorbonne University where he conducted a research in the theater department. members of the community to support “The “My passion for classical music, acting and directing inspired me to do a research Promise” especially on the very first day of its about where exactly the female performer belongs in the musical theatre,” he said. screening in theaters on April 21. His research project at the Sorbonne is called “The theatre and the feminism” DON HANNAH PHOTOGRAPHY where he tries to unveil the level of a woman’s authority and her role in the the- Andrea Martin atrical environment. Makaryan said he believes that the theatre should be a thought leader as pow- erful as the Internet or television is nowadays. The theatre’s repertory should the Women’s Entrepreneurship Program at address current breaking issues and provide solutions for them. “As artists we are the University of Armenia; and the Women’s meant to observe. There are so many oppressed nations and minorities around us Health Center, along with the many missions who don’t have the possibility to talk openly about their issues. It is our responsi- and initiatives of AIWA that address critical bility to notice and give them the space to be heard,” he said. issues facing women,” From Paris to New York, from Stokke (Norway) to Toga (Japan), his internation- “We are delighted that Seth Rudetsky will al experiences have shaped his personality and theatrical aspirations. French, serve as her musical director and MC,” stated German and now also Italian are the languages that Artur has recently added to his Katchiguian. “He will interview her on the linguistic bouquet. With every new city and every new language, he has acquired stage, they will chat informally, she will sing, a new understanding and a new appreciation of different cultures and diversity. do comedy routines and talk with the audi- During his MFA theatre directing studies at Columbia University, Makaryan has ence.” staged a number of plays, including scenes from “Carmen” and “La Traviata.” Anne Martin has received more Tony and Drama Bogart, a living legend and an award-winning American theatre and opera director, Desk Award nominations as a featured actress has been Makaryan’s greatest nurturers, saying his enthusiasm has no limits. In in a musical than any other actress. She most fact, Makaryan’s two big passions of classical music and theatre had always been recently won both awards for the 2013 pro- battling each other for his affections until last year when he learnt about the Opera duction of “Pippin.” Her career on Broadway Directing Fellowship at the Juilliard School in New York. He came to realize that began with “My Favorite Year” in 1993 for instead of choosing between his two talents he might as well combine them. Front row from left: Maral Kazazian, Sylvia which she won both awards as well. She has Makaryan was one of the 1,000 applicants for the fellowship and after a very Minassian(Founder), Don Hannah Second row: also been nominated for a Tony for “Young intense competitive selection, he received the fellowship at Juilliard, one of the most Michael Ashjian(Festival Director), Jacqueline Der Mesrobian, Talia Tanielian; Back row: Frankenstein,” “Oklahoma,” “Candide,” and see MAKARYAN, page 13 “Noises Off.” For her work on the iconic com- Gregor Zupanc, Vanja Srdic, Lorena Dilanian, edy series “SCTV,” Martin won two Emmy Carmen Libaridian, James Ananias see AIWA, page 15 S ATURDAY, M ARCH 2 5 , 2 0 1 7 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 13 ARTS & LIVING Scholar Artur Makaryan Reaches for His Dream

MAKARYAN, from page 12 were gone. I truly felt I belonged to them... or since theatre gives me an unceasing emotional ing to be given the opportunity.” influential conservatories in the world and one rather I so much wanted to be part of that development, I don’t get the same emotional Intrigued and inspired by Makaryan’s recent of the major institutions of Lincoln Center for bohemian society. I was so excited at the connection with films.” visit to Artsakh, American playwright Gordon the Performing Arts. prospect of an international experience that During his studies in Yerevan, he created a Penn sugested that he write a play after a play “Coming from a non-musical family and from one day I decided to write a letter asking for a new musical version of “Woyzeck” with 40 after doing research on Armenian history. They a small village in Echmiadzin, Armenia, I could placement as an assistant director. I literally actors, dancers and musicians without any bud- decided to call it “Black Garden” (Karabakh, in never ever imagine myself getting to Juilliard, a sent that letter to 36 theatres around the get. Just after the big success of “Woyzeck,” his literally translation). It’s a love story set during center where artists are trained for the globe,” remembered Makaryan, laughing. colleagues and he founded a new musical the- the Nagorno Karabakh conflict. Makaryan is Metropolitan Opera and the New York City “Three days after, I was reading a letter from ater group called Epsidon, the first theatre to hopeful to present the full version of the play Ballet. Starting September 2017, I’ll be assist- one of the best theatres in France, “Théâtre de perform musicals in Armenia. to Armenian audiences this summer and return ing Steven Wordsworth who stages for the to the US with Armenian actors to perform it Metropolitan, La Scala, Vienna State, Los at Columbia as well. Angeles and other operas. You should truly After graduating, Makaryan thinks of alter- dream big.” nating between living in Armenia and New Despite the outstanding list of excellent aca- York. He noted that he wants to be flexible demic centers he’s attended so far, Makaryan enough to direct both dramatic and musical always acknowledges the knowledge he plays. One of his biggest dreams is to direct acquired from Yerevan State Institute of Armenian opera pieces on international stages Theatre and Cinematography that created a and also to turn the elements of Armenian strong base and gave him the confidence for dance into theatre training. He aspires to building on new skills during his further stud- become the artistic director of the National ies abroad. “I had wonderful professors and got Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet. excellent education in Armenia. I am heartily Makaryan gives credit to his very demanding grateful for that. Up to date, Hrachya parents for his success and the person he has Gasparyan, the former rector of the Yerevan become. He is also very appreciative for the State Institute of Theatre and Cinematography, Luys Foundation for development of his aca- is one of my biggest advisers and supporters.” demic and professional life. “I deeply share the Luys Foundation mission The Myth of The Impossible for academic excellence. Luys has given me Makaryan’s love for the theatre and the stage access to one of the best programs in my field has been accompanying him since his child- and thus has honored me with an opportunity hood. “I used to perform in every single perfor- to present Armenia to the world,” he said. mance at school. Acting on stage was helping For Makaryan, being part of the Luys com- me to get away from the reality. Acting made munity means being one of the many peace- me powerful. Stage was the place where I could Artur Makaryan makers, healers and restorers that make not play anyone and be anyone,” he recalled. only Armenia but also the world more humane. During his freshman year at the Yerevan “After collaborating with the Luys team last State Institute of Theatre and Cinematography, l’Opprimé” of Paris, with an offer to join them Outside But Always with summer, the word ‘a problem’ has disappeared Makaryan started engaging with various inter- as an assistant director. The first thing I remem- Armenia from my vocabulary and has been replaced by a national festivals in Yerevan, Armenia. His first ber me doing is registering for my first French Armenia is Makaryan’s greatest source of more actionable one — ‘a challenge,’” he interactions with foreign actors, directors, and language class.” inspiration and his childhood is where he goes explained. screenwriters made him feel empowered to real- Makaryan is known to be very good at orga- back to find clues to his questions. He believes Makaryan’s universe is an interesting combi- ize that the world is much bigger, and that the nizing people around a common cause. His abil- that living abroad and away from your memo- nation of different cultural and artistic influ- opportunities are within reach. ities of observing, profiling people and creating ries is like being a tree without roots. He con- ences. He is determined in mind and a big “I used to get this strange feeling of aban- space for them to cooperate makes him suc- fesses to have experienced that very donment each time the international guests cessful at his job. “I chose theatre over film, unnatural and uncomfortable state when you’ve lost a connection with your real self. “When you are in Armenia, you don’t have to present or prove your- self in a wider sense. But when you’re outside of Armenia, you want to be at your best in front of other nations. In ӇӥӹӥӧӯԃӥӳӥӺӏԆԁӸӥӺԅӅԄӥӧӯԄ that regard, we have both the talent Programme of Armenian Studies and the tenacity to tell our story to Ӈ the world. We just need to get better exposed to international experiences and feel comfortable to be part of it. We’ve lived in our own little shell for far too long,” he explained. During the summer of 2016, within the Luys Foundation’s Develop Armenia Together (DAT) program, Makaryan was in Stepanakert, Artsakh, where he directed the play “The Persians.” With the help of local actors and coordinators, he tried to convey a simple message that, in every aspect of life, diplomacy brings 021-8/²7+8-8/ peace and prosperity, whereas aggres- sion leads to a collapse. ELEMENTARY WESTERN ARMENIAN | The play was a huge success. In fact, Makaryan says that as a director This course provides students with the essential tools for using Artur Makaryan giving direction on stage he found this ultimate audience in language. Students will learn to write simple sentences and read basic Artsakh, an audience that is so curi- texts. 021-8/²7+8$8* ous and so ready to be surprised. dreamer in heart who is able to connect like- “There is a scene in the play ‘The Persians,’ minded individuals to fight against stereotypes INTERMEDIATE WESTERN ARMENIAN | where in complete darkness one of the actors and the myth of the impossible. His favorite suddenly starts hitting the drums in the center The next level of language learning. Students will learn to converse with piece of advice is to acknowledge the impor- of the venue. You should have seen how the native speakers about daily life and read the newspaper-level texts. tance of persistence and embracing the future 021-81²7+8-81 audience reacted to the sound. I was amazed by without fears. “The fulfillment for your dreams how war-conscious these people are. It took us requires time and hard work. You can either quite some time to calm down the audience.” complain and blame others or face the chal- ADVANCED WESTERN ARMENIAN | “People in Artsakh have such a big spark that lenges and go on with a smile. The choice is Students will acquire advanced understanding of grammar and can make something great. They are just wait- yours.” considerable sophistication in communicating with native speakers. )XOOVFKRODUVKLSVDUHDYDLODEOHWRFRYHUVWXGHQWV·WXLWLRQIHHVFRXUWHV\RI Read the news in the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation. Please consult our website for application deadlines and further details. Armenian  SUPPORTED BY: MORE INFORMATION: www.haydzayn.am”  www.progarmstud.org.uk [email protected] 14 S ATURDAY, M ARCH 2 5 , 2 0 1 7 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARTS & LIVING ‘Children of a Genocide’ Is First Australian Documentary on Armenian Genocide

SYDNEY, Australia — In “Children of a Genocide,” maker. Inspired by the history and progression of film as a Australian-Armenian film-maker Shahane Bekarian elo- culture, his work balances forbidding subject matter with quently explores the manifestation of the Armenian geno- gritty textural aesthetics creeping with magic-realism, bring- cide and identity through second- and third-generation sur- ing celluloid nostalgia into contemporary perspectives. vivors born and raised in the close-knit Australian-Armenian Unsatisfied with the rewards of his Bachelor of Commerce milieu. With compelling mastery, Bekarian uncovers in Management Science with a marketing major in 1997, his archival footage of genocide survivors interviewed in inner-artist pecked at his soul until eventually finding work Australia, including that of his maternal grandfather at the Computer Graphics College where he also achieved a Boghos Tavrayan, who painfully recount their personal Diploma in Screen in 2002. During his time there his music atrocities and inhumanity endured under the Ottoman video Slowly Surfacing for Inga Liljeström won film festival Empire’s brutal 1915 regime to exterminate the Armenian awards. He began his editing work with two shorts, Dead race. Tired and Tommy The Kid, the latter winning numerous In honouring his grandfather’s legacy, Bekarian awakens awards and screening at the prestigious Berlinale in 2007. the conscience of diaspora Armenians, young and old, local- He left the college to freelance in 2006 starting with small ly and globally, urging them to re-visit their inherited values corporate gigs in graphics, compositing and editing and re-examine their personal imprint upon the noble cause His latest piece for the NSW Transport Authority was in to enrich and propel the sanctity of identity and lead the February 2017 as part of Wynscreen, a 27metre wide screen global fight in genocide prevention. in the pedestrian links of the new Wynyard train station. “The personal journey in creating this film helped root When the sun goes down, Shahane also works with live my Armenian identity and gives me hope for the future improvised projections under the alias “redcelldisorder” for of Armenians around the world,” he said. local eccentric bands Toydeath, Forenzics, Axis, Defektro “Children of a Genocide” is a snapshot of the Australian- and Louis Burdett. In his “spare time,” Shahane works on Armenian community of 2016. The biggest challenge for his own productions, notably the surreal music clip for Bekarian was the extensive study of the 50 heartbreaking Vulnerable Heart (DoP Tania Lambert) by She Plays, about interviews which rang so close to home. the inner consequences of love lost (2009). In more recent About 500 survivors of the Armenian Genocide of 1915 years he made a series of four short self-financed documen- eventually landed on Australian shores. Now their descen- taries based around the Armenian Genocide, a topic which dants need to maintain their centuries-old culture in a mod- burdens and feeds his creative endeavours. His first short ern struggle of assimilation, known as “the white genocide” fiction, “The Blind Passenger” (DoP Jesse Frazer, Stunt as they integrate into multicultural Australia. In the 1980’s, families. A montage introduction shows a multitude of fam- Supervisor Grant Page, Stuntman / Grip Leroy Page), took 50 of these survivors were interviewed as elders of the com- ilies, specifically survivor Khosrov Tachjian, his daughter the people’s choice award at the Sydney Underground Film munity for documentation purposes by the Armenian Carolyn and granddaughter Natasha. Khosrov is a distin- Festival 2013. An avant-garde piece using experimental National Committee of Australia. Bekarian learned of these guished and endearing man of 75, and 12-year-old Natasha techniques and stop-motion elements to capture a blind tapes and discovered his own grandfather’s story amongst honors her grandfather by learning Armenian dance, she man’s struggle for independence lost in the persistence of them. On the VHS recording he saw his grandfather cry for has a large concert approaching at the end of the year. The his memories. Finally comes his first low budget commis- the first time, but couldn’t comfort the poor man who had filmmaker’s mother teaches him how to make an Armenian sioned feature documentary “Children of a Genocide.” It passed years earlier. This lack of closure led him to make dish as they disclose how they came to be in Sydney. looks at the reverberating intergenerational after effects of this film. Bekarian works as a screen artist under an umbrella of genocide on both the survivors and their descendants, as From the tapes he interviewed eight direct descendant talents: editor, compositor, motion graphics artist, and film- they slowly assimilate into multicultural Australia.

Raising Spirits with ‘ArmComedy’ to Benefit Armenian Assembly and ATP

WINCHESTER, Mass. — The Armenia Tree Project (ATP) and Armenian Assembly of America (Assembly) will host the “ArmComedy” duo of Narek Margaryan and Sergey Sargsyan for their first-ever comedy performances in the United States. ArmComedy’s benefit events will be held in Boston, Los Angeles and San Francisco. Tickets go on sale to the general public on March 23. The performances are in English and will take place at Winchester Town Hall in the Boston area on Friday, April 28; at Stars on Brand in Glendale on Thursday, May 4; and in the San Francisco Bay area at the Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts on Saturday, May 6. The theme of the shows is “Make Armenia Green Again,” to emphasize support for the programs of the Assembly and ATP in Armenia. “We’re excited to bring ‘ArmComedy’ to the US for the first time,” ATP Executive Director Jeanmarie Papelian and Assembly Executive Director Bryan Ardouny said. “We like to promote new ideas and support tal- ented young artists such as the thoughtful commentators of ‘ArmComedy.’ Our audi- ences will have a great time while supporting a good cause.” Airing three times a week, “ArmComedy” is the first satiric news site in Armenia. It has been dubbed as Armenia’s version of “The Daily “ArmComedy” comedians Narek Margaryan (left) and Sergey Sargsyan will be performing their first-ever stand-up shows in Boston, Glendale, and San Show,” featuring sharp political humor and wit. Francisco to benefit the Armenian Assembly of America and the Armenia Tree Project. Writers and hosts Narek and Sergey have pre- sented their distinctive, often irreverent, and always hilarious talents since 2009 with almost to spread the rumor that he has Armenian in fostering civil society initiatives in Armenia. food, environmental benefits, and opportunities 600 episodes. As they note, their mission is to roots. (Watch the episode at In addition, the Assembly continues to be one for economic growth. ATP’s goal is to use trees “restore sanity and embarrass bad governance bit.ly/ArmComedyConan) of the most respected advocacy groups in to improve the standard of living while protect- in Armenia.” The Armenian Assembly of America has been Washington, D.C. and is celebrating the 40th ing the environment. In doing so, ATP pro- During his epic visit to Armenia in 2015 with a non-partisan advocate for Armenia and anniversary of the Terjenian-Thomas Assembly motes self-sufficiency, and aids those with the his assistant Sona Movsesian, comedian and Armenians for 45 years, and was the first Internship Program this year. fewest resources while conserving the indige- late night show host Conan O’Brien appeared Western private voluntary organization to Since 1994, ATP planted more than 5.2 mil- nous ecosystem. Most importantly, ATP’s pro- on “ArmComedy.” The program was a triumph, establish an office in Yerevan. Working with var- lion trees and created hundreds of jobs for grams allow inhabitants to stay on their ances- resulting in Conan giving the hosts permission ious NGOs, the Assembly is proud of its efforts Armenians in Armenia. These trees provide tral lands. S ATURDAY, M ARCH 2 5 , 2 0 1 7 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 15 ARTS & LIVING Boyadjian String Quartet to Be Broadcast on Harvard Radio Recipe

CAMBRIDGE, Mass. Elena Savranskaia and — Harvard University’s radio Larisa Borisova violins, Corner station, WHRB-95.3 FM, will Nelli Han viola, and Ildar broadcast Grammy Nominee Huziahmetov cello. Lexington composer Hayg Boyadjian wrote the by Christine Vartanian Datian Boyadjian’s String Quartet quartet after his first visit No. 2 Azad. The broadcast to the then-Soviet Armenia will take place during the in 1986, where he partici- programming of the pated at a concert of his Yellow Split Pea Soup with Mint, Afternoon Concert of music. The subtitle of the Monday, April 24, day of the quartet, “Azad,” which Browned Onions and Yogurt Garnish commemoration of the means free or freedom in Armenian Genocide. Armenian, was a foreshad- INGREDIENTS The Afternoon Concerts are owing of the events that 2 1/2 cups dried split yellow peas, picked over and rinsed broadcast from 1 to 6 p.m. and led to Armenia’s indepen- 6-8 cups water, chicken or vegetable broth Boyadjian’s quartet should fall Hayg Boyadjian dence, or freedom. The 2-3 tablespoons olive oil in the middle period of the music of the quartet 1 large yellow or white onion, chopped afternoon broadcast. reflects that conception in 2 teaspoons dried mint, crushed Boyadjian’s string quartet is part of a CD the manner in which the musical material is pre- 2 cloves garlic, minced recording from Living Music Volume 1 “DDD” sented. Boyadjian wrote “The format of the quar- 2 carrots, peeled, thinly sliced or diced titled “In Yet Longer Light’s Delay.” The quar- tet is one of free musical exposition. …. each 2 stalks celery (and top greens), washed, diced tet was recorded in Saint Petersburg, Russia by one of a series of unrelated material fights for Extra water or broth, if needed the St. Petersburg Mozarteum String Quartet: recognition.” Kosher or sea salt and white or black pepper to taste Aleppo pepper, paprika, or red pepper flakes to taste

PREPARATION: 1. In a large pot, sauté the onions, garlic, carrot, celery, and a dash of salt for 3 to 5 minutes over medium heat until the onions are browned and vegetables are tender; stir so garlic does not burn. Add water or broth and the split peas to the pot and stir. 3. Bring ingredients to a boil, reduce heat, and cook for 40 to 45 minutes or until split peas are tender. Stir again, adding more liquid if soup becomes too thick. 4. Season with salt, pepper, mint, and choice of seasonings to taste. 5. Using a ladle, place small batches of soup in a blender. Puree each batch then place in a bowl. Continue until all the soup has been pureed. If you prefer the soup with more texture, puree only half of the soup. 6. Serve with Yogurt Garnish and additional toppings on the side. Yield: approx. 4 to 6 serving. While the soup is cooking, prepare Yogurt Garnish.

YOGURT GARNISH: 1 cup plain white or Greek-style yogurt 2 cloves garlic, minced Representatives David K. Muradian, Jr., 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped or 2 teaspoons dried mint, crushed Dash of sea or Kosher salt Jonathan Hecht, John J. Lawn, Juice of 1/2 large lemon and 1 teaspoon olive oil James R. Miceli, & David M. Rogers Combine the yogurt, garlic, mint, salt, lemon juice and olive oil in asmall bowl. Cover and chill garnish until ready to serve. and Senator William N. Brownsberger Invite you to attend the ADDITIONAL TOPPING: Minced flat-leaf parsley Olive oil for drizzling 102nd Anniversary Chopped Kalamata or black olives and chopped Roma tomatoes Christine's recipes have been published in the Fresno Bee, Sunset and Cooking Light Commemoration Magazines, and at http://www.thearmeni- ankitchen.com/ of the For Christine's recipes that have been published in Sunset and Cooking Light Magazines, go to: http://www.myrecipes.com/search/site/Datian> Armenian Genocide http://www.myrecipes.com/search/site/Datian Friday, April 21, 2017 at 10:30 am House of Representatives Chamber to be followed by a reception at the Grand Staircase AIWA Presents ‘Broadway in LA’ Evening For more information, contact Taylor McCarthy in With Andrea Martin and Seth Rudetsky Rep. Muradian’s office AIWA, from page 12 Martin is well known for her continued work at 617-722-2240 or at [email protected] awards for writing and received the Emmy nom- with the Children of Armenia Fund (COAF). ination for “best actress” in a variety series. Her She grew up in Portland, Maine and her life, in Logo by Jirair Hovsepian additional television credits include “Hairspray and out of show business, is in her collection of Live,” “My Big Fat Greek Life,” “Nurse Jackie,” Autobiographical Essays “Andrea Martin’s Lady “Modern Family,” “30 Rock” and the current Parts.” Hulu series, now in its third season, “Difficult For info contact [email protected]. People” Martin is the recipient of three American Comedy Award nominations for several cable specials, including her own “Andrea Martin Together Again” for Showtime. Her many film credits include: “My Big Fat Greek Wedding,” “My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2,” “Hedwig and Read News in Armenian at: the Angry Inch,” “Wag the Dog,” and “Night at the Museum, Secret of the Tomb.” Premiering April 25, Martin will co-star in NBC’s new com- edy “Great News,” in which she plays a devoted mother who rejoins the workplace as an intern at a news network to be close to her daughter. The series comes from Emmy-winning writer Tracey Wigfield, and Emmy winning “30 Rock” Executive Producers Tina Fey and Robert Seth Rudetsky Carlock.

16 S ATURDAY, M ARCH 2 5 , 2 0 1 7 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARTS & LIVING CC AA LENDARLENDAR

French and Armenian Composers, Sunday, 2 p.m. Winchester City Hall, 71 Mt Vernon St Winchester, Co- MASSACHUSETTSCALIFORNIA Featuring Kate Kayaian, cello, accompanied by Stephen hosted by Armenia Tree Project and Armenian Assembly Porter, piano Co-sponsored by the Composer’s Union of of America. Save the date. Details to follow. MAY 27 — Broadway in LA … Armenian International Armenia. Funded by the Dadourian Foundation. Concert APRIL 30 — The Armenian Museum of America Women’s Association-L.A. Affiliate present an Evening open to the public. Concert: Spring of Music Featuring Narine Ojakhyan, with Andrea Martin hosted by Seth Rudetsky, at El Portal APRIL 6 — “Changing the Conversation: One Woman soprano; Thomas Shahbaghyan, violin; Levon Markosyan, Theater, North Hollywood; one-night comedy show hon- at a Time,” at Framingham State University, Forum, cello; and Prof. Gregory Chaverdian, piano Program of oring AIWA’s 25 plus years. 7:00 pm. Reception and McCarthy Center, 5 p.m. Turkish Armenian Women’s Armenian and Classical Music and Songs. Sunday, 2 Armenian tapas; 8:30 p.m. Performance, followed by Alliance (TAWA), a grassroots effort to bring together a p.m., co-sponsored by the Composer’s Union of Armenia. Dessert and coffee with the stars. Tickets: $150; spon- group of Armenian and Turkish Women in Boston to Funded by the Dadourian Foundation. Concert open to sorships available. For info and reservations call (909)- tackle the subject of the Armenian Genocide. Gonca the public. 625-3413 or (310) 472-2454. Sonmez-Poole will screen videotaped interviews with APRIL 30 — Lunch with Boston Celtics’ Legend M.L. TAWA participants as their “difficult dialogue” was taking Carr, 12:15 p.m., Holy Trinity Armenian Church of MASSACHUSETTSCONNECTICUT place. For further info, contact Kaan Agartan at kagar- Greater Boston, 12:15 p.m., Charles and Nevart Talanian [email protected] Cultural Hall, 145 Brattle Street, Cambridge. Sunday. The APRIL 22 — Connecticut Commemoration of the APRIL 15 — The Armenian Museum of America Film second in a series of events celebrating books and Armenian Genocide. Connecticut State Capitol, House Screening: “The Destruction of Memory,” co-spon- courage and legends, Boston Celtics’ Legend M.L. Carr Chamber. 11:00 a.m. Keynote speaker will be The Hon. sored by the Armenian Museum of America and the who will share his inspiring life story. All welcome to John Marshall Evans, former U.S. Ambassador to Harvard University Semitic Museum. 2 p.m. Film screen- attend. For further information, contact the Holy Trinity Armenia. Reception in the Hall of Flags, following the ing will be followed by a panel discussion with film direc- Church Office, 617.354.0632. commemoration. tor Tim Slade, Andras Riedlmayer of Harvard University, MAY 4 — Book presentation by Nora Nercessian of The and Joseph Greene, deputy director and curator of the City of Orphans, on Gyumri Near East Relief orphanage MASSACHUSETTSFLORIDA Semitic Museum.This is a free Museum event. after WWI. Sponsored by the Daughters of Vartan, Holy APRIL 17 - Monday, 7 p.m.; Panel discussion on Trinity Armenian Church, Tekeyan Cultural Association, JANUARY 20-28, 2018 —Armenian Heritage Cruise XXI Lightning, Climate Change and Other Exciting Armenian International Women’s Association and National 2018, 8 night Caribbean Cruise aboard Royal Caribbean’s Scientific Challenges featuring Prof. Ashot Chilingarian, Association for Armenian Studies and Research. 7 p.m. Freedom of The Seas. Fort Lauderdale to: Labadee- Director of the Yerevan Physics Institute and its Cosmic Holy Trinity Armenian Church, 145 Brattle St., Cambridge. Private beach Island / Puerto Rico / St. Kitts / St. Ray Division (CRD), two experts from MIT, two from UNH Complimentary admission. Maarten. Cabin Rates from $919 based on Double and one from the CRD. To be held at MIT, 70 Memorial MAY 6 — Celebrate Public Art! Park’s Abstract Occupancy, including Port Charges and ACAA registra- Drive, Building E51, Room 315. For more information Sculpture & Labyrinth during ArtWeek Boston. Join tion fee. Government taxes of $108.36 are additional. contact Alisa Stepanian at [email protected] or 617- us on Saturday, 1:00 p.m. World Labyrinth Day: Walk as Armenian Entertainment, Armenian Cultural 501-1215. Admission is free.” One in Peace & Harmony. At 12:45 pm, introduction to Presentations, Armenian Festival Day, Tavlou & Belote APRIL 20 — Thursday, at 10 a.m., in front of the walking a labyrinth. 1:30 pm Reception to View the Tournaments and much more. Call TRAVELGROUP INTER- Peabody City Hall located at 24 Lowell St., a flag-rais- Abstract Sculpture. 2017 Configuration. Remarks: Jared NATIONAL @1- 561-447-0750 or 1-866-447-0750 Ext. ing ceremony will be held commemorating the 102nd Bowen WGBH Executive Arts Editor and Host, Open 108. Ask for Kellie. Anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. Led by Mayor Studio. Tea & Desserts hosted by MEM Tea Imports & Edward A. Bettencourt and the family of late Mayor Peter Eastern Lamejun Bakers MASSACHUSETTS Torigian. After the Armenian and American National MAY 13 — Mother’s Day Dance Featuring Tigran Anthems, the ceremony will continue inside. The keynote Asatryan & Band! To be held on Saturday, Hosted MARCH 25 —The Armenian Museum of America New speaker will be Ann Goolkasian O’Donnell. Her memoir, by The Armenian Apostolic Church at Hye Pointe ACYOA. Perspectives on Photography in the Ottoman Holding the Armenian Genocide Up to the Light, appears Proceeds to benefit brand new Family & Life Center, 1280 Empire: A Symposium, Co-sponsored by Project SAVE in the spring issue of American Ancestors Boston Rd, Haverhill, $100 - VIP with Meet & Greet at 7 Armenian Photograph Archives, The Armenian Museum Magazine. Prayers will be led by Rev. Father Khachatur p.m., $75 - General Mezze & Cash Bar, $40, Students of America and the National Association for Armenian Kesablyn of Saints Vartanantz Armenian Apostolic Under 24 - Standing Room. For reservations, please con- Studies and Research, 2 p.m. Moderated by Prof. Armen Church of Chelmsford. All are invited. tact [email protected] or call Mike at 617- T. Marsoobian. Featuring talks by Ruth Thomasian, Prof. APRIL 21 — Annual Armenian Genocide 240-8266 Edhem Eldem, Suzanne K. Adams, and David Low. Open Commemoration at the Massachusetts State House MAY 15 — St. James Armenian Church of Watertown to the public at 10:30 a.m. Keynote speaker, musical program, recep- 18th Annual Open Golf Tournament. Monday, Oakley MARCH 25 — Musical Tribute Celebrating Dr. Marine tion to follow. Free transportation will be available from Country Club, Watertown. Register early. Margarian’s 25 years of achievement in music education, Watertown. MAY 19-20 — Armenian Memorial Church service to the local Armenian community. Saturday, 7 p.m., APRIL 23 — 102nd Armenian Genocide Fair, Friday 5-8 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m., kebab at Nishan and Margrit Atinizian Hall, Holy Cross Armenian Commemoration. Hosted by the Massachusetts dinners served Friday and Saturday (starting at 11:30 Catholic Church, 200 Lexington St., Belmont. Musical per- Armenian Genocide Commemoration Committee. The am). For info: Armenian Memorial Church, 32 Bigelow formances of compositions by Margarian. Supported by program will focus on four pillars; Art, Service, Science, Ave., Watertown 617-923-0498 Holy Cross Armenian Catholic Church, Armenian and Commerce. Open to the public. Armenian Heritage MAY 25 — The Armenian Museum of America, Independent Broadcasting of Boston and Amaras Arts Park on the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy at 3 p.m. Guests will Concert: John Hodian and Epiphany 3, Featuring new Alliance and Do-Re-Mi Music Studio’s students and parents. include Middlesex County Peter Koutoujian, editor and blends of Armenian music from touring family trio, John Open to the public with a reception to follow. publisher Judith Saryan, and more. Performances by Hodian, Bet Williams and Jack Hodian. Thursday, at 8 APRIL 1-20 — The Knights of Vartan Arshavir Lodge Sayat Nova Dance Company and violinist Sammy p.m. The group will perform music blending ancient and Presents “Worcester Is America,” an exhibit in com- Andonian. modern cultures and musical styles. Funded by the memoration of the 102nd anniversary of the Armenian APRIL 23 — Former U.S. Ambassador to Armenia, John Dadourian Foundation. Concert open to the public. Genocide. Worcester Public Library, Main Branch, 3 M. Evans, Author of Truth Held Hostage, will speak at JUNE 9 — Let’s Party! at The KITCHEN, Boston Food Salem Square. Holy Trinity Armenian Church of Greater Boston, 12:15 Market - Benefit for the Park’s Care in partnership APRIL 2 - Annual Reconfiguration of the Abstract p.m., Charles and Nevart Talanian Cultural Hall, 145 with The Trustees of Reservations, Boston Food Market, Sculpture, Sunday, 8 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Armenian Brattle Street, Cambridge. For Feast of the Holy Martyrs with Chefs presenting signature dishes we love! and the Heritage Park’s Abstract Sculpture, split rhomboid dodec- of the Armenian Genocide, Holy Trinity Church is hon- generosity of so many, all coming together at The ahedron, is being reconfigured on April 2 (rain date: April ored to have former Ambassador Evans whose ethics and KITCHEN to support our Park’s Endowed Fund for Year 23) annually, in celebration of the immigrant experi- principles enabled him to voice the words “Armenian Round Care. 7-10pm Advance Reservations are required. ence, the Abstract Sculpture is reconfigured, symbolic of Genocide.” His book, Truth Held Hostage, is being hailed Details forthcoming. all who pulled away from their country of origin and as the most important work about the Armenian JUNE 19 — The Gregory Hintlian Memorial Golf came to these Massachusetts shores, establishing them- Genocide by a U.S. diplomat since Ambassador Tournament sponsored by Holy Trinity Armenian selves in new and different ways. A crane lifts and pulls Morgenthau’s story in 1918. All welcome to attend. Church of Greater Boston, at the Marlborough Country apart the two halves of the split rhomboid dodecahe- Complimentary light luncheon will be served. For further Club, 200 Concord Road, Marlborough. Monday. 9:30 dron, made of steel and aluminum, to create a new information, contact the Holy Trinity Church a.m., registration; 11 a.m., “Shot Gun.” All are invited sculptural shape. Office, 617.354.0632. for a day of golf or just for dinner and a social evening. APRIL 2 — The Armenian Museum of America APRIL 28 — ArmComedy benefit featuring the comedy Details to follow. For further information, contact the Concert: April in Paris: Music for Cello and Piano by duo of Narek Margaryan and Sergey Sargsyan, Holy Trinity Church Office, 617.354.0632.

TIMES SQUARE ARMENIAN SUNDAY GENOCIDE COMMEMORATION APRIL 23, 2pm S ATURDAY, M ARCH 2 5 , 2 0 1 7 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 17 ARTS & LIVING Concert Commemorates 25th Anniversary of Armenia Membership in UN

NEW YORK — On March 16, a concert dedi- cated to the 25th anniversary of Armenia’s membership to the United Nations took place at the Lincoln Center of New York. Edward Nalbandian, Foreign Minister of Armenia, António Guterres, Secretary General of the United Nations, heads of diplomatic missions accredited to the United Nations, high-ranking officials of the UN Secretariat and representa- tives of the Armenian community attended the concert. Nalbandian noted: “It is a distinct pleasure to address you on the 25th anniversary of Armenia’s membership in the United Nations. I highly appreciate the presence of Secretary General here with us today. I also would like to thank all those who have contributed to the organization of this concert and all of you who join us for the celebration of this festive occa- sion. “It was the dream of many generations of Armenians scattered around the world that came to reality. I am glad to see here today many of those who stood by the newly emerg- ing state and I would like to take this opportu- nity to once again acknowledge their indis- Some of the performers at the concert pensable contribution,” he added. Nalbandian noted, “Armenia acceded to the family of nations during challenging times in its principles of the United Nations. We remain history but that has never diminished our guided by the UN Charter that calls to unite resolve and commitment to the building of a our strength to maintain international peace society that fully adheres to the purposes and and security, develop friendly relations among nations based on respect for the principle of equal rights and self-determination of peoples.” He also alluded to the conflict the country is facing, adding, “Armenia strictly adheres to its obligations in this regard, including in its efforts to ensure an exclusively peaceful resolu- tion to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. “As a nation that passed through the horrors of the genocide we feel a moral obligation but also an authority to speak out against recur- rence of crimes against humanity.” And finally, he spoke about the many refugees that Armenia has embraced. “From Syria alone, about 22,000 refugees sought shel- ter in Armenia, on per capita basis making our country the third largest recipient of Syrian refugees in Europe. Our country does its best Foreign Minister Edward Nalbandian with UN to contribute to promotion of tolerance and intercultural, interfaith dialogue, combating Armenia’s Foreign Minister Edward Nalbandian, with UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres and Secretary General Antonio Guterres Armenia’s UN Ambassador Zohrab Mnatsakanyan racism, hate speech and xenophobia.”

documentary makes extensive use of never-before-seen Silence of a Priest.” 6:30 p.m. The movie is in Armenian NEW JERSEY footage of orphans who were in Near East Relief’s care. with English subtitles. Producer Vigen Chaldranian from There will be an afternoon and evening showing, both fol- Armenia, will be present. Free admission and refresh- NOVEMBER 18 — Save the date. Gala banquet cele- lowed by a panel discussion with notable documentary ments will be served following the movie. The public is brating the 70th anniversary of the Tekeyan Cultural contributors. www.theyshallnotperish.com. The Times cordially invited to attend. Association. At the Terrace at Biagios. Details will be Center, 242 41st St. New York APRIL 23 — North Burial Ground, Providence. On the forthcoming. APRIL 21 - Staged reading of DAYBREAK at Pan Asian occasion of the 40th Anniversary of the Dedication of Repertory Theatre, 520 8th Ave. betw. 36th & the Armenian Martyrs’ Memorial Monument, and the NEW YORK 37th Sts., New York, 3rd Floor, Bruce Mitchell Room, 7:30 102nd commemoration of the Armenian Genocide, the PM. Armenian-American playwright Joyce Van Dyke’s clergy and choirs from the Armenian Evangelical Church , MARCH 25 — Hrant Dink Contemporary Oratorio, play about the repercussions of the Armenian genocide Sts. Sahag and Mesrob Armenian Church and Sts. Saturday, St. Vartan Armenian Cathedral Complex, on two women friends (formerly titled DEPORTED / A Vartanantz Armenian Church, will be present and well as New York. Concert at 6:30 p.m. Dinner to follow in Haik DREAM PLAY), directed by Zoya Kachadurian. Free admis- federal, state and local officials to be part of the days pro- and Alice Kavookjian Auditorium. Honored guests will be sion, limited seating. RSVP to [email protected], or gram. 12:45 p.m. Guest speaker is Marc A. Mamigonian, Majag Toshigian and Berchui Berberyan, composer and call 212-868-4030 NAASR’S director of Academic Affairs. All are welcome to lyricist of the Oratorio. Tickets are $40 for concert only MAY 21 — A classical concert dedicated to the 70th come and remember or Holy Martyrs and survivors of the and $60 for concert plus dinner. Participating organiza- anniversary of the Tekeyan Cultural Association. “The 1915 Armenian Genocide. tions include AGBU Performing Arts, Knights and Armenian Spirit” at Alliance Francaise in New York City at APRIL 30 — Performance of the play “Women of Daughters of Vartan, Tekeyan Cultural Association of 3pm. With Ani Kavafian, violin, Ani Kalayjian , cello and Ararat” by Judith Boyajian Strang-Waldau based on Greater New York, Hamazkayin Educational and Cultural Orion Weiss, piano. her family’s survival of the Armenian Genocide, at the Society, Armenian Missionary Association of America, JUNE 29 — The Freeport Memorial Library will have a Scottish Rite Auditorium, 2115 Broad St., Cranston. Armenian-American Support and Educational Center, lecture on the history of the Armenians, Thursday at 2 Sunday, 3 p.m. For tickets contact Dorothy Martiesian, National Association for Armenian Studies and Research, p.m. by Dr. Ronald Brown, professor of history and ethnic 401-749-0269 or Naomi Thovmasian Marsh, 401-942- Gomidas Choir, Essayan-Getronagan Alumni and studies at Touro College and world religions at the 3886. Proceeds to benefit three Armenia-based organiza- Tibrevank Alumni. For tickets call (212) 686-0710 or visit Unification Theological Seminary in New York City. Free to tion helping women. www.armenainchurch.net. the public. The library is located at 144 W Merrick Rd, APRIL 8 — The Near East Foundation will host the offi- Freeport, NY 11520, phone (516) 379-3274. cial Film Premiere of “They Shall Not Perish: The Story of Near East Relief.” The film, produced by NEF RHODE ISLAND Calendar items are free. Entries should not be longer Board Member Shant Mardirossian and award-winning than 5 lines. Items will be edited to fit the space, if producer, writer, and director George Billard, details the APRIL 22 — The Armenian Martyrs’ Memorial need be. A photo may be sent with the listing. Items historic events that led to the Armenian Genocide and the Committee along with the Cultural Committee of Sts. should be sent no later than Mondays at noon. Listings consequent rescue that provided assistance to hundreds Sahag and Mesrob Armenian Church, 70 Jefferson should include contact information. Send items to of thousands of displaced men, women, and children. The Street, Providence, will show the film, “Alter Ego” or “The [email protected]. 18 S ATURDAY, M ARCH 2 5 , 2 0 1 7 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMENTARY

COMMENTARY Mirror Erdogan Imposes Favorite Candidate on Spectator Istanbul Patriarchate It was “illegal” yet no specific law was cited in support of the deci- By Edmond Y. Azadian sion. At the conclusion of the election, the entire community had expressed a sigh of relief that the controversies were left behind Byzantine laws in Turkey have contributed to the delays and and a peaceful election process was unfolding. EstablishedEstablished 1932 1932 complications in the election of a new patriarch in Istanbul. For Mr. Merjan’s letter cynically alluded that the election may repeat the turmoil created on February 16 and the annulment of An ADLAn Publication ADL Publication nine years, the authorities have given the runaround to the lay and spiritual leadership of the community and at every stage the election would contribute to calm, especially when the com- have further complicated the process. munity already had a spiritual leader in the person of Archbishop Archbishop Aram Ateshyan has time and again proven his loy- Ateshyan. alty to Turkey’s rulers to the detriment of his spiritual obliga- Although people are very cautious in their expressions under EDITOR Erdogan’s dictatorship, Bishop Mashalyan blew his top by Alin K. Gregorian tions to his flock. That is why the authorities rewarded him by extending artificially his rule at the Patriarchate, in the mean- announcing that the election is the prerogative of the Clergy ASSISTANT EDITOR time using him as a political tool. He has been used on many Council and the government has no right to intrude. Aram Arkun occasions as the voice of the Armenian community in support of That was the general sentiment of the community, except of the government’s anti-Armenian stance. His rush to apologize for some of the more docile leaders, one of them being Bedros ART DIRECTOR Marc Mgrditchian the German parliament’s resolution recognizing the Armenian Sirinoglu, president of the Holy Cross Hospital and head of the Genocide discredited him as a religious leader of the community, VADIP (group of charitable and religious organizations). but endeared him to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s circle. Instead of blaming the government’s crude interference in the The tenuous situation in the community, however, could not community’s religious affairs, Siringolu, in his immense wisdom, last forever, as Archbishop Ateshyan abused his position and has blamed the community for not having patience for a few SENIOR EDITORIAL COLUMNIST: resorted to various ruses to emerge as the sole candidate for the more months, forgetting clearly that the community has been Edmond Y. Azadian office of Patriarch which had been vacant for the last nine years, enduring for nine years the government intrigues with respect to since the incapacitation of Patriarch Mesrob Mutafyan. Armenian spiritual matters in Istanbul. He also betrayed the real CONTRIBUTORS: The situation came to a boil when an open row developed truth in this charade by making the following statement: “I don’t Florence Avakian, Dr. Haroutiun between Ateshyan and Bishop Sahak Mashalyan, president of the express myself on behalf of Ateshyan nor Bekjian, but if the elec- Arzoumanian, Taleen Babayan, Diana Clergy Council and a potential candidate in the election. That tion had taken place between three candidates, Ateshyan would Der Hovanessian, Philip Ketchian, clash took place on February 16 and it shook the entire com- be the winner. Had Ateshyan won, the government’s letter could Kevork Keushkerian, Harut Sassounian, munity. not have been issued.” Hagop Vartivarian, Naomi Zeytoonian After long deliberation amongst the community leaderships, it The leadership of the community has decided to seek an CORRESPONDENTS: was decided to send both candidates to Holy Echmiadzin and appointment with the governor of Istanbul for an explanation. While refusing to resign, Ateshyan has cynically agreed to accom- Armenia - Hagop Avedikian defuse the situation through the mediation of Catholicos of All Boston - Nancy Kalajian Armenians Karekin II. The two men were later joined by pany Mashalyan to the governor’s office, if and when an appoint- New York/New Jersey - Marylynda Archbishop Karekin Bekjian, Primate of Germany, and ment is granted. He is already certainly aware what kind of Bozian-Cruickshank “explanation” the governor has in store. Berlin - Muriel Mirak-Weissbach For all practical purposes, the governor will Contributing Photographers: delay that appointment forever to extend Jacob Demirdjian and Jirair Hovsepian Ateshyan’s tenure, until the community is exhausted and is ready to heed the “wisdom” of leaders such as Sirinoglu, advising them to acquiesce to the government’s dictate. The Armenian Mirror-Spectator is published Archbishop Bekjian has emerged as a weekly, except two weeks in July and the first week of the year, by: courageous leader. He had announced that he would visit Germany for a few days to take Baikar Association, Inc. care of some urgent business and return to 755 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472-1509 Istanbul to assume his responsibilities as Telephone: 617-924-4420 locum tenens. That is, of course, if the author- FAX: 617-924-2887 ities do not detain or deport him. www.mirrorspectator.com This interference in the community’s reli- E-Mail: [email protected] gious affairs opens a Pandora’s box, especial- For advertising: [email protected] ly at this juncture, when Turkey can ill afford more adverse publicity. By waging a war of words against the major European countries, President Erdogan has become a pariah among world leaders. As if his challenge to Europe were not enough, he SUBSCRIPTION RATES : is also trying to provoke Russia by closing the Straits to the Russian merchant marine, in Archbishop Sebouh Chouljian, Primate of Gougark in Armenia, clear violation of the Treaty of Montreux of 1936. U.S.A. $80 a year who also submitted their names for the position. The Turkish government’s intrusion in the community’s A deal was struck at Echmiadzin creating a process to hold an religious affairs also contravenes the Treaty of Lausanne of Canada $125 a year election of a Locum Tenens (deghabah) at which time, 1923, whereby Turkey must guarantee the freedom of minori- Other Countries $190 a year Archbishop Ateshyan would resign from his position as vicar ties. Article 40 of the above treaty specifically stipulated that (patriarchal deputy) and the elected locum tenens would conduct they have [non-Muslims, Armenians] “equal rights to estab- the process of electing the Patriarch. lish, manage and control, at their own expense, any charita- In the meantime, an electoral committee would be selected ble, religious and social institutions, any schools and other © 2014 The Armenian Mirror-Spectator and an election request date would be submitted to the authori- establishments of training instruction and education, with the Periodical Class Postage Paid at Boston, MA ties. That date was tentatively set for May 29, 2017. right to use their own language and practice their own reli- and additional mailing offices. The election of the locum tenens is the prerogative of the gion freely.” ISSN 0004-234X Clergy Council. Turkey has been intervening in Cyprus and occupying one Meanwhile, Archbishop Chouljian was eliminated from the third of that country under the pretext of defending fellow Turks. race and Bishop Mashalyan withdrew his candidacy in favor of It has also sent troops to Iraq, despite the vociferous protests of POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Archbishop Bekjian. Therefore, the contest became a race Armenian Mirror-Spectator, 755 Mount Auburn its government, supposedly to protect Turkomans. St., Watertown, MA 02472 between Bekjian and Ateshyan. If there is such an international law to protect fellow nations, In view of the fact that the members of the Clergy Council are Other than the editorial, views and opinions then Armenia must take advantage of it, too. Realistically, expressed in this newspaper do not necessarily beholden to Ateshyan for their livelihoods and the latter is the Armenia cannot send troops to Turkey because it is no match for reflect the policies of the publisher. perceived favorite of the authorities, it was a foregone conclusion Turkey but at least it can raise its voice at international quarters, that he would emerge as the victor. such as the United Nations, the European Court of Human The election took place on March 15 and out of 34 votes, Rights and the European Union. Bekjian astonishingly received 24 while Ateshyan received 11. In addition, the issue, related to religious freedom, Echmiadzin The courage and independence of the members of the Clergy Copying for other than personal use or can appeal to the Vatican, the World Council of Churches and internal reference is prohibited without Council were celebrated and all the participants, including other religious centers. express permission of the copyright Ateshyan himself, congratulated Archbishop Bekjian for his elec- Also, other groups in the diaspora can and must raise their owner. Address requests for reprints or tion. voices. back issues to: The drama began when Ateshyan literally pulled a trick out of Now that Turkey has demonstrated its truce face, our appeals thin air. After the election, he returned to his office and emerged will certainly resonate further in various world quarters. Baikar Association, Inc. with a letter signed by Deputy Mayor of Istanbul Aziz Merjan, Erdogan’s diktat is not directed only at the Istanbul 755 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472- stating that holding an election at that date was not permitted. Armenians. It is a challenge to Armenians around the world. 1509 S ATURDAY, M ARCH 2 5 , 2 0 1 7 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 19 COMMENTARY

human toll is unprecedented. As of today and since the July pens to be a well-liked Moslem, originally from Morocco... As a 2016 failed coup, there are 128,625 people fired from their state which has committed and still denies genocide of its Turkey vs. jobs, including state officials, teachers, bureaucrats, security minorities, Armenians, Assyrians, Greeks, Alevis and Kurds, forces, academics, lawyers and journalists. There are 94,224 the Turkish government officials accused the EU leaders as fol- people, of various professions, arrested and jailed under state lowers of Nazism... of emergency powers. 2,099 schools and dormitories, plus 15 Turkish public reaction to these rejections? The rabble rous- universities have been shut down. 7,316 academics, including ing mobs took to the streets to protest against the Dutch, by Europe: Any many top professors have lost their jobs, resulting in many fac- burning French and Russian flags... They have the same ulties of still open universities to be closed, with hundreds of colours, they look alike, who cares. They also piled up many thousands of university students left in limbo. 4,070 judges oranges and repeatedly stabbed them with knives, because and prosecutors are dismissed, some of them jailed, ironically, orange is the colour of the Dutch. One hero climbed the flag- in the same prisons as criminals that they had convicted pre- pole of the Dutch Consulate in Istanbul and replaced the Lessons? viously. 149 media outlets, TV stations and newspapers have Dutch flag with a Turkish one. One unfortunate Norwegian been shut down, allowing only pro-Erdogan media to exist, and journalist got beaten up by mistake, as the mob thought he even then, any undesirable headlines still resulting in the dis- was speaking Dutch. But these are normal occurrences in By Raffi Bedrosyan missal of editors. And finally, 162 journalists have been jailed, Turkey. A couple of years ago, when the Turks heard that the highest number in the world. Chinese government oppressed their cousins the Uygur Turks, AST WEEK, for the first time in the history The human toll resulting from the war on Kurds is even Turks had started beating up many Korean tourists in Istanbul of the Turkish Republic, one of its ministers more grim. A recent UN investigative report estimated that at by mistake…They look alike, who cares.. was declared persona non grata — an unde- least 2000 Kurdish civilians have been killed since 2015. There Lessons to be learnt? Based on history repeating itself, it is sirable alien — and deported from are an estimated 50,000 injured and more than 500,000 citi- highly unlikely Turks will learn how to behave democratically. Netherlands, a state which is a NATO ally of zens left homeless after Turkish army tanks bombed and burnt They will either see themselves as poor victims, unfairly and Turkey. Again, for the first time, the Turkish several towns in the southeast. The bombardment of hundreds anti-democratically treated by the Europeans who refused foreign minister was told not to visit of apartment buildings was followed by the demolishing and them freedom of speech. Or, they will bully, threaten and insult Rotterdam in Netherlands, and his flight bulldozing of the rubble, sometimes still containing burnt by demanding apologies, ban of flights or sanctions against L landing permit was cancelled after he ignored bones and body parts. Since 2016, 13 Members of Parliament Netherlands and other EU states, completely ignoring the fact the Dutch orders not to come. The previous belonging to the pro-Kurdish political party are arrested and that Turkey is totally dependent on the EU states for tourism, week, the same Turkish Foreign Minister’s plans to address jailed, including the two co-chairs, after their political immu- investments and trade. They did the same bullying and brava- Turkish/German dual citizens in various rental halls in sever- nity was removed by dictatorial legislation. The democratical- do against the Russians after downing a Russian plane in al German cities were repeatedly cancelled, and he could only ly elected Kurdish mayors of 35 municipalities in the east and Syria, which resulted in the total crippling of Turkish econo- speak from the balcony of a Turkish Consulate residence to a southeast are removed from their posts and jailed, replaced by my due to Russian trade and tourism bans. At the end, Turkish few Turks gathered in the garden under the rain. This week, Turkish bureaucrats appointed from Ankara. government capitulated by profusely apologizing to Putin and Denmark cancelled the visit of the Turkish Prime Minister. Against this truly anti-democratic backdrop, Erdogan and agreeing to Russian terms, especially regarding Syria, before Switzerland cancelled the visit of other Turkish ministers. his ministers planned to come visit Europe to convince the 3 normal relations could resume. The same routine will happen Austria proposed to have a EU ban on visits of any Turkish million Turks living in various EU states to vote Yes in the ref- again with EU. politicians to Europe. erendum, in order to give more dictatorial powers to the There is, however, a lesson to be learnt by US in these Why is this unprecedented humiliation and embarrassment President. It should be pointed out that EU legislation pro- episodes. Rather than giving in to all the demands of an anti- happening to Turkey? What did Turkey do to deserve this? hibits political rallies of non-EU persons. What is even more democratic state which behaves like a spoiled child, the US How is Turkey, Turkish government leaders and Turkish peo- interesting, Turkish legislation, passed in 2008, also prohibits should start behaving more responsibly, fairly and firmly ple reacting to this humiliation? What are the lessons to be Turkish politicians from holding political rallies outside against Turkey. It is scandalous that Mike Flynn, the recently learned by Turkey, and more importantly, how is it relevant to Turkey. Ironically, this legislation was proposed by Erdogan’s fired nominee for the National Security Advisor post in the Armenia? This article will attempt to shed light on these ques- party itself, in order to give it an advantage over other Turkish Trump Administration, had collected $530,000 from the Turks tions. parties. At that time, Erdogan was still allies with Gulen, and for lobbying services. Lobbying for what? Is that money wast- Turkey is getting ready to vote Yes or No on April 16 for a could use Gulen’s vast network in Europe and US to carry out ed now? referendum to change the constitution so that all governmen- propaganda rallies for Erdogan. But now, the situation has And lastly, lessons for Armenia and Armenians? We have to tal, legislative and judicial powers can be concentrated in one changed, the Yes and No votes are almost even, and Erdogan be well informed about the Turks’ weaknesses and strengths. person, President Erdogan. Erdogan had already started exer- desperately needs the support of Turks in Europe in order to We have to learn from their mistakes. For a nation of 10 mil- cising most of these powers under a state of emergency, win the referendum. So, to hell with any EU or Turkish laws... lion people with a tiny country sandwiched between two bel- declared after the failed military coup against him on July 15, It seems the European leaders decided to show some back- ligerent adversary states, we cannot afford to be as divided as 2016. And now, it is time for Erdogan to legitimize these de bone and refrain from participating in Erdogan’s mission to the Turks, as anti-democratic as them, as ignorant as them, facto dictatorial powers by entrenching them in the revised become a dictator. Hence, the cancellations of halls, flights and most importantly, as mistake-prone as them constitution. Erdogan fully blames the failed coup on his erst- and meetings. while ally Fethullah Gulen, an Islamic cleric who lives in exile Turkish government reaction to these rejections? Blaming in Pennsylvania, USA. Once close allies against the previous German Chancellor Merkel, and Dutch Prime Minister Rutte (Raffi Bedrosyan is a civil engineer and concert pianist, liv- secular regimes, the Islamic leaders had a falling out a few as Nazis... Accusing them of preventing freedom of speech, ing in Toronto, Canada. He has donated concert and CD pro- years ago, and everything wrong happening in Turkey now is freedom of movement. Erdogan stated that ‘if he is not ceedings to infrastructure projects in Armenia and Karabagh, blamed on Gulen and his followers. allowed to speak in Germany, he will still come to Germany in which he has also participated as an engineer. He helped The witch hunt to identify and punish followers of Gulen has and turn the world upside down’. The Foreign Minister bel- organize the reconstruction of the Surp Giragos created great turmoil among Turks in all levels of society, the lowed that ‘Nothing and no one can stop him from coming to Diyarbakir/Dikranagerd Church and the first Armenian army, academia, government bureaucracy, media and business Holland regardless of what the Dutch say’. In addition to reclaim of church properties in Anatolia after 1915. He gave world. Add to this the ongoing war between the government insulting the German and Dutch leaders as Nazis, they also the first piano concert in the Surp Giragos Church since forces and the Kurdish militants in the east and southeast, the accused the mayor of Rotterdam as an Islamophobe, who hap- 1915.)

Azerbaijan: Ties with Pakistan Focusing on Arms and Energy

Behind this flurry of activity, there are oped defense industry to establish joint ven- the aircraft maker’s sales and marketing direc- By Zaur Shiriyev doubts about the viability of substantive coop- tures under which Pakistani firms would set up tor, Sohail Saeed Naik. Pakistan also has eration. Baku’s interest may be connected to production or assembly facilities in Azerbaijan. been promoting the Super Mushshak trainer notions of Muslim solidarity and Pakistan’s This is the strategy Azerbaijan has used to build aircraft to Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan’s diplomatic contacts with strong diplomatic stance against Azerbaijan’s up its own domestic defense industry, so far Fighter aircraft are not a high priority for Pakistan have intensified over the past year, foe, Armenia. with notable contributions from Israel and Azerbaijan, which instead is focusing its pro- with a particular focus on military and energy Pakistan was the second country (after Turkey.’’ curement attention on ballistic missiles or on cooperation. But it remains unclear to what Turkey) to recognize Azerbaijan’s indepen- “Pakistan has a very developed defense offensive weapons. That could include another degree this developing partnership is being dence in 1991, and has still failed to recognize industry. We discussed detailed cooperation in Pakistani product, one of the Shaheen class of driven by realism, and how much by romanti- Armenia, saying that Islamabad will not do so this area... So we can work together to establish medium-range ballistic missiles. Azerbaijan’s cism. until Armenia gives up its claim to Nagorno- joint production,” Aliyev said during Sharif’s interest in Pakistani missiles was first reported The last 12 months have seen a marked Karabakh. Azerbaijan has reciprocated with October visit to Baku. in 2014, but talks seem to have accelerated increase in diplomatic visits and discussions strong support for Pakistan in its struggle with Thus far only one such agreement seems to after it emerged last year that Armenia had between the two countries. Pakistan’s Prime India over Kashmir. have been reached, with Pakistan’s Global acquired Iskander missiles from Russia. Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif visited Baku Azerbaijan’s courting of Pakistan accelerated Industrial & Defense Solutions to produce Bilateral military cooperation for the moment in October, and Azerbaijan’s President Ilham after last April’s outbreak of violence with hand-held grenade launchers. “A certain agree- is limited to relatively modest educational Aliyev reciprocated with a trip to Islamabad Armenia over Karabakh, the worst bout of fight- ment on this issue exists with the Defense exchanges. In 2015, 130 Azeri defense person- from February 28-March 1, attending a summit ing since a ceasefire was signed in 1994. Industry Ministry of Azerbaijan,” said the com- nel received training from Pakistan, according of the Organization of Economic Cooperation. Pakistan has become one of many sources of pany’s CEO, retired Major General Tariq Javed. to Pakistan’s ambassador to Azerbaijan, Khalid Bilateral trade between the two countries contention between the two sides. In Pakistan’s interest, meanwhile, appears more Usman Qaiser. currently stands at a modest $7.3 million per November, for example, focused on direct arms sales to Azerbaijan. In the energy sphere, too, Azerbaijan and year, but Pakistan has reportedly drafted a plan Armenia blocked Pakistan’s attempt to build There is a particular emphasis on marketing Pakistan have expressed interest in cooperat- to increase that figure to $500 million over a ties with the Collective Security Treaty the Chinese-Pakistani JF-17 fighter jet to ing, but their specific motivations may not be five-year period. Azerbaijan has for the first Organization, a post-Soviet security bloc that Azerbaijan. This has been discussed between compatible. In April 2016, Pakistan and time begun to set up permanent trade missions includes Armenia, but not Azerbaijan.’ the two sides for at least a decade, but discus- Azerbaijan drafted an inter-governmental agree- in embassies, and it chose Islamabad as a loca- Recent discussions between Azerbaijan and sions have seemed to pick up steam over the ment (not yet signed) calling for Azerbaijani tion for one of the first such missions, along Pakistan have focused primarily on the arms last year. Pakistan intended to display the JF-17 sales of oil and gas to Pakistan, as well as with Moscow, Ankara, and Washington. Long- trade, but each side has different interests. at Azerbaijan’s defense expo, ADEX, last Azerbaijani investments in Pakistan’s petro- dormant talks on arms sales have been revived, From Baku’s perspective, it wants to take September, but “difficulties with delivery and chemical sector. and new energy projects mooted. advantage of Pakistan’s relatively highly devel- customs forced us to abandon the idea,” said see ENERGY, page 20 20 S ATURDAY, M ARCH 2 5 , 2 0 1 7 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR

with the aggressive name-calling directed at The Sick Man on The Bosporus Merkel and Europe. More than Metaphor? The gutter level to which Ankara has CONFLICT, from page 1 Srebrenica in 1995. (In point of fact, it was the to reply seriously to such outrages. Her dragged down political discourse is without up as a tight race, the ruling AKP seeks to win Bosnian Serbs who did the killing of the spokesman Stephan Seibert dubbed the name- precedent in the recent period. One is unsure over Turkish citizens living abroad for a “yes” Muslim men and boys, and the Dutch contin- calling “recognizably out of this world,” (or, to whether to merely chalk up such talk to bad vote and therefore demands the right for its gent of UNPROFOR soldiers who failed to pre- put it more colloquially, “off the wall”). Seibert taste, ill manners or the like, or to read more politicians, be they government representatives vent the slaughter.) Erdogan’s government added that the Chancellor did not have any sinister intent into the words. What should one or party officials or not, to campaign freely in then announced political sanctions against the intention of “participating in a competition of make, for example, of the remarks made by Germany, the Netherlands, France and other Netherlands. insults.” On March 20, after the umpteenth Foreign Minister Cavusoglu about the Dutch countries with a Turkish community. The AKP In Germany, the Turkish community is the instance of Nazi-baiting, Merkel put her foot political players, both populists and not? “They has cheerfully ignored the fact that such cam- largest in Europe, with 1.4 million eligible vot- down, reiterating that “the Nazi comparisons have the same mentality,” he said. “And this paigning abroad is in flagrant violation of ers, enough to decide the outcome of the ref- from Turkey must stop…. No ifs or buts.” Such mentality will soon lead Europe to the abyss. Article 94/A of Turkish electoral law. erendum. In response to refusals on the part of comments, she said, “break every taboo, with- Soon religious wars could and will break out in It has been more difficult for Recep Tayyip local and state authorities to allow Turkish out consideration for the suffering of those Europe.” Is this a threat or a promise? Or Erdogan and his party to ignore the laws of the politicians to campaign, Erdogan and other who were persecuted and murdered by the should one read the latest directives by countries which would host such campaign ral- leading figures have wielded the “fascist” epi- Nazis.” She said a verbal note from her foreign Erdogan to Turks living in what he considers lies. The rallies in the Netherlands and thet, and have charged Germany with protect- ministry had been delivered to Ankara in “fascist” Europe as sarcastic banter or serious Germany have met resistance, either due to ing terrorists. Erdogan first accused the which the German government “reserved the marching orders? Speaking at a rally on March concerns for public safety, or to Turkish non- Germans of using Nazi methods, then attacked right to take all necessary measures,” includ- 17, he called out to Turks in Europe: “Don’t compliance with formal and logistical condi- Chancellor Angela Merkel personally; on March ing reconsideration of certain approvals. The have three children, have five,” he said, tions for room rentals, etc. The deeper reasons 19 at a meeting of an Islamic organization in “approvals” refer to campaign appearances by “because you are the future of Europe.” This are political. This year is election year in sever- Istanbul, he used the familiar “Du” form to say, politicians and also – most importantly – to would be “the best answer that you could give al countries, most recently in the Netherlands, “You [Merkel] are using Nazi methods. Against facilities to allow Turkish citizens to cast their to the impertinence, animosity and injustice and rightwing populists, like Geert Wilders, whom? Against my Turkish brothers in votes in the referendum, in polling places set that they are dealing you.” Does he really envi- have been fueling anti-Islamic hatred and fears Germany and the ministers.” He said he up for them in Germany. sion a future Europe dominated by Turks? If in their bid for votes. The concern is that fiery ‘thanked God” that German-Turkish journalist Erdogan and company have also blamed the so, this would play into the hands of the nationalist speeches by Turkish campaigners Deniz Yücel had been apprehended, formally Germans and Merkel personally for “support- Islamophobic populists like Wilder, Marine Le could provoke violent responses in the streets, placed under arrest and sent to prison. The ing terrorists,” and by this they mean associ- Pen and the Alternative for Germany party. Is and drive panicked voters to support the anti- journalist who writes for Die Welt is a “terror- ates of the Gülen movement. In an interview to that the intent? Muslim populists at the polls. ist agent,” Erdogan said, and would have to Spiegel, the head of the BND (German Federal Or did the CDU deputy chairwoman Julia Prime Minister Mark Rutte won the Dutch answer to the “independent” Turkish judiciary. Intelligence Service) Bruno Kahl had ques- Klöckner get it right when she asked simply, elections on March 15, in part thanks to his According to a report in the tabloid Bild tioned the credibility of Turkish assertions that “Has Mr. Erdogan lost his senses?” Perhaps the resolute stand against planned campaign Zeitung, Erdogan also said, referring apparent- the Gülen movement were the driving force man on the Bosporus is not well. Perhaps he is appearances by Turkish politicians. First, ly to the Europeans, “If they could, they would behind the failed coup attempt last year. sick. Or maybe, she suggested, “Mr. Erdogan Dutch authorities refused to grant landing build gas chambers again.” Defense Minister Fikri Isik, according to simply needs a comprehensive seminar in his- rights to the plane carrying Turkey’s Foreign Anadolu press agency, said this raised the ques- tory, manners and understanding among peo- Minister Mevlüt Çavusoglu, then Family And Berlin’s Reaction? tion, “whether the German secret services are ples.” Not a bad idea; that history lesson might Minister Fatma Betül Sayan Kaya, who tried to Chancellor Merkel is known for her ratio- not behind the coup.” begin with the fall of the Ottoman Empire. enter Rotterdam by car, had her convoy turned nality, and her ability to keep cool under exas- Several German political figures have (The author can be reached at mirak.weiss- back. The Turkish response to these rebuffs perating circumstances. During her recent addressed the singular behavior of a national [email protected].) was violent, at least on the verbal plane. During Washington visit, she lived up to this reputa- leader such as Erdogan. Newly elected SPD an election rally in Antalya, Foreign Minister tion. In the case of Erdogan, she has labored chairman and Chancellor candidate in the Çavusoglu said after the election results had to maintain a rational attitude, resolutely upcoming elections Martin Schulz remarked been made known, that there was no difference rejecting all slanders he has levelled against on national television March 19, “That a head Azerbaijan: Ties with between the social democrats, Rutte, and the Europe, Germany and her personally. To of state of a friendly country should insult the “fascist” populist Wilders: “They are all the Ankara’s repeated accusations that the Dutch head of the government of this country is a Pakistan Focusing on same.” The Netherlands was “the capital of fas- were “fascists,” she pointed out the cruel irony piece of impudence.” Someone has to tell Arms and Energy cism,” in his view, and he vowed that “there that it was the Dutch who suffered immensely Erdogan at some point, he said, that he “can- will be repercussions” for his having been pre- under Nazi occupation, and pledged her total not trample on all practices of international ENERGY, from page 19 vented from speaking. Erdogan went so far as solidarity with the Rutte government. As for diplomacy.” But, “that is what he does howev- Pakistan’s primary interest appears to be in to accuse the Dutch of genocide, charging that “Nazi methods” in the Federal Republic of er.” And such behavior “is not worthy of a head importing oil or gas from Azerbaijan. This is they had massacred 8,000 Muslims in Germany, she has said it is almost impossible of state,” he said, adding that Turkey was theoretically possible, but it would involve com- becoming increasingly authoritarian. plicated gas swaps with Iran, and Baku seems to have little interest in such convoluted What Honor? arrangements. Azerbaijani officials question the Among those who have earnestly sought to logistics and economics of exporting to understand the bizarre behavior of Ankara’s Pakistan, given the export commitments it has political elite, Michael Martens of the already made to Europe. Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (FAZ) has Azerbaijan, then, has tried to gently down- pointed to the misplaced notion of “honor” play the potential for significant energy exports that several high-ranking representatives have to Pakistan. The Azerbaijan-Pakistan energy displayed in their objections to being denied deal will “allow companies to start talks, and campaigning rights abroad. When Justice business and trade would materialize only if Minister Bekir Bozdag swears they will “not found economically and logistically feasible,” allow anyone to injure the honor of the Azerbaijan Energy Minister Natig Turkish nation and the Turkish state,” or his Aliyev said during the ECO summit in colleague in the foreign ministry characterizes Islamabad. the Dutch position as “an affront to the honor Editor’s note: Zaur Shiriyev is an Academy of the Turks,” Martens says that, to the ears of Associate at the Royal Institute of International someone from northwestern Europe, this has a Affairs (Chatham House). This commentary distant ring to it, as if coming from the days of originally appeared in Eurasianet.org Emperor Wilhelm. Such notions of honor may also be found in southern European countries, Spain, Italy and Greece, for example, but Armenian Brandy Martens sees this more extreme form as a relic from the heritage of Ataturk — with an Islamic Festival to be held in touch. The state, as Martens summarizes the notion, should control everything, and if it Tsaghkadzor does not, it should then rally the people around a strong leader, who defends the honor YEREVAN (Panorama) — Armenia’s of the nation against the perceived enemies. Tourism Development Fund, in cooper- His FAZ colleague, Rainer Hermann, a senior ation with the State Committee for journalist and long-term Turkey expert, has Tourism, has organized Armenian identified authoritarian trends in other aspects Brandy Festival in Tsaghkadzor on May of behavior among these politicians, including 7. in hand gestures. For instance, Erdogan has The Press Service of the festival been observed raising his right hand, with the announced: “The companies engaged four fingers upward and the thumb across the in Armenian brandy production and palm — this is apparently a gesture imported interested in raising the international from Egypt, where it was used to signal oppo- awareness of the Armenian brandy and sition to Al Sisi, before becoming a standard publicize Armenian brandy in tradi- symbol of the Muslim Brotherhood. Other lead- tional and new markets, are invited to ers have been using gestures associated with take part in the festival.” the nationalist Grey Wolves. All the interested companies can Aside from the folkloristic flavor of such apply to the Tourism Development details, they serve to underline the trend Fund to participate. towards extreme nationalism, which coheres