EU Urges Democratic Elections in Armenia

22 YEARS The #4 Noah’s Ark (1092) 9 February 2016 Published Since 1993

Weekly Newspaper HIGHLIGHTS ÜáÛÛ³Ý î³å³Ý ß³μ³Ã³Ã»ñÃ (³Ý·É. / ýñ³Ýë.) EU Urges Democratic Elections In Armenia

Armenia - Piotr Switalski, the head of the EU Delegation in Armenia. See p. 3 In This Issue The region is on the threshold of a new Noyan Tapan Video Studio phase of Syrian crisis: R. Safrastyan p.5 is offering professional video and photography for indoor and outdoor events such as weddings, birthday parties, Yerevan Insists on lower official events, seminars and conferences. Tel: 060 27 64 62 Russian gas price p.6 Address: Isahakyan 28, 3rd floor, Yerevan 0009 Ralph Yirikian's Personal Support to People Living in the Borderland p.12 Noyan Tapan Printing House Sergey Smbatyan Received Ovation is offering coloured and black and white offset and digital Conducting Sarajevo Philharmonic p.13 printing of books, brochures, booklets, journals, etc with Charles Aznavour: I hope Armenia will high quality and low prices Tel: 060 27 64 62 finally live in peace p.18 Address: Isahakyan 28, 3rd floor, Yerevan 0009

9 February #4 (1092) 2016 2 www.nt.am The Noyan Tapan Highlights Armenia, Georgia sign 2016 Military Cooperation Plan A Georgian delegation led by Defense Minister Tinatin Khidasheli has arrived in Armenia for an official visit. Following an official welcome ceremony, the Defense Ministers of the two countries signed the 2016 Military Cooperation Plan. "Although Armenia and Georgia have chosen different security systems, it will not hamper the cooperation on a common bilateral agenda aimed at the reinforcement of security and stability in the region," Armenian DM Seyran Ohanyan told reporters following the meeting. "I think we can see the best example in Afghanistan, where Armenian and Georgian peacekeepers are serving together for the Tinatin Khidasheli said "the question is about strategic partner- sake of common peace and stability. I'm here to speak about ship." "Georgia has a NATO-member neighboring country in the issues that unite us. Peace in the Caucasus is the first thing that face of Turkey, which is of great importance to us," she said. unites us, and we cooperate in that direction," the Georgian The Georgian Defense Minister refrained from commenting Defense Minister said. on the vote of the Georgian delegation on the two anti-Armenian Referring to issues of Armenian-Georgian cooperation in the reports at the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, context of Georgian-Turkish and Georgian-Azerbaijani relations, but advised to look at the issue from the perspective of security. Two anti-Armenian reports at PACE come to prove Azerbaijan's non-constructive stance: Edward Nalbandian progress in the talks is not because of "bad" mediators, but because of lack of will on the part of Azerbaijan." Relations with Russia are a key ele- ment in the foreign policy of Armenia, Armenian Foreign Minister Edward Nalbandian said. "Strengthening the allied, strategic partnership with Russia is high on Armenia's foreign policy agenda," he said. Nalbandian recalled that in 2015 the Presidents of the two countries had held about a dozen meetings in the bilateral and multilateral formats. Minister Nalbandian reminded that "Azerbaijan's approach on the settle- Azerbaijan's non-constructive policy. during a dozen of meetings last year the ment of the Karabakh conflict contradicts "It was an attempt by Azerbaijan to Presidents of the two countries reached a not only that of Armenia, but also the take the Karabakh issue from the Minsk number of agreements of strategic impor- Minsk Group Co-Chairs," Armenian Group format to a different platform, thus tance in the political, military and techni- Foreign Minister Edward Nalbandian causing damage to the settlement cal, science and education, cultural and told a press conference on February 2. process. This is not the first time other areas. Summing up the activities of the past Azerbaijan is trying to use the PACE The Minister added that the member- year, Minister Nalbandian said "Armenia, podium for taking the issue into a differ- ship in the Eurasian Economic Union as in cooperation with the OSCE Minsk ent direction," Minister Nalbandian said. of January 2014 "stemmed from Group, maintained efforts towards the Minsiter Nalbandian said the Iran Armenia's strategic interests" and peaceful resolution of the Karabakh con- deal was the most significant achieve- "opened up new opportunities for the flict." At the same time, he blamed ment in international relations in 2015. country's economic development." Azerbaijan for the frequent violations of "The lifting of sanctions against Iran will Besides, Armenia assumed the chairman- the ceasefire regime and the use of heavy boost the development of Armenian- ship of the Collective Security Treaty weapons. Iranian relations," he said. Organization (CSTO) in September 2015. The Minister added that the two anti- As for the willingness of Iran to The country "continues to act as an initia- Armenian reports considered by the assume a mediating role in the settlement tor and active participant in this associa- Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of the Karabakh conflict, Minister tion," the Armenian Foreign Ministry of Europe a few days ago come to prove Nalbandian noted that "the lack of said in a statement on Tuesday.

9 February #4 (1092) 2016 The Noyan Tapan Highlights www.nt.am 3 EU Urges Democratic Elections In Armenia YEREVAN (RFE/RL) the republic will be elected by the parliament and have largely cer- emonial powers. A senior European Union official on February 5 called on the Switalski stressed the importance of a new Electoral Code, Armenian authorities to prevent serious irregularities in parlia- which the authorities plan to enact this this spring, for the proper mentary elections due in May 2017, saying that their conduct conduct of next year's polls. The EU hopes that they will "consult" could determine "the future of Armenia." with European experts and make sure that the code is also accept- Piotr Switalski, the head of the EU Delegation in Yerevan, able to the Armenian opposition, he said. warned of "further stagnation" in the country that might follow the "We hope very much that the final shape of the Electoral Code vote. "The elections of 2017, the first elections under the new con- will have a consensual character," added the diplomat. "It will be stitutional arrangements, may have a really big role for the future very important for the next elections." of Armenia," he said in a speech. Serzh Sargsyan and his Republican Party of Armenia (HHK) "It's not simply about another election," emphasized Switalski. have already promised to enact new electoral legislation that will "I think it's about the future of Armenia in a larger sense, it's about provide for a democratic contest. Their political opponents are the confidence of the people in the political governance of highly skeptical about these assurances, pointing to what they call Armenia, and it's also about Armenia's image in the international a falsification of the constitutional referendum held on December community." 6. Shortly after the referendum the EU urged the authorities to The 2017 elections will determine who will govern Armenia properly investigate "credible" allegations of fraud voiced by the after President Serzh Sargsyan completes his second and final opposition, independent observers and media. term in April 2018. Under Sargsyan's controversial constitutional Piotr Switalski reiterated the EU calls. "For us, [ongoing fraud changes enacted in December, Armenia will switch to the parlia- investigations] will be a very important signal as to how to prepare mentary system of government by that time. The next president of ourselves for the next elections," he said. U.S. 'not opposed' to closer Armenia-Iran ties The United States does not object to have long encouraged Armenia to diver- Armenia's plans to step up economic sify its energy supply, including explor- cooperation with neighboring Iran fol- ing opportunities for alternative/renew- lowing the lifting of international sanc- able sources and greater regional integra- tions against Tehran, the U.S. ambassador tion, for the sake of greater energy effi- in Yerevan, Richard Mills, said on ciency and to avoid overdependence on February 5. any one party or source." "Armenia has the sovereign right to Armenia was quick to welcome the pursue strong, mutually beneficial rela- July 2015 agreement on Iran's controver- tions with as many nations as it wishes," sial nuclear program and the resulting Mills said in written comments to sanctions relief. Senior Armenian offi- RFE/RL's Armenian service . cials have said the landmark deal will "With respect to Iran, the U.S. speed up the implementation of Government gratefully acknowledges the Armenian-Iranian energy projects regard- part Armenia played in making possible ed as strategically important by Yerevan. the diplomatic engagement that led to the President Serzh Sargsyan and his tricity to Iran. Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, by Iranian counterpart Hassan Rouhani dis- Yerevan hopes that greater oil rev- fully respecting the international commu- cussed the new opportunities for boosting enues and the unfreezing of its assets in nity's sanctions on Iran over the years, Armenian-Iranian commercial ties in a the U.S. and Europe will also enable Iran even when that effort came at some cost phone call late last month. to finance the construction of a major to Armenia and its economy," he said, The two neighboring states already hydroelectric plant on the Armenian- referring to Iran's nuclear deal with the signed in August last year a final agree- Iranian border. The $350 million project U.S. and other world powers. ment on the construction of a new power has for years been stalled due to a lack of "With the advent of Implementation transmission line which is due to signifi- funding and serious restrictions on Day on January 16, it is natural for cantly boost exports of Armenian elec- Armenian banking operations with Iran. Armenia to start thinking about the impact that the lifting of sanctions might have on its political and economic ties Noyan Tapan Press-Center with Iran," added the diplomat. Noyan Tapan Press Center holds different discussions, press confer- Asked whether the U.S. believes clos- ences, round tables, teleconferences, seminars each week which er ties with Iran could help to ease are broadcast live on the Internet. We invite you to take advantage Armenia's heavy dependence on Russia of the Center, as well as to place your banner in our Press Room. for energy resources, Mills said: "We Tel: 060 27 64 62. Address: Isahakyan 28, 3rd floor

9 February #4 (1092) 2016 4 www.nt.am POLITICS New Armenian Ombudsman Nominated The ruling Republican Party (HHK) all an unnamed government-linked individ- but predetermined on Friday the appoint- ual. ment of Arman Tatoyan, currently a deputy Some Armenian newspapers have minister of justice, as Armenia's new claimed that Andreasyan quit under pres- human rights ombudsman. sure from Mikael Minasyan, Sargsyan's The position has been vacant since its influential son-in-law and Armenia's previous holder, Karen Andreasyan, unex- ambassador to the Vatican. pectedly stepped down on January 12. Tatoyan insisted that he has no ties with Under the Armenian constitution, Minasyan. "I don't know Mr. Minasyan Andreasyan's successor will be chosen by personally and have never had a chance to the parliament in which the HHK has a socialize with him," he said. solid majority. The U.S. Embassy in Armenia praised The HHK's parliamentary faction nom- dance with the ombudsman's mission," Andreasyan's track record when it "noted inated Tatoyan for the job after meeting Tatoyan told reporters after meeting with with regret" his resignation on January 20. with him behind the closed doors. His can- HHK deputies. "He has been a tireless and effective cham- didacy needs to be endorsed by the Andreasyan has still not given clear pion for those who were defenseless; those National Assembly's standing committee reasons for his resignation. The former who feared their voices might be silenced on legal affairs before being debated on the human rights defender was publicly if they voiced unpopular messages; and parliament floor. The committee is headed attacked by several HHK parliamentarians any Armenian who fought for his or her by Hovannes Sahakyan, a senior HHK in October when he presented the National rights as a citizen to be respected," it said in member. Assembly with an annual report on the a statement. "I believe that I can work in an uninhib- work of his office. He denounced the harsh The HHK leadership has denied forc- ited way and stand with citizens in accor- criticism as a smear campaign ordered by ing Andreasyan to resign. OSCE concerned over armed clashes between Armenian, Azerbaijani forces "As regards the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, armed clashes along the line of contact and the border between Armenia and Azerbaijan give us cause for concern," the OSCE Chairman-in- Office wrote in an article published by the Huffington Post. "Germany is campaigning for an intensification of the negotiations under the auspices of the OSCE Minsk Group. One important step to this end would be the creation of a mechanism to investigate violations of the ceasefire," he added. Frank Walter-Steinmeier said the conflicts in Transdniestria, Nagorno-Karabakh and the Southern Caucasus cannot be called "frozen". "Each year they continue to bring hardship to the people affected and stagnation to the regions involved. We want to stabi- OSCE Chairman-in-Office, German Foreign Minister Frank lize the ceasefires, build trust and improve the day-to-day lives of Walter-Steinmeier has called for the creation of a mechanism to the people by taking small but tangible steps, such as improving investigate violations in the Kaabkh conflict zone. economic exchange." Armenian soldier killed in Azeri firing Tensions were high at the line of contact between the armed forces of Nagorno Karabakh and Azerbaijan on February 5, the NKR Ministry of Defense reported. The rival used artillery weapons of different caliber as it fire more than 1,500 shots in the direction of the Armenian positions. Private of the NKR Defense Army Simon Chavrshyan was killed as a result of firing from the Azerbaijani side. Probe into the details of the incident is under way. The NKR Defense Ministry offers its condolences to the families and friends of the soldier.

9 February #4 (1092) 2016 POLITICS The Noyan Tapan Highlights www.nt.am 5 The region is on the threshold of a new phase of Syrian crisis: Ruben Safrastyan

ously considering the opportunity to past events. deploy foreign troops," he said. Ruben Safrastyan believes that "what Safrastyan added that "Turkey is also Pope Francis did on April 12, 2015, was mobilizing forces at the Syrian border, but simply unprecedented." Reaching targets has not reached the ultimate goals it pur- through treachery and intrigues has always sued when getting involved in Syria." been an indispensable part of Turkey's pol- Commenting on the recent develop- icy, which find sits reflection on the Syrian ments in Turkey-Vatican relations, front, as well. The political scientist said, Safrastyan warned against hasty conclu- however, that the policy has been a failure sions. "Let's wait and see what happens so far. next," he said. To solve his personal problems, Remind that Turkey returned its Erdogan escalated the domestic situation in "The region is on the threshold of a ambassador to the Vatican on Thursday, the country months ago by inciting ten- new phase in the Syrian crisis," Director of nearly 10 months after withdrawing him in sions against Kurds. Erdogan solved his the Oriental Studies Institute of the protest against Pope Francis' description of issues through elections, but created a situ- Armenian National Academy of Sciences the century-old massacres of Christian ation that had not been in place for Ruben Safrastyan told a press conference Armenians as genocide. Muslim Turkey decades. Safrastyan is confident the situa- on February 5. promptly recalled its envoy. tion will further deteriorate in the future. "Ground forces of other countries will The decision came after the Vatican on "The Turkish policy of the recent months be deployed in Syria soon. Saudi Arabia Wednesday praised Turkey's willingness to aims to engage the US and NATO into a has already declared about the intention to open its archives to historians and create a conflict with Russia, but Turkey has failed send forced. The US-led coalition is seri- joint commission of scholars to explore here, as well," he said. Tigran Sargsyan takes up his duties as Chairman of EEC Board On February 1, 2016, the updated EEC The only new face in the Board, other Board started its work under the leadership than the Chairman, is Veronika Nikishina of the new Chairman of the Eurasian (representative of the Russian Federation) Economic Commission, Tigran Sargsyan, who replaced her predecessor Andrey according to the website of the Eurasian Slepnev as Minister for Trade. Economic Commission. In accordance with the Decision of the It was approved in last December at the Supreme Council of the Eurasian session of the Supreme Eurasian Economic Economic Union, a new position was Council by the Presidents of Eurasian introduced to the Commission - Member Economic Union (EAEU). of the Board - Minister in charge of By the decision of the Supreme Domestic Markets, Informatisation, and Eurasian Economic Council, each country Therefore, from February 1, the Board Information and Communication of the Union (Armenia, Belarus, consists of 10 members. Technologies. This post has been taken by Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Russia) is However, the Presidents of the EAEU Karine Minasyan (Republic of Armenia). now represented in the Council by two, countries have maintained continuity: eight According to the Treaty on the EAEU, instead of three, members of the Board of ten newly appointed EEC Ministers pre- the EEC Board's term of office is four (Ministers). viously held similar positions. years. Tehran plans to increase gas supplies to Armenia fivefold Iran is considering the possibility of ed, citing Kameli. increasing gas exports to Armenia by five "On the basis of a joint agreement, the folds, as part of construction of a new possibility exists to increase the amount electricity transmission line between the of gas exports by five times," Kameli two countries, director of the National said, as quoted by the Mehri news Gas Export Company of Iran Alireza agency. Kameli said on February 7, Sputnik Iran exports nearly one million cubic News reports. meters of natural gas to Armenia daily, The gas export is carried out in the official added. trade between Iran and Armenia from the exchange for the purchase of electricity The new electricity networks are current 300 megawatts to about one thou- between the two sides, the media report- expected to increase the volume of power sand megawatts.

9 February #4 (1092) 2016 6 www.nt.am The Noyan Tapan Highlights ECONOMY Yerevan Insists on lower Russian gas price are making obvious not only the necessity but also the possibility of reducing the gas price," added the premier. Abrahamyan did not disclose the extent of a price reduction sought by the Armenian government or specify whether the Russians are reluctant to accept it. His unusual appeal to Gazprom's Armenian subsidiary might have been an indication that Moscow is driving a hard bargain in the ongoing negotiations. Energy and Natural Resources Minister Yervand Zakharyan declined to shed light on those talks when he addressed the Armenian parliament on Wednesday. "I can only say at this point that those negotiations are continuing," he said. Zakharyan would also not be drawn on the Russian gas price that would now be acceptable to Yerevan. Gazprom, which supplies at least 80 percent of Armenia's gas, lowered the price from $190 to $165 per thousand cubic meters Prime Minister Hovik Abrahamyan on February 4 publicly less than a year ago. It had previously cut the tariff in 2013 in pressed Armenia's Russian-owned gas distribution network to help return for Yerevan's decision to join the Russian-led Eurasian his government convince Russia to cut the price of its natural gas Economic Union (EEU). At that time the Russian giant charged delivered to the South Caucasus country. European countries an average of almost $350 per thousand cubic Abrahamyan appealed to the Gazprom-Armenia operator three meters of its gas. weeks after announcing that Yerevan is seeking a lower cost of The subsequent collapse of oil prices, which also determine Russian gas in view of the sharp drop in international oil prices. international gas tariffs, offset much of the Russian discount for Russian-Armenian negotiations on the matter have yielded no Armenia. Gazprom's tariff for Europe averaged $238 per thousand agreement yet. cubic meters last year. It is expected to fall to $180 next month. "The decrease in the volume of gas consumption [in Armenia] Abrahamyan said on Thursday that cheaper gas is "essential" clearly shows that the [Gazprom-Armenia] company can have for the competitiveness of Armenian manufacturers using it. more earnings in case of lower prices," Abrahamyan said as he Those of them that are heavily reliant on exports to Russia have opened a weekly session of his cabinet. been hit hard by a sharp depreciation of the Russian ruble caused "I think that the Gazprom-Armenia management has a lot of by the decreased oil prices. work to do in presenting this business logic to the public and its Late last month Zakharyan dismissed suggestions that superiors, as a result of which the mutually beneficial nature of our Armenia will be better off it cuts back on Gazprom supplies and negotiation proposal will become clear to both the Gazprom com- significantly increases instead the presently modest volume of gas pany and the Russian Federation," he said. imports from Iran. He insisted that Russian gas is cheaper for "I think that global economic and geopolitical developments Armenia even at the current price.

EIB supports with EUR 51m upgrade of strategic transport infrastructure in Armenia The European Investment Bank (EIB) is lending EUR 51 structure serves as major link of Armenia with Europe and other million to the Republic of Armenia to finance rehabilitation countries of the Commonwealth of Independent States through of the M6 interstate road, the crucial transport corridor in Georgia's Black Sea ports carrying over 60% of Armenia's Armenia representing the interconnection of the country international traffic". with Georgia and thus the EU and being significant partic- In addition to EIB, the Asian Development Bank is expect- ularly for Armenia's exports and imports. ed to provide support to the project. The total costs of the proj- The EIB funds will support the rehabilitation and upgrading ect that will be promoted by the Ministry of Transport and along some 90 km of the M6 road between Vanadzor in central Communication is EUR 102 million. Armenia and Bagratashen at the North eastern border between Currently, the EIB lending commitment in Armenia covers Armenia and Georgia. The road follows a deep valley and fea- twelve projects, most of them supported by EU grants, and tures several hairpin bends, steep inclines, narrow bridges and amounts to some EUR 270 million. It supports a well-diversi- three tunnels which will be upgraded. The M6 rehabilitation fied investment portfolio important for the country's develop- will help to improve traffic fluidity, levels of service, time sav- ment in the areas of transport, energy, water and solid waste sec- ings and increase overall road safety, expected to result in a tor infrastructure and indirectly financing the undertakings of reduced number of road accidents, injuries and fatalities. small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through EIB part- EIB Vice-President László Baranyay, responsible for EIB ner financing institutions. Both parties have ongoing discus- operations in Armenia commented: "The EIB loan will support sions regarding the future priorities of EIB activities in Armenia the upgrade of Armenia's priority M6 road infrastructure repre- and the promising pipeline of new operations for the upcoming senting connection of Yerevan with Tbilisi. This transport infra- years.

9 February #4 (1092) 2016 ECONOMY The Noyan Tapan Highlights www.nt.am 7 Armenian Minister justifies monopolies government to create a level playing field for entrepreneurs in all sectors. In particular, the existence of de facto monopolies is wide- ly blamed for the fact that the retail prices of gasoline in Armenia have dropped by only about 20 percent since oil prices began rapidly falling in summer 2014. The oil prices have tumbled more than three-fold in the past 18 months. Levon Zurabyan, a leader of the opposition Armenian National Congress (HAK), challenged the government to explain this huge price disparity during a question-and-answer session in parliament on Wednesday. "Because of this deliber- ate monopolization, the Armenian economy is now choking," he said. Deputy Prime Minister Vache Gabrielyan told Zurabyan Yerevan - (RFE/RL) The existence of business monopolies that the government has asked the State Commission on the is inevitable in a country like Armenia and the authorities in Protection of Economic Competition (SCPEC) to investigate Yerevan are therefore not seeking to eliminate them, Economy the gasoline prices and determine just how market-based they Minister Karen Chshmarityan said on February 3. are now. The anti-trust body has rarely slapped major fines on "The government has not fought and will not fight against lucrative firms holding dominant positions in their respective monopolies," he told a news conference. "Our legislation and sectors. policies are aimed instead at tackling abuse of monopolist Another opposition lawmaker, Nikol Pashinyan, decried a positions, price collusion and other practices specified by the monopoly on sugar imports to Armenia that has long been law." enjoyed by Samvel Aleksanyan, one of the country's richest "Should we not allow the emergence of monopolies? That's men affiliated with President Serzh Sargsyan's Republican not possible in Armenia," insisted Chshmarityan. Party (HHK). Pashinyan pointed to "lingering rumors" that Some lucrative forms of business in Armenia, notably Aleksanyan is massively evading taxes and that Sargsyan imports of fuel and foodstuffs, have long been controlled by has"personal share" in the tycoon's revenue. large companies belonging to government-linked individuals. The chief of the government staff, Davit Harutiunyan, Local and foreign economists say the resulting lack of compe- brushed aside the allegations, saying that Pashinyan is only tition in those sectors translates into disproportionately high keen to score political points with false statements. prices and hampers faster economic growth. Serzh Sargsyan reportedly defended the sugar monopoly A World Bank survey released in 2013 said that oligopolies when he met with members of the Armenian community in the control 20 percent of economic activity in Armenia, making it Czech Republic during a September 2014 visit to Prague. "Do the most monopolized economy in the former Soviet Union. you want a dozen people to import sugar to a small country?" World Bank officials have repeatedly called on the Armenian the "Aravot" daily quoted the Armenian president as saying.

Dram Dilemma: Armenian national currency shows tendency towards depreciation After a period of relative stability Armenia's national cur- last month said she did not see any jeopardy to dram stabili- rency is showing signs of depreciation as for the first time in ty, but some local economists still predicted that the situation more than a year the Central Bank has set the dram's official at the currency markets of Russia and other former Soviet exchange rate at above 490 per $1. states with which Armenia has trade links will inevitably have The period of the dram's high volatility in December an impact on the dram as well. After trading at under 480 2014, when it lost about 20 percent of its value within just drams per $1 for quite a long time, the dram began to gradu- several days, was followed by more than a year of relative ally lose its ground late last year. In the past several days stability against the background of falling national currencies exchange offices in Yerevan already purchased the greenback in other former Soviet countries. for 492 drams, selling it for 496. The biggest plunge has been taken by the currencies of In Armenia, whose imports considerably exceed exports, Russia, Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan, all of which are major oil any depreciation of the national currency contains risks of exporting nations. inflation, as the cost of imports in dram terms increases. At Armenia, which has no fossil fuel reserves, showed the the same time, among other things, a stronger dram against least rate of currency depreciation during 2015 - at only 1.8 the Russian ruble means stiffer competition for Armenian percent. manufacturers on the Russian market due to a higher cost of The World Bank's Yerevan Office Manager Laura Bailey their products in dollar terms.

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Price: 3574.Blur, Land-779sq.m.,2 storied building- repaired, heating system, 1.300.000$ nego- 720sq.m.,4 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, study, capital- Ac, furnished. tiable ly repaired, heating system,sauna swimming pool, Price: 400.000USD 2012.Mashtots garden. Price: 2.000.000 USD 1156.Komitas Ave., Ave., 5/1,2, 3590 Blur, Barbyus str., Land-450 sq.m.,4 sto- Hambardzumyan str. 5/3, 140sq.m.,window ried building-470sq.m.,3bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 110sq.m, 2 bedrooms, cap- glasses, capitally capitally repaired, heating system, AC, garden. itally repaired, heating system, kitchen is furnished. repaired, AC. Price: 1.100.000$ negotiable Price: 680.000 USD Price: 150.000 USD negotiable. 2155.Mashtots ave., 3storied building, 3651.Blur, Barbyus str., Land-900sq.m.,5 sto- 2949.Aram str., Newly built, 1st floor, 143 sq.m, 540sq.m., each floor-180sq.m, window ried building-800sq.m.,4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2 bedrooms, zero state, Price: 2000 USD per sq.m. glasses,parking. capitally repaired, heating system, AC, garden. 2300.Northern ave., Newly built, 6/2, 130 Price:3.600.000 USD Price:1.700.000 USD. sq.m., 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, capitally repaired, 2020.Hr. Kochar str., Land-300sq.m,1st line, 3401.Antarayin str, Newly built, land-700sq.m, heating system, AC,parking. Price: 400.000 USD. 4storied building, 1080sq.m.,each floor-270sq.m, 3 storied bld-690sq.m, 5 bedrooms, capitally h-3.6m,without divisions, parkings, 3 access. repaired. Price: 1.300.000 USD 3 ROOMS Price:1.400.000 USD negotiable 3712 Cascade Newly built, land-450sq.m, 4 sto- 1986.Cascade, Land 1000sq.m. 3storied build- ried bld-600sq.m, zero state. Price: 550.000 USD 3090 Dzorap Newly built, 190sq.m, 2 bed- ing1200sq.m., unfinished, parking. Price:1.000.000 USD. rooms, study, 2 bathrooms, capitally NEWLY BUILT RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS renovated,parking, Price: 460.000 USD 2167.Sayat Nova str., newly built, 38sq. m, 3090. Busand str, /Near Republic Square/, capitally repaired. Price: 200.000 USD 142. Verin Antarayin str., 14 floors, 65-133sq.m, Newly built, /6th floor,116sq.m, 2 bedrooms, 2 2175.Tumanyan str, Ground and 1st floorof the capitally renovated, parking. Price: 900-1300 USD bathrooms one in master bedroom, capitally reno- building, 600sq.m, ground floor300sq.m, 1st floor- 74.Cascade, Verin Antarayin. 136-315 sq vated, open balcony. Price: 350.000 USD nego- 220sq,m, basement-80sq.m, - 1st line, zero level, 2 m.,walls plastered, electricity, water, gas, euro win- tiable entrances, facade-15m, 4 window glasses, capital- dows,no exploitation fees. Price:1200 USD per 3046.Amiryan str., Newly built, 9/9, ly reapired, heating system, AC, Price: 3500 USD sq.m, parking -15.000 USD. 81sq.m.,without divisions. Price:Negotiable. per sq.m, 107.Monument, Verin Antarayin. inhabited, 8 3012.Aram str, Newly built, /7th floor, 136sq.m, 2172. Isahakyan str, 92sq.m, 1st line, 7 floors, gas, windows, street view -1000 USD per 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, capitally repaired, heat- degrees above zero level, facade-9m, 2 window sq.m., city looking -1500 USD per sq.m., parking - ing system, AC, parking, facing to bulvar, glasses, h-3.20m, 2 halls, cabinet, bathroom, capi- 4 million USD preliminary. Price:300.000 USD negotiable. tally repaired, heating system. Price: 450.000 87.Sayat-Nova str., 21 floors, 3 bedrooms -188 2998.North Ave, Newly built, 9/6, 181sq.m, USD sq.m., 199 sq.m., Price 1900 USD per sq.m., 2 bed- 3bedrooms, capitally repaired, climate control, rooms have a beautiful sight - 117 sq.m., 120 parking, Price: 700.000 USD LANDS sq.m., 124 sq.m.,Price: 1700 USD per sq.m., cli- 2682.Aram Str., Newly built,13/6 187sq.m., 3 mate control, gas. bedrooms,2 bathrooms, 2 open balconies, capitally 2122.Davitashen, 1800 sq.m., water, gas, elec- 93.Kievyan str., Given to the operation in reapaired,heating systen, 2AC, 2 garages, view to tricity, possible to sell separately 600 sq.m., and October 2011, 16 floors, walls plastered, windows, garden. Price: 550.000 USD negotiable. 1200 sq.m. Price: 150 USD per sq.m. exterior doors, h -3, 15 m, gas,parking. Price: 1500- 2958.Pushkin str., 5/2, 140 sq.m., stone build- 2121.Demirchyan str., 1338 sq.m.,building per- 1600USD per sq.m,parking-12 000 USD. Possible ing,4 bedrooms,capitally repaired,heating system. mits. Price: 2million USD. with mortgage, for 13 years term. Price: Negotiable. 2013.Cascade. 1000 sq.m. building permits, first 94.Masiv. 3floors,8 flats,each flat has 3 bed- 2895.Northern Ave., Newly built, 3rd floor, line, gas, water and electricity possibilities. Price rooms, 210 sq.m., parking. Price: negotiable. 300sq.m,3bedrooms, 2 bathrooms,capitally 460.000USD 130.Antarayin str., 34 flats, 110-275 sq.m., 4 repaied, climate control, AC. Price: negotiable 1402.Hr. Kochar Str., 1100 sq. m.,facade -25 m. penthouses-200-275sq.m,available sevices-car 2802.Amiryan str., Newly built,8/4, Price negotiable. wash, cleaning service, garbage removal service, 166sq.m,3bedrooms, 2 bathrooms,capitally 2090.Lori region, close to Stepanavan, Gyargyar parking. Price: Negotiable repaired, central heating,AC,security system. village, 6 hectares, forest 2 hectare has building 131.Busand str., commercial, office and resi- Price:320.000 USD. permits, 3 water source, electricity. Price: dential areas, penthouse, available sevices-car 1104.Komitas Ave., Aram Khachatryan str., 100.000USD. wash, cleaning service, garbage removal service, 5/2, 125sq.m.,stone bld, h-2.75m.,3 bedrooms, 2406.Avan, Mher Mkrtchyan block, 1000 sq.m., parking. Price: Negotiable office, 2 bathrooms, old repair, gas, garage. Price:

9 February #4 (1092) 2016 FOR RENT The Noyan Tapan Highlights www.nt.am 9 YOUR CHOICE IS OUR CHOICE www.mrealty.am (010) 564631 (010) 562181 [email protected] 12 G. Lusavorich str., Yerevan, Armenia 227sq.m.,4bedrooms, 2bathrooms, guest toilet, capi- 1195.Nork, Armenakyan str., Land - 2000 sq.m, 4 1 ROOM tally repaired, furnished,parking. Price:2500 USD storied bld.-520 sq.m., 4 bedrooms, 4bathrooms, 2303 Hanrapetutyan str Newly built, 9/5, capitally repaired, heating system, sauna, gym, fur- 2037.Baghramyan str., 5/2, 60sqm, 1 bedroom, 165sq.m, 3bedrooms,1bathroom, 1 guest toilet. cap- nished, swimming-pool, garden. Price: 4.000 USD euro repaired, gas, heating system, AC, modern fur- itally repaired, furnished, parking. Price: 2000 USD negotiable. nished,equipped. Price:negotiable 2257.Northern Ave., Newly built, 17/16, 160 1142.Djrvej, Bagrevand community. Land-1000 2189.Vardanants str., Newly built,24/12, 90 sqm, sq.m.,3 bedrooms, capitally repaired, heating system, sq.m., 3 storied bld.-700 sq.m., 5 bedrooms, 5 bath- 1 bedroom, capitally repaired, furnished, equipped. AC, parking. Price: Negotiable rooms, pantry, playing room, capitally repaired, no Price: 1000 USD. 2005.Northern Ave., Newly built,8/8, 130 sq.m, 3 furniture/ can be furnished, if necessary /garage for 2 2099.Sayat-Nova Ave., 12/6, 1 bedroom, capital- bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, capitally repaired, heating cars. Price: 4 000 USD. ly repaired,gas, heating system, AC, furnished, system, furnished, parking. Price: 2200 USD. 1293.Nork-Marash, Land-1100sq.m,2 storied bld- equipped. Price:600 USD. 1723.Northern Ave., Newly built,8/4., 170 sq.m 3 520 sq.m, 6 bedrooms,5 bathrooms, capitally 1972.Northern ave., 8/4, 80sq.m.,1bedrrom, 2 bedrooms,3 bathrooms, open kitchen, capitally repaired, heating system, AC, swimming pool, gar- bathrooms, open kitchen, capitally repaired, climate repaired, furnished, equipped. Price: 2000 USD. den.Price7.000 USD control. Price: 1200 USD 1981.Vardanants Str., Newly built, 14/14, 140 sq 327. Nork-Marash, Land-500sq.m.,4 storied 2171.Tumanyan str., Newly built, 5th floor, 94 m,3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, capitally repaired, heat- building-600 sq.m., 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, capi- sq.m., 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, capitally repaired, ing system, AC, 3 open baconies, furnished, tally repaired, heating system, furnished, equipped, central heating, furnished, equipped. Price: 1000 USD equipped,parking. Price: 2000 USD. swimming pool, garden, sauna, 2 car parking. Price- 2367.Northern ave., Newly built, 9th flloor, 98 1793.Teryan str., Newly built, 8th floor, 260 sq.m.,3 4000 USD sq.m., capitally repaired, heating system, furnished bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, study, capitally repaired, cli- 1306. Tsarav Akhbyur /near Botanical garden/, equipped. Price: Negotiable. mat control, parking, unfurnished (possible to furnish), Land-1000sq.m., 3 storied building-750sq.m., 6 bed- Price: 3500 USD. rooms, 5 bathrooms, 2 kitchens, capitally repaired, 1720.Amiryan str., Newly built,16/10, 179 sq.m, 3 heating system swimming pool, garden, sauna, 2 car 2 ROOMS bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, capitally repaired, central parking, with or without furniture. Price:6000-8000 heating, AC, cellar- 25sq.m, with or without furniture, USD negotiable 2302 North Ave, Newly built, 11/4, 137sq.m, parking, Price 3000 USD negotiable 1288. Tsarav Akhbyur /near Botanical garden/, 2bedrooms,2bathrooms,capitally repaired, furnished, 2195.Northern ave., Newly built, 3rd floor, Land-560sq.m., 4 storied building-560 sq.m., 4 bed- parking. Price: 2000 USD 300sq.m, 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 2 kitchens, cap- rooms, 4bathrooms, a kitchen, office, capitally 1780.Amiryan str, Newly built, /13th floor, 82 sq.m, repaired, heating system, furnished, equipped, swim- 2 bedrooms, capitally repaired, heating ming pool,garden, 2 car parking. Price: 5000 USD system, AC, furnished, equipped. Price: 1197. Blur, Land-779sq.m.,2 storied building- 1700 USD negotiable. 720sq.m.,4 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, study, capitally 942.Teryan str. 4/3, 130 sq.m.,2 bed- repaired, heating system, sauna swimming pool, gar- rooms, capitally repaired, heating sys- den. Price:8000 USD tem, furnishred, equipped. Price: 1500 1312. Blur, Barbyus str., Land-450sq.m., 4 sto- USD. ried building-470sq.m., 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 1950.Buzand/Mashtots area. Newly capitally repaired, heating system, AC, garden. Price: built, 8th floor, 163 sq.m., 2 bedrooms, Negotiable 2 bathrooms, capitally repaired,climate 1317. Blur, Barbyus str., Land-900sq.m.,5 storied control, furnished, open balcony. Price: building-800sq.m., 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, capi- 2500 USD. tally repaired, heating system, AC, garden. Price: 1681.Northern Ave., Newly Negotiable. built,6/2,130 sq.m.,2 bedrooms, 2 1323.Monument, Babayan str, Land - 400 sq.m, 3 bathrooms, capitally repaired, heating storied bld-300sq.m, each floor-100sq.m, 4 bed- system, AC,parking. rooms, 4 bathrooms, capitally repaired, heating sys- Price: 2000 USD. tem, AC, furnished, equipped. Price: Negotiable 1535.Busand str., Newly built, 7/4, 82sq.m,2bedrooms, capitally repaired, heating system, AC, parking, furnished, PREMISES itally repaired,climate control, AC, parking. equipped. Price: Negotiable. Price:5000 USD 1738.Amiryan str., 8/8, 159sq.m.,2 bedrooms, 2 2049.Teryan str, ground floor+basemnet, 1st line, 2261.Hin Yerevantsi, /North Avenue/, Newly bathrooms, capitally repaired, heating system, park- 200sq.m, repaired. Price: 6.000 USD built, 10/3, 124sq.m., 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, cap- ing. Price: Negotiable 1693.Malatia-Sebastia 4 storied building, itally repaired, heating system, AC, furnished, 1951.Busand str., Newly built, 13th floor, 122sq.m, 1200sq.m, each floor-300sq.m, 2 separate entrances, equipped, parking. Price: 1700 USD 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, capitally repaired, climate climate control, 2 elevators, basement, parking. Price: 2084.Tumanyan str., 4th floor, 200sq.m, 3 bed- control. Price: 2500 USD 15USD per sq.m. rooms, 2 bathrooms, capitally repaired, climate con- 1406.Sayat Nova ave., 7/3, 110sq.m., 2 bed- 1526.Byuzand str., 5/semi-basement, 170 sqm., 4- trol, parking. Price:5000 USD rooms, 2 bathrooms, capitally reapired, heating sys- 5 degrees below zero level,window glasses, cellar - 50 2252.Northern ave, 7th floor, 350 sq.m., 3 bed- tem, furnished, equipped. Price: Negotiable sq.m.,6 rooms, the largest is 30 sq.m., 2 entrances, 2 rooms, 4 bathrooms, study, open balconies, capitally 2109.Northern ave., Newly built,10/4, 137sq.m, 2 lavatories. Price 2000 USD per month, negotiable. repaired, climate control, parking. Price Negotiable. bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, capitally repaired, central 1408.Zarobyan str., /parallel to Baghramyan str./, heating, furnished, equipped, parking. Price: 2000 2 storied building,600 sqm. ground floor- hall and USD. PRIVATE HOUSES kitchen,1st floor 5 rooms, bathroom, open balcony, 2243.Buzand str, Newly built, 17/4, 125sq.m, 2 capitally repaired, gas, heating system,parking. Price: bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, capitally repaired, heating 1335 Baghramyan str., Land-200sq.m, 3storied Negotiable. system, AC, furnished, equipped. Price: 2000 USD bld-300sq.m.,4 bedrooms, 3bathrooms,capitally 1462.Teryan str., 3 storied building, 800 sq.m., cap- Amiryan str, Newly built, 14/5, 120sqm, 2 bed- repaired, furnished. Price: 3000 USD itally repaired, AC, parking, Price: 10.000 USD. rooms, 2 bathrooms, capitally repaired, heating sys- 1336 Aygedzor, Land-1000sq.m, 2 storied bld- 1945.Mashtots Ave., 5/1,2, 140sq.m., window tem, AC, partly furnished. Price 2000 USD 240sq.m, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathroosm,capitally glasses, capitally repaired, AC. Price: 8000 USD repaired, furnished. Price:2000 USD 1943.Tumanyan str., Ground floor of the building, 1337 Davtashen Land-406sq.m,3 storied bld- 265sq.m.,1st line, capitally repaired, heating system, 3 ROOMS AND MORE 306sq.m, 4bedrooms, 2bathrooms, capitally repaired, cellar. Price: 7000 USD furnished. Price:3900 USD 1868.Tumanyan str., Ground floor of the building, 2358 V. Sargsyan str, Newly Built, 7/4, 145sq.m, 3 1323.Monument, Babayan str, Land-400sq.m, 220sq.m.,1st line, facade-55m.,capitally repaired, h- bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, one guest toilet, capitally 3storied bld-300sq.m, 4bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, cap- 5m., cellar. Price: 15.000 USD. renovated, furnished, underground parking. itally repaired. Price: Negotiable 2087.Northern ave., Ground floor of the building, Price:3000 USD negotiable 1248.Aygedzor, Land - 1021 sq m ,3 storied bld. - 100sq.m,1st line, zero level, capitally repaired, win- 2353 V. Sargsyan str. 8/5, Newly built, 98sq.m, 501 sq.m., 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, study, capitally dow glasses. Price: Negotiable. 2bedrooms,capitally renovated, furnished, Price 1500 repaired, central heating, AC, sauna, boiler room 2033.Abovyan str, 388sq,m, Ground floor of the USD garden, swimming pool, garage, alarming system, building, 3 degrees above zero level, windoq glasses, 2347 Teryan str. Newly built, 10/8, 320sq.m, 3bed- security system. Price: 8000 USD. h-3m.,basement-235sq.m, capitally repaired, heat- rooms, office, 3 bathrooms, capitally repaired, fur- 999.Aygedzor, Land -1000 sqm, basement + 2 ing system, AC. Price: 15.000 USD nished. Price: Negotiable floors- 310 sqm, capitally repaired, 4 bedrooms, 4 2031.Vardanants str, 500sq.m, ground floor of the 2277.Kievyan str. duplex, 4 bedrooms, 3 bath- bathrooms, newly furnished, equipped, sauna, swim- building, 2 entrances, facade-20m, window glasses, rooms, capitally repaired, with or without furniture. ming-pool. Starting Price: 5000 USD. without divisions, ,basement-250sq.m, Price:8000 Price: Negotiable. 1094.Noy block, Land-450sqm, 2 storied building - USD 2310 Busand str., Newly built, 190sq.m, 3bed- 220sq.m, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, capitally 2027.Sayat Nova str, 95sq.m, ground floor of the rooms, 3bathrooms, capitally repaired, furnished, repaired, heating system, furnished, equipped, swim- building, 2 entrances, 7 degrees above zero level, 4 parking. Price: 2500 USD ming pool, garden. Price: 2000USD. window glasses, capitally repaired. Price: 4.000 USD 2316 Northern Ave, Newly built,6th floor,

9 February #4 (1092) 2016 10 www.nt.am POLITICS Innovative approaches to diaspora engagement discussed in Yerevan use of diaspora and migrants' support for child-focused reforms and discuss their potential application in Armenia. Diaspora and migrants' support, complementary to official development strategies, policies and practice, has a great potential in contributing to local and social sector development and furtherance of new and alternative child-related reforms, including allevi- ating child poverty and benefitting the most vulnerable families and children. Addressing the event, Armenian Deputy Foreign Minister Ashot The United Nations Children's Armenia" project, funded by the Hovakimyan said the relations with the Fund (UNICEF) and the Ministry of European Union and implemented by Diaspora are of great importance for Diaspora of the Republic of Armenia UNICEF in Armenia. The objective of Armenia. held a conference on February 3 on the conference was to familiarize a "The conference is a good opportu- innovative approaches to diaspora wide range of stakeholders with inno- nity to discuss the innovative engagement and use of remittances for vative ways of diaspora engagement approaches towards Armenia-Diaspora child well-being in Armenia. worldwide in various spheres of the cooperation strategy, and creation of a The conference was organized country's development, present the cooperation network for involving the within the framework of the "Social recently developed research on interna- Diaspora in the development of the Response to Labour Migration in tional experience and practices of the Homeland," he said. Arman Saghatelyan appointed as Executive Director of Public Radio of Armenia Arman Saghatelyan has been General of the "Pan-Armenian Media appointed as Executive Director of the Group" CJSC. Between 2011 and 2013 Public Radio of Armenia. The candida- he headed the the scientific-education- cy was confirmed at a sitting of the al center of information and public Council of Public Television and Radio communication technologies at the Company of Armenia. Born on August Yerevan Brusov State University of 26, 1975, Arman Saghatelyan graduat- Languages and Social Sciences ed from Armenian Agricultural He holds an Associate's Degree in Academy in 1997 and completed his Ministry of Defense in 2000-2004 and Political Science and has authored over post-graduate studies at the National hosted a TV program Zinuzh (armed a dozen of scientific articles and educa- Academy of Sciences in 2000. force). Between 2010 and 2011 he tional programs. In 1997-1999 he served his com- worked as Adviser to Director of the Arman Saghatelyan worked as RA pulsory military service at the informa- "Public Relations and Information President's Spokesman from 2013 to tion department of the Ministry of Center" State Non-Commercial 2015. Saghatelyan has been awarded Defense. Organization. Saghatelyan was the with "participant of 1992-1994 mili- Saghatelyan worked as a civil Director of the ArmRadio FM 107 tary operations" and "Garegin Nzhdeh" expert on public relations in the Radio, and worked as Deputy Director medals. 9 February #4 (1092) 2016 POLITICS www.nt.am 11 Genocidaire Talaat's last interview shortly before his assassination Intelligence, ordered him to leave heinous crime. Talaat stated that "he immediately for Germany and meet had written a memorandum on the Talaat. The secret rendezvous took Armenian massacres which he was place on February 26, in the small very anxious that British statesmen German town of Hamm. should read. Early in the war, in 1915, Aubrey Herbert, British diplomat, Talaat told Herbert again that "he the Armenians had organized an adventurer, intelligence officer, and himself had always been against the army, and had attacked the Turks, Member of Parliament, conducted a attempted extermination of the who were then fighting the Russians. rare interview with Talaat Pasha, in Armenians." More incredibly, Talaat Three Armenian deputies had taken February 1921, just days before his claimed that "he had twice protested an active part; the alleged massacres assassination in Berlin by Soghomon against this policy, but had been over- of Moslems had taken place, accom- Tehlirian. ruled, he said, by the Germans." panied by atrocities on women and As all-powerful Grand Vizier of Forgetting his own claims of inno- children. He had twice opposed the Ottoman Empire, its despotic cence in the massacres, Talaat justi- enforced migration, and he had been ruler and mastermind of the fied the mass killings by accusing the author of an inquiry which result- Armenian Genocide, Talaat had fled Armenians of stabbing his country in ed in the execution of a number of Turkey in November 1918 to avoid the back during the war. guilty Kurds and Turks." prosecution by the new regime. The Contradicting himself again, Talaat Ironically, Talaat boldly told 23-page interview with Talaat was declared his support for Armenians Herbert that he was not afraid of published in 1924 (London) and 1925 by claiming that "he was in favor of being assassinated. "He said that he (New York) in Herbert's memoirs granting autonomy to minorities in never thought of it. Why should any- titled, "Ben Kendim: A Record of the most extended form, and would one dislike him? I said that Eastern Travel." gladly consider any proposition that Armenians might very well desire Herbert first met Talaat in 1908 was made to him." vengeance, after all that had been while stationed at the British Talaat then switched the blame to written about him in the papers. He Embassy in Constantinople the British for the Armenian killings: brushed this aside." Two weeks later, (Istanbul). Eleven years later, Herbert "You English cannot divest your- Talaat was assassinated in Berlin by received an unexpected letter from selves of responsibility in this matter. Soghomon Tehlirian! Talaat seeking a meeting with him "in We Young Turks practically offered Concluding his interview of any neutral country." Desperately Turkey to you, and you refused us. Talaat, Herbert observed: "He died seeking to rehabilitate his diabolical One undoubted consequence has been hated, indeed execrated, as few men image in the West, Talaat claimed that the ruin of Christian minorities, have been in their generation. He may "he was not responsible for the whom your Prime Minister has insist- have been all that he was painted - I Armenian massacres, that he could ed on treating as your allies. If the cannot say. I know that he had rare prove it, and that he was anxious to Greeks and Armenians are your allies power and attraction. I do not know do so." Herbert turned down Talaat's when we are at war with you, you whether he was responsible or not for request telling him: "I was very glad cannot expect our Turkish the Armenian massacres." to hear that it was not he who was Government to treat them as friends." Only experts of that time period responsible for the Armenian mas- Herbert and Talaat then decided to can verify the authenticity and accu- sacres, but that I did not think any move to Dusseldorf, Germany, where racy of this lengthy interview. If true, useful purpose could be served by our they continued their discreet conver- what exactly were Talaat's aims in meeting at that time." sation for two more days. Herbert proposing "an Anglo-Turkish However, Herbert reversed his reported Talaat's paradoxical attempt alliance" and why was the British decision in February 1921, after Sir to cover up his role in the Armenian government so anxious to talk to Basil Thomson, Director of British Genocide, while justifying this him? 9 February #4 (1092) 2016 12 www.nt.am SOCIETY Ralph Yirikian's Personal Support to People Living in Borderland Village of Khachik

The housing problem of two more rible when you feel that not the enemy but ovate the dilapidated asbestos roof that families is solved in the the borderland your own house can put the life of your was completely decomposed and the Khachik village of Vayots Dzor region. family under danger. My family is one of house was damaged due to rains and With the personal support of VivaCell- those living in a shelter of 4th level of thaws. MTS Founding General Manager Mr damage rate. With help of the great man “There are people who by their Ralph Cesar Yirikian a family has fin- now we have not only a safe but also a nature demonstrate the classic example ished the construction of their half-built decent and a comfortable home. Frankly of being a humanist – be that in work, in house, and another one has renovated the speaking it was not a surprise for us; we family, in everyday life. It is impossible to roof of its house. For the housing project believed that Mr Yirikian can't stay indif- imagine Ralph Yirikian without helping Fuller Center for Housing Armenia has ferent. May God bless him and his fami- someone. On behalf of my family I want yet again undertaken the organization of ly,” said Kamo, the father of the to extend our gratitude to him and his the construction works. Kourekhyan family. family for becoming a helping hand for

Ralph Yirikian and Fuller Center for Housing Ar- menia President Ashot Yeghiazary- an visited Khachik community to share the joy of house- warming with the families. Four months ago the Kourekh- yans still lived in a house of us,” said Vardan, the 4th level of damage rate that Hovhannisyan family father. could not be renovated; even more, there was a dan- A note from The High- ger that it could collapse any lights: moment. Four years ago the We want to ask a couple family started the construc- of questions aloud: tion of their new house but First, does still in Arme- could build only the walls nia a field or a big group of and the ceiling. Support was people remain that has not needed for completing the enjoyed yet VivaCell-MTS construction of the half- corporate and its Founding built house and they got it. General Manager Mr Ralph Now everything has Cesar Yirikian’s PERSON- changed; the family feels AL help? the magic power of the good Second, are the Arme- will. For the Hovhannisyans living in nia’s Leading Telecom Operator and its “Our village is on the border, and we neighborhood of the Kourekhyans the Leader the ONLY business entity/person have somehow adapted to living with the year was fruitful too; thanks to the sup- that are able to help OUR COMPATRI- feeling of danger. But it is even more hor- port of Mr. Yirikian the family could ren- OTS IN NEED?!!

9 February #4 (1092) 2016 CULTURE The Noyan Tapan Highlights www.nt.am 13 “Remember Tchaikovsky: Sergey Smbatyan Took the Sarajevo Philharmonic Orchestra for Perfection” SYOA Head Conducts the Biggest Orchestra of Bosnia and Herzegovina with Ovation

By Gourgen James Warsaw Philharmoniker, Korean Chamber based on the Russian traditional songs, and Orchestra and also the London their fascination contained in the all of the Khazhakian Philharmony Orchestra…He has had joint author's compositional strategy. This is a Chief Correspondent work wit the famous actor John Malkovich symphony in which everything is beautiful, in an interesting music project, and played and very complicated, not only in technical, On 5 February the Artistic Director and a concert with a prominent artist Maksim but also in the musical sense. There are not Chief Conductor of the State Youth Vengerov in Vindsor”. In his interview so many works in music literature that make Orchestra of Armenia (SYOA) Sergey before the concert Sergey Smbatyan said each member of the orchestra to play with Smbatyan conducted Sarajevo that his most important project was creation the same degree of enthusiasm. The Fourth Philharmonic Orchestra in Sarajevo of the State Youth Orchestra of Armenia that Symphony of Tchaikovsky gives the oppor- National Theatre. The soloist was Ran Jia has been headed and conducted by him. tunity to enjoy playing and to give the best (piano, China), a laureate of Khachatourian "My initial idea ten years ago was to bring of myself. I am sure that we will perform International Competition. Pieces of together musicians and to play music, but I well in Sarajevo. " Ludwig Van Beethoven and Pyotr could not even to dream then that we’ll turn And … “Since Smbatyan comes from Tchaikovsky were performed. Below Armenia which has a significant and The Highlights readers can find essen- well-known musical tradition, we ask tial extracts from the stories on the con- the conductor if he has any contact with cert and the guest conductor published this type of expression”. in Radiosarajevo.ba. "You're right, we have a really In a story entitled as “Remember strong and rich musical tradition. Even Tchaikovsky: Sergey Smbatyan Took the our traditional instrument duduk has Sarajevo Philharmonic Orchestra for become popular in many examples of Perfection” the author says that the film music. Our music tradition is some- Fourth Symphony by Tchaikovsky per- thing that gives us opportunity to build formed by the orchestra and young new musical stories. Our orchestra per- guest conductor from Armenia Sergey forms a combination of Armenian folk Smbatyan will be remembered as one of and symphony music time after time". the best Tchaikovsky performances. According to the author, the young The aticle says: “…(The Fourth) conductor expressed his pleasure he Symphony of the famous Russian com- came to Sarajevo and met with Sarajevo poser is a complicated work that Philharmonic: "I am very glad that I'm requires good technical and physical here and I'm working with the Sarajevo capability, well-organized team and an Philharmonic Orchestra as so many exclusive musical sensitivity of the young professionals play within it. I orchestra. And Armenian conductor think it is good that this orchestra gives suceeded to get all four components from to an Orchestra that we have today, with the the opportunity to young musicians…. They the musicians. His energy conquered both state status, financial support, big reper- provide a stimulus and new energy. In the the orchestra and the audience, so we all toire and 4-5 concerts per year given Sarajevo Philharmonic I feel a great deal of were not given respite. The first part of the abroad. So, again, it is the top achievement enthusiasm and desire to do better. I know Symphony, the most complicated one, pre- in my career. Heading the orchestra is not that this is the biggest orchestra in Bosnia sented us all the grace of the brass section, mere the music and the concerts...That’s and Herzegovina, and that in addition to and the concert has proven that the why I am striving to be in Armenia as much concerts they play operas and ballets which Sarajevo Philarmonic is able to compete as possible…”. is a difficult and demanding thing... " the best orchestras in the region…” The author asks: “But, nonetheless, he Finally, Maestro Smbatyan was asked And…“The audience reacted to conducted the London Philharmony, the by the journalist about his collaboration Smbatyan’s conducting by an ovation at the some thinks it could be a pinnacle of his with the world famous actor John end of the concert, and that ovation is an career…” Malkovich. "First of all, we're good friends. indication of the fact that the audience has Smbatyan responds: “Yes, I’ve worked You know, Malkovich is a big fan of com- excellent criterias”, the author says and with the three biggest orchestras in London, poser Alfred Schnitke works, and he wanted heaping praise to the pianist Ren Jia of and I’ve conducted Dresden to show his legacy the world. That is how China, as she, having “elegantly-fragile Philharmoniker, Israel Philharmony the project Report on the Blind in which the look”, masterfully played Beethoven “with Orchestra, leading Korean orchestras as famous actor is the narrator, with a soloist ruthless force”, and… “Beethoven's genius well.. Today you can find really great on the piano Ksenia Kogan, with myself as comes to the fore during the performances orchestras all over the world, and that is conductor was performed in Seoul, Korea, that Ren Jia gave us”. because we have a lot of good musicians. and has experienced tremendous success. The same author, Vesna Andree But how important is to have good musi- Next year we will have a lot of concerts Zaimovic, published an article in the eve of cians, so it is also no less important the across Europe… John Malkovich is really the concert entitled as “He Played with the selection of repertoire.” the best actor, and he has an amazing mind, London Symphony and John Malkovich, And why Sergey Smbatyan has choosen as it was evidenced by his fascination by and Tonight He Performs in Sarajevo”. Tchaikovsky to perform in Sarajevo? Schnittke and his contemporary music. The story, in particular, says: “Sergey "I studied Tchaikovsky at the Rarely you meet someone who is not a musi- Smbatyan, a young Armenian conductor, is Conservatory, so that composer was some- cian but knows so much about this compos- conquering the world with his art. In his thing like the foundation of my musical er. He is really trying to expand your hori- career Smbatyan played with Mariinsky knowledge. The Fourth Symphony of zons, and I am happy to know him and to Orchestra, Moscow Philharmoniker, Tchaikovsky is a wonderful music. It is work with him", Smbatyan said.

9 February #4 (1092) 2016 14 www.nt.am The Noyan Tapan Highlights CULTURE Australian Senator slams "ludicrous" anti-Armenian statement on Karabakh by MP Simpkins Senator Joe Bullock of Western as the rights to self-determination for the Australia has delivered a speech in Armenians of Nagorno Karabakh. Australia's Senate, blasting the anti- After highlighting the historical back- Armenian stance on Nagorno-Karabakh ground of how Nagorno Karabakh was recently expressed by his fellow Federal always Armenian, and explaining the Australian politician, MP for Cowan, Luke oppressive Azeri regime forcing the Simpkins, the Armenian National Armenians of the region to vote for Committee of Australia reports. Independence in a referendum, Bullock Simpkins, the Chair of the Azerbaijan said: Australia Parliamentary Friendship Group, "To speak, as the Member for Cowan recently travelled to Azerbaijan as a guest [Simpkins] has repeatedly done in the of the petro-Dictatorship, and has since other place [House of Representatives], of refused to meet with the Armenian side of the 'illegal occupiers of the Nagorno- needs to take care that its efforts to increase the Nagorno-Karabakh issue. Despite this Karabakh region of Azerbaijan' is ludi- exports of butter to Azerbaijan do not result unbalanced approach, and despite the crous. How can a people who have lived in the Azerbaijanis more confidently turn- Australian media questioning his relations continuously in this region for centuries ing their guns onto the brave citizens of with Azerbaijan and his other activities illegally occupy their own land?" Nagorno-Karabakh." abroad, Simpkins has remained steadfast in Bullock added: "Furthermore, such ANC Australia Executive what the Armenian National Committee of uncritical support for Azerbaijan's absurd Administrator, Arin Markarian welcomed Australia (ANC Australia) has called his demand that this brave little nation commit the speech made by Senator Bullock in the "assumed role as the chief communicator suicide, dismantle its 25-year-old democra- Senate. "It is refreshing that we have legis- of the Azeri propaganda in Australia's cy and hand over its people to the tender lators in Australia like Senator Bullock, Parliament". mercies of the Azerbaijan government can who received a visit from an Armenian del- On the first 2016 sitting day of only serve to strengthen the intransigence egation, then researched the issues we Parliament, Bullock spoke in Australia's of the Azerbaijanis in refusing to recognise advocated, before reaching a conclusion on Senate, recalling his late-2015 meeting the reality of Nagorno-Karabakh's nation- his own, which he has now communicated with an ANC Australia delegation headed hood." "As Nobel Peace prize winner to Parliament," said Markarian. by Republic of Nagorno Karabakh MP, Andrei Sakharov said in November 1989, "He has shone a light on the plight of Davit Ishkhanyan. shortly before his death: 'For Azerbaijan the Armenians of Nagorno Karabakh, and He proceeded to call out Simpkins's the issue of Karabakh is a matter of ambi- advocated for their rights to self-determi- "uncritical support for Azerbaijan", sight- tion; for the Armenians of Karabakh, it is a nation on what is their native land." ing the history of the region of Nagorno- matter of life or death'." Markarian concluded: "We commend Karabakh and why this democracy does Bullock concluded his powerful Senator Bullock for this, and for leading not deserve the treatment the West address by saying: "[Nazi Germany Australian political discourse on this issue Australian MP is serving. In his speech, Propaganda Minister] Joseph Goebbels back to the moral high ground, like Mr. Bullock also acknowledged the historical may have notoriously preferred guns to John Alexander has done before him in the reality of the Armenian Genocide, as well butter, but the Australian government House of Representatives." Arman Navasardyan: Armenia should participate in Syria peace talks play a decisive role in the region, but it's however, that "Armenia should be on alert hard to say to what extent its actions will be and maintain balance, when it comes to pro-Armenian," Amb. Navasardyan said. tension between superpowers." "Tehran has its own interests. When it As for Azerbaijan, Navasardyan said comes to Karabakh, Tehran opposes the "its condition is worse than it could seem at deployment of a foreign contingent in its first sight." "The country has considerably neighborhood," he said, noting that official cut its military budget, has problems with Yerevan should carefully analyze the situa- Talishs, etc." "To put it short, Azerbaijan is tion before making statements. in fever," he said. Arman Navasardyan believes that aside Ambassador Navasardyan commended Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister recent- from its own issues, Armenia should par- the Armenian foreign policy for the simple ly voiced his country's willingness to ticipate in Syria talks. "We are the only reason that it manages to actively cooper- assume a mediating role in the settlement nation with statehood to have a communi- ate with NATO despite being a member of of the Karabakh conflict. "Iran wants to ty there," he said. The Ambassador added, CSTO.

9 February #4 (1092) 2016 SOCIETY The Noyan Tapan Highlights www.nt.am 15 AGBU launches new WebTalks video series on Armenian arts, history and more The Armenian General Benevolent AGBU WebTalks debuts with five Union (AGBU) has launched its latest in videos, produced in partnership with the Education Innovation, the AGBU Zoryan Institute, an international aca- WebTalks online video series. AGBU demic and scholarly center devoted to the WebTalks aims to capture and preserve documentation, study and dissemination the insights of engaging, dynamic of material related to issues of universal thinkers from around the world, speaking human rights, genocide, diasporas and on a wide range of Armenian topics. Armenia. The videos were filmed during With these short videos, AGBU the "Responsibility 2015" international WebTalks seeks to create a rich repository conference held in New York in March of knowledge and provide easy access to 2015 as part of the centennial commemo- reliable information to meet the demands rations of the Armenian Genocide and the Armenian story into their syllabi, giv- of an increasingly connected and visual feature interviews with journalists Laure ing us a new platform for integrating our world. This new platform will bring Marchand and Guillaume Perrier; human heritage in classrooms around the world," together expertise on Armenian topics in rights lawyer Geoffrey Robertson; histo- added Ani Manoukian, AGBU Central one easily accessible online resource. rian Raymond Kévorkian; psychologist Board Member. "Every generation has its own Israel Charny; and professor of history AGBU WebTalks is part of a larger approach to dealing with questions of Richard Hovannisian. The themes of the multimedia platform currently in devel- identity and community. This multigener- aforementioned videos revolve around opment. Set to launch later this year, this ational sharing and learning platform politics and the Armenian Genocide. The online platform is a global access point focuses on access, dissemination and videos currently in production explore a offering innovative multimedia educa- preservation of the knowledge and diverse array of topics from art and archi- tional tools to foster and promote the insight of scholars, intellectuals, artists tecture to classical, jazz and folk music. learning of Armenian language, history and many others on topics pertaining to "AGBU remains committed to and culture. "As part of this larger plat- the Armenian reality. The curated content enhancing education with innovation. form," added Lena Sarkissian, "the allows individuals to navigate and With high quality, accessible content, we WebTalks series provides a living reposi- explore their Armenianness through dif- can not only ensure that Armenians have tory of our distinguished minds as well as ferent perspectives shared by leading an archive of our history, but we can uti- a living archive of our community activi- experts and opinion makers," says Lena lize these tools to further our mission by ties. It is all about making connections-to Sarkissian, AGBU Central Board promoting Armenian subjects to be used knowledge, to leading experts, to one's Member and Director of Program in non-Armenian universities and history, to one's culture, to one's identity, Development at the Zoryan Institute's schools. Now, with AGBU WebTalks, we to being Armenian. Thus, AGBU pro- International Institute for Genocide and can encourage professors of art, architec- vides one more opportunity to help forge Human Rights. ture, history and linguistics to incorporate the future of the Armenian world." Hayastan Fund reconstructs Tchaikovsky music school The Hayastan All-Armenian Fund is elevator and evacuation staircases. touches, including a relief sculpture on the implementing a multi-year renovation proj- The main building of the campus has facade of the main building, created by ect at Yerevan's Tchaikovsky Secondary been thoroughly modernized and now fea- architect Jim Torossian, as well as the interi- Music School, with the sponsorship of the tures a sizeable foyer. The renovations have or relief sculpture and stained-glass win- fund's Eastern US affiliate. Founded in also included the reconstruction of the gym dows, will continue to lend the school an 1939, the school provides a curriculum that and the transformation of the concert hall esthetic character all its own. combines music and general education. into a state-of-the-art auditorium, complete In 2014, the Tchaikovsky Secondary Currently it has more than 600 students. with a new stage and amenities for perform- Music School celebrated the 75th anniver- The extensive renovations are expected ers and audiences alike. Thanks to the refur- sary of its founding. Legendary composer to be completed by the beginning of the bishments, the school's symphony orches- Aram Khachaturyan has called the storied 2016 academic year. To date, the campus, tra, string quartet, brass band, choir, and jazz school a "foundry of musicians." Its alumni which was built in 1973, had undergone band now have comfortable and fully have included Eduard Tadevosyan, Ruben seismic retrofitting, a complete structural appointed rehearsal rooms. Altunyan, Vahram Sarajev, Jean Ter- redesign, and a slew of upgrades. The The final phase of renovations will Mergeryan, Levon Chaushyan, Sergey improvements include a new roof, new include the construction of wheelchair Smbatyan, Tigran Hamasyan, Aram doors and windows, and new heating, air- ramps at the entrance of the school, a com- Talalyan, Vahagn Hayrapetyan, Armen conditioning, electrical, water, plumbing, pletely upgraded lighting system throughout Babakhanyan, Stepan Lusikyan, and other and security systems. Other significant the grounds, and the installation of pavilions musical giants who are the pride of the enhancements include the addition of an and benches in the inner courtyard. Artistic Armenian people.

9 February #4 (1092) 2016 16 www.nt.am The Noyan Tapan Highlights SOCIETY Armenian Assembly of America opposes bailout for Azerbaijan lative junk. "Rather than reward one of the most corrupt dictatorships in the world, whose president, Ilham Aliyev, received the first ever Organized Crime and Corruption Person of the Year award, bestowed by the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project, Azerbaijan should be urged to make much needed reforms and use its oil resources for the betterment of its people and not at the expense of Christian Armenians," the Assembly letter stated. Further, the letter highlighted that "Azerbaijan's president continues his policy of trying to resolve the dispute over Nagorno Karabakh by threatening to wipe Armenia off of the map." The Assembly's response comes as 2015 saw the highest number of Armenian casualties of Azerbaijani snipers and heavy artillery fire since the 1994 cease-fire agreement, including the tar- In a letter sent this week to Secretary of State John Kerry and geting of Armenian schools and other civilian areas along the Treasury Secretary Jack Lew, the Armenian Assembly of America Armenia-Azerbaijan border and Nagorno Karabakh-Azerbaijan (Assembly) urged the U.S. to oppose any proposed bailout for Line of Contact. Azerbaijan's corrupt and authoritarian regime, especially with "The notion of bailing out a corrupt, foreign regime that con- U.S. taxpayer dollars. According to recent media reports, the U.S.- tinues to blockade and attack its Christian neighbor is out of step backed International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank are with America's values," stated Assembly Board Co-Chairmen contemplating a $4 billion bailout for Azerbaijan, while at the Anthony Barsamian and Van Krikorian. "We urge the United same time Standard and Poor's downgraded Azerbaijan's bond rat- States to use its considerable influence as a leading member of the ing sending a warning to investors that they are considered specu- IMF and World Bank to oppose any such bailout," they continued. Goodbye, Antoura Memoir to be presented at Armenian Society of Los Angeles Massis Post - The noteworthy memoir, provide comments via video, and Dr. Goodbye, Antoura: A Memoir of the Viken Yacoubian of Woodbury University Armenian Genocide (Stanford Univ. Press, and the Hamazkayin Central Executive 2015), by the late Karnig Panian, will be Board will serve as Master of Ceremonies. the focus of a program on Thursday, Born in the Anatolian village of Gurin, February 18 at the Armenian Society of Karnig Panian was only five years old Los Angeles in Glendale, CA. The event is when World War I began. Four years later, organized by the National Association for American aid workers found him at an Armenian Studies and Research (NAASR) orphanage in Antoura, Lebanon. He was and co-sponsored by the Ararat-Eskijian among nearly 1,000 Armenian and 400 Museum, Hamazkayin Armenian Kurdish children who had been abandoned changing their Armenian names, forcing Educational and Cultural Society, by the Turkish administrators, left to sur- them to speak Turkish, and erasing their Hamazkayin Jemaran Association, Nor vive at the orphanage without adult care. history. Serount Cultural Association, and Tekeyan He grew up to become an educator and Goodbye, Antoura was translated by Cultural Association. vice-principal at Djemaran, the Armenian Simon Beugekian and edited by Aram Featuring remarks by the author's Lyceum, based in Beirut, Lebanon. Goudsouzian. It includes a foreword by Dr. daughter, Houry Panian Boyamian, His memoir, Goodbye, Antoura, offers Vartan Gregorian and an introduction and Principal of St. Stephen's Armenian the extraordinary story of what he endured afterword by Prof. Keith David Elementary School in Watertown, MA, the in those years-as his people were deported Watenpaugh. event will also include presentations by Dr. from their Armenian community, as his Panian paints a painfully rich and Richard G. Hovannisian, Professor family died in a refugee camp in the deserts detailed picture of the lives and agency of Emeritus of Modern Armenian and Near of Syria, as he survived hunger and mis- Armenian orphans during the darkest days Eastern History, UCLA, and Adjunct treatment in the orphanage. The Antoura of World War I. Ultimately, Karnig Panian Professor of History, USC, as well as inde- orphanage was another project of the survived the Armenian Genocide and the pendent researcher Maurice Missak Armenian Genocide: its administrators, deprivations that followed. Goodbye, Kelechian. Dr. Keith David Watenpaugh of some benign and some cruel, sought to Antoura assures us of how humanity, once the University of California, Davis, will transform the children into Turks by denied, can be again reclaimed.

9 February #4 (1092) 2016 SOCIETY The Noyan Tapan Highlights www.nt.am 17 Clark University grants first-ever doctoral degree in Armenian Genocide Studies Carolyn Mugar and her late husband John O'Connor '78, who was a Clark University trustee, donated the first- ever endowed Chair in Modern Armenian History and Armenian Genocide Studies at any university. They challenged others to join them in supporting this innovative professorship named in honor of Carolyn's parents Stephen and Marian Mugar, as well as Robert Aram '52 and Marianne Kaloosdian. Clark alumnus Robert Kaloosdian, a lawyer in Watertown, MA, and former president of the Washington, D.C.-based Armenian National Institute, is a leader in Armenian affairs. In 2002, the Clark University is privileged to "The award of the first Ph.D. in Kaloosdian Mugar Chair was estab- stand at the forefront in establishing the Armenian Genocide Studies is a huge lished in the History Department and as Armenian Genocide as a distinct focus step forward in the field. Happily, the a constituent member of the Strassler of doctoral study, setting a landmark on first recipient is followed by a robust Center for Holocaust and Genocide Jan. 5, when Khatchig Mouradian pipeline of students pursuing ground- Studies. became the first student to complete a breaking dissertation projects. The "The award of the first Ph.D. in Ph.D. in Armenian Genocide Studies at Armenian Genocide continues to be Armenian Genocide Studies is a huge the Strassler Center for Holocaust and beset by deniers. These young scholars' step forward in the field. Happily, the Genocide Studies. research shows how risible such argu- first recipient is followed by a robust Mouradian defended his disserta- ments are. Scholarship trumps propa- pipeline of students pursuing ground- tion, Genocide and Humanitarian ganda." breaking dissertation projects. The Assistance in Ottoman Syria (1915- Mouradian is currently a visiting Armenian Genocide continues to be 1917), before Professors Taner Ak?am assistant professor at the Division of beset by deniers. These young scholars' and Debórah Dwork, who served as co- Global Affairs at Rutgers University research shows how risible such argu- directors of his dissertation committee. and is the coordinator the Armenian ments are. Scholarship trumps propa- Raymond Kévorkian, Director of the Genocide Program at Rutgers' Center ganda." ~ Debórah Dwork Nubarian Library in Paris, served as the for the Study of Genocide and Human Taner Akçam joined Clark third committee member. Rights (CGHR). He teaches courses on University as Kaloosdian/Mugar "This graduation marks a historic imperialism, mass violence, and con- Professor in fall 2008. A leading geno- turning point in Armenian Genocide centration camps in the history and cide scholar and an authority in the his- research," Akçam said during a celebra- sociology departments at Rutgers. tory of political violence and torture in tion to honor Mouradian, held Jan. 29 in Mouradian is also an adjunct professor late Ottoman and early Republican the Strassler Center's Rose Library. in the philosophy and urban studies Turkey, Akçam is the first scholar of "He is not only the first Doctor of departments atWorcester State Turkish origin to acknowledge the our Armenian Genocide track but also University, where he teaches courses on Armenian Genocide and to publish the first doctorate in North America urban space and conflict in the Middle groundbreaking research on this topic. after so many years of silence in the East, genocide, collective memory, and Clark University is committed to field." human rights. scholarship and inquiry that addresses The event also celebrated Asya Mouradian was the editor of the social and human imperatives on a glob- Darbinyan, a third-year doctoral student Armenian Weekly from 2007-2014. The al basis, and has played a prominent who defended the prospectus of her dis- recipient of numerous awards, role in the development of several aca- sertation, Russian Response to the Mouradian held the Gulbenkian demic disciplines, including psycholo- Armenian Genocide: Humanitarian Armenian Studies research fellowship gy, geography and interdisciplinary Assistance for Armenian Refugees on in 2014 to study the Armenian commu- environmental studies. The pioneering the Caucasus Frontline of WW1 (1914- nity in China in the 20th century. The Strassler Center program in Armenian 1917). Organization of Istanbul Armenians Genocide Studies embodies the Dwork, director of the Strassler awarded him the first Hrant Dink University's history of academic inno- Center, commented on both milestones: Freedom and Justice Medal in 2014. vation.

9 February #4 (1092) 2016 18 www.nt.am The Noyan Tapan Highlights SOCIETY Charles Aznavour: I hope Armenia will finally live in peace In his youth, Charles Aznavour was - but we could always count on our fami- dismissed as being too short (at 5 feet 3 ly and on all the immigrants that were inches), too unattractive (he often jokes around us. himself about his nose job), and having an "We were genuinely happy and it had unusual raspy, hoarse voice. nothing to do with money or power. We However, the French Armenian singer were all just thankful to be alive and proved his early critics wrong, by building together in France." a successful career spanning nine decades, Married three times, with six children, The National writes. Aznavour values his privacy. "They said I shouldn't sing, but never- "One of the most painful memories I theless I continued to sing until my throat have is losing my son, Patrick, in the 70s," was sore," he says. His tenacity paid off - he says. "I don't like to talk about it a lot and then some. and I try to keep my private life to Now 91, he has appeared in more than myself." 60 films, written more than 1,200 songs, Besides being an artist, he is also a sung in eight languages and sold more diplomat and a humanitarian, with a spe- than 180million records. cial focus on Armenia, "the country of my His style revolutionized the classic was also recorded by artists as diverse as soul and roots". French chanson style, creating his own Fred Astaire and Shirley Bassey. "My culture has traces of Armenian "Aznavourian" genre: a mix of French As well as Sinatra, he has collaborated culture but the country of my heart and of soul music, blues, jazz, ballads, pop music with musical greats including Julio my language is France," he says. "I hope and lyrical poetry. Iglesias, Andrea Bocelli, Elton John, Liza Armenia will finally live in peace and that After starting his career at the tender Minnelli and Placido Domingo. all the problems will be resolved with its age of 9 - when he dropped out of school Known for his powerful stage presence borders. We are all cousins and brothers, and started performing with his sister Aida and his charisma, Aznavour says a sense when you think about it, and it is only pol- in plays - he is still writing and releasing of humour has proved important through itics and religion that separate us." new songs and albums, touring the world the years. In 1975 Aznavour, wrote the ballad Ils and performing live. "Humour plays an important role in sont tombés to mark the 60th anniversary Charles Aznavour made his UAE my life because it enables me to face even of the Armenian genocide. In 1988, he debut with a concert at Dubai World Trade the most difficult of situations," he says. launched a fund-raising campaign to help Centre on Friday, organized by Alliance Inspired as a child by another legend, his stricken homeland after an earthquake Française Dubai, as part of Dubai Classics. Maurice Chevalier, and having worked killed 50,000 people. Unesco appointed What keeps him going after all these with Édith Piaf, whose song La Vie en rose him as their permanent ambassador to years? has become a national treasure for France, Armenia. In 2008 he was given Armenian "My love for life," he said, in an exclu- it is fitting that as the last surviving artist citizenship and, a year later, he accepted sive interview with The National. "I am from the golden age of entertainment, he the position as Ambassador of Armenia to very lucky to have found my vocation and has have earned a seat next to them. Switzerland. met interesting people who have fuelled "I have had a beautiful life, for a son of "I am not trying to boast but I have to and nourished my curiosity. an immigrant," he says. "I'm grateful for admit that for an uneducated son of an "I was able to lead this life because I what life has given me. Even though I had immigrant, I could have done far worse," was born and raised in an artistic family to work very hard in my career, working he says. with few means but rich with love and makes me happy. The memories of my His most recent album was last year's support. " family and my childhood are my favourite Encores, which included tracks about his Last month, he topped People With ones." childhood, Piaf and a tribute to the French Money magazine's list of the highest-paid Born Shahnour Varenagh Aznavourian wartime resistance movement. But do not singers of 2015, with an estimated $46 in Paris on May 22, 1924, to an artistic ask him to rank it against any of his previ- million in combined earnings. father and mother who had fled the ous work. He is often described as "France's Armenian genocide. The family, including "I think of my songs as my own chil- Frank Sinatra". He teamed up with the older sister Aida, intended to travel to the dren, so I have no favourites," he says. "I American legend in 1993 for a duet on United States but a visa never came. love them all equally the same - but there You Make Me Feel So Young. Aznavour was dubbed "Charles" by a are a few songs that I am especially proud Just a tiny sample of this prolific hospital nurse who couldn't pronounce his of. artist's French hits include: La name - and it stuck. His parents settled in "Some of them are not very well Bohème(1965), his signature song; his Paris and opened a small Armenian known. I could, perhaps, mention first hit Sur Ma Vie (1956); Tu t'laisses restaurant, Le Caucase, to which they L'instant Present because it's about the aller(1960); Il faut savoir (1961); Les would invite Hungarian orchestras, and present moment, which is challenging to comédiens (1962); La mamma (1963); Et offer free lunches to the less fortunate and write about. I also like the songs on my pourtant (1963); Hier encore (1964); For friends. last album, Encores, because they are Me Formidable (1964); Que c'est triste The family's struggle with poverty, recent - but really I like think of all of Venise (1964); Emmenez-moi (1967) and and life on the road as a young performer them as my babies." et Désormais (1969). during the second world war - when his And if he could change anything, what His signature tracks in English are father hid several Armenian and Russian would it be? 1970s hits She, which has been covered by Jewish immigrants from the German "For myself, I already had a nose job artists including Bryan Ferry, Il Divo and Army - made their way into his songs. 60 years ago," he says. "For the world Elvis Costello, and was the theme song for "Like most Orientals, we had a very around me, I know it seems a bit cheesy the 1999 film Julia Roberts movie Notting united family," he says. "I loved my but if people could live together in peace Hill; and The Old Fashioned Way, which youth, even if it was sometimes a bit harsh and harmony that would be great."

9 February #4 (1092) 2016 The Noyan Tapan Highlights www.nt.am 19 Zodiac Weekly Forecast

Aries (March 20-April 19) Libra (Sep. 23-Oct. 22) A new beginning from June of 2015 A fairly recent change in your home has come to a turning point. You may not and family life is getting on your nerves. even recognize it anymore because so This is a week in which it particularly is much time has passed. This is the time to bothersome. You may feel trapped in a sit- decide to pour significantly more energy uation in which the rules are not apparent, but more covert. into it or quietly let it slip back to the Now is the time to say at least part of what is on your mind so ethers. (Clue: It probably is in the arena of friends, siblings, or that aggravations can be minimized. vehicles.) Scorpio (October 23-November 21) Taurus (April 20 -- May 20) There may be a minor skirmish with a You are feeling restless and need to try partner or roommate over the sharing of something new. Commute by a different resources. This is not the ultimate deal route or go somewhere you have never breaker and the moments of discomfort visited before. Take your partner on a pass fairly quickly if your relationship is hike. It is important to make note of these basically sound. Don't turn the issue into a disaster. restless feelings and do something about them. Otherwise you can become hard to live with, even for Sagittarius yourself. (November 22-December 20) Think carefully about what is truly Gemini (May 20-June 20) important to you now, at this time in your You likely are studying carefully and life. Don't allow old habits or rules from preparing to make a big decision about the past to make your decision for you. If your financial resources. Others might you do let that happen, you will truly resent the outcome. Rise accuse you of overthinking the situation, above your circumstances to a level that can see beyond your but for you this is a serious matter that will ego and the situation becomes more workable. have long term implications. You've thought this over for several months and are now ready to finalize the matter. Capricorn (December 21-January 19) Read the lead paragraph carefully. Cancer (June 21-July 21) One or more structures that you have built You have likely been dealing with a into your life are showing signs of crum- decision concerning property or family bling. If you look straight at the problem issues. You have spent a few weeks in this you may be able to nip it before it process and now you have arrived at a becomes serious. Maybe that structure or plan actually needs to conclusion. If it is a purchase or a sale, go. Perhaps it is impeding you from moving forward. you have the cosmic green light. Whatever the decision, you have made a good choice for everyone concerned. Aquarius (January 20-February 17) You are under considerable pressure to Leo (July 22-August 21) get things accomplished at this time. This You are in a position to mediate effec- could be a time that you decide to let go of tively between two people or two groups. the high pressure or its opposite: you may You have a sense of the big picture and feel it is important enough to put more can bring harmony to the fore. You are in energy into it. If someone external or internal is pressuring you, high gear this week. You must use your consider whether the effort is worth the cost. wits and think quickly. You rather like this kind of stimulation, but use caution with the heavy foot. Pisces (February 18-March 19) You may feel as though you came from Virgo (August 22-September 22) another planet this week. You have been cogitating over a deci- Communications may be misunderstood, sion concerning home, hearth, and family snarled, or lost altogether. Compensate for quite some time. The time has come for this problem by concentrating on and you feel more confident about the speaking the truth as you know it, and lis- solution. It appears to me that you have tening very carefully to what the other mulled as long as you need and it is now a tells you. Then ask for confirmation. good time to take action. Those in romantic relationships are ready now to get serious or let go.

9 February #4 (1092) 2016 20 www.nt.am The Noyan Tapan Highlights Bottles from the cradle of wine: Armenia and Georgia

By David Williams here, in modern-day Armenia in 2011, one of a handful of returning members of The Guardian that archaeologists discovered the world's the Armenian diaspora to play a part in earliest winery, dating back to circa 3,000 the recent revival of its wine industry. What kind of wine were they mak- to 3,500 BC. I may not have found an And, like many, he has been drawn to the ing 5,000 years ago? answer tasting the 2014 vintage (avail- traditional winemaking technique of These wines may not get close, but able in May) of Italian-Armenian Zorik using clay pots (or "karasi") to age his they do hint at the colourful and Gharibian's Karasi made from Armenia's wines. These vessels are also used in unique history of winemaking in this most planted grape variety (which, like some of the many exciting wines coming part of the world the cave, takes its name from the village out of neighbouring Georgia, another of Areni). But, as with the 2013, the sense country with a claim to being the birth- Zorah Karasi Areni Noir, of history brings an added frisson to a place of wine, with Iago Bitarishvili's Armenia 2013: vibrant, highly polished red. arrestingly chewy, honeyed white among the best of these "qvevri" wines. An idle question prompted by the Iago Bitarishvili Chinuri Qvevri 8, vivid opening chapter of A Natural Kakheti, Georgia 2013: Khareba Saperavi, Kakheti, History of Wine, a fascinating new book Georgia 2013: by American academics Ian Tattersall and Gharibian, who was born to an ex-pat Rob Desalle: what kind of wines were Armenian family in Iran, but who settled You can get a hint of the tantalising they making 5,000 years ago in the cave and started a successful business in Italy mix of the red wine-like tannin, subtle at the feet of the Lesser Caucasus after being sent to an Armenian school in herby-bitterness, and faintly coppery Mountains known as Areni-1? It was Venice during the Iranian revolution, is colour of the best Georgian "orange" qvervi wines in Marks & Spencer's beginner's guide to the style, Tblvino Qvevris 2013 (£9). More serious explo- ration would lead to the excellent Pheasant's Tears, and the inky, grippy, earthy, sour black cherry-scented red they make in qvevri from the local saperavi variety (£17.99 for the 2013 Saperavi, Red Squirrel Wine). This is quite magnif- icent with lamb, either roasted or stewed, Georgian-style, with aubergine. Made in stainless steel rather than clay, Khareba's bold but supple saperavi is not quite as complex, but with its liquorice and juicy black berries, it also pairs beautifully with lamb.

President of the NT Media Holding: E-mail: [email protected], URL: www.nt.am The Noah’s Ark Tigran Harutyunyan Address in 28 Isahakian Str., Yerevan, 0009, RA. Editor-in-Chief of the Media Holding: Tel.: (+374 60) 27-64-62 Gayaneh Arakelyan Armenia: (+374 60) 27-64-61 HIGHLIGHTS Director of the Weekly: Address in Masion De L' Armenie, Paris 17e - 95 Marina Harutyunyan Bld. Gouvion, France. Weekly Newspaper, Since May 4, 1993. France: The publisher: NT Holding LTD. Chief Correspondent:Gourgen Khazhakian Tel.: (+33) 01 43 59 66 72 Circulation: 1500 print copies and Proofreader: Susanna Mkrtchian Address in 1146 E. Lexington Dr., #112, Glendale, CA, USA, 91206. 15.600 copies by e-mail list in PDF format ISSN 1829-0604 USA: Registration certificate and the date: 273.110.00512, 15.12.1995 Tel.: (+1 818) 646 10 72 9 February #4 (1092) 2016 Price: 1000 dr.