Armenia Surrenders to Turkish Demands

As you know, I disapprove of Armenia's insistence to develop relations with Turkey without precondition. But now, all is lost.

Robert Kocharian rejected Turkey's offer to set up a joint panel of historians to debate the issue and called on Ankara to accept his suggestion of an intergovernmental commission. "The normalization of bilateral relations is the responsibility of governments, not historians," Kocharian was quoted by Reuters as saying.

"That is why we are ready to establish diplomatic relations with Turkey without preconditions, create an intergovernmental commission and to discuss all issues, including the most sensitive," he added.

We all know that whatever commission is in place to discuss the Armenian Genocide will only be for show. Do you really expect Turkey to discover that it indeed killed 1,500,000 Armenians after decades of lies? Come on!

Sadly, this and other calls from Armenia to open relations have been due to the Kars-Tbilisi-Baku railway project, from which Armenia was excluded recently, despite attempts by Armenia and the United States to the contrary. Great! Let's sell our our history for money!

Source: ArmenPress

Foreign Soccer Referees in Armenia

For the soccer / football fans amongst you!

...Football Federation presided over by Ruben Hayrapetyan has made a decision to adopt the system of alternative judgment which allows to invite foreign referees in order to conduct the central matches of the RA league and the Independence Cup.

Nevertheless, the press secretariat of the Federation informed that the Federation is not going to invite foreign referees, although they already have that right. This method is mainly used in the countries where there are scandals connected with referees.

If nothing else, inviting foreign foreign referees would serve to create stronger friendships between involved countries, regardless of any scandals or other disputes.

Source: A1+

Armenian-Georgian Border to be Decided

I was not aware of a border dispute between the countries. Were you?

On February 19-21 the Co-Chairs of the Committee deciding upon the Armenian-Georgian state borderline, RA deputy Foreign Minister Gegham Gharibjanyan and Georgian deputy Foreign Minister Georgi Manjgaladze will meet in Tbilisi.

The sides will discuss issues about several parts of the borderline.

If this is an important story that develops, you'll be the first to know.

Source: A1+

One Man And His Armenian Musical Instruments

I love blogging about things like this. Why? Because it is about one man and his passion for something which harms no one, and in fact, pleases just about everyone.

Musician Manouk Haroutyunyan has always dreamed of a musical instrument that will be unique and unmatched on the universal level and won’t resemble any European violins and kamanchas. He has carried out researches on national musical instruments, made an instrument of five wires, maple and pear tree woods and called it jut. The latter, in fact, is one of the most ancient Armenian instruments.

"There were moments when I was on the verge of giving up; I decided to sell my collection and buy a flat for my son, but later I changed my mind as the aim of my life is not the purchase of an apartment", he says.

"Once I found the door of my workshop unlocked; someone had broken into my little world and taken the food and trifles; the burglar understood nothing of real works of art", tells the musician.

Don't you just love that anecdote?

Source: A1+

Azeri Loggers Set Free - Without Punishment!

Remember a couple of days back, when three Azerbaijanis were arrested for attempting to steal timber from Armenia? Well, they've been released - without paying the $2,000 fine!

The three Azeri citizens of Georgia who were arrested five days ago in the territory of Armenia have been set free and sent to their home in Sadakhlo. Nevertheless, the Azeris have been set free without paying the sum, due to an agreement reached between the Armenian and Georgian border keepers.

One of the Azeris, Hussein Mamedov, informed agency "Trend" that the attitude of the Armenians towards them was good. "We spent three days in the detachment 'Stepanavan' where we were taken. And I cannot complain of any case of bad treatment".

Hmmm. What could be the political motivation for releasing criminals without any punishment?

Source: A1+

North Park University in Chicago to Hold Genocide Lectures

While North Park University cannot be compared to Harvard, Yale, or other such schools of note, the very fact that the Armenian Genocide will receive even more attention makes it worthwhile.

On February 24, a number of lectures will be held at the North Park University in Chicago titled "Genocides of XX and XXI centuries."

At the lectures experts will discuss the "The Concept of Genocide" based on Holocaust the Armenian Genocide, genocide of Assyrians, as well as genocides in Rwanda and Darfur (Sudan)...

I welcome any reviews of this event if any of our readers choose to attend.

Source: Yerkir

Orhan Pamuk to Return to Turkey

In case you have not heard of him, Orhan Pamuk is a Turkish writer and a Nobel Prize winner who has dared to talk about the Armenian Genocide. In fact, he was charged under Turkey's Penal Code Article 301, which if you remember calls for imprisonment for anyone who "insults Turkishness," though those charges were later dropped.

Turkish Sabah reports that Pamuk has already bought a ticket to return to Turkey by a plane to take off from New York in the evening of April 5th.

The newspaper also reminds that the Nobel Prize winner left Istanbul after Hrant Dink’s assassination departing for New York. Earlier Media reported that Pamuk, fearing for his life, has left Turkey withdrawing a large amount from his account. One of the suspects of Hrant Dink’s assassination has advised Orhan Pamuk "to think it over."

Here is a country which cannot offer its Nobel Prize winning writer the haven that he needs to produce works for Turkey, even if they speak against Turkey's longstanding policy of denial and manipulation. If you recall, Taner Akcam is another Turkish writer who has received much controversy because of his acceptance of the Armenian Genocide.

Source: Yerkir

Armenian Hummers...Powered by Natural Gas!

I don't normally report on rumors and "he says, she says" sorts of things, but this is a funny one: at least one Armenian Hummer owner has converted his car to natural gas, as it's cheaper than gasoline! Why is this funny? Well...

1) Hummers are expensive: an H2 Hummer costs around $50,000 in the United States, probably more in Armenia.
2) Hummer are inefficient: they burn a lot of fuel, because they're very heavy.
3) Most people hate them, as they are dangerous to others, both cars and pedestrians, and pollute much more.

Now, none of the above is entirely funny, but combine them, if you will: purchasing an expensive, big, heavy, and inefficient car, shipping it to Armenia, causing terror on the streets of Yerevan while displaying your wealth...and having to convert it to natural gas for it to be lighter on your wallet!

Okay, if that isn't entirely great - and to be honest, it isn't that funny after all - rumor also has it that the owners fill their cars up at night so no one sees! Ah, I love Armenia's many contradictions.

Source: ArmenianOdar

Armenia to Invade Silicon Valley

I love that Armenians are working hard to spread their ingenuity to all corners of the globe.

The forum is scheduled to include 1,950 Armenian companies, from Armenia and elsewhere. The main theme: automation and management, semiconductors and nanotechnology, business software, internet and digital communications, military, aerospace and transportation systems, automated systems design.

Armenia can also take business hints from Israel: build weapons, sell them to everyone, get filthy rich. Won't be easy, but think about it.

Oh, and if you're wondering: the above picture is that of Max Zorin, the evil villain who attempted to destroy silicon valley! Thankfully, James Bond was there to save the day. Thanks, James.

Source: Yerevan.ru (translated)

Science is 0.29% of Armenian GDP

Before we go any further, I'd like to dedicate this sentence to that man's academic-looking outfit; reminds me of the Renaissance! But seriously, we've covered the topic of scientific reform in Armenia previously.

It should be noted that the wages of scientists is aimed to increase from AMD 28,000/$79 to AMD 44,000/$123. In 2007, Armenia plans to invest AMD 5.5 Billion/$15.5 million, compared with AMD 5.1 billion/$12.3 million.

These days, young people choose business and other careers over science and part of that certainly has to do with economic possibilities. With this changes and many other ones to come, I am hopeful that Armenia will once again rise to its rightful place among scientifically significant countries.

Source: Yerevan.ru (translated)

France to Restore Two Saryan Paintings

I've always loved Martiros Saryan's work, and not just because half of all Armenian artists nowadays are trying to emulate his use of colors!

A French town is allocating $3,000 to the restoration of two Saryan paintings from 1925 and 1928.

What is not known is whether these pieces are truly in need of a restoration.

Source: Yerevan.ru (translated)

Three Azeris Caught Attempting to Insult Treeness!

A more horrific crime I cannot imagine!

Armenian Border Guard caught three Azeris having Georgian citizenship. They were trying to pass the Armenian-Georgian borderline to realize deforesting.

The frontiers caught the third Azeri in the neutral zone between the Armenian-Georgian borderline the boundaries of which are not decided by the two sides yet.

The third arrestee was also heading to Armenia after timber.

We have enough people cutting down trees illegally as it is: we don't need any outside help. But thanks!

Source: A1+

ArmeniaBlog Exclusive: Rare Interview with Armenian Boxer Vanes "The Nightmare" Martirosyan!

It is with great pleasure that I present to you a rare and exclusive interview conducted by Armenia Blog with none other than the fearsome Vanes "The Nightmare" Martirosyan! In case you have been living under a rock for some time, Vanes is the undefeated 12-0 Armenian boxer in the Super Welterweight category. If you remember, we reported his last victory in January!

ArmeniaBlog: Let's start from the beginning: what made you decide to be a boxer?
Vanes: At the age of 7, my dad started taking me and my two brothers to train at local boxing gyms. We were all pretty good, but I guess he saw it the most in me, and since that age always pushed me to be the best and to never quit. As I got older, I loved the sport more and more and making the US Olympic team in 2004 made me realize that this was just the beginning of my boxing career. Once I got back from Greece, I had many offers to turn pro and in early 2005, I finally signed my professional contract with Bob Arum and Top Rank Promotions at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

ArmeniaBlog: Are there any particular boxers in history that are your heroes?
Vanes: As heroes, I'd definitely say Muhammad Ali, because he was just an icon and so much more than just a boxer. As far as role models go, Oscar De La Hoya has always been a person as well as boxer that I have looked up to. His class and charisma both in and out of the ring have always amazed me. We are friends now, and he refers to me often times as "the Armenian Golden Boy" which is kinda nice.

ArmeniaBlog: Moving on, my Armenian friends always ask about your unusual name. Is Vanes your birth name?
Vanes: Sure is, - Vanes Martirosyan, oh and so is "Nightmare" (wink)

ArmeniaBlog: What was it like participating in the Olympic Games? If given the opportunity, would you do it again in the future?
Vanes: Ah, The Olympic Games. Wow! It was just incredible, and probably the most memorable two months of my life. I met so many different people from so many different countries in the Greek city of Athens which was so beautiful and historic. My family was there with me, and it all felt like a dream, especially after I won my first bout against Algeria. I feel proud being the first ever Armenian US Olympian, and the first ever out of Glendale, CA. I got a lot of love here on my return home, it was all surreal.
As far as participating in the 2008 Olympics, of course Id love to, but that is no longer an option given professionals are not allowed in the Olympics since it is an amateur only sporting event.

ArmeniaBlog: Having a perfect 12-0 pro record must take a lot of work. How much do you train normally (like now) and before upcoming fights? Do you ever not train?
Vanes: I’m constantly training, there really is no off-season with boxing. I have to stay ready and focused to fight on just a few days notice if I have to. My regular training schedule near fight time is a 5 mile run very early in the morning, then I get a bit of rest and hit my boxing gym in the afternoon. At the WildCard Boxing Club in Hollywood, I train with one of the best trainers in the world, Freddie Roach. My physical fitness workouts I do with another world class trainer of mine, Justin Fortune.

ArmeniaBlog: Speaking of upcoming fights, do you know when you'll be fighting next and who?
Vanes: The opponent we don’t know yet, but looks like my next fight will be on April 13 in Chicago, Illinois. It's Friday the 13th, hmm... should be fun.

ArmeniaBlog: Here's an interesting one: which one of your fights was most memorable to you and why?
Vanes: I’d say my latest fight, from Jan. 27 at The Honda Center in Anaheim, CA. The reason being I was very excited to be back home so close to my local fans here in Southern Cali after one whole year of only fighting in Las Vegas. The turnout was LOUD to say the least and that noise and support was from Armenians, Mexicans, and everyone else in that packed arena. Of course my 2nd round TKO victory helped the noise level.

ArmeniaBlog: Looking ahead, where do you see yourself professionally in 10 years?
Vanes: Wow, 10 years, that seems so far ahead, God knows. The boxing world moves so fast that I really want to look ahead just 1 or 2 years from now. By the end of this year, my management team, headed by Shelly Finkel, wants me to be a Top 10 contender for all the major world title belts. This is a huge build up year for me because in 2008 we plan on going after the Jr. Middleweight world champions.

ArmeniaBlog: Based on your experiences, what words can you impart to young athletes who wish to become successful?
Vanes: Determination and focus has to be number one. It is never easy to wake up at 6am to run 5 miles when it's dark and you know most others are sound asleep, but it's definitely worth while when you go in the ring and out class your opponent due to that extra mile.
Also, a healthy diet is a must so you gotta watch what you eat and take care of your body. At last, just stay humble, because that personality trait will always be valued more by your friends and fans compared to your physical sports talent.

ArmeniaBlog: Besides boxing, what other things do you like to do?
Vanes: Oh I'm an all around athlete. Any time off of boxing I like to spend with my close friends playing some basketball, soccer, tennis, and even some poker (ya, they call that a sport too these days). I do enjoy the nightlife on occasion with my close friends.
Boxing takes a lot out of you both physically and mentally, so relaxing is a must, and that’s best done with my family.

ArmeniaBlog: Tell us something about you that only you know. The stranger, the better!
Vanes: My official website address... www.VanesBoxing.com
I’m joking, but hey what a nice way to get that in the interview huh.
I am a bit superstitious though, I do things like always put on my right hand boxing glove first before I wear the left. Ya, I guess im not all that strange, or just don’t have the time to be.

ArmeniaBlog: What are your final words to your friends and fans to conclude this interview?
Vanes: I want to tell you all how much I love you and what you mean to me as part of Team Nightmare. I will always train and fight hard to keep you proud and cheering loud.
2007 is a very big year for me and I hope to see you up close at all my fights and thank you personally. I would also like to thank ArmeniaBlog for this great interview. I wish you all peace and happiness, God Bless.

I want to thank Vanes very much for the interview! Armenia Blog wishes him a great boxing career!

The Koran Translated into Armenian

Do you have one of those days when you long to read the Koran, only to realize that you can't read Arabic or Persian? Worry no more!

In Yerevan, 700 copies are already in circulation, due to increase to 3,000. The translation was carried out by Edward Ahverdan, a noted translator of modern Persian poetry and prose.

Edward Ahverdan stressed that worked with pleasure, a sense of responsibility. Each of the thirty parts was translated with proper approval.

Only 700 copies? Not something you're going to see sitting in medical offices, then. Jokes aside, Armenians have to learn about other cultures much more than they currently do. This is an age when everyone must embrace difference and change!

Source: Yerevan.ru (translated)

Robert Kocharyan to Vacation in Paris

Maybe not a vacation per se, but not hard work, either!

Armenian President Robert Kocharian is departing to France on a 4-day formal visit on February 17. In Paris the Armenian leader will meet with French President Jacques Chirac, Prime Minister Dominique de Villepin, Senate President Christian Poncelet and National Assembly Speaker Jean-Louis Debre.

The Armenian President and the first lady will be present at the "Charles Aznavour and Friends" concert to take place in the Opera Garnier in the framework of the Year of Armenia in France. They will also attend an exhibition of outstanding painter of sea-scapes Ivan Ayvazovsky in the Navy Museum and an exhibition titled "12 capital cities of Armenia".

In Lourve the Armenian and French President will open "Saint Armenia" exhibition. The RA leader is also expected to meet with the Armenian community and take part in the opening ceremony of Armenia Garden in Nice...

So which part of the above requires hard work? Maybe it's all the walking he'll be doing at the Louvre.

Source: Yerkir

Yet Another Armenian Soldier Killed by Azeri Sniper

Remember this a few weeks back? Well, another Armenian soldier has met the same fate.

On February 14, at about 09:30, an Azeri sniper wounded the major Ervand Pashikyan (b. in 1958), contractual serviceman, in the chest. Ervand Pashikyan died on the spot, RA Defense Ministry reports.

The investigation is under way.

I find it sad that virtually nothing is done after such killings: a few words condemning the act here, a few harsh words there, and that's it. Then again, short of an all-out war, what can be done? Obviously, we have to involve the international community, but all too often these soldiers get forgotten shortly after all is said and done.

Source: A1+

Armenia's Population Increases...Barely

Not quite the breakthrough numbers anyone was expecting, but progress is progress!

Armenia reported today a slight increase in overall population number last year saying it grew by 3,600 people to 3,222,700.

Over 95% of the population are ethnic Armenians. In addition, Russians, Yezidis, Kurds, Greeks, and Assyrians are among the minorities who call Armenia home.

The same article mentions that over 1,000,000 of those people live in Yerevan!

Source: ArmenPress

Child Cancer Cases Increase 15% in Decade

What could be the reason for this increase? Perhaps pesticides and other chemicals in the soil and fruits? Perhaps pollution from cars and trucks? I certainly don't know.

Cancer cases in children have surged 15 percent in the last decade with about 100 new cases diagnosed every year, Haykanush Yukchian, a doctor with the Center and executive director of a non-governmental organization called Friend of Children with Cancer said.

She said the National Cancer Treatment Center treats annually 250 children and about 65 percent of these children recuperate.

How very sad. I wonder, though, if at least a part of the increase is due to better reporting and diagnosis.

Source: ArmenPress

Armenicum AIDS Drug Marches Forward

Rememebr Armenicum? There are so many rumors about it that it's hard to know where the truth begins. Basically, it is a supposedly-successful anti-HIV/AIDS treatment that was created in Armenia. You can learn more about it on Armenicum's Web Site.

Armenicum has now been registered in Ukraine and Russia and is pending registration in China.

Recently, Iranian scientists claimed that it was an effective cure against AIDS.

Six years ago, the BBC did an investigative piece on the drug and found that it made things worse, instead. Then again, that was apparently before proper trials were conducted in Armenia.

Source: Yerevan.ru (translated)

Italy Gives $770,000 to Armenia to Fight Brucellosis

Brucelwhat? Brucellosis is apparently an infectious disease in sheep, goats, cows, pigs, and some other farm animals; in some cases, it can be fatal.

The government of Italy has released $770,000 to help Armenian authorities ward off brucellosis...

Cases of brucellosis have been on rise in Armenia since early 1990-s. The first phase of this program is set to be over in 2009 with a focus on three provinces which report the highest rate of the disease.

My Italian is not perfect, but I think I speak for everyone when I say, "Grazie molto!"

Source: ArmenPress

Pesticides in Mother's Milk, Fruits, Soil

As Armenia ponders capitalism, issues like this are becoming more common.

A study by a non-governmental organization...has found traces of chlororganic pesticides in soil, vegetables, fruits and even in mother milk, which in some instances exceeded the permitted level.

...the residues of pesticides originate mainly from wrong use of pesticide. She said many farmers still widely use pesticides which were banned years ago. The organization has sent the results of the study to health and agricultural ministries for further action.

Pesticides have been known to cancer, among other things.

Source: ArmenPress

Armenia & Globalization: A Journey

I've always maintained that Armenia needs to become part of the global village, so to speak.

Armenia should not yield to anti-globalization motions, since taking into account country’s size and abilities, it is quite out of sense, stated Armenian Foreign Minister Vartan Oskanian...

In his words, the little Armenia and the large Armenian Diaspora must use the chances given by globalization. If official Yerevan sensibly uses these opportunities, globalization can become a discovery for Armenia. If the country does not use the chances given by globalization, it can become a state that nobody pays attention to.

True enough.

Source: PanArmenian

Labor Exploitation in Armenia

This is a very serious issue that you should know about.

Employees consent to illegal working conditions for fear of losing their jobs.

"I work from nine in the morning till nine in the evening,” said Zara (not her real name), a shop assistant. “We do not have an official lunch break or chance to relax. We eat in the small room where we change our clothes and we get ten minutes to do so. I get terribly tired - but it’s still better than sitting at home without money."

I encourage you to read the whole thing in the link below.

Source: A1+

Criminal Hunters Caught, Fined

Take that, poachers!

The workers of the Ecological Inspection have carried out 36 check-up visits in January. As a result of the visits they have formed 27 statements on violating the ecological legislation. The overall sum of fines in connection with the violations has formed 1 million 440 thousand AMD [$4,000]. The loss inflicted to the nature has been evaluated over 8.5 million AMD [$23,000].

...during the past month one self-made rifle and five self-made fishing nets have been found.

It's not clear where these hunts took place. It is also not clear how mother nature will be reimbursed for losses.

Source: A1+

David Haroutyunyan to Participate in Parliamentary Elections

What a beautiful picture. Here's what it's about:

Justice Minister David Haroutyunyan has decided to participate in the upcoming Parliamentary elections in the list of the Republican party...

If he seems familiar, that's because you've seen him before on Armenia's Richest Men list. It really is a Who's Who of corrupt businessmen and politicians.

Source: A1+

Journalist's Car Burned

It's hard to keep track of the cars that get burned. Should I start a tally on the blog?

On February 8, at about 8:00 p.m., unknown people burnt the car "Nissan-Jeep" belonging to Ara Saghatelyan, owner of Panorama.am and "My Right" newspaper.

...he was the first to see the burning car and saw nobody on the site. He has received no threats over the passing days.

Mr. Saghatelyan suspects no one and he will give names only after the investigation.

Armenia has to graduate from this phase of illegal democracy before it can truly prosper.

Source: A1+

Israeli Students Read "40 Days of Musa Dagh" in School

The source deals mainly with the Jewish lobby, but there was an interesting tidbit in there.

Jews recognize the fact of the Armenian genocide but refuse to officially recognize it because the issue is politicized. Vardanyan said she has personally learned during her visit to Israel that a reading from "40 days of mount Musa" is part of school curriculum in that country.

If you remember, Sylvester Stallone expressed an interest in making the film.

Source: Panorama

90% of Yerevan's Pollution Due to Cars

Cars and trucks, I suppose. Incredible figure, isn't it?

The air in Yerevan is polluted by transport by 90 percent. Expert alarm that clouds of dust have been formed because of air pollution. German experts say in case of planting enough trees air pollution may be down by 40 percent.

Armen Saghatelyan, ecolosphere research center head, said several factors must be considered while planting green zones, including esthetic requirements, climate, sustainability of plants and the qualities to absorb hazardous materials.

Planting trees in Yerevan? For one, it sounds like a lost cause, and for another, they wont last very long. Oh, and did I mention that commercial interests will get there before the previous two?

Source: Panorama

High TV Advertisement Fees Angers Politicians

I find it amazing that there are so many ways to prevent democracy from taking place in Armenia. Here's exhibit 253B:

Its H1 TV channel’s per-minute fee for campaign ads has already been set at 80,000 drams ($220), up from $120 it charged in the run-up to the previous legislative polls. Most of the private networks will charge even more, despite boasting smaller audiences and being less accessible than H1. Their fees start from 100,000 drams ($280) per minute...

Leaders of the opposition Artarutyun (Justice) alliance and the National Unity Party claimed that the huge difference is the result of a deliberate government effort to keep the airwaves off limits for Kocharian’s cash-strapped opponents.

For our friends in the United States, that's the equivalent of 44 Starbucks Mocha Fraps per minute, or three pairs of hibiscus print Pucci shoes every ten minutes, or a fully loaded Audi A4 every three hours. Oh yeah, factor in that the average Armenian makes a fraction of that every month, and you get the picture.

With prices like that, I'd be upset, too!

Source: ArmeniaLiberty

ArmenTel Gains Even More Customers

It is amazing that there is such a great demand for cell phones in a country as small as Armenia.

The number of mobile subscribers of the "ArmenTel" Company reached 450 thousand.

In November 2006, when "VimpelCom" purchased 90% share of "ArmenTel" from the Greek OTE, the number of the mobile subscribers of the Company was 400 thousand.

So in less than four months, about 50,000 new people decided that they should have cell phones. Amazing!

Source: Banks.am

Russian-Armenian Businessmen Help Nagorno-Karabakh

An example that should be followed by others, I say!

Moscow-based businessmen of Armenian origin have pledged $15 million in assistance to Nagorno-Karabkh's government to help it implement a series of humanitarian programs and improve irrigation systems in a number of rural areas.

Frankly, there is a lot to be done there. I recently covered one such endeavor: mine clearing.

Source: ArmenPres

British Dancer Strips With Armenian Flag

I couldn't make this up even if I tried! One thing I do know, however, is that I would have loved to have been there. You'll see why.

While appearing at Stanislavsky State Theater before a full hall of about 600 dance fans, [Nigel]Charnock performed a dance that many in the audience said was like "from a strip club", making some uncomfortable and challenging conservative definitions of "art".

...trouble came when he wrapped his loins in a British flag, then covered his torso in the Armenian tricolor. He also danced on top of each flag. Charnock told reporters that he wore the Armenian flag because he "felt surrounded by Armenian friendship".

While ordering that Thursday’s performance be cancelled, [Ministry of Culture's Hasmik] Poghosyan said it was not a matter of censorship, but that: "He can stand, chew, swallow his flag, but it is forbidden to disrespect the Armenian flag and is punished by criminal law."

This is just too much fun! I don't know which part I like more: the fact that Armenians in Armenia most likely aren't aware of the word "art" outside of a museum or that there is a law in Armenia that prohibits "disrespecting" the flag, which is punishable under criminal law?

Frankly, the outcome of the elections has taken a back seat for me. Without freedom of expression, who the hell needs a democratically elected president?

On another note, turns out you can even email Hasmik Poghosyan, the Minister of Culture! I'll drop her a line and tell you if she responds.

Source: ArmeniaNow

Hrant Dink's Trial Continues

Yes, you read that correctly.

...after about three weeks after the assassination of Agos Armenian-Turkish newspaper editor Hrant Dink, the Sisli circuit court of Istanbul resumed legal proceeding against Dink, who was earlier accused of "insulting Turkishness" and handed a 6 months’ suspended sentence. The Turkish Court of Appeal agreed with the sentence but changed it stating that 15 people who brought in the suit can’t be considered plaintiffs, since the "insult" was not targeted at them.

...the Sisli court fulfilled the order of the Supreme Court and decreed that the individuals who took the action are not plaintiffs. However, a judge said that Dink’s death was not officially registered in the court records and postponed the hearing to June 14.

How long does it take to record one of the most heinous of assassinations in recent memory?

Source: PanArmenian

Gyumri's Air Pollution Off the Scales!

I can relate to this article, having lived through the early 1990s in Armenia. Nearly everyone was burning a wood or a kerosene stove, both of which would foul up the air. Ever had soot in your nose? I have!

Air pollution index in Armenia's second largest town of Gyumri in winter months is eight times higher of the permitted level.

Rolan Gasparian, head of the local environmental monitoring laboratory, said homeless families in the town still leaving in temporary homes use wood stoves to warm their houses and since woods are too expensive they burn whatever they find on streets, including plastic bottles and garbage that can burn.

He said the air in the town is relatively clean in daytime when these people are out of their homes. Unlike in winter in summer months the air pollution source are dust and construction debris.

That explains that, I suppose. It is unlikely the government will step in to do anything about this, which is unfortunate for the people living there, homeless or not.

Source: ArmenPress

Arman Pashikian Becomes Armenia's 20th International Grandmaster

International grandmaster is the highest title a chess player can reach.

Arman Pashikian from Yerevan has become the 20th Armenian chess player granted the title of international grandmaster. The decision of the International Chess Federation (FIDE) to grant the tile to the Armenian player came today. Two other Armenian chess players - Hrant Melkumian and Avetik Grigorian - were granted the title of international chess masters and Ashot Nadanian was granted FIDE coach title.

Armenia has now 20 international grandmasters and 23 international masters.

Congratulations to our Armenian chess players!

Armenia Unable to Fill Wine Gap in Russia

Remember our earlier post about Armenian wines in Russia with Georgia out of the picture?

A parliament member Manvel Ghazarian, who is also the owner of one of the biggest Armenian wineries - Vedi Alco - lamented yesterday that Armenian wineries are unable to fill the gap in Russian wine market that has emerged after its authorities banned imports of Georgian and Moldavian wines last year.

He said Moldova and Russia were selling about 200 million bottles of wine in Russia, while all Armenian wineries can produce together about 10 million bottles of wine. Ghazarian said the ban on Russian and Moldavian wines has prompted a bigger interest in Armenian products.

I wonder if there is a market in Russia for cheap Californian wines? If I am asbent for weeks, you will know why!

Source: ArmenPress

Turkey, Azerbaijan, Georgia Sign Railroad Agreement - Without Armenia

The United States tried to stop it, but apparently it has already begun. What has begun, you ask?

The first step for the Kars-Tbilisi-Baku railway line project named "Iron Silk Road" has been taken. The Prime Minister Tayyip Erdoğan, the Azerbaijani president Aliyev and the state president of Georgia Saakaşvili signed the historical agreement of the rail way line of Kars-Tbilisi-Baku which drives out Armenia. The project is anticipated to be finished in two years and around $420 million will be spent.

Armenia has been trying to prevent the the Azerbaijani president Aliyev and the state president of Georgia Saakaşvili signed the historical agreement of the rail way line of Kars-Tbilisi-Baku which drives out Armenia rail way line of Kars-Tbilisi-Baku for the reason that the railway line in the country will be disposed. But the project aged 14 years which will provide railway connection from Europe to the Middle Asia is driving out Armenia.

Wow, that was a poorly worded article.

Regardless, it seems Armenia may be out for good. Armenia repetedly attempted to develop relations with Turkey - without precondition, by the way - to get a chance at reopening the Kars-Gyumri section of the railroad, as it was economically very important for Armenia. But seeing as how we would be giving up much more and gaining much less in return, in terms of the recognition of the genocide and other conditions for Turkey, I'm happy with this outcome.

Source: Sabah

Armenian Technology Group: An Agricultural Charity

I didn't know about the ATG until reading this article. Did you?

ATG showed them how to become self reliant through several projects, from growing American wheat seed to resurrecting the Armenian wine industry using thousands of plants from Visalia.

"The idea was to empower them to feed their own families."

Their next projects in Armenia, include establishing a diagnostic lab for infectious disease and building a cold storage packing facility...

Instead of throwing money at a problem, ATG decided to make people make their own destinies. This is a model that many charities should study and follow as it is the right way of providing assistance.

Check out Armenian Technology Group's official website to learn more about what they do and how. There are pictures there, as well!

Source: ABC

Los Angeles to Train Armenian Journalists

The city of bright lights and fake breasts is out to do some good.

...the program is organized on the initiative of American Los Angeles Convention and Visitors Bureau for journalists from cities-friends.

According to the press release, Armenian journalists can participate in the program, because signing of the agreement on declaring Yerevan and Los Angeles cities-friends is scheduled for February 2007. The program is designed for journalists with experience no less than three years. Applications for participation are accepted until February 9, 2007.

Certain people from a certain blog should attend this training course. Perhaps then they will learn about plagiarism and its consequences.

Source: ARKA

Armenian Constitution Comparable to European Standards

If the government says it, it must be true:

Armenian Constitution is up to European standards, Armenian National Assembly's press office quoted Speaker Tigran Torosyan as saying Monday. He pointed out that the amended Constitution allows Armenian citizens to appeal to Constitutional Court. "Constitutional Court has already received 200 appeals, while for the decade of its activity, the court considered only eight", speaker said.

"The amended Constitution also enabled the parliamentary opposition to appeal to Constitutional Court, and positive decisions on two cases are already made", he said
Torosyan pointed out that as a result of constitutional reformation, progress in justice and local governing systems are already visible, and political system will face changes after coming parliamentary elections.

He also stressed that amended Electoral Code laid favorable ground for holding elections properly.

I can't claim to be an expert on the Armenian constitution, but you can certainly read what seems like an un-updated version on its official site. Neat, huh?

Source: ARKA

U.S. to Reassure Turkey of Blocking Genocide Resolution

So tell me: do you believe in this or that? This is the same administration we're talking about here! One side of it wants to block the Armenian Genocide Resolution, while the other side wants Turkey to be friends with Armenia.

U.S. officials will reassure the Turkish foreign minister, currently visiting Washington, that they will try to quash a proposed resolution in Congress condemning as genocide the early 20th century killings of Armenians.

George W. Bush's administration is alarmed that the suggested congressional resolution could disrupt efforts to repair strains stemming from perceptions in Ankara that regional instability caused by the U.S.-led war in Iraq have harmed Turkish interests.

Ah, so it's clear now: U.S. wants to heal the wounds - literally speaking and otherwise - of Turks who oppose the Iraq war. How does it do this? He promises to block the resolution and address other issues, such as Kurdish rebels in Northern Iraq.

Tit for that. Quid pro quo. If this isn't politics, I don't know what is.

Source: ArmeniaLiberty

U.S. Pushes Turkey for Relations With Armenia

This is something I didn't see coming.

"The issue of trying to use the tragedy of Hrant Dink’s murder to improve relations with Armenia is a major focus of our relationship with Turkey right now," Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Matthew Bryza told RFE/RL.

"We want a real discussion so no one can deny what happened [in Ottoman Turkey,] while at the same time improving bilateral relations between Armenia and Turkey,” he said in a phone interview. “All of that should happen without preconditions by anybody."

Of course, Turkey will have none of that. Still, I have high hopes for the Genocide Resolution. It is very sad that Hrant Dink's murder can be used politically, but Turkey's initial reaction was obviously not indicative of their true motives.

Source: ArmeniaLiberty

Armenia & Azerbaijan Close to Peace Deal

Call me a pessimist, but I don't believe that.

"They don’t agree 100 percent on the basic principles [of a peaceful settlement,] but they are close, very close," said Matthew Bryza, a deputy assistant secretary of state and the U.S. co-chair of the OSCE Minsk Group. "They agree on the philosophy of the basic principles and most of the basic principles themselves."

Presidents Ilham Aliev and Robert Kocharian were already widely expected to reach a framework agreement on Karabakh early last year. But two rounds of face-to-face negotiations between them collapsed due to last-minute disagreements.

Words are words: I won't be convinced until there is a deal that makes sense. And for that, we may have to wait - possibly indefinitely.

By the way, is Kocharyan showing the middle finger to Aliyev behind his back? Look at the picture again.

Source: ArmeniaLiberty

New York Times Review of Taner Akcam's Genocide Book

Ever hear of Taner Akcam? You should have, because he is considered one of the first Turkish academics to accept and openly discuss the Armenian Genocide. The New York Times published a review of his book, "A SHAMEFUL ACT: The Armenian Genocide and the Question of Turkish Responsibility." Here is a snippet:

...a Turkish blast against this national denial. A historian and former leftist activist now teaching at the Center for Holocaust and Genocide Studies at the University of Minnesota, Akcam is often described as the first Turkish scholar to call the massacres genocide, and his impressive achievement here is to shine fresh light on exactly why and how the Ottoman Empire deported and slaughtered the Armenians.

He directly challenges the doubters back home, basing his powerful book on Turkish sources in the old Ottoman script — including the failed Ottoman war crimes tribunals held after World War I. Although he bolsters his case with material from the American, British and German archives, he writes that the remaining Ottoman records are enough to show that the ruling party’s central committee "did deliberately attempt to destroy the Armenian population."

I encourage all of you to read the review, if not the book. Whether or not you agree with the rest of his book, the fact that a Turkish academic can stand up against 90+ years of deliberate denial is admirable.

Note, you can access the New York Time article only if you register. However, you are free to use a service such as BugMeNot.com to get a working login without registering.

Source: New York Times

Foreign Investment in Armenia - Returns Since 1997

Ever wondered how much Armenia's largest investors have profited in the past decade? What about foreign investors? This article gives us a glimpse in the ultra-secret world of investing in Armenia.

In 1999, 50% of the company was purchased by Canadian Global Gold Mining Company for $3 million (WB data). In the same year, the latter sold its stake to First Dynasty Mines Ltd (Canada) for approximately $22.1 million.

It is 7 times return on investment.

In December 2004, it [Zangezour Copper Molybdenum combine] was privatized to consortium of companies for $132 million. The major one is Cronimet (German) which purchased 75% controlling skate.

By using data of State Tax Service of paid taxes for year 2005 and I semi-annual period of 2006, internal rate of return is about 84% annually.

Frighteningly amazing, isn't it? Of course, these are only estimates and of course many were conducted with extralegal means.

Hetq's article does a great job of explaining the methodology of the numbers, as well as painting a probably accurate picture of how these huge sums are made in our little country.

HAYQ - Qami Pchi

I don't normally put music videos on Armenia Blog, but I figure one every few weeks shouldn't be too bad! Enjoy!

Advertisements for Armenia: One Approach to Charity

I've been thinking about the numerous charities in Armenia and how they could use all the help they can get. Whether supporting mentally challenged orphans or Armenia's dying forests, there are numerous legitimate charities which are working hard to improve the lives of those less fortunate. As I'm not wealthy enough to personally support these charities myself, I've decided to use Armenia Blog as a vehicle to that end.

I've partnered with Google to place advertisements on the blog. When these advertisements are clicked on, the blog receives a few cents from Google. The advertisements constantly change to match the topic of the page: that is, they try to be relvant to what you're reading about.

Long story short, my goal is to collect the revenues from these advertisements and at the end of the year and donate them to a legitimate Armenian charity or charities, depending on the total amount generated. Furthermore, I will attempt a fundraising drive before the end of the year to boost the dollar amount even more. Naturally, you will known the amount generated at the end of the year and you may even have the ability to vote for the certain charities that will receive the sum.

The ads will appear with red text.

I hope that Armenia Blog and you, its readers, will contribute to important Armenian charities. Thank you so much for being on-board with this experimental project!

Few Bucks Here, Good Grades There

College bribery? In Armenia? You must be joking!

Now, the issue of alleged bribes being given in order to receive good marks has been brought out into the open after the results of a startling new poll, conducted by the Sargis Tkhruni Youth Student Union, affiliated to Armenia’s Social Democratic Party. Out of 2000 students - five per cent of all the students in Armenia - 1821 said that there was corruption in their colleges, according to the survey.

A striking 93 per cent of respondents to the poll suggested that lecturers’ salaries should be increased to discourage them from taking bribes.

"Nowadays those who pass their exams with a bribe are regarded with respect and envy, and not with pity," he said. “Instead of being condemned these students are examples for others to follow."

Of course, you should realize that the sponsor of the poll is Armenia's Social Democratic Party. The results from this survey could be used for political gain, as is usually the case. Regardless, bribery has become a part of normal life in Armenia. And it has to stop.

Source: A1+

Armenia Bans Poultry Amid Bird Flu Fears

I'm starting to get fearful of bird flu, as well. Not that I eat much poultry, but sounds very dangerous, anyway.

"We cannot rule out the possibility of the bird flu virus spreading to Armenia," Grigor Bagyan said.

He said imports of poultry products have been banned from Azerbaijan, Hungary, Cambodia, Indonesia, Japan, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Egypt and Nigeria.

The deadly H5N1 strain of bird flu has claimed dozens of human lives since it first appeared in Asia in 2003. It has since spread worldwide, and scientists fear the virus could mutate into a form transmissible between humans, sparking a global pandemic.

Is there a tinfoil hat for bird flu? No?

Source: RIA Novosti

Bush Wants to Punish Armenia

What's the issue, you ask? In 2001, the Bush administration and Congress agreed to send Armenia and Azerbaijan equal amounts of military aid. And this is where the problem comes in:

The President's budget recommends cutting U.S. economic aid to Armenia from the FY2006 actual level of $69 million to a proposed FY2008 level of $35 million. The proposed FY2008 Foreign Military Financing figure for Armenia is $3 million, a cut of $960,000, fully 30% less than the proposed FY2008 figure for Azerbaijan of $4.3 million.

The President is seeking only $300,000 in International Military Education and Training for Armenia [IMET], down $538,000 from FY2006, a dramatic cut of 64%. In sharp contrast, the White House is proposing that Azerbaijan receive $1 million in IMET, a considerable increase over their FY2006 level of $823,000 and more than three times the IMET levels being proposed for Armenia. Overall, the President's budget proposes 38% less in U.S. military aid for Armenia than for Azerbaijan.

They can take their hospital back if this is the thanks Armenia is going to get for its continued support of U.S. invasions.

Source: PanArmenian

Eduardo Eurnekian Buys Conversebank - And What That Means

Not that this matters to the international audience, but Eduardo Eurnekian - who happens to be the businessman in question - already operates Zvartnots Airport.

The press service of the bank reports that the new owner intends to continue the bank's normal activities and upgrade the quality of services. It will not be difficult to make the Conversebank Armenia's best bank because a number of international organizations have recognized it as one of the leading banks in the country, Eurnekian said.

Eurnekian's strategic policy will be aimed at promoting business development in Armenia, creating new jobs, applying up-to-date technologies and ensuring the bank's long-term development.

The press release aside, we may be witnessing the emergence of a new oligarch in Yerevan. Let's see if that prediction comes true.

Source: ARKA