MosJan

ARMENIAN MILITARY DOCTRINE CAUSES TURMOIL IN AZERBAIJAN BAKU, JULY 9, ARMENPRESS: A recent announcement by a senior official of the Armenian defense ministry that soon the Armenian military doctrine would be submitted to broad public discussions has caused a turmoil in Azerbaijan. The Baku-based Echo and Yeni Musavat dailies citing Colonel Melkoninan's announcement that Armenia needs some $700 million for proper maintenance of the armed forces, allege that Armenia's goal is to have a 360,000 army. Under the Conventional Forces in Europe Treaty each of the three Trans-Caucasian states' quota is 60,000. An independent Azeri expert Rasim Musabekov described the provisions of the doctrine as "aggressive."

SECOND PAN-ARMENIAN GAMES TO KICK OFF AUGUST 18 YEREVAN, JULY 10, ARMENPRESS: Some 5,000 Armenian athletes from around 32 countries, including France, Germany, Canada, Switzerland, Australia, USA, Russia, Syria, Lebanon are expected to arrive in Armenia in mid August to take part in the Second Pan-Armenian Games, scheduled for August 18 to August 26 in the Armenian capital and other towns. The official opening of the Games will be held at Yerevan Republican Stadium August 18 with Armenian leadership and delegations, to arrive in Armenia to participate in the jubilee events devoted to 17 centuries of Armenia's conversion into Christianity, will attend it. Armenian athletes will compete in football (soccer), basketball, mini-football, volley-ball, tennis, table-tennis, chess, swimming, calisthenics and other events. About 300,000 people are expected to attend the sporting events in Yerevan, Ashtarak, Artashat and Abovian. The closing ceremony will take place August 26 at Karen Demirchian Palace in Yerevan.

PRESIDENT KOCHARIAN REITERATES THE NEED FOR ARMENIA'S ACCESSION TO WTO YEREVAN, JULY 10, ARMENPRESS: Armenian president Robert Kocharian reiterated last Saturday that Armenia's accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO) will help Armenian businessmen increase the volumes of exports of their goods. Kocharian was speaking to reporters while visiting a local brewery to attend opening of a new workshop for production of natural juices. "Though some Armenian businessmen say that it (Armenia's joining the WTO) will hit the local producers, I do not think so," Kocharian said, adding that it will open for Armenian goods markets of some 150 WTO member-countries. As regards protection of domestic market, Kocharian said the WTO Regulations provide special rules for protection of domestic markets of member countries, "but according to WTO standards." "If Armenian businessmen want to produce competitive goods they will have to have respect for business logic," he stressed. Kocharian said Armenia's accession to the WTO will be resolved by the end of the year.

ARMENIA DEVOTED BUSINESS FORUM IN PARIS IN FULL SWING PARIS, JULY 10, ARMENPRESS: An Armenia devoted business forum, organized and sponsored by World Bank started today in France's capital with participation of an Armenian government delegation, led by prime minister Andranik Margarian and representatives from around 30 leading international donor organizations. The meeting was opened by a World Bank regional director Judy O' Connor who presented the overall economic situation in Armenia and the government's steps for reforming the economy which was followed by prime minister Margarian's report who presented a government-drafted program for poverty reduction. Thanking the World Bank for initiating the forum and its participants for securing a wide representation, Armenian prime minister expressed hope that the two-day discussions would allow to reveal the real developments related to Armenian economy and social condition of the population and would also provide with opportunities to expand efficient cooperation with the international community. The prime minister presented in detail the preconditions for passing to market relations, the difficulties accompanying the process of economic reforms, obstacles on the way to liberalization of the market and the government's efforts to overcome these difficulties. It was particularly noted that the fall in real wages and economic activity, rise in the unemployment and growth of the shadow sector of economy have led to virtually complete collapse of the former security and insurance systems. The government is facing now serious difficulties in paying pensions to around 560,000 people of retired age. According to the Armenian government, the main way for reducing the volumes of poverty is securing a comprehensive and sustained economic growth. "The link between economic development and poverty reduction is of two-way and the poverty cannot be eased without economic growth, but on the other hand, the economic development cannot be sustained under the conditions of the society's deepening poverty," the prime minister underlined. Another major factor for reduction of poverty volumes, according to the Armenian prime minister, is introduction of an efficient governing system. "The economic policy aiming at reduction of poverty volumes means not only continuation of economic and structural reforms aimed at improving the social condition of the population, but also undertaking a set of measures directed at improvement of indices defining the level of poverty along with implementation of reforms," noted the prime minister. Creation of new jobs and securing, for that purpose, a favorable business climate, promotion of new investments and support to business are the priorities in the government's plans to solve the problem of poverty. Armenia's accession to the World Trade Organization, expected later this year is regarded by the government, from the point of view of securing sustained economic growth, as a necessary step. Armenian prime minister also referred to the results of the Armenian Investor Conference held last May in New York, to the simplified procedures for registration and licenses granting, full application of bankruptcy mechanisms, which, he said, "makes the operation of companies more efficient," transparent process of state-owned companies privatization. "From the point of view of establishment of favorable investment and competition climate, the government deems as a priority securing free economic competition for support of medium and small enterprises and defining of efficient mechanism for struggling against monopoly in the market," the prime minister said. In terms of implemented tax reforms, according to Margarian, Armenia can now be placed among countries with favorable tax field, which is also very decisive for promotion of investments. A recently set up governmental commission for supporting economic competition is called to assist in this issue. The main goal of the commission is to prevent emergence of artificially created economic monopolies. The prime minister also placed emphasis on agriculture development for securing sustained economic growth. "Application of specific approach in the agriculture sector is conditioned, in the first place, by the absence of alternative employment possibilities in rural settlements," Margarian said. Proceeding from the necessity to overcome the obstacles in this sector the government will be consistent in raising the efficiency of irrigation systems, expanding of possibilities for farmers to get credits and making more accessible fertilizers and other facilities ," he said. The implementation of World Bank and International Fund for Agriculture Development funded programs will have a significant importance in this issue, said Margarian. The government has drafted a food security program which is being realized with the support of the European Commission. Margarian also emphasized the need for improvement of state management system, which requires transparent and clearly-cut legislative field, a stable legal system, highly paid and skilled judges and civil servicemen. The prime minister also presented the government's activity in this direction, putting the stress of struggling against corruption. Margarian also said that the parliament has passed in the first reading a draft law on declaration of Incomes by Senior Government Officials. The government will also try to push through the parliament the law on Civil Service by the end of the year. The prime minister also referred to the government's policy in the areas of health, education and social security, closely connected with poverty reduction and sustainable human development. "The government will secure installment of efficient mechanisms for protection from unemployment and will focus its attention in helping the unemployed to find jobs," he said. In his report Armenian prime minister also dwelt upon programs to be realized in Armenia's earthquake zone in 2001-2003. Prime minister's report was followed by International Monetary Fund's analyses and EU comments on Armenia's macroeconomic situation, volumes of state debt and funding. After a short break the chief advisor to Armenian president on economic issues Vahram Nersisiants presented the chief macroeconomic indices of Armenian economy. He also detailed about the results of Armenia Investor Conference held in New York. This was followed by remarks of the World Bank, USAID and Japan's government on speeding up investments and securing comprehensive economic growth. Deputy parliament speaker Tigran Torosian's report highlighted the government's efforts to improve the governing system and its encroachment on informal sector and corruption. He said an extensive set of anti-corruption measures were being implemented in the legal and legislative areas. Raising the efficiency of state spending, according to Torosian, is one of the major steps to reduce corruption volumes. Armenian health minister Ararat Mkrtchian spoke about human development related issues and Armenian government's positions and approaches towards it. He spoke in detail about the situation in education, social security and health sectors and presented the government's approaches about how to overcome the problems in these sectors. According to him, the main problems in education are the restricted financing, imperfect legislation, inefficient management, lack of technical basis and others. Only 10 percent of the state budget is earmarked for this sector. Lack of finance in the area of social security is the major problem in the areas of health and social security, according to the minister. Tomorrow July 11 the plenary session will continue its work. Armenian finance and economy minister Vartan Khachatrian as well as representatives of donor organizations are expected to come out with reports. The meeting will be concluded by a joint World Bank and Armenian government representatives' news conference.

Sections of Artsax's North-South Backbone Highway To Open Soon YEREVAN (Armenpress)--Two sections of the North-South Backbone Highway in Artsax will be opened for commute in September of this year announced Armenia Fund. The first 20 km stretch links Dashboulagh to Kichan, and the second 10 km road connects Karmir Shouka to Drakhtik. Groundwork for both sections of the highway have been completed, and only one of the stretches has yet to laid with asphalt. The 170 km North-South Highway, which will be connected to the Goris-Stepanakert Highway, will secure the Nagorno Artsax Republic's link with Armenia proper, along with the outside world. The highway is being built with the funds raised from the telethons held in Los Angeles in 1999 and 2000. This year's telethon in November will help complete the construction of remaining sections of the highway.

Georgian Political Analyst Says Repatriation of Meshkhetian Turks Dangerous TIBILISI (Noyan Tapan)--According to Georgian political analyst Georgi Nodia, the mass repatriation of Meshkhetian Turks to Georgia will be dangerous due to the country’s current political situation. The Meshkhetian Turks were forced to migrate from Georgia in 1944, however, the population of Samtskhe-Javakhk is likely to oppose their return, said Nodia during an interview with Prime News agency. Nodia says that the people who have lived and settled in the region during the past several decades will aggressively oppose the repatriation of the Turks. According to him, the problem can only be resolved with the Georgian authorities providing clear explanations about the situation so that senseless fears and rumors can be diminished. The exact number of Meshkhetian Turks willing to repatriate is still unknown, said Nodia, adding that rumors claim up to 300,000 might return. The political analyst said he believes the Georgian government is failing to formulate a clear policy on the issue, which can bring about undesirable consequences both inside and outside the country. Several committees in the Georgian Parliament are currently working on a bill regarding the repatriation of the Meshkhetian Turks to Georgia.

Lincy Foundation Allocates $530,000 To Prelacy Armenian Schools LOS ANGELES--The Lincy Foundation has made a generous donation of $530,000 to Western Prelacy Armenian Schools for the 2000-2001 academic year. Renowned for its philanthropic mission, for meeting the numerous needs of the Diaspora and Armenia with generous donations and for its moral and financial support in general, the Lincy Foundation allocated funds to the following schools: Ferrahian Armenian High School, Encino; Rose & Alex Pilibos Armenian High School, Hollywood; Mesrobian Armenian High School, Montebello; Vahan & Anoush Chamlian Armenian School, Glendale; Ari Guiragos Minassian Armenian School, Orange County; Krouzian Zekarian Vasbouaragn Arm School- San Francisco; Levon & Hasmig Tavlian Pre-School, Pasadena; Richard Tufenkian Arm. Pre-School- Glendale. Prelate Bishop Moushegh Mardirossian, the Western Prelacy Religious & Executive Councils and the Board of Regents of the Prelacy Armenian Schools thank the Lincy Foundation and its Honorable Administration for their continuous allocations to the schools, as manifested by the Foundation's permanent financial and moral support for their endeavors to educate and nurture the new generation in the spirit of Armenian heritage and humanity

THE OCSE MINSK GROUP COCHAIRMEN REGULAR TOUR TO THE REGION COUNTRIES HAS BEEN STARTED 10.07.2001 /PanARMENIAN.Net/. Yesterday night the OCSE Minsk group cochairmen Nikolay Gribkov, Kery Kovanno and Phillip De Sureyman arrived in Armenia. Several hours earlier the first deputy minister of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia Vyacheslav Trubnikov had arrived in Yerevan, his visit is in the frameworks of the trip of the diplomats of the Minsk group countries-cochairmen to the region. Yesterday RA Minister of Foreign Affairs Vardan Oskanyan received Trubnikov. According to the report of the public relation department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, besides the Artsax question, the perspectives of the bilateral relations development, the preparation process for the Yerevan visit of RF president Vladimir Putin, planned in September visit, were touched on at the meeting. Today Trubnikov will join the Minsk group peacemakers. Their joint meeting with President Robert Kotcharyan will take place. In the evening the diplomats will leave for Nagorni Artsax.

SOME 70 MILLION DOLLARS NEEDED FOR BUILDING NEW COPPER WORKS 10.07.2001 /PanARMENIAN.Net/. "Manes Vallex" company, established on the basis of the former Alaverdi mining metallurgical works, and "Constructions ARMBRO BFC Inc." Canadian firm have signed a memorandum on intentions, which presupposes partnership within the framework of "Armenian Copper" program. The program includes construction of a plant on processing copper and mining in the town of Alaverdi and also in villages of Tekhut and Akhtala in the north of Armenia. In "Manes Vallex" Closed Stock Company Director Valery Mejlumian's words, the Canadian company has much experience in building mining metallurgical works and is interested in participation in Armenian programs. At today's press conference Mejlumian also reported that construction of the copper processing plant would cost 70 million dollars. He also noted that it was an approximate figure. At present "Lurgi Metallurgie GmbH" German company, which is the partner of "Manes Vallex", is holding a pre-project research, which will be completed before the end of the year. "Then the cost of construction works can be determined to an approximation of 15%," - Mejlumian said. The output of the plant, which will be built on the basis of Alaverdi works, will make about 40 million tons a year.

THE RIGHT STATUS AGREEMENT OF AZERBAIJANIS, RESIDENT IN RUSSIA IS BEING PREPARED FOR SIGNING 10.07.2001 /PanARMENIAN.Net/. The work completion of the Azerbaijani-Russian agreement of the right status of the RF citizens resident in Azerbaijan and Aserbaijani citizens, resident in Russia nears the end. As "CNA" agency informs the agreement will be signed during the Heydar Aliev forthcoming official visit to Moscow. This document will define the civil, economic and social rights of a country citizens living in the territory of another country. Armenia and Russia signed a similar agreement a year ago, and that raise the indignation in Azerbaijan, where the situation was assumed as the giving the Armenians "the regime of the most favor".

THE LOCAL SELF-GOVERNMENT BODY ELECTIONS ARE BEING PREPARED IN NAGORNI Artsax 10.07.2001 /PanARMENIAN.Net/. The central election committee of Nagorny Artsax has begun the preparation for the local self-government body election, appointed on 5, September. The questions regarding the observer's authorities, the way of the bullet storage and issuing, the campaign conducting terms of the nominees for the community heads have been discussed at the meeting of the Central election committee.

"APPROACHES TO RESOLVING THE Artsax CONFLICT WILL NOT BE CHANGED," - MINSK GROUP CO-CHAIRMEN STATED 10.07.2001 /PanARMENIAN.Net/. Today OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairmen had a meeting with President Robert Kocharian, Minister of Defense Serge Sargsian and the leaders of Parliamentary fractions and deputy groups. American Co-Chairman Kerry Kavano stated that "the negotiations with the head of Armenia had again shown the complexity of the Artsax problem". "Mediamax" agency emphasizes that the meeting of Robert Kocharian with the American and French Co-Chairmen and Deputy Foreign Minister of Russia Vyacheslav Trubnikov, who had joint them, lasted two hours and a half. (Russian Co-Chairman Nikolay Gribkov did not participate in the negotiations.) If we were not missing the helicopter to Stepanakert, we could continue the talk for two hours and a half again," - Kerry Kavano said. In his words, it is necessary to study the agreements achieved in Key-West. His statement allowed commentators contend that the mediators had come to the region not with a new settlement plan, as Baku keeps trying to present, but with intention to turn back the process to the course outlined during the meetings of Kocharian and Aliev in Paris and Key-West. The statement of the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Russia also testifies this. In Vyacheslav Trubnikov's words, "the approaches suggested by the Presidents of Russia, USA and France should not be reconsidered". He assumed the opportunity for "slight corrections of these approaches".

Congressional Action Alert U.S. Senate 7/10/2001 URGE KEY SENATE PANEL TO SUPPORT ARMENIAN PROVISIONS IN FOREIGN AID BILL -- Ask Senators to Maintain U.S. Aid Level to Armenia at Least at $90 Million; Defend Section 907 of the Freedom Support Act ================================================================ Status: ================================================================ The U.S. Senate subcommittee responsible for U.S. foreign aid is scheduled to meet as early as the third week of July to finalize its version of the fiscal year 2002 foreign aid bill. Among the issues this panel will consider include: * Assistance levels for Armenia * Section 907 of the Freedom Support Act * Aid to Nagorno Karabagh On June 27th, the U.S. House Subcommittee responsible for foreign aid approved a fiscal year 2002 foreign aid bill that reduced U.S. aid to Armenia by eight percent, from $90 million to $82.5 million. The Senate can help restore this aid by including an "earmark" for at least $90 million for Armenia in its version of the foreign aid bill. ================================================================ Action: ================================================================ 1) Visit http://www.anca.org to send a free ANCA WebFax urging your two Senators to support Armenian provisions in the foreign aid bill. Just type in your ZIP Code and follow the simple directions. 2) Contact the members of the Senate panel (see list below) and urge them to support Armenian provisions in the foreign aid bill (see suggested phone script and sample letter). NOTE: Email, particularly from out-of-state, is not generally seen as an effective form of communication with Congressional offices. ---------------------------------------------------------------- MEMBERS OF U.S. SENATE APPROPRIATIONS SUBCOMMITTEE ON FOREIGN OPERATIONS ---------------------------------------------------------------- Chairman of Foreign Operations Subcommittee ---------------------------------------------------------------- Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-VT) -- Chairman Staff: Tim Reiser Tel: (202) 224-4242 Fax: (202) 224-3595 Notes: Voted to defend Section 907 in June of 1999. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Ranking Member of Foreign Operations Subcommittee ---------------------------------------------------------------- Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY) -- Ranking Member Staff: Billy Piper Tel: (202) 224-2541 Fax: (202) 224-2499 Notes: Long-time leading advocate for Armenian provisions in the foreign aid bill. Led effort on Senate floor in 1999 to defend Section 907. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Members of Foreign Operations Subcommittee (alphabetically) ---------------------------------------------------------------- Sen. Robert Bennett (R-UT) Staff: Bill Triplett Tel: (202) 224-5444 Fax: (202) 228-1168 Notes: Voted to defend Section 907 in June of 1999. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Sen. Christopher Bond (R-MO) Staff: James Pitchford Tel: (202) 224-5721 Fax: (202) 224-8149 Notes: Voted to defend Section 907 in June of 1999. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Sen. Richard Durbin (D-IL) Staff: Sue Hardesty Tel: (202) 224-2152 Fax: (202) 228-0400 Notes: Voted to defend Section 907 in June of 1999. Consistently supports Armenian American issues. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Sen. Judd Gregg (R-NH) Staff: Frank Barca Tel: (202) 224-3324 Fax: (202) 224-4952 Notes: Voted to defend Section 907 in June of 1999. Consistently supports Armenian American issues. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Sen. Tom Harkin (D-IA) Staff: Bill Gould Tel: (202) 224-3254 Fax: (202) 224-9369 Notes: Voted to defend Section 907 in June of 1999. Consistently supports Armenian American issues. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Sen. Daniel Inouye (D-HI) Staff: Christine Alston-Eads Tel: (202) 224-3934 Fax: (202) 224-6747 Notes: Voted to defend Section 907 in June of 1999. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Sen. Tim Johnson (D-SD) Staff: Ian Marquardt Tel: (202) 224-5842 Fax: (202) 228-5765 Notes: Voted to defend Section 907 in June of 1999. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Sen. Mary Landrieu (D-LA) Staff: Jason Matthews Tel: (202) 224-5824 Fax: (202) 224-9735 Notes: Voted against Section 907 in June of 1999. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Sen. Barbara Mikulski (D-MD) Staff: Frederick Baron Tel: (202) 224-4654 Fax: (202) 224-8858 Notes: Voted to defend Section 907 in June of 1999. Consistently supports Armenian American issues. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Sen. Ben Nighthorse Campbell (R-CO) Staff: James Dean Tel: (202) 224-5852 Fax: (202) 224-1933 Notes: Voted to defend Section 907 in June of 1999. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Sen. Richard Shelby (R-AL) Staff: Joseph Summers Tel: (202) 224-5744 Fax: (202) 224-3416 Notes: Voted against Section 907 in June of 1999. Consistently opposes Armenian American issues. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Sen. Arlen Specter (R-PA) Staff: Karen Rogers Tel: (202) 224-4254 Fax: (202) 228-1229 Notes: Voted to defend Section 907 in June of 1999. Consistently supports Armenian American issues. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Full Appropriations Committee Chairman ---------------------------------------------------------------- Sen. Robert Byrd (D-WV) -- Appropriations Chairman Staff: Eric Raven Tel: (202) 224-3954 Fax: (202) 228-0002 Notes: Leading Senate opponent of Armenian American issues. Successfully filibustered Armenian Genocide Resolution in 1990. (Authorized to sit on this Subcommittee) ---------------------------------------------------------------- Full Appropriations Committee Ranking Member ---------------------------------------------------------------- Sen. Ted Stevens (R-AK) -- Appropriations Ranking Member Staff: George Lowe Tel: (202) 224-3004 Fax: (202) 224-2354 Notes: Voted to defend Section 907 in June of 1999. (Authorized to sit on this Subcommittee) ---------------------------------------------------------------- Sample Phone Script: ---------------------------------------------------------------- [The phone will be answered by a receptionist. Ask to speak to the staffer who is responsible for foreign aid appropriations issues. If he or she is not available, please leave a written or voice-mail message indicating that you strongly oppose any reduction in aid to Armenia.] Hello, my name is _________________. (Give your address if you are from the Senator's state.) I am calling to ask the Senator to support provisions in the foreign aid bill that strengthen our ties with Armenia. Specifically, I urge the Senator to make sure that aid to Armenia remains at least at last year's level of $90 million. In addition, please help end Azerbaijan's blockade of Armenia by defending Section 907 of the Freedom Support Act and also support continued aid to Nagorno Karabagh. Armenia has made tremendous progress on economic, democracy- building, and regional issues. Reducing aid levels to Armenia would send the wrong signal at the wrong time. I am following the foreign aid bill very closely and look forward to hearing of your position on these issues. I can be reached by phone at __________ or by mail at _____________________________. Thank you for your attention to my concerns. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Sample Letter to Senators: ---------------------------------------------------------------- The Honorable ________ ______________ United States Senate Washington, DC 20510 RE: ARMENIAN AMERICAN ISSUES IN FY 2002 FOREIGN AID BILL Dear Senator _________________________: I am writing to ask you to actively support provisions in the foreign aid bill that strengthen our ties with Armenia. Of special concern to me is the need to maintain fiscal year 2002 U.S. aid levels to Armenia at least at the fiscal year 2001 level of $90 million. I am also very committed to maintaining Section 907 of the Freedom Support Act. Despite the challenges presented by the devastating 1988 earthquake, the collapse of the Soviet Union, rapid market reforms, instability in Georgia, and the ongoing, ten-year blockade by Azerbaijan and Turkey, Armenia has emerged as a leading partner of the United States, in the Caucasus and among the New Independent States, on a broad range of issues. Among these are: * Cooperation on Economic Issues: U.S. aid to Armenia has substantially helped Armenia's economic development. Armenia's GDP has grown steadily, inflation has been drastically lowered, the exchange rate is stable, and the deficit has been brought under control. Foreign direct investment rose 29% last year, and real GDP growth of 6% or more, with 3% inflation, is expected through 2003. Last month Armenia hosted an investors conference in New York City with the U.S. Government, the World Bank and International Finance Corporation, and just two weeks ago helped to foster increased U.S.-Armenia trade at a successful trade show, attended by over 5,000, in Los Angeles. * Cooperation on Regional Issues: On regional issues, Armenia has been a consistently reliable partner in the search for peace and regional cooperation in the Caucasus, extending its full cooperation to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe's peace process for Nagorno Karabagh. Armenia's support for the peace process contrasts sharply with the position taken by Azerbaijan, which, according to the statements of its own leaders, bears responsibility for the failure of the most recent round of negotiations. * Cooperation on Security Issues: Armenia is cooperating with the Departments of State, Defense, and Energy on a number of projects concerning counter-proliferation, cooperative threat reduction, export control and border security assistance. Armenia is an active member of the NATO Partnership for Peace, and participates extensively in the International Science and Technology Center, the U.S. Civilian Research and Development Foundation, and other institutions involved in anti- terrorism, de-mining, and other security issues. * Cooperation on Energy, Agricultural and Environmental Issues: Armenia is cooperating extensively with the United States on energy sector reforms, nuclear reactor safety programs, and on regional environmental projects to protect the natural resources of the entire Caucasus region. At the request of Armenian officials, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has provided environmental impact training in Armenia. Agricultural programs, notably those organized by the Fresno-California based Armenian Technology Group (ATG), have created much needed jobs, while promoting private sector agribusiness and increased trade. In each of these areas, U.S. assistance has been vital. Please help to further expand U.S.-Armenia cooperation and to strengthen the enduring bonds between the American and Armenian peoples by supporting Armenian provisions in the fiscal year 2002 foreign aid bill. For more information, please contact the Armenian National Committee of America at (202) 775-1918 or anca@anca.org. Sincerely, ANCA

Discover The Republic of Turkey Homepage ??? http://www.geocities.com/discover_turkey/flag1.gif web page

http://www.asbarez.com/cartoons/2001/01may19.gif

CHIPS USED IN MICROELECTRONICS WILL BE SCHEMED IN YEREVAN 07.07.2001 /PanARMENIAN.Net/. The Yerevan firm ''Aramast, engaged in high technology sphere, has been ordered the schiming of the semiconducting chips that will be produced in Taiwan. Gagik Arzumanyan, the company director has pointed out that the formal program preparing will be completed in 1-2 months. It should be mentioned that according to ''Arka''agency information, the first production volume could exceed $10 million. Vahram Muradyan, one of the ''Amarast'' shareholders, speaking about the possibility of the chip producing in Armenia, has pointed out that ''the realization of such a project is not real in present situation. According to his words, $ 2 billion would be necessary for the corresponding producing facility providing. It should be mentioned that ''Aramast'' is the affiliate company of the American company with the same name. The shares of the company belong to Vahram Muradyan, the American businessman with Armenian origin, Khachatur Sukasyan, the head of ''Sil Group'' concern and an investor from the USA.

FIRST TRADE SESSION OPENED AT "ARMEX" ARMENIAN STOCK MARKET 07.07.2001 /PanARMENIAN.Net/. Yesterday the official opening of the trade site of "Armex" Armenian sock market took place. The system of electronic bargaining, developed by the Russian specialists is used at the market. Acquisition of the system became possible due to the financial support by US Agency for International Development. In connection with the first trade session, Prime Minister Andranik Markarian has addressed a greeting message to "Armex" staff. Some thirty local companies are included in the market listing. This means that the shares issued by them are allowed to operations at "Armex". Approximately twenty stock companies' applications for listing are at the stage of consideration.

that was nice

http://www.armenians.com/images/tsitsernakaberd.gif

Harout jan shut HyeTv bats hesa Tigin Garfildi heraxosi hamar@ kasi iren handznir qo bolor hoqser@@ HArout jan qo campyuter@ igakan seri nerkayatsutsicha ??? ba eta eli, amen amis@ mek ernuma etpes aper, hamperi mi qani orits kantsni , inchqan portses shines , enqan aveli k@pchana, hamperi aper... just a joke

Reps. Knollenberg, Pallone, Sweeney and Crowley Ask Congress to Withhold Funding For Pipeline Projects WASHINGTON, DC--Congressional Armenian Caucus Co-Chairmen Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) and Frank Pallone have joined with Reps. John Sweeney (R-NY) and Joseph Crowley (D-NY) in expressing growing Congressional opposition to the use of American tax dollars to fund Caspian energy projects that exclude Armenia, reported the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA). The four legislators have introduced legislation, H.Con.Res.162, on this subject and are in the process of sharing their concerns on this issue with the President in the form of a Congressional letter. This initiative comes in the wake of the recently released recommendations of the Bush Administration's National Energy Policy Development (NEPD) group, which announced its support for the Baku-Ceyhan pipeline. The NEPD group failed, however, to identify Armenia as the most cost-effective route for the Baku-Ceyhan pipeline; the most viable option and the one that best serves US commercial and strategic interests in the region. The legislation would specifically state that it is the "Sense of Congress" that: (1) the United States should not subsidize any oil or gas pipeline in the South Caucasus whose commercial viability is in doubt or which hinders the United States goal of integrating Armenia into a secure and prosperous regional economic framework; (2) all proposals for South Caucasus oil and gas pipeline routes should be carefully evaluated to ensure that all nations of the Caucasus are included in consideration of energy and trade routes; (3) any engineering and feasibility study, and any project implementation, that utilizes United States Government funds, regarding the Baku-Ceyhan pipeline, or similar energy transportation projects, must include trans-Armenian routes; and (4) the Trade Development Agency should fund and support an oil and gas pipeline feasibility study to determine the cost savings of a trans-Armenia Baku-Ceyhan pipeline. "We commend the foresight of Congressmen Knollenberg, Pallone, Sweeney, and Crowley and applaud their initiative in educating Congress about the vital role Armenia can play in the region's oil and gas development, and, in particular, in the future of the Baku-Ceyhan project," said ANCA Executive Director Aram Hamparian. "Armenia is a key player in the region and an indispensable partner to any future successful undertaking in this regard. We urge Congress to direct the Administration to seek rational and lasting solutions in this strategic field and not to be guided by short-sighted political pressures." In a June 14th statement on the House floor, Congressman Crowley "urged the President to give additional thought to the proposed Baku-Ceyhan pipeline and to have the foresight to include Armenia in that project, both for the good of the region, and for the good of US policy in the region." In this same speech, he announced that the four lead sponsors of this legislation, in addition to introducing H.Con.Res.162, would also join together in writing to President George W. Bush to ask that he "review all current and future oil and gas pipeline routes to ensure that all countries of the South Caucasus are included."

Navasartian Games Closing Festivities Begin VAN NUYS--Thousands took part in the official opening of the 5-Day Festival of the 26th Annual Homenetmen Navasartian Games held on July 4 (Independence Day) at Birmingham High School in Van Nuys. The two month-long basketball, soccer and volleyball tournaments have now reached the semi-finals, while the ping-pong, swimming and tennis tournaments just started. The festive atmosphere of the festival featured booths from various Homenetmen chapters and community businesses. Well-known popular singers Arman, Bedig, Garo, Artash Asatrian and Apo performed at the July 4th celebration. The evening's celebrations ended at midnight with a performance by Harout Pamboukjian. Thursday's program featured performances by singers Andre Amatian, Armenchik, Harout Khachoyan, Sahag Sislian, Ararat Amatian, and the "Boys" Band. Festivities on Friday will begin at 4:00 p.m. at Birmingham High School, featuring performances by Socrat, Helen, Sako, Maxim, and Arsham. The evening's program will conclude at midnight with Karnig Sarkissian's performance of patriotic and revolutionary songs accompanied by a fireworks show. The Navasartian Victory Ball will be held on Saturday, July 7 at 7:00 p.m. at the Universal Hilton. Last year's honorary chairman of the Navasartian Games, Ashkhen Pilavjian, will pass on the Navasartian symbolic ribbon to this year's honorary chairpersons Vatche and Jane Soghomonian. The evening's entertainment will be provided by singer Vatche. The closing ceremony of the Navasartian Games will be on Sunday, July 8 at Birmingham High School from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.. The 5-Day Festival will also conclude on Sunday at 4:30 p.m.. This year's closing ceremony is being dedicated to the 1700th anniversary of Christianity's adoption by Armenia. The closing ceremony will include a parade and an awards ceremony.

NKR Prime Minister Arrives in US LOS ANGELES--Artsax Prime Minister Anoushavan Danielian is on a working visit to North America to promote the NK 2001 Arts & Music Festival and to promote investment opportunities in Artsax. The prime minister is touring the East Coast and Canada and will arrive on the West Coast shortly. While in Los Angeles, Danielian will attend the 26th Annual Navasartian Games. Danielian met with members of the ARF Eastern Central Committee during his stay on the East Coast, and briefed them on developments in Artsakh. The ARF representatives in their turn presented Danielian with a picture of community life on the East Coast, and efforts at securing assistance to Armenia and Artsax from the US Congress. Prime Minister Danielian also met with Prelate Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan of the Eastern Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church of North America.

South Caucasus Considered Zone of National Interest For Iran TEHRAN (Armenpress)--Armenian Presidential Aid Artashes Tumanian expressed on Tuesday while visiting Tehran Armenia's satisfaction over Iran's moderate position on the Artsax conflict and highlighted Iran's contribution to solving the tensions in the region, Iranian IRNA news agency reported. Tumanian who was speaking at a meeting with his Iranian counter-part Mehdi Abtahi underlined the need to boost multilateral ties between Yerevan and Tehran. He also voiced Armenia's determination to diversify ties with Iran in all areas, particularly in the economic, cultural and political fields. Abtahi, for his part, recalled the potential of the two countries to develop cooperation, and termed Tehran-Yerevan relations as 'positive' and 'strong'. He expressed hope that the exchange of diplomatic delegations between the two countries would facilitate the implementation of bilateral agreements. Abtahi stressed that a stable and secure region would only be guaranteed through the participation and cooperation of all states of the region including Armenia and Iran. He hoped that the Artsax conflict would be solved through a negotiated agreement. The Head of Iran's Presidential Office expressed hope that the project to transfer Iranian gas to Armenia would soon be implemented by utilizing available capacities. Elsewhere in his remarks, Abtahi reiterated that trilateral cooperation between Iran-Armenia-Russia would establish stable peace and security in the region. In related news, a senior Iranian official announced on Tuesday in Tehran while meeting with Azerbaijan's ambassador to Iran Abas Hasanov that disputable issues pertaining to the Caspian Sea basin should be resolved without the interference of third parties. Hasan Roukhani, the general secretary of the Iranian Supreme National Security Council was quoted by Itar-Tass as saying that the establishment of mutual understanding between Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan will allow them to reach a mutually acceptable agreement on the status of the Caspian by all five littoral states. In a reference to regional security issues, the Iranian official said that Iran cannot remain indifferent toward changes occurring in the South Caucasus since it is a neighbor to the region and considers it a zone of national interests. "Any change occurring in the Caucasus is reflected in Iran, that is why all the Caucasian problems should be solved with taking into account the interests of the region's peoples and on the basis of justice," he said, adding that Iran will not spare efforts for reaching peace and stability in the region.

THE INTERNATIONAL STATE BANK WILL GRANT THE ARMENIAN NUCLEAR PLANT A CREDIT FOR BUYING NUCLEAR FUEL 06.07.2001 /PanARMENIAN.Net/. "International State Bank" will grant Armenian Nuclear plant the $4 million credit for buying nuclear fuel. As "Arka" agency informs, the agreement on that is the result of the negotiations that have recently taken place in the capital of Russia. It should be reminded that in the middle of June the Armenian government refused the $12 million credit granted the Armenian nuclear power plant by the Russian government. Instead of that it was decided to have credit from one of the commercial banks. For that the plant was given budget guarantees.