october-november-2010-english

The 86th General Assembly of the Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU) was convened in Buenos Aires, Argentina, from October 13-17. The main issues of the GA agenda were the expansion of the Union’s programs carried out in Armenia, formulation of new dis-trict committees in vari-ous Armenian commu-nities of the Diaspora, allocation of financial resources for the im-plementation of the union’s programs, de-velopment of the initia-tives of the AGBU chapters, formation of a youth wing adjacent to the Union’s Central Board of Directors, as well as the expansion of professional person-nel for the effective implementation of the programs.

AGBU General Assembly started on October 13 with a concert of classical music hosted by the Ambassador of France to Argentina Jean-Pierre Astvadzadourian at the French Embassy of Argentina. After the concert, the delegates headed to the AGBU headquarters on Armenia Street to attend the exhibition on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the local AGBU Youth League. The following day, the GA participants were present at the AGBU Marie Manoogian Educational Institute’s pri-mary class concert, toured the institution and visited the classrooms, exhibition halls and sports facilities.

During the General Assembly members of the AGBU Central Board of Directors held meetings with chapter delegates discussing issues concerning the Union’s activities. AGBU Young Professionals from different countries also participated in the GA. Dur-ing the meeting with the YPs AGBU President Berge Setrakian expressed his satis-faction with the growing number of the YPs and their activities in favor of their home-land. He also emphasized his determination to include youth in the Union’s admini-

stration and encourage their ideas and activities.

The GA sessions started on October 16 in the Buenos Aires Alex Manoogian Center presided over by President Berge Setrak-ian and with the participation of members of the AGBU Central Board of Directors. Over 200 delegates from Armenia, Austra-lia, Brazil, France, Great Britain, Greece, Italy, Lebanon, Russia, Switzerland, Syria, Uruguay, USA. Also present were Head of the Argentina and Chile Diocese of the Armenian Apostolic Church Archbishop Gisak Mouradian and RA Ambassador to Argentina Vladimir Karmirshalyan.

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ARMENIAN GENERAL BENEVOLENT UNION

AGBU ARMENIA NEWSLETTERAGBU ARMENIA NEWSLETTER Yerevan, Armenia

ISSUE 10, OCTOBER-NOVEMBER, 2010 IN THIS ISSUE

♦ 86th AGBU General Assembly held in Buenos Aires (p. 1, 2)

♦ Vaskenian seminary - 20 (p. 3)

♦ AGBU assists the 5th Republi-can chess olympiad (p. 3)

♦ AGBU in the 5th pan-Armenian forum of journalists (p. 4)

♦ AVC’s increasing prominence in education process (p. 5)

♦ AVC Winter Term 2011 (p. 5)

♦ AGBU Diaspora youth pro-grams for Summer 2011 (p. 6 )

♦ Thoughts on a recent visit to Armenia: Carl Kirakosian (p. 7)

♦ AGBU Yerevan Scouts visited Military Academy (p. 7)

♦ Pan YP project in Khachik (p.8)

♦ AGBU Yerevan YPs and Arme-nian bloggers in Karabakh (p.8)

♦ AGBU history in Russian (p. 9)

♦ ACO continues concerts in packed halls (p. 9)

♦ Wisconsin Armenians help orphanage children (p. 9)

♦ “St. Nerses Shnorhali” medal to Avedis Demirdjian (p. 10)

♦ Aris Atamian awarded “Na-tional Order of Merit” (p. 10)

♦ AGBU school among “Best Ar-menian School” winners (p.10)

♦ RA ombudsman speaks at the European parliament (p. 11)

♦ First Ile-de-France-Armenia Friendship Group (p. 12)

86TH AGBU GENERAL ASSEMBLY CONVENED IN BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA

Eduardo Eurnekian named “AGBU’s Man of the Year”

AGBU President Mr. Berge Setrakian awards prominent Argentinean-Armenian entrepreneur and philanthropist Mr. Eduardo Eurnekian

AGBU Central Board of Directors at the 86th AGBU General Assembly in Buenos Aires

AGBU ARMENIA NEWSLETTER ISSUE 10, OCTOBER-NOVEMBER, 2010

86TH AGBU GENERAL ASSEMBLY CONVENED... (see page 1) The Biennial Reports published in English and Armenian presented AGBU’s activities and financial over-view of the past two years. President Setrakian opened the Assembly with an encouraging speech presenting the challenges and achievements of the Union in 2008-2009. He mentioned that despite the financial difficulties all the projects of the AGBU branches and all the activities of the Union were successfully implemented. Sum-ming up the Union’s activities of the past two years AGBU Central Board member and Middle East repre-sentative Vasken Yacoubian presented four main di-rections: projects carried out in Armenia and Artsakh, education activities, chapter initiatives and youth pro-grams. The financial report of the Union was pre-sented by AGBU Central Board Treasurer Sam Simo-nian. After the reports submitted by advisers, dele-gates voted to elect Joseph Oughourlian of New York as new member of the Central Board of Directors, to replace Dr. Arshavir Gundjian, whose term as mem-ber expired, according to the AGBU by-laws provi-sions of reaching the age of 75. Mr. Setrakian thanked Dr. Gundjian for his lasting activities and dedication to the Union, highly praised his role and merit in national and public activities and wished him good health and vigor. Eight members of the Central Board were re-elected for a four-year term.

In his speech RA Ambassador to Argentina Vladimir Karmirshalyan spoke about the historic importance of the AGBU foundation and its activities. Souvenirs and letters of gratitude were given to Regine Bazarian, Hakob Chamikian, Elizabeth Gyozukarayan and Antonio Sarafian by AGBU President Berge Setrakian for their continuous dedicated service to the Union. Finally, Archbishop Mouradian surprised all the delegates by reading Catholicos Karekin II’s pontifical decree addressed to Bedros Piandarian, long time financial director of AGBU Central Board of Directors in New York, and a second decree addressed to Ruben Keshishian, AGBU Central Board member and chairman of AGBU Buenos Aires Chapter, and decorated them with the St. Nerses Shnorhali medals.

Closing the assembly President Setrakian highly praised the work of General Assembly organizing committee, coor-dinating bodies, members of the Buenos Aires chapter. After the adoption of the GA resolution, with Archbishop Gi-sak Mouradian’s prayer, the General Assembly concluded its sessions. On October 16, the presentation of the Spanish translations of Margaret Atjemian-Ahnert’s “The Knock at the Door” and a book on Armenia cuisine took place within the framework of the General Assembly. After the meeting, the delegates went to the land adjacent to Alex Manoogian Cultural Center and laid the foundation stone of the new “General Antranik” scout center.

One of the most memorable evenings of the 86th General Assembly was the official gala-dinner held at the Four Seasons Hotel on Friday, October 15, during which renowned Argentinean-Armenian entrepreneur Eduardo Eurne-

kian was honored. Armenia’s Ambassador to Argen-tina Vladimir Karmirshalyan delivered the welcoming address of the President of the Republic of Armenia Serzh Sargsyan. Greeting all the participants of the General Assembly, Mr. Sargsyan congratulated Mr. Eduardo Eurnekian praising his patriotic initiatives and investments in Homeland. A word of blessing and congratulation was also sent by Catholicos and Supreme Patriarch of All Armenians Karekin II. His Holiness emphasized AGBU’s close ties with the Homeland and the Armenian Apostolic Church, and congratulated Mr. Eurnekian on being named “AGBU’s Man of the Year” praising his service to Homeland and the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. AGBU, which has always encouraged philanthropy and active involvement in Armenian community life, honored Eurnekian in appreciation of his commit-ment to bettering the lives of Armenians. Setrakian

made Eurnekian an honorary member of the Central Council of the AGBU, which received a standing ovation and lengthy applause. Eurnekian humbly announced that he is just doing his duty for his people in Argentina and in Ar-menia.

For the video material please visit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YD6UWMCSwg4

Archbishop Gisak Mouradian reading Catholicos Karekin II’s pontifical decrees addressed to Bedros Piandarian and Ruben Keshishian

AGBU President's wife Mrs. Vera Setrakian honoring the Pertjuhi Emirian Elementary School students with the AGBU flag


TWENTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE VASKENIAN ACADEMY CELEBRATED IN THE MOTHER SEE OF HOLY ETCHMIADZIN

On November 4, His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians presided over a cele-bration dedicated to the 20th anniversary of the Vaskenian Theological Academy at Lake Sevan. The celebration was held in the Pontifical Residence of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. Present for the celebration were AGBU Council of Trustees member and benefactor Karnig Yacoubian and his wife Anahit Yacoubian of Canada, AGBU President’s wife Mrs. Vera Setrakian, Mr. Vah-ram Nersissian of the Araratian Pontifical Diocese of Armenia, a member of the Supreme Spiritual Council, State representatives, Members of the Brotherhood of the Mother See, students of the Gevorkian and Vas-kenian Seminaries and many guests. "The Academy is one of the great victories of the 20th century in our national life. For us the Academy is the past, the present and the future", Rev. Fr. Gevorg Saroyan, Dean of the Vaskenian Academy, stated in his speech. During these 20 years, the Academy has produced 142 graduates: 2 Bishops, 4 Archimandrites, 11 Reverend Fathers, 50 priests and 75 deacons. At the conclusion of the ceremony, the Armenian Pontiff extended his message of blessing. He extended his words of appreciation to the administrative and professorial staff, to the seminarians and to the graduates of the academy. "The mission of each spiritual institution is to train and educate the God-loving, Church-loving and patriot offspring. I should pray, ask and wish that our spiritual seminaries nurture priests who will justify the hopes of our nation and realize the oath which will glorify the name of His Holiness Vasken I of Blessed memory. May God send His bless-ings that the seminary keep the name and sacred memory of our beloved Pontiff vibrant", the Armenian Pontiff stated in part. His Holiness also extended his gratitude to Mr. and Mrs. Karnig Yacoubian, benefactors of the Spiritual Academy, who believed in the mission of the Academy and took the responsibilities of reconstructing the institution. During the ceremony there was a concert presented by the National Chamber Orchestra of Armenia; led by the artis-tic director and conductor Mr. Robert Mlkeyan. The choir of the Academy performed spiritual songs in honor of the occasion. A film called "Vaskenian Academy-20: The History of the Soul" produced by Shoghakat TV Studio was presented to the audience. The ceremony was closed with the Prayer.

For the video material please visit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aqh3d9sv8XA

5TH REPUBLICAN INTERSCHOOL CHESS OLYMPIAD KICKED OFF The 5th Republican Interschool Chess Olympiad is currently underway and for the 4th consecutive year the Arme-nian General Benevolent Union (AGBU) assists the tournament, which is organized by the RA Education and Sci-

ence Ministry, RA Chess Federation and AGBU. Schoolchildren from all the regions of Armenia and Artsakh compete to reach the finals. The 2nd phase of the tournament took place at the Armenian Chess Academy from November 24 - De-cember 3. The 3rd round will begin in March 2011, while the finals will take place next May. The main goal of the tournament is to support the development of chess in Armenia, increase the popularity of the game, and its role and meaning in society, as well as discover new young talent to help maintain Armenia’s leading position in the world of chess.

AGBU has already donated more than 4000 chess sets and chess clocks to the schools of Armenia and Artsakh, thereby creating a solid base for the develop-ment of chess in the republic. Thanks to the financial

assistance of the AGBU this year the participants of the tournament will receive additional chess sets, chess clocks and magnetic chess boards. The winners of the final, scheduled for May 2010, will receive laptops thanks to the AGBU assistance.

Schoolchildren from Armenia and Artsakh compete for the finals

Mr. and Mrs. Karnig and Anahit Yacoubian and Mrs. Vera Setrakian during the 20th anniversary celebration of the Vaskenian Seminary


The 5th pan-Armenian forum of journalists took place in the Culture and Youth Palace of Stepanakert from October 12-16, as part of the “One Nation, One Culture” festival. The conference entitled “Challenges of the 21st Century: Information Security and Armenian journalism” was organized by the RA Diaspora Ministry, Pan-Armenian Media

Association and the Union of Journalists of Armenia.

200 Armenian journalists from 26 countries participated in the forum. Opening speeches were made by NKR President Bako Sahakyan and RA Diaspora Minister Hranoush Hakobian. Primate of the Artsakh Diocese of the Armenian Apostolic Church Archbishop Parkev Mar-tirossian delivered the pontifical blessing of the Catholi-cos of All-Armenians Karekin II. The participants of the forum emphasized the importance of a united ideological and national stance of Armenia, Artsakh and Diaspora in pan-Armenian issues. Calling on all the Armenian jour-nalists RA Diaspora Minister Hranoush Hakobian said in her speech “being multi-sided and diverse in your opin-ions, I ask you to be united and to display joint standing in pan-Armenian issues such as the just solution of the Karabakh conflict, the recognition of the Armenian Geno-

cide, the development and strengthening of Armenia and Artsakh, the preservation of the Armenian language and culture and unification around the Armenian Church”. The delegation of the Armenian General Benevolent Union’s media representatives in the face of Hampig Mardiros-sian, Editor-in-Chief of AGBU “Khosnag” magazine of Lebanon, Hovig Eordekian, representative of AGBU “Husharar” magazine of the USA, and Vartan Tsulikian, representative of “AGBU Armenia Newsletter” participated in the forum. Hampig Mardirossian delivered a speech called “The current condition and key issues of the Diaspora press”, touching upon such important issues as the challenges threatening our language and culture in the current conditions of globalization, the difficulties faced by the Armenian media. He called on all the journalists of Armenia, Diaspora and Artsakh to deepen cooperation with each other. The participants of the forum also raised issues re-garding the joint stance in all-Armenian issues, the struggle against the Azeri misinformation, the current stage of the Artsakh conflict, international recognition of NKR, the current condition of the Armenian press, freedom of press and information, mutual tolerance, Armenian propaganda in foreign press, struggle against anti-Armenian propaganda, development of free and informed society, strengthening of independent media in Artsakh, cooperation between YSU Department of Journalism and the Diasporan media, etc. Representatives of Armenian printed and electronic media of Los Angeles, Beirut and Dubai also had the chance to participate in the forum through live video calls. The speeches were followed by active discussions and exchange of ideas and thoughts. Before starting the 3-day forum the journalists laid flowers at the memorial to the Artsakh liberation war victims. Editor-in-chief of AGBU “Khosnag” magazine Hampig Mardirossian performed an Armenian Church psalm at the tombs of our heroes. Armenian jour-nalists had meetings with NKR Defense Minister Movses Hakobian and NKR Parliament Speaker Ashot Ghulyan, attended the concert of local artists and dance groups and the AGBU-funded Artsakh Chamber Orchestra, vis-ited Shushi, Gandzasar and Tigranakert. Concluding the forum RA Diaspora Minister Hranoush Hakobian expressed her gratitude and satisfaction about the productive process of the forum and stated that it con-tributed greatly to the establishment of direct close ties between the Armenian journalists from different parts of the world, exchange of thoughts on various pan-Armenian issues and development of cooperation.

The 5th pan-Armenian forum of journalists finished its work with the formation of a Coordinating Council and issuance of a joint statement. On October 16, on their way back to Yerevan, the participants of the forum met with RA Presi-dent Serzh Sargsyan in Goris, who delivered a speech congratulating the journalists on the occasion of the Arme-nian Press Day, celebrated on October 16 in Armenia since 2004. President Sargsyan also kindly answered all the questions raised by the journalists.

For the video materials please visit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lqtwKxFHya0 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-_7y7bjUqFI

AGBU DELEGATION PARTICIPATED IN THE 5TH PAN-ARMENIAN FORUM OF JOURNALISTS

5th pan-Armenian forum of journalists convened in Stepanakert

AGBU delegates at the pan-Armenian forum of journalists

On October 5, AGBU Armenian Virtual College participa-ted in the Education Fair on “European Language Day” held at the French University of Armenia. The other three participating organizations were the British Council, the German “DAAD” and the French “Alliance Francaise D’Armenie”. The European Language Day was estab-lished by the Council of Europe and the European Union in 2001. It is celebrated on September 26. The opening ceremony was attended by the RA Education and Sci-ence Minister Armen Ashotyan, Head of the EU delega-tion in Armenia Raul de Luzenberger, President of the French University in Armenia Joelle Le Morzellec, am-bassadors of European countries, other officials and guests. Participating organizations presented their pro-grams and achievements. The event was organized by ARMACAD to once again emphasize the importance of languages and encourage intercultural ties.

On November 16-18, AGBU AVC participated in “Educa-tion and Career Expo 2010” 11th international specialized exhibition organized by the RA Education and Science Mi-nistry and sponsored by VivaCell-MTS. Different institu-tes, educational establishments and donor organizations participated in the expo. Opening remarks were made by RA Education and Science Minister Armen Ashotyan and General Manager of VivaCell-MTS Ralph Yirikian. The main goal of the expo was to provide information to school and university students about the innovations in education and the most popular specializations in today’s labor mar-ket, establish business relations between different enter-prises, as well as organize meetings with potential em-ployers. The exhibition covered the following areas: pri-mary and secondary education; higher education; post-

graduate education; international organizations; innovative projects; virtual textbooks and programs; training meth-ods; educational and developing literature; publishing services and stationary, equipment for educational institutions. Both these events provided a good opportunity for the AGBU AVC to promote itself among other educational insti-tutes and to present its programs and courses. The attendees expressed great interest in informing their friends and relatives who live abroad about the AVC and its activities.

www.avc-agbu.org


AGBU ARMENIAN VIRTUAL COLLEGE’S INCREASING PROMINENCE IN THE EDUCATION PROCESS

AGBU AVC ANNOUNCES ENROLLMENT FOR WINTER TERM 2011

The AGBU Armenian Virtual College (AVC) is pleased to an-nounce the opening of its enrollment period for Winter Term 2011. The following courses are offered in multiple languages (including Eastern Armenian, Western Armenian, English, French, Russian and Spanish) on multiple levels: The classes start on January 10, and end on March 15. For enrollment please visit www.avc-agbu.org, create your log-in and submit your enrollment application. The enrollment closes on December 19, 2010.

Armenian Virtual College participated in the Education Fair at the French University of Armenia

AVC pavilion at the Education and Career Expo 2010


“ANTRANIK” SCOUT CAMP Age: 13-18 Dates: July - August, 2011 Deadline: April 1, 2011 Price: 100 USD (air travel not included)

For more information please contact: New York Kevork Santourian Tel: +212 319 6383 +374 10 512251 Fax: +212 319 6507 +961 3 375 224 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: Website: www.agbu.org [email protected]

“DISCOVER ARMENIA” YOUTH TRIP Age: 15-18 Dates: August 6 - 25, 2011 Deadline: March 1, 2011 Price: 1800 USD (air travel not included)

For more information please contact: New York Hermine Duzian Tel: +212 319 6383 +374 10 512251 Fax: +212 319 6507 +374 93 683173 E-mail: [email protected] +33 6 76 485873 Website: www.agbu.org E-mail: [email protected]

YEREVAN SUMMER INTERNSHIP PROGRAM Age: 19-25 Dates: June 25 - August 5, 2011 Deadline: March 1, 2011 Price: 1800 USD (air travel not included) Scholarships available

For more information please contact: New York Yerevan Tel: +212 319 6383 Anna Aghajanian Fax: +212 319 6507 +374 10 512251 E-mail: [email protected] [email protected] Website: www.agbu.org/ysip

MOSCOW SUMMER INTERNSHIP PROGRAM Age: 19-25 Dates: June 25 - August 5, 2011 Deadline: March 1, 2011 Price: 2200 USD (air travel not included) Scholarships available

For more information please contact: New York Moscow Tel: +212 319 6383 Angela Sargsyan Fax: +212 319 6507 +374 10 512251 E-mail: [email protected] +791 52 282232 Website: www.agbu.org/msip [email protected]

AGBU ANNOUNCES THE START OF DIASPORA YOUTH PROGRAMS IN ARMENIA AND MOSCOW FOR SUMMER 2011


23 members of the AGBU Canada scout movement’s venture group visited Armenia from July 22 to August 11 and participated in house-building in Taron-3 district of Vanadzor together with the Fuller Center. Various AGBU youth programs carried out in Armenia inspire the Diaspora youth to become more attached to their homeland, interact with Armenian culture and traditions. Carl Kirakossian, member of the AGBU Canada scout movement’s ven-ture group, shared his thoughts and impressions of his recent visit to Armenia. In his letter he wrote:

“My trip to Armenia was the most meaningful experi-ence that I have ever had. There are a number of facts that will justify my words and strengthen my position. First of all, this humanitarian mission gave me the chance to rediscover my culture. Our visits to ancient and unique sites, as well as to places recognized by UNESCO, stirred a feeling that I belong to my country.

Honestly, this whole trip gave birth to an enormous feeling of love towards the country of my ancestors. Besides, it provided a very good opportunity for me to come out of my North American haven. What I want to say is that after seeing the lives of people in my coun-try, a number of things, material values and luxury in particular, have become less important for me. I realized that it is not important to have everything you wish for in life. I started thinking in another way about my family and my life: I am lucky to live the life that I live today.

The tough construction process that we carried out in Vanadzor was also very instructive for me in terms of develop-ing responsibility and compassion towards the construction process. The working conditions also testified about the country’s living standards. We were shocked by the dangerous work, the equipment and the wages that those work-ing with us at the construction area received. Without realizing we started comparing them with the workers in Que-bec, who are united in trade unions and have all the necessary equipment to safely organize their work. The ab-sence of a corresponding budget and the standard of living of the people outline the great differences between Ar-menia and us. In short, I am satisfied with the work of our group. We helped to construct houses and secure deserving families with homes. I, personally, am very proud to have had my contribution in the rebuilding of my country. I hope to return there soon and I encourage all the Armenians of the world to do the same to bring our country out of its severe past and to ensure a promising future.”

AGBU’S HOMELAND ORIENTED PROGRAMS

CANADIAN-ARMENIAN CARL KIRAKOSSIAN SHARES HIS THOUGHTS ON A RECENT VISIT TO ARMENIA

MEMBERS OF THE AGBU YEREVAN SCOUT GROUP VISITED VAZGEN SARGSYAN MILITARY ACADEMY

On November 13, the Armenian General Benevo-lent Union’s Yerevan scout group visited the Vaz-gen Sargsyan Military Academy. They toured the classrooms of the Academy, got acquainted with the conditions and were provided with detailed in-formation about each specialized classroom. Each brief presentation or lecture was followed by ques-tions voiced by the scouts to which the lecturers and teachers gave detailed answers and explana-tions. The scouts were given basic knowledge on military defense and attack tactics, as well as on locating and disarming land mines.

Some scouts had the opportunity to target practice. The group also visited the museum of the Acad-emy. Following the in-depth tour AGBU Yerevan Scouts gave souvenirs to the Academy.

Members of the AGBU Canada scout movement’s venture group in Armenia

AGBU Yerevan Scouts at the Vazgen Sargsyan Military Academy


AGBU YP Yerevan and Armenian bloggers joint initiative began in Autumn 2010. The main goal of the program was to provide literature to the schools and libraries of Artsakh. Phase 1 of the project was successfully implemented in

the public library of the town of Karvatjar and the schools of Nor Verin Shen and Yeghegnut villages. Previously announced fundraising and book collection raised 300,000 AMD and 1300 books. The funds raised was spent on the purchase of encyclopedias, Armenian classic literature, history books, maps and

sports items. The program was warmly welcomed by the school students, teachers and administration. This was the first cooperation of AGBU YPs and Armenian blog-gers, who had already implemented similar projects in other schools in Artsakh. The program is of a continuous nature and the next school library to be updated will be in Nor Getashen, Artsakh.

THE JOINT INITIATIVE OF AGBU YP YEREVAN AND ARMENIAN BLOGGERS IN KARABAKH

PAN YP PROJECT UNITES YOUNG PROFESSIONALS FROM AROUND THE WORLD

April 2010 saw the start of Phase 1 of the Pan YP Project in conjunction with YP Yerevan, CARD with the support of YP Groups from Buenos Aires, Brazil, New York, Los Angeles, Marseilles, North California, Philadelphia, Toronto and Frankfurt The project brought together these groups from around the world to fundraise and work together im-plementing an environmental project in Khachik village in Armenia. In a desolate area near an ancient church in the village, the AGBU Yerevan YPs, CARD Representatives, invited guests and the villagers planted 95 seedlings pro-vided by the RA Nature Protection Ministry. The main goal of the project was to encourage local youth to be-come more environmentally conscious, take pride in their surroundings and use the haven as a potential future

source of income, to encourage them to remain in their home village. On October 23, AGBU YP Yerevan members again vis-ited Khachik village to implement the much anticipated Phase 2 of the project and complete the initiative. This time the Young Professionals installed 17 wooden ben-

ches, 3 wooden tables, an open-air kitchen with 2 tables and a sink. As a result today the residents of Khachik have a new, beautiful and clean park, where both children and adults can spend their leisure time and which will help im-prove the economic situation of the village, develop agro tourism, organize different agricultural festivals and fairs.

For the video material please visit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cB37EEK8Y2s

Village children showcasing their talents

Artsakh schools and libraries provided with literature

AGBU YP Yerevan and Armenian bloggers implementing a joint project in Karabakh

Villagers and YPs at the park opening


EDUARD MELKONIAN’S “AGBU HISTORY” PUBLISHED IN RUSSIAN In October 2010, with the support of the Armenian General Benevolent Un-ion’s Central Board of Directors, Senior Researcher of the Institute of History of the Armenian National Academy of Sciences, PhD, Eduard Melkonian’s “Armenian General Benevolent Union: Continu-ous History” was published in Russian at the “Tigran Mets” printing house in Yerevan.

This edition is a translation of Melkonian’s “AGBU History” book published in Yerevan in 2005, tar-geted towards the Russian-reading audience. Compared with the Armenian version this book has undergone certain structural changes, new materials have been added and certain issues not essential for Russian readers have been edited.

“Armenian General Benevolent Union: Continu-ous History” fills the tangible gap in Russian lan-guage literature on the Armenian Diaspora and the activities of pan-Armenian structures.

AGBU-FUNDED ARTSAKH CHAMBER ORCHESTRA CONTINUES CONCERTS IN PACKED HALLS

Another unforgettable evening of classical music was offered to the music-lovers of Artsakh by the AGBU-funded Artsakh Chamber Orchestra on November 6. The concert took place in the Youth Palace of Stepanakert with guest soloists Barsegh Tumanian, Christine Dovlatian and Irina Zakian from Armenia. “This is my first concert in Artsakh and it was amazing. I had no doubt that we would be as warmly received as we were, as I am familiar with the people and the history of Artsakh. I have very good friends here. As for the orches-tra, I must admit that it has great potential to perform both with invited guests, as well as its current artists”, said Barsegh Tumanian. Artistic Director and General Manager of the orchestra Maestro Gevork Muradian said, “It’s high time for this or-chestra to start touring, but on one condition; it should be under the Artsakh flag”. Artsakh Chamber Orchestra was founded in September 2004 under the sponsorship of the Armenian General Be-nevolent Union, which continues to this day.

Renowned tenor Barsegh Toumanian performing with AGBU-funded Artsakh Chamber Orchestra in Stepanakert

A fundraising evening to help the children of the Gyumri F. Nansen orphanage was organized recently at the ini-tiative of Dr. Chuck Hajinian and with the participation of representatives of the Armenian community of Wiscon-sin and AGBU friends. Pillows, sheets and other bed clothing for the orphanage children were purchased with 6,000 USD raised during the evening by about 60 guests, who committed themselves to continuing the fundraising event in favor of the Homeland. On November 12, the AGBU Armenian Representation personnel visited Gyumri and handed over the pur-chased goods to the orphanage. The administration and children of the orphanage expressed their gratitude to our Armenian-American compatriots and the AGBU. In phase 2 of the project sportswear and shoes will be pur-chased for the children of the same orphanage.

Wisconsin Armenians helped purchase bed clothing for the children of the F. Nansen orphanage of Gyumri

HELPING THE CHILDREN OF THE GYUMRI F. NANSEN ORPHANAGE


CATHOLICOS OF ALL ARMENIANS KAREKIN II AWARDS “ST. NERSES SHNORHALI” MEDAL TO AGBU DONOR AVEDIS DEMIRDJIAN

An evening honoring AGBU donor Avedis Demirdjian took place on November 10 in Beirut AGBU “Demirdjian” cen-ter with the participation of AGBU President Berge Setrakian and his wife Vera Setrakian, Head of the Damascus Diocese of the Armenian Apostolic Church Bishop Ar-mash Nalbandian, RA Ambassador to Lebanon Ashot Kocharian, Chairman of the AGBU Lebanon District Committee Jirayr Tufenkjian, ministers, state officials and guests. Bishop Nalbandian presented the AGBU donor, member and former chairman of the AGBU Lebanon District Committee Avedis Demirdjian with “St. Nerses Shnorhali” medal and a pontifical decree by the Catholicos of All-Armenians Karekin II for his lasting national and philanthropic activities. Thanks to the generous donations of the Demirdjian family the following institutions have been established: St. Ast-vatsatsin Armenian Church in Bikfaya, former AGBU Demirdjian School of Beirut, the current AGBU Demirdjian School of Los Angeles and the AGBU Demirdjian Center of Beirut. They also supported the Sevan Vaskenian Seminary.

AGBU CENTRAL BOARD MEMBER ARIS ATAMIAN AWARDED “NATIONAL ORDER OF MERIT” BY THE FRENCH PRESIDENT

Aris Atamian, member of the Armenian General Benevolent Union’s Central Board of Directors, was awarded the “Chevalier dans l’Ordre national du Mérite” (National Order of Merit) by the President of the French Republic on November 11, 2010 (Official Journal of November 14th).

This high distinction for his 43 years of professional activities and military ser-vices rewards his personal and professional merits and bears a great respon-sibility.

Mr. Aris Atamian is a renowned architect based in Paris, France. He gradu-ated from the Department of Architecture of the Paris Academy of Fine Arts. Mr. Atamian has been a partner at “Fernier and Associates” since 1986. He has been a member of AGBU for several decades and has served as Chair-man and Vice-Chairman of the AGBU Youth Committee in Paris. He was elected member of the AGBU Central Board of Directors in 2005.

The official award ceremony of the “Best Armenian School” organized by the RA Diaspora Ministry with the financial assistance of the World Armenian Congress, took place in the large hall of the National Academy of Sciences on October 18. 62 educational establishments had submitted their applications for the competition; 31 Sunday schools and 31 regular schools, colleges and educational centers. The “Best Armenian School” award went to Melankton and Hayk Arslanian Seminary (Beirut, Lebanon). Among the award recipients also were AGBU Lazar Najarian-Calouste Gulbenkian school (Aleppo, Syria), Karen Jeppe Armenian College (Aleppo, Syria), Kananyan Girls’ School (Nor Jugha, Iran), and Sochi sec-ondary school #31 (Sochi, Russian Federation).

Mr. Demirdjian honored for his lasting national and philanthropic activities

AGBU L.NAJARIAN-C.GULBENKYAN SCHOOL AMONG THE WINNERS OF THE BEST ARMENIAN SCHOOL COMPETITION

AGBU delegation’s visit to the Lazar Najarian-Calouste Gulbenkian School in Aleppo


ARMENIA’S HUMAN RIGHTS DEFENDER SPEAKS AT THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT

Armen Harutyunyan, the Human Rights Defender (Ombudsman) of Armenia, was in Brussels from November 15 to November 18, 2010, in order to meet with European Institutions. The visit was organized by AGBU Europe. During his visit, the ombudsman met with Mr Cabrnoch, Chair of the European Parliament’s Delegation for Armenia, Azer-baijan and Georgia; Heidi Hautala, Chair of EP Subcommittee on Human Rights; Peter Semneby, EU Special Repre-

sentative for the South Caucasus as well as Gunnar Wi-egand, Responsible for Eastern Europe, the Southern Caucasus and Central Asia of the European Commis-sion.

On November 15, Armen Harutyunyan was the special guest of Milan Cabrnoch for an open meeting in which a number of parliamentarians took part. At the meeting, the Ombudsman explained that in spite of efforts to re-form, Armenia, like other post-soviet states, was still far from being democratic. As long as its system remained oligarchic and as long as economic and political powers are intermingled, democracy cannot prevail. Further-more, in order to reinforce the country’s economic de-velopment, the Ombudsman recommends institutional reforms, which are essential to managing the transition from oligarchy to capitalism and to secure respect for human rights, as well as strengthen civil society.

Mr Harutyunyan also spoke at a round table of experts convened jointly by AGBU Europe and European Friends of Armenia on November 16 and held a debate with the Armenian community in Brussels in the evening of the 16th. These events focused on the state of democracy and human rights in Armenia, particularly in the context of intensify-ing EU-Armenia relations, and on the role of the Human Rights Defender.

Armen Harutyunyan was the first Human Rights Defender to be elected for a 6 year term in a vote by the National Assembly held on February 17, 2006, as provided by article 83.1 of the Constitution of the Republic of Armenia. The mission of the Human Rights Defender is to investigate and formulate expert legal opinions on the actions of public authorities in Armenia and on the conformity of new legislation with the constitution and with human rights standards. His statements have provided a much-needed anchor for public debate on matters relating to democracy and the rule of law. The Om-budsman’s credibility and influence depend on his ability to remain loyal to his mandate and independ-ent of political forces.

The effective establishment of the institution of the Ombudsman in Armenia has been praised by the European Union on a number of occasions. The European Commission’s report on the European Neighborhood Policy implementation progress for Armenia for 2009, for instance, stated that “the inde-pendence of the institution of the Human Rights De-fender (HRDO) in the political system and its role for the protection of human rights was further strengthened. Overall, the trend in the number of complaints received by the HRDO is increasing, confirming the growing credibility of this institution”.

Mr Harutyunyan’s visit to Brussels is part of a series of events organized by AGBU Europe in the context of its work with the European institutions.

AGBU Europe is the European branch of the Armenian General Benevolent Union, the world's largest non-profit Ar-menian organization. AGBU Europe representation in Brussels carries out advocacy work with the EU institutions on issues related to culture, education and intercultural dialogue, on the EU’s relationship with the Republics of Armenia and Nagorno Karabagh and Turkey’s negotiations to join the European Union. A series of seminars, round tables, meetings continue to be regularly organized in order to initiate and nurture strategic thinking in the AGBU Europe and the Armenian Diaspora on AGBU Europe’s interests and aspirations, on their relevance to the EU’s agenda and on the best way to achieve them in this context.

RA Human Rights Defender Armen Harutyunyan speaks at the European Parliament

Armen Harutyunyan at the round table convened jointly by AGBU Europe and the European Friends of Armenia

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Please be advised that in the event of any full or partial reference or citation of the texts above AGBU Armenia Newsletter must be mentioned. All rights reserved.

Established in 1906, AGBU (www.agbu.org) is the world's largest non-profit Armenian organization. Headquartered in New York City with an annual budget of $36 million, AGBU preserves and promotes the Armenian identity and heritage through educational, cultural and humanitarian programs, annually touching the lives of some 400,000 Armenians on six continents.


PREPARED BY AGBU ARMENIAN REPRESENTATION

ARMENIAN GENERAL BENEVOLENT UNION

Alexis Govciyan, AGBU Europe Chairman and regional councilor of Ile-de-France, welcomed the launch-ing of the first friendship group between the Region of Ile-de-France and Armenia, which is created on the elected regional councilors’ initiative. Bruno Beschizza, Christophe Girard, Philippe Gugli-elmi, Pierre Kanuty, Patrick Karam, Frédéric Lefebvre, Roselyne Sarkissian, Martine Valleton, regional coun-cilors, and Philippe Kaltenbach, Vice-President for In-ternational and European Affairs, reaffirmed the role of such an important group, which is characterized by the ancient and deep friendship of the two peoples and the desire for mutual understanding. This group, open to all elected councilors irrespective of their political affiliation, aims to mobilize those inter-ested in further developing this friendship. In this context, the establishment of a cooperation pol-icy with Armenia in the field of cultural exchanges, pro-fessional training, promoting academic exchanges, twinning of schools as well as the promotion of the Ar-menian culture and heritage are the principle areas for development. Alexis Govciyan, elected the first President of the friendship group, welcomed the positive response of his colleagues and noted that Armenians in France, their friends and supporters, as well as the citizens of the Republic of Armenia are optimistic about the objectives of this friendship group. The first Ile-de-France-Armenia Friendship Group will be officially presented on December 6, 2010. The Central Board of Directors of the Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU) established AGBU Europe on January 1st, 2008. AGBU Europe coordinates and develops the Pan-European activities of AGBU including the promotion of important initiatives in areas as diverse as academic research, conservation and promotion of heritage, culture, education and Armenian language teaching and European policies, training of association leaders and children and youth activities. Established in 1906, AGBU (www.agbu.org) is the world's largest non-profit Armenian organization and is headquartered in New York City.

THE FIRST ILE-DE-FRANCE-ARMENIA FRIENDSHIP GROUP CREATED IN THE REGIONAL COUNCIL

AGBU Europe Chairman Alexis Govciyan elected President of the Ile-de-France-Armenia Friendship Group

october-november-2010-english

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