Changes in Armenia's Foreign Policy and Community News
Today's main news concerns the relations between Armenia and the world's major powers. The United States has stated that Russia has turned its back on Armenia, which is why Washington is now trying to help Yerevan reduce its dependence on Moscow. US representatives note that they support Armenia's democracy and sovereignty during this difficult period.
In this context, an important event took place in Yerevan. Russian border guards have officially completed their service at Zvartnots International Airport and departed from there. The Armenian authorities had requested this move months ago, aiming to independently control the country's air gates. This is a significant change in Armenian-Russian military-political relations.
There are also new developments regarding regional peace. European Commission President Charles Michel has called on Yerevan and Baku to stop "playing games" and finalize the peace treaty. At the same time, special representatives of Armenia and Turkey met to discuss the normalization of relations, including the possibility of reopening the railway link, which could greatly contribute to the region's economy.
The issue of Artsakh remains at the center of the international community's attention. The Human Rights Union of Nagorno-Karabakh has sent letters to the Pope and UNESCO, asking for intervention in the preservation of Armenian cultural heritage and the return of forcibly displaced persons. On the other hand, the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) has strongly criticized the Biden administration for pursuing an insufficient policy regarding the Artsakh issue and for supporting Azerbaijan.
There is also interesting news in cultural life. The Armenian American Museum in California is presenting the world premiere of the "Hope Rising" project, which celebrates Armenian dance and music. Also mentioned are the famous 1996 words of 13-year-old Maral Melkonian: "I stood up, I am ready to fight for Armenia," which today have become a source of inspiration for a new generation of young activists.
Finally, we inform you about sad community news. Beloved mother and sister Hasmik Kolanjian, who was born in Lebanon, has passed away at the age of 73. We also inform you that on August 4, the 40-day memorial service for Valentin Sarafian will take place at the Holy Martyrs Church.