Armenia's Diplomatic Developments and Community News
Today's top stories concern Armenia's foreign policy and international relations. The United States has stated that Russia has "turned its back" on Armenia. For this reason, Washington is trying to help Yerevan reduce its dependence on Russia and strengthen ties with the West.
On the diplomatic front, European Council President Charles Michel is calling on Armenia and Azerbaijan to stop the "games" and finalize the peace treaty. At the same time, the special representatives of Armenia and Turkey have met to discuss the normalization of relations and the possibility of restarting the railway connection.
A significant event in the security sector has taken place in Yerevan. Russia has completed the withdrawal of its border guards from Zvartnots International Airport. The Armenian government had requested this step earlier this year, aiming to independently control the border checkpoint.
The Artsakh issue continues to remain at the center of attention for international organizations. The Human Rights Union of Nagorno-Karabakh has sent letters to the Pope and UNESCO, requesting intervention regarding the protection of Armenian cultural heritage and the safe return of Artsakh Armenians. On the other hand, the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) has strongly criticized the Biden-Harris administration, considering their policy a failure.
There is also interesting news in cultural life. The Armenian-American Museum of California presents the world premiere of the "Hope Rising" project, dedicated to Armenian dance and music. Also mentioned are the powerful words of 13-year-old Maral Melkonian from 1996: "I stood up, I am ready to fight for Armenia," which continue to inspire young activists today.
We conclude the news feed with sad community news. Beloved mother and sister Hasmik Kolanjian, who was born in Lebanon in 1951, has passed away. We also inform you that on August 4, the 40-day memorial service for Valentin Sarafian will take place at the Holy Martyrs Church.