Armenia's Foreign Relations and Important Community Events
Today's top news concerns the relations between Armenia and Russia. The United States has stated that Russia has "turned its back" on Armenia, and for that reason, Washington is trying to reduce Yerevan's dependence on Moscow. At the same time, Russian border guards have officially completed their service at Yerevan's "Zvartnots" International Airport, which the Armenian side had requested earlier this year.
The European Union is also making active efforts to establish peace in the region. European Commission President Charles Michel has called on Yerevan and Baku to stop "games" and finalize the peace treaty. He held separate meetings with the leaders of both countries, encouraging them to reach a final agreement during his last days in office.
There are also new developments in the process of normalizing relations between Armenia and Turkey. Special representatives of the two countries met and discussed the possibility of restoring railway communication. This is an important step toward opening borders and establishing economic ties between the two countries.
The Artsakh issue continues to remain at the center of international attention. The Human Rights Union of Nagorno-Karabakh has sent letters to the Pope and UNESCO, requesting international intervention for the safe return of Artsakh Armenians and the preservation of cultural heritage. Meanwhile, the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) has strongly criticized the Biden-Harris administration, considering their policy on the Artsakh issue a failure.
An important cultural event is expected in California. The Armenian American Museum and Cultural Center will present the world premiere of a special project titled "Hope Rising." This event is dedicated to Armenian dance and music, aiming to present the rich Armenian culture to the public.
Inspiring stories are also remembered in the Armenian Diaspora. The words of 13-year-old Maral Melkonian—"I stood up, I am ready to fight for Armenia"—written back in 1996, have become a call for a new generation of activists. These powerful words continue to inspire Armenian youth around the world.
Finally, we inform you about losses in our community. Beloved wife and mother Hasmik Kolanjian, who was born in 1951 in Lebanon, has passed away. We also inform you that on August 4, a 40-day memorial service for Valentin Sarafian will take place at the Holy Martyrs Church.