Armenia's Foreign Relations, Peace Efforts, and Cultural News
Today's most important 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 work at Yerevan's "Zvartnots" International Airport, which was a demand of the Armenian government earlier this year.
Regarding regional peace, European Commission President Charles Michel is calling on Armenia and Azerbaijan to stop the "games" and finalize the peace treaty. Additionally, the special representatives of Armenia and Turkey have met to discuss the normalization of relations and the possibility of restarting the railway connection, which could open a new chapter in the relations between the two countries.
The Artsakh issue continues to remain at the center of international attention. The Human Rights Union of Artsakh has sent letters to Pope Francis and UNESCO, requesting international intervention for the safe return of Artsakh Armenians and the protection of Armenian cultural heritage. On the other hand, the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) has strongly criticized the Biden-Harris administration for its failed policy on the Artsakh issue and for supporting Azerbaijan.
In the cultural sphere, the Armenian American Museum of California has announced the world premiere of the "Hope Rising" project. This special project is dedicated to Armenian dance and music, aiming to represent the richness of Armenian culture and inspire the audience.
In the Armenian Diaspora, the words of 13-year-old Maral Melkonian have become a source of inspiration for a new generation of activists. Her sentence written in 1996, "I stood up, I am ready to fight for Armenia," continues to resonate today as a call for new generations who wish to help their homeland.
Finally, we inform you about community losses. Beloved mother and sister Hasmik Kolanjian, who was born in 1951 in Lebanon, has passed away. We also announce that on August 4, the 40-day memorial service for Valentin Sarafian will take place at the Holy Martyrs Church.