Armenia's International Relations and Important Community Events
Today's main news concerns Armenia-Russia 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 Moscow. At the same time, Russian border guards have officially completed their work at Yerevan's "Zvartnots" airport, which the Armenian side had requested at the beginning of the year.
The European Union is also active in the region. European Council President Charles Michel has called on Armenia and Azerbaijan to stop "playing games" and finally sign a peace treaty. He held separate meetings with the leaders of both countries, trying to accelerate the process in the final days of his term.
New steps are being taken in the process of normalizing relations between Armenia and Turkey. Special representatives of the two countries met on Tuesday. They discussed the possibility of restarting railway communication and other agreements aimed at opening borders, which could contribute to improving regional connections.
The Artsakh issue remains on the international agenda. The Human Rights Union of Nagorno-Karabakh has sent letters to the Pope and UNESCO. They are requesting international intervention for the safe return of forcibly displaced Artsakh Armenians and the protection of Armenian cultural heritage. At the same time, the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) has strongly criticized the Biden-Harris administration for its failed policy regarding the Artsakh issue.
There are also important events in cultural and social life. The Armenian-American Museum of California will present the world premiere of the "Hope Rising" project, dedicated to 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 activists.
Finally, we inform you about community losses and memorial services. Hasmik Kolanjian, who was born in Lebanon in 1951, has passed away at the age of 73. She was a beloved wife, mother, and relative. Also, the 40-day memorial service for Valentine Sarafian will take place on August 4 at the Holy Martyrs Armenian Church.