Armenia's Foreign Policy and Key Diaspora 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. For this reason, Washington is trying to help Yerevan reduce the country's dependence on Russia and strengthen its independence.
In this context, an important event has taken place in Yerevan. Russia has completed the withdrawal of its border guards from Zvartnots International Airport. This step was taken at the request of the Armenian side, which was voiced earlier this year. This is a significant change in the security relations between the two countries.
Regarding regional peace, European Commission President Charles Michel has called on Yerevan and Baku to stop "playing games." In the final days of his tenure, Michel urges the parties to finalize the peace treaty and reach a stable agreement.
At the same time, discussions on the normalization of Armenian-Turkish relations continue. Special representatives of the two countries met and discussed the possibility of restarting the railway connection, which could have a positive impact on the region's economy.
The Artsakh issue also remains in the spotlight. The Human Rights Union of Nagorno-Karabakh has sent letters to the Pope and UNESCO. They are asking for the international community's help to ensure the safe return of Artsakh Armenians and to protect Armenian cultural heritage in the territories that have come under Azerbaijani control.
The Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) has strongly criticized the Biden-Harris administration. The organization rated the US government's policy on the Artsakh issue as "failing," noting that Washington has not taken sufficient steps to prevent Azerbaijan's actions.
There is also interesting news in cultural life. The Armenian American Museum of California is presenting the world premiere of the "Hope Rising" project, which celebrates Armenian dance and music. Additionally, the famous 1996 words of 13-year-old Maral Melkonian—"I am ready to fight for Armenia"—are mentioned, which continue to inspire young activists to this day.
Finally, we report on the losses of the Armenian community. Beloved mother and sister Hasmik Kolanjian, who was born in Lebanon, has passed away. Also, the 40th-day memorial service for Valentin Sarafian will take place on August 4th at the Holy Martyrs Church.