Armenia's Foreign Policy 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 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 the Armenian side had requested earlier this year.
The European Union is also actively following regional developments. The President of the European Commission, Charles Michel, has called on Yerevan and Baku to "stop the games" and finally sign the peace treaty. He held separate meetings with the leaders of both countries, encouraging the swift completion of the process.
New steps are being taken in the process of normalizing relations between Armenia and Turkey. Special representatives of the two countries met and discussed the possibility of reopening the railway link. This is an important step toward restoring transport communication and economic ties in the region.
The Artsakh issue remains at the center of international attention. The Human Rights Union of Nagorno-Karabakh has sent letters to the Pope and UNESCO, requesting international intervention to protect Armenian cultural heritage and ensure the safe return of Artsakh Armenians. Meanwhile, the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) has strongly criticized the Biden administration for pursuing an inadequate policy regarding the Artsakh issue.
In the cultural sphere, 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 famous 1996 words of 13-year-old Maral Melkonian—"I am ready to fight for Armenia"—which continue to inspire new generations of young activists today.
Finally, we report on community losses and memorial services. On August 4, a 40-day memorial service for Valentin Sarafian will take place at the Holy Martyrs Church. We also regret to inform you that Hasmik Kolanjian, who was born in Lebanon and was beloved by her family and relatives, passed away on July 20.