Politics: Karabakh dominates political discussions in ArmeniaReview of October 9-15 domestic events. October 17, 2010 The past week started with the arrival of Iranian delegation led by parliament speaker Ali Larijani. Armenia and world: Problems of North Caucasus Armenians should be addressedCorrect policy can help Armenian Diaspora in the Caucasus. October 16, 2010 The Armenian community of North Caucasus may face the same problems as Lebanese Armenians did during the civil war in 1974, when various groupings tried to use the Armenian population in their own interests. As result, the Armenian population of Lebanon reduced to 100 thousand. Economy: Armenia can become a trade bridge between neighboring countriesIranian Trade and Investment Agency intends to establish a branch in Yerevan. October 16, 2010 Foreign investors believe that Armenia has created favorable conditions for business. ![]() Sport: Levon Aronian 3rd in FIDE RankingsReview of September 30 – October 7 sports events. October 14, 2010 Chess: Armenian men and women’s team finished 7th and 12th respectively at the World Chess Olympiad in Khanty-Mansiysk, Russia. Men tied the last round with France, while women scored a victory over Slovenia. IT & Telecom: Armenian, Artsakh ICT leaders hold a meeting in StepanakertReview of October 4 - 11 information technology and telecommunication events. October 11, 2010 Stepanakert hosted ICT leaders’ conference on development of technologic enterprises in Armenia and Artsakh and implementation of electronic management systems. Over 30 ICT companies, 80 representatives of international organizations and business sector were invited to participate. Culture: Armenia hosts the most delicious festivalThe initiators of the barbecue fest promise a better organization next year. September 22, 2010 The second barbecue festival was held in Akhtala, Lori region of Armenia, on Sunday, September 12. It was dated to two other events: re-consecration of Surb Mariam Astvatsatsin Church and inauguration of a monument to wedding rings. Society: Armenians do not celebrate Navasard as national holiday because Hayk Nahapet was not ChristianNavasard had been one of the most popular holidays before Gregorian calendar took effect. August 13, 2010 For dozens of centuries Armenians had been celebrating the New Year, Navasard, on August 11. Once a favorite popular holiday, it now became a topic of historians’ remarks or Armenian folklore only. “August 11 is the first day of the new year according to the ancient Armenian calendar. It was celebrated by all – the rich and the poor,” said ethnographer Gohar Vardumyan, senior fellow at the Armenian National Academy of Sciences. | ![]() ![]() |