Last week, the 2012 Armenian Assembly Terjenian-Thomas Internship class met with Congressman Adam Schiff (D-CA), reported the Armenian Assembly of America (Assembly).

During the meeting, Congressman Schiff provided an overview of the appropriations process and funding issues as it pertains to Armenia and Nagorno Karabakh as well as efforts within the House of Representatives to reaffirm the fact of the Armenian Genocide in the face of Turkey's ongoing denial campaign.

"I commend the Armenian Assembly for its important role, through its internship program, in helping to train the next generation of leaders within the Armenian community," stated Congressman Schiff. "The invaluable interaction with policy-makers and the insights gained as a result their Washington, DC internships will serve them well as they continue their studies," added Schiff.

Meeting participants asked a series of questions ranging from the Armenian Genocide to Armenia's economy and good governance to overall U.S. policy in the South Caucasus region as well as the Azerbaijani ceasefire violations earlier this month.

"As a result of this meeting, I have a greater appreciation for the intricacies of the legislative process and how it impacts foreign policy," stated Lori Yeni-Komshian, who is an International Studies major at the University of California San Diego. "It was also heartening to hear that the Congressman will continue to fight for U.S. affirmation of the Armenian Genocide, especially as the centennial approaches," Yeni-Komshian added.