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December 30, 2010
AGBU Asbeds Presents "An Evening with a Statesman" Featuring Raffi Hovannisian
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Raffi Hovannisian, addressing guests at AGBU Asbeds' "An Evening with a Statesman." -
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AGBU Manoogian-Demirdjian School's Agajanian Auditorium filled to capacity with attendees and honored guests.
On November 4, 2010, under the auspices of the AGBU Southern California District Committee (SCDC), AGBU Asbeds presented "An Evening with a Statesman," featuring Raffi Hovannisian, US-born Armenian politician, first Foreign Minister of the Republic of Armenia, and leader of Armenia's Heritage political party. Hovannisian, who currently resides in Armenia, was invited for a special lecture entitled "Armenia Between East and West: The Challenges of Democracy, Sovereignty and National Interest." The event, which was filled to capacity, was held at AGBU Manoogian-Demirdjian School’s Agajanian Auditorium.
AGBU Asbeds member Guiragos Minassian kicked off the evening with opening remarks, welcoming attendees and introducing honored guests, including clergy members, Glendale Mayor Ara Najarian, Glendale City Clerk Ardashes Kassakhian, representatives of the three Armenian political parties, AGBU Central Board of Directors member Sinan Sinanian, AGBU SCDC Chairman Berj Shahbazian, and other distinguished members. AGBU Asbeds Chairman Kurken Berksanlar also welcomed guests and, before introducing Raffi Hovannisian, stated, "A nation cannot secure its future solely by the construction of new buildings and infrastructure. What is needed in conjunction is intellectual ingenuity to make advancements in diplomatic, economic, and foreign affairs."
In his presentation, Hovannisian discussed the multifaceted nature of the challenges facing Armenia, including those in the economic realm and internal and external affairs, the challenges the nation has overcome, and the next steps that should be taken. He spoke of his inner struggle as a patriotic Armenian, which led him to repatriate to Armenia two decades ago, and continues to drive his service and contributions to his homeland. As he is the leader of an opposition party, there was naturally some criticism of the governing party. Hovannisian urged all guests to actively participate in the future of the homeland and instill patriotism in future generations. He discussed the establishment of a solid democracy; achieving diplomatic relations; Armenia-diaspora collaboration; Armenia's relations with Turkey and its neighbors; recognition of the Genocide; Pan-Turanism; the role of the Armenian Church; and the recognition of Karabakh as an independent nation. He also emphasized the importance of becoming a competitive and forward-thinking nation, while remaining mindful of the interests of Armenia’s neighbors as well as the international community.
Following his lecture, Hovannisian answered questions from the audience, which included topics such as border security, Russian dependence, the declining birth rate, and his involvement in future parliamentary and presidential elections. He concluded with –- and re-emphasized -- that the future of the Armenian nation depends on the determination and diplomacy of today's generation.
Asbeds Chairman Kurken Berksanlar presented the keynote speaker with a plaque of appreciation, and the evening came to a close with a reception, during which attendees had the opportunity to meet Hovannisian. His son, Garin, author of the new book "Family of Shadows," was also in attendance, and autographed copies of his book after the event.
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