[{"id":470006,"layout_id":1,"feed":1,"instant":0,"onoff":1,"contents":{"article_id":470006,"locale":"en","title":"Withdrawal from Armenia's lawsuits against Azerbaijan in international instances will cause irreparable damage to the Republic of Armenia","anons":"Withdrawal from Armenia's lawsuits against Azerbaijan in international instances will cause\r\nirreparable damage to the Republic of Armenia","text":"
Withdrawal from Armenia's lawsuits against Azerbaijan in international instances will cause
irreparable damage to the Republic of Armenia and the Armenian people
The statements made by the highest authorities of the Republic of Armenia regarding the
potential withdrawal of Armenia's lawsuits against Azerbaijan from international courts and
other instances have raised serious concerns. Such steps will cause irreparable damage to the
Republic of Armenia and the Armenian people.
Here are the key points:
1. Statements made at the highest level of power are absolutely unacceptable.
2. The strategic aim of the lawsuits against Azerbaijan is to hold them accountable
internationally for violations of the rights of the Armenians of Armenia and Artsakh, and the
Armenian people in general. They are indispensable tools for the protection of our collective
and individual rights and international justice.
3. Achieving stable and lasting peace, as well as preventing new Azerbaijani encroachments
against the Republic of Armenia and its people through the occupation of Armenia's sovereign
territories and other crimes, is not possible without international justice.
4. The proceedings in international courts are essential for investigating crimes committed
against the people of Artsakh and protecting collective rights. They are also crucial for the
collective return of the Artsakh people, safeguarding spiritual and cultural heritage, public and
private property in Artsakh, and ensuring a safe and dignified life after their return by
establishing international protection mechanisms.
5. Furthermore, through the submitted lawsuits, the Republic of Armenia has committed to
protecting the rights of victims who have suffered from Azerbaijani crimes, including the
property and other rights of forcibly displaced Artsakh Armenians, in international courts.
As a result, persons have refrained from submitting individual complaints to international
courts, and relinquishing legal remedies and transferring the issues to the political realm, there
is no assurance that Azerbaijan will comply with the demands.
Therefore, the withdrawal of the claims submitted by Armenia will inevitably render these
crucial international instruments unusable for protecting the rights of affected individuals due
to the formal requirements of such instruments.
6. There are also numerous individual lawsuits in international courts, in addition to interstate
applications. If these individual lawsuits are dropped, the fate of individual complaints
becomes uncertain.
In such a scenario, the strength of individual complaints will be significantly diminished, or
the international court could potentially consolidate them with interstate complaints that the
country has withdrawn, leading to their rejection. Consequently, individuals will be deprived
of international judicial protection of their rights due to an impermissible political decision by
the government.
7. Complaints and demands presented in international courts hold immense significance for
Armenia's diplomacy. The withdrawal of international demands could inflict irreparable harm
on Armenia's standing in the global arena and weaken the foundations of its diplomatic
resistance framework.
8. The Azerbaijani government has long perpetuated a policy of deep-seated racism and
animosity towards Armenians, extending from Armenia and Artsakh to the Diaspora.
Azerbaijan not only neglects to protect Armenians or prevent violations of their rights but, at
times, at the state level, actively endorses and condones harm against Armenians under the
guise of \"peace.\" This includes heinous acts such as murders, torture, abductions, arbitrary
detentions, and inflicting psychological trauma.
9. Furthermore, the current Azerbaijani genocidal policy exacerbates hostility after each
offense, laying the groundwork for further atrocities. The threats against the collective
existence of the Republic of Armenia and the Armenian people have escalated in general.
10. Compounding this issue is Armenian authorities’ one-sided persistent acquiescence to
Azerbaijan's demands, driven by the futile hope that Azerbaijan will cease its actions.
Unfortunately, this has not occurred in the past and it will not happen in the future.
11. The Azerbaijani authorities have never genuinely pursued peace; their international claims
against Armenia were merely artificial gestures; mirroring steps aimed at deceiving the
international community, creating a facade, and concealing their own crimes.
12. Withdrawal from lawsuits against Azerbaijan in international courts by the Armenian
government would legitimize Azerbaijan's policy of hatred and serious crimes against
Armenians, potentially resulting in new violations of our rights and further crimes.
13. In light of the aforementioned, we strongly urge the Armenian authorities not to make any
statements or take actions to withdraw from ongoing lawsuits against Azerbaijan in
international courts.
Furthermore, we urge to initiate new legal actions based on all relevant conventions. This
includes exploring avenues for seeking justice through the International Criminal Court to
address the grave crime of forced displacement of the people of Artsakh.
Signatories:
Gegham Stepanyan, Human Rights Ombudsman of the Republic of Artsakh
Arman Tatoyan, former Human Rights Defender (Ombudsman) of the Republic of Armenia
Artak Beglaryan, former Human Rights Defender (Ombudsman) of the Republic of Artsakh
Siranush Sahakyan, Head of the NGO \"Center for International and Comparative Law\"
Ara Ghazaryan, Founder and Head of \"Ara Ghazaryan\" law office, international expert<\/p>","video":null,"live":0,"marked":0,"comment":0,"date_at":"2024-03-18","time_at":"10:09:00","datetime_at":"2024-03-18 10:09:00","onoff":1},"mainimage":[{"id":393154,"title":{"hy":"Untitled Design (27)","ru":"Untitled Design (27)","en":"Untitled Design (27)"},"url":"\/articles\/47\/00\/06\/","name":"zo4EfbE1Rh.jpg","created_at":"2024-03-18 15:21:40","updated_at":"2024-03-18 15:21:40","pivot":{"article_id":470006,"image_id":393154,"main":1}}],"youtube":null},{"id":469816,"layout_id":4,"feed":1,"instant":0,"onoff":1,"contents":{"article_id":469816,"locale":"en","title":"Ucom showed high and stable growth in fixed and mobile communications in 2023","anons":"Ucom showed high and stable growth in fixed and mobile communications in 2023","text":"
In 2023, Ucom achieved a high level of stable growth in both fixed and mobile communication services.<\/p>\r\n
According to the five-year strategy approved last year, the company's primary objective was to expand fixed and mobile networks, as well as to enhance the quality of communications, ensuring that all residents of Armenia have access to converged communication services—comprehensive packages encompassing mobile communications, mobile internet, fixed internet, and television. Presently, more than half of the company's fixed-line subscribers utilize converged services, receiving all communication services from Ucom.<\/p>\r\n
In particular, in 2023, converged communication services became accessible in the cities of Ijevan, Goris, Gavar, and Sevan.<\/p>\r\n
The company's total income in 2023 amounted to 38.2 billion drams, representing a 5.5% increase compared to 2022.<\/p>\r\n
At the same time, the company's income from fixed-line communication services in 2023 totaled 16.1 billion drams, surpassing the 2022 figure by 7.9%.<\/p>\r\n
The number of fixed-line subscribers in 2023 reached 133,713, marking a 6% increase over 2022.<\/p>\r\n
Additionally, Ucom exhibited the most rapid growth in the number of mobile subscribers in the market in 2023 compared to 2022, with a growth rate of 9.2%. By the end of 2023, Ucom boasted 713,151 active mobile subscribers. The company's income in this segment amounted to 16.1 billion drams, an 8.1% increase over the previous year.<\/p>\r\n
Operating income before depreciation and amortization (OIBDA) totaled 16.8 billion drams in 2023, reflecting a 6.6% increase from 2022. The operating margin was 43.8%.<\/p>\r\n
Furthermore, the company contributed 12.4 billion drams to the state budget in taxes for the year 2023.<\/p>\r\n
Technical Results<\/strong><\/p>\r\n In order to modernize its networks, Ucom increased its capital expenditures by 26% in 2023. Specifically, upgrades have been made to equipment and networks, and management systems, security procedures, and software components have been updated.<\/p>\r\n The fixed network capacity has been increased, and adjustments have been implemented to guarantee reliable communications and expedited recovery following failures.<\/p>\r\n In Yerevan, the LTE mobile network infrastructure was upgraded to increase the coverage area and network capacity.<\/p>\r\n Moreover, within the capital, the FTTH (Fiber to the Home) optical network underwent expansion and quality enhancement.<\/p>\r\n \"A year ago, I was entrusted with the management of this company, and during that time, we developed an ambitious five-year strategy and development concept, which was accepted and approved by the board of directors. Over this year, our team has diligently worked to implement the strategy. We have already achieved significant success; our network is expanding and improving daily. We are collaborating with globally renowned companies to ensure the technical modernization and enhancement of our network. We have set lofty goals for ourselves and are deeply committed to achieving them,\" stated Ralph Yirikian, Director General of Ucom<\/strong>.<\/p>\r\n International Certificates<\/strong><\/p>\r\n In 2023, the company successfully underwent an international certification audit and obtained a certificate of compliance with the quality management system (QMS) ISO 9001.<\/p>\r\n Furthermore, following extensive and meticulous examination alongside international experts, Ucom received an ISO\/IEC 27001 certificate in 2023, affirming the standards of the information security management system.<\/p>\r\n Human Resources<\/strong><\/p>\r\n As of the end of 2023, the company employed approximately 1,400 individuals. Throughout the year, 396 new employees joined the company, while 195 employees received promotions. In total, 220 training and advanced training courses were conducted for company employees.<\/p>\r\n Social Responsibility<\/strong><\/p>\r\n As a tradition, Ucom continued to implement its corporate social responsibility programs throughout 2023. The company provided Internet communications to the Komitas Museum-Institute and various educational institutions. Furthermore, access to the network was extended to several sporting and cultural events. Additionally, Ucom sponsored numerous scientific and educational gatherings, including the annual Silicon Mountains Tech Summit and the 18th International Microelectronics Olympiad.<\/p>\r\n In line with its environmental initiatives, the installation of solar panels was initiated in the villages of Goghtanik, Aghavnadzor, and Rind.<\/p>\r\n In 2023, support was extended to compatriots forcibly displaced from Artsakh. In collaboration with World Vision Armenia, displaced families from Artsakh residing in three regions of Armenia—Syunik, Gegharkunik, and Tavush—were furnished with warm clothing, bedding, heaters, and other essentials. This project received funding with contributions from Ucom employees.<\/p>\r\n Furthermore, Ucom participated in a joint charitable endeavor with the Galaxy group of companies and the Armenian Red Cross. This initiative facilitated the distribution of 100 tons of humanitarian aid, in the form of food packages, to 5,000 families from Artsakh.<\/p>\r\n Additionally, children from Artsakh residing in the Tavush marz were presented with New Year gifts.<\/p>\r\n <\/p>\r\n Future Plans<\/strong><\/p>\r\n During the presentation of the company's results, Mr. Yirikian also outlined future plans. Specifically, he highlighted agreements signed with Nokia and MediaKind, a global leader in media technologies and television.<\/p>\r\n In partnership with Nokia, Ucom aims to modernize and expand its mobile network, preparing it for the transition to 5G across Armenia. Additionally, Nokia will update the core infrastructure of Ucom's fixed and mobile network and introduce a high-capacity IP transport network.<\/p>\r\n Through collaboration with MediaKind, Ucom plans to introduce a technologically advanced TV platform, expanding beyond its current IP TV network.<\/p>\r\n A digital transformation process is scheduled to enhance the customer experience for subscribers. Furthermore, a new converged billing system will be selected and implemented.<\/p>\r\n Moreover, the company plans to issue bonds in the near future.<\/p>\r\n Parallel to its technical advancements, Ucom remains committed to its social responsibility. The company intends to contribute to Armenia's journey towards a greener future through its environmental projects.<\/p>\r\n <\/p>","video":null,"live":0,"marked":0,"comment":0,"date_at":"2024-03-13","time_at":"16:11:00","datetime_at":"2024-03-13 16:11:00","onoff":1},"mainimage":[{"id":392915,"title":{"hy":"Ucom 1","ru":"Ucom 1","en":"Ucom 1"},"url":"\/articles\/46\/98\/16\/","name":"mxLgF40Ziu.JPG","created_at":"2024-03-13 16:24:56","updated_at":"2024-03-13 16:24:56","pivot":{"article_id":469816,"image_id":392915,"main":1}}],"youtube":null},{"id":469721,"layout_id":1,"feed":1,"instant":0,"onoff":1,"contents":{"article_id":469721,"locale":"en","title":"Global Finance Recognizes Ameriabank's Leadership in Sustainable Finance in Armenia","anons":"Global Finance Recognizes Ameriabank's Leadership in Sustainable Finance in Armenia","text":" Ameriabank has been named the Best Bank in Armenia in sustainable finance for 2024. This achievement marks the fourth consecutive win for Ameriabank for funding initiatives designed to mitigate the negative impacts of climate change and help build a more sustainable future.<\/p>\r\n Ameriabank stands as the sole recipient from Armenia to have been honored with this prestigious award since its inception in 2019.<\/p>\r\n <\/p>\r\n The winners, selected in 53 countries and territories, were chosen by the editors of Global Finance, based on entries, as well as independent research. Criteria for evaluation included governance policies and goals as well as measurable achievements in environmental and social sustainability financing.<\/p>\r\n <\/p>\r\n “Climate change concerns, regulations and increasing investor awareness have ensured growing demand for sustainable investments,” said Global Finance funder and editorial director Joseph Giarraputo. “Innovations in clean technologies, green finance instruments, and data analytics are also making sustainable finance more attractive and accessible, creating new market opportunities for banks.”<\/p>\r\n <\/p>\r\n “Years ago, when we made the strategic decision to redirect our efforts towards sustainable and green financing, we were confident that our commitment would pay off. The growing prioritization of sustainability by businesses and governments around the world proves how true and justified was our decision to integrate sustainable practices into our operations. Today, sustainability is not merely an option but a prerequisite for securing future growth and creating long-term value,\" Artak Hanesyan, CEO at Ameriabank, commented.<\/p>\r\n <\/p>\r\n To note, Ameriabank has a long-term commitment to creating a sustainable environment and supporting customers’ transition towards a carbon neutral economy. The Bank has developed a Green Bond Framework which is consistent with the International Capital Market Association’s (“ICMA*”) current Green Bond Principles (“GBP”) and is in alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).<\/p>\r\n <\/p>\r\n Since 2009, Ameriabank has financed more than USD 225 million worth energy efficiency and renewable energy projects with the support of various international financial institutions and impact investors\u2024<\/p>\r\n <\/p>\r\n <\/p>\r\n Ameriabank is a leading financial and technology company in Armenia, a major contributor to the Armenian economy, with assets exceeding AMD 1 trillion. In the course of digital transformation, it has launched a number of innovative solutions and platforms going beyond banking-only needs of its diverse customer base, thus creating a dynamically evolving financial technology space.<\/p>\r\n Ameria was the first in Armenia to create ecosystems for both businesses and individuals, which give one-window access to a range of banking and non-banking services, among them - Estate.ameriabank.am, Automarket.ameriabank.am, Business.ameriabank.am.<\/p>\r\n As a truly customer-centric company, Ameria aims to be a trusted and secure financial technology space with seamless solutions to improve the quality of life.<\/p>\r\n Ameriabank is regulated by the Central Bank of RA.<\/p>","video":null,"live":0,"marked":0,"comment":0,"date_at":"2024-03-11","time_at":"16:04:00","datetime_at":"2024-03-11 16:04:00","onoff":1},"mainimage":[{"id":392836,"title":{"hy":"Ameria_SustainableBank_1080x1080_arm","ru":"Ameria_SustainableBank_1080x1080_arm","en":"Ameria_SustainableBank_1080x1080_arm"},"url":"\/articles\/46\/97\/21\/","name":"c7dBL9NRvM.png","created_at":"2024-03-11 16:08:33","updated_at":"2024-03-11 16:08:33","pivot":{"article_id":469721,"image_id":392836,"main":1}}],"youtube":null},{"id":469538,"layout_id":1,"feed":1,"instant":0,"onoff":1,"contents":{"article_id":469538,"locale":"en","title":"Ucom congratulates everyone with spring holidays with a special offer","anons":"Ucom congratulates everyone with spring holidays with a special offer","text":" In celebration of the spring holidays, Ucom traditionally comes out with a special offer.<\/p>\r\n From March 4 to April 15, exclusively at Ucom sales and service centers, customers can purchase Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro smartphone by paying a monthly installment of 2990 AMD. As a bonus, purchasers will also receive Xiaomi Redmi wireless headphones and a \"nice\" number, accompanied by the Level Up 1800 package. The first month under the tariff plan is complimentary, and a 100 GB of Internet will be provided, accessible for a duration of 6 months. The full retail price of the phone will be 143,500 drams.<\/p>\r\n The smartphone is equipped with a 200 MP main camera to capture the beautiful moments of your life, as well as 256 GB of memory to store those moments. The device also boasts a large, energy-efficient AMOLED screen with a 120 Hz refresh rate. The stylish design of the smartphone is enhanced by three exquisite shades: Forest Green, Lavender Purple, and Midnight Black.<\/p>\r\n \"I'm sure our subscribers were expecting us to come out with a holiday offer, and I think they won't be disappointed. The smartphone that we have chosen for the spring special offer will make a wonderful gift for your loved ones by itself, but the set price, headphones, a “nice” number as a gift and a communication package will be a great addition,\" said Ralph Yirikian, Director General of Ucom.<\/p>\r\n It should be noted that as part of the offer the Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro smartphone with a larger memory capacity of 512 GB will also be available. Its total price will be 174,900 drams.<\/p>","video":null,"live":0,"marked":0,"comment":0,"date_at":"2024-03-06","time_at":"11:47:00","datetime_at":"2024-03-06 11:47:00","onoff":1},"mainimage":[{"id":392632,"title":{"hy":"women promo banners_900x600","ru":"women promo banners_900x600","en":"women promo banners_900x600"},"url":"\/articles\/46\/95\/38\/","name":"hlX4xrqeXi.png","created_at":"2024-03-06 11:49:08","updated_at":"2024-03-06 11:49:08","pivot":{"article_id":469538,"image_id":392632,"main":1}}],"youtube":null},{"id":469512,"layout_id":5,"feed":1,"instant":0,"onoff":1,"contents":{"article_id":469512,"locale":"en","title":"Doing Digital Forum Returns Featuring Brett King as Keynote Speaker","anons":"Doing Digital Forum Returns Featuring Brett King as Keynote Speaker","text":" SPRING PR will again host its annual International Doing Digital Forum (DDF) on 3 April in Yerevan. This year the Forum is entitled “Embracing Opportunities” and will focus on the latest approaches to digital transformation in finance and various business sectors, examine opportunities and the specifics of their localization, and position Armenia as a growing hub for digital transformation within the global technological and business community, thus enhancing the country's competitiveness. Ameriabank is the fintech partner of the forum.<\/p>\r\n This year's Doing Digital Forum promises an exciting lineup of foremost personalities and engaging topics, featuring some of the world’s top speakers, leading professionals, and experts. The keynote speaker of DDF24 is Brett King – world- renowned futurist, the founder of a new banking concept and bestselling author (Bank 2.0, Bank 3.0, Breaking Banks, Bank 4.0, The Rise of Technosocialism).<\/p>\r\n He is an expert on innovation, financial services and the future of business, a highly sought-after speaker globally. King has appeared as a commentator on CNN, CNBC, BBC, ABC, Fox, Bloomberg and other leading media entities and advised the regulators and bank boards around the world on digital transformation. Doing Digital Forum will be an exceptional platform to meet and learn from Brett King in Armenia.<\/p>\r\n Tatevik Simonyan, the Founder of the Doing Digital platform, says: \"DDF24 will spotlight the transformative potential of technology and digitization across finance, state and economic sectors. Our aim is to unite the efforts of various stakeholders in the digital economy, positioning Armenia as a regional hub for innovative financial technologies and digital business solutions.\"<\/p>\r\n Ameriabank, a leading Armenian financial and technology company, is supporting the Doing Digital Forum for the second year\u2024<\/p>\r\n “For us, digital transformation of the economy serves as a tool for improving the quality of life, a driving force for social change and economic growth. By bringing the digital transformation agenda to Armenia and inviting top experts in the field, we aim to jointly shape the future of fintech in our country and share our experience to achieve systemic development in this field,” Artak Hanesyan, CEO of Ameriabank, says.<\/p>\r\n Through keynote presentations, engaging panel discussions, and international case studies, DDF24 will touch on topics including: digital transformations across different sectors of economy and society, new financial technologies, future banking, talent acquisition in the digital era, AI applications in banking, the rise of fintech companies, and the future of banks. The forum will also highlight successful digital transformation initiatives, facilitating the exchange of valuable insights and experiences. Moreover, the issues regarding cryptocurrencies, data protection, cybersecurity risk management, and other challenges will be thoroughly examined and addressed.<\/p>\r\n The Doing Digital Forum welcomes all enthusiasts of digital transformation and advancement of the digital economy.<\/p>\r\n For the second year in a row, the innovation partner of the event is Visa, the investment partner is Apricot Capital and the blockchain partner is Fastex. The partners of the DDF24 are Ucraft and Hoory.<\/p>\r\n ***<\/p>\r\n The inaugural Doing Digital Forum titled “Exploring Digital Future\" achieved remarkable success, featuring keynote speaker Chris Skinner, a globally recognized expert in fintech and digital transformation. DDF23 hosted over 20 leading speakers, including representatives from the RA Government and Central Bank, and various local and international entities. With more than 1000 attendees from Armenia and over 7 countries, the event gained widespread acclaim and participation. For registration, collaboration and more information please visit: doingdigital.am<\/p>\r\n ***<\/p>\r\n SPRING PR<\/p>\r\n SPRING PR is an award-winning PR and research company founded in 2009 specializing in strategic communications, reputation management, events organization, and research. The company cooperates with a number of local and international large, medium, and small enterprises, state institutions, non-governmental and charitable organizations.<\/p>\r\n SPRING PR is a part of the global PR community, with professional involvement in such reputable international organizations as the International Public Relations Association (IPRA) and the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR).<\/p>\r\n Over the years, SPRING PR and its team have received top awards and recognition, including C4F Davos Awards (Communication for Future Davos Awards), IPRA Golden World Awards, and Eventiada IPRA Golden World Awards. In 2021 for the first time in the history of Armenian PR companies, SPRING PR was announced among the winners of “The IPRA Golden World Awards – 2021,” considered the field’s Oscar. SPRING PR co-founders Nvard Melkonyan and Tatevik Simonyan were named the “Global PR Leader of the year” at the exchange4media PR & Corp Comm<\/p>\r\n Women Achievers Summit and Awards 2022 and were included in the global list of 50 Influential Communications Leaders 2022.<\/p>\r\n *** Ameriabank CJSC<\/p>\r\n Ameriabank is a leading financial and technology company in Armenia, a major contributor to the Armenian economy, with assets exceeding AMD 1 trillion. In the course of digital transformation, it has launched a number of innovative solutions and platforms going beyond banking-only needs of its diverse customer base, thus creating a dynamically evolving financial technology space.<\/p>\r\n Ameria was the first in Armenia to create ecosystems for both businesses and individuals, which give one-window access to a range of banking and non-banking services, among them - Estate.ameriabank.am, Automarket.ameriabank.am, Business.ameriabank.am.<\/p>\r\n As a truly customer-centric company, Ameria aims to be a trusted and secure financial technology space with seamless solutions to improve the quality of life.<\/p>","video":"