| Armen
Martirosian, the new Permanent Representative of Armenia to the
United Nations, was introduced to a small gathering of community
leaders on June 27, at the New York City headquarters of the Eastern
Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church of America.
Ambassador Martirosian
replaces the former ambassador, Movses Abelian, who accepted an
administrative position at the United Nations. Dr. Abelian, who
was in attendance, was given a round of applause and offered best
wishes in his new position.
Prior to this post,
Ambassador Martirosian served as Armenia's Deputy Foreign
Minister. He was also a two-term member of Armenia's Parliament.
Richard Sarajian, Esq.,
chairman of the Prelacy's Executive Council, guided the short
program announcing first that His Excellency Arman Kirakossian,
Armenia's Ambassador to the United States, was scheduled
to attend but was in Armenia because of the death of his mother.
Heartfelt words of sympathy were conveyed to the Ambassador for
his loss.
Archbishop Oshagan
Choloyan, Prelate, welcomed all the guests and noted that the
new ambassador first visited the Prelacy on June 9 and at that
time they had the opportunity to briefly discuss some issues of
concern. "Tonight's reception was organized to provide
an opportunity for the ambassador to become acquainted with some
of our community leaders. Mr. Ambassador, we welcome you with
the assurance that we are prepared to help you and the Mission
to the best of our capacity," said the Prelate.
His Eminence also welcomed
Rev. Fr. Untzag Nalbandian, pastor of the Armenian Church of the
Holy Ascension, Trumbull, Connecticut, who was representing His
Eminence Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate of the Diocese of
the Armenian Church of America.
Srpazan spoke briefly
about the solid foundation that Dr. Abelian built." From
the very beginning of his service, Dr. Abelian understood the
unique role of the Diaspora," said the Prelate," and
he capitalized on that strength. I am sure that Ambassador Martirosian
will build on that foundation with new ideas to complement new
times."
Ambassador Martirosian
addressed the gathering, with words of thanks for the warm hospitality
offered him. He spoke of his desire to become fully acquainted
with the entire community and looked forward to working with Diasporan
leaders for the benefit of the Armenian Homeland. He expressed
the importance and value of Armenia's participation in the
United Nations.
The Prelacy Ladies
Guild hosted the dinner/reception buffet, which provided the opportunity
for interaction between the honored guest and community leaders
in an informal and relaxed atmosphere.
In addition to Mr.
Sarajian and Rev. Fr. Anoushavan, Prelacy Executive Council members
in attendance included: Rev. Fr. Nerses Manoogian, Karen Jehanian,
Noubar Megerian, Michael Hagopian, Stephen Hagopian, and Bedros
Givelekian.
During the evening
the Prelacy's Spirit of Armenia award was presented to Dr. Movses
Abelian. Usually presented at the National Representative Assembly,
the award was presented on this evening because Dr. Abelian was
unable to attend the Assembly.
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