The establishment of the Armenian Ministry of Diaspora Affairs aroused hopes for strengthening and development of cooperation between the Republic of Armenia and Diaspora in various fields. Besides, the Ministry intends to launch a repatriation program. PanARMENIAN.Net has requested Ms. Hranush Hakobian, the Minister of Diaspora Affairs, to comment on the plans and future activities of the Ministry.

The European Union shows genuine interest in the South Caucasus and the five-day war in August is among the reasons. Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili confessed of starting the war that cost Georgia too dear: NATO decided not to offer MAP to Georgia and Ukraine, the U.S. is changing its foreign policy trends. PanARMENIAN.Net requested Ivlian Khaindrava, director of South Caucasus programs at the Tbilisi-based center of development and cooperation, to comment on the current situation in Georgia.

The phenomenon of transregional projects draws attention of politicians and investors. Geographical location of transit countries, like Armenia, appears as a significant factor. However, the policy led by Turkey and Azerbaijan is targeting at keeping Armenia aside of major energy projects. At that same time, Armenia faces a good outlook for cooperation with Iran and Russia. Habet Madoyan, expert of Mitq analytical center, presents his vision of the problem to PanARMENIAN.Net.

Russia is not only a strategic partner and ally for Armenia. Our countries are united by a community of cultures, regard for cultural heritage and people. Russian actors have always been welcome visitors to Armenia. Arrival of Russian and world cinema stars such as Veniamin Smekhov, Armen Jigarkhanyan, Alexander Shirvindt and Igor Kostolevsky to Armenia was traditionally an outstanding event. People's Artist of Russia and author Veniamin Smekhov shared impressions with PanARMENIAN.Net.