The Gaza Strip is becoming a decisive factor in Turkish-Israeli relations. It may so happen that Turkey finally take the side of the Islamic world and thus, in the worst of developments, untie the hands of Iran that has long been aspiring to destroy the Jewish state that stands in the light of the Islamic world ( like Armenia by the way). The interesting point is that despite the great similarity between these two countries, relations between them are, to say the least, far from being normal.

Boxing: WBC/WBA super flyweight champion Vic Darchinyan (35-2-1, 27 KOs) stepped up to bantamweight to take the vacant IBO bantamweight belt against Eric Barcelona (51-18-4, 19 KOs) on Thursday night at the Leagues Club in Parramatta, NSW, Australia. Darchinyan dropped Barcelona three times en route to a 120-103, 118-105 and 116-108 win. Barcelona was also deducted two points from low blows.

The past weeks highlights were the parliamentary elections in NKR and debates on European Parliament’s resolution.

Territorial disproportion is a major problem Armenia is facing. Yerevan, like other capital cities of overloaded, what hampers social and economic development of the republic. To resolve the issue, a comprehensive approach should be demonstrated.

The Armenian National Assembly debated the bill on introduction of amendments and addenda to the Law On Television and Radio supposing digitalization of TV and radio transmission. The amendments concern transfer to digital data broadcast (BBD), what will allow to secure efficient usage of coverage area, unification of information networks and compatibility of technical tools. Licenses will be issued though tenders. Digital data broadcast network is a integral system of multiplexers and relevant infrastructures which enable TV and radio broadcasting. The system is supposed to be state-owned. The first tender will be held on July 20, 2010. 18 TV channels will be selected, with licenses taking effect January 20, 2011. The transition period will last till July 20, 2013. The next tender will be held in 10 years. 4 radio stations will also be digitized.

On May 18, the International Museum Day, Armenian museums opened their doors for visitors again, with the slogan Museums for Social Harmony. Director of the International Council of Museums Office in Armenia, Hasmik Haroyan, said that the principle of social harmony is in the availability of museums, exhibits, entire cultural heritage for all groups of population, including disabled people.

With passions over the demolition of Moscow Cinema Open-Air Hall fading, Yerevan residents launched a collection of signatures against construction under way in the Student Park. A group of public activists made a statement, saying that “construction works carried out in the Park can transform the urban green belt into another ferroconcrete structure.” “We are ready to use all legal tools to rescue the parks of Yerevan,” people say.