Oskanian and Rice to Sign Millennium Challenge Compact

PanARMENIAN.Net - On March 27, Armenia's Foreign Minister Vartan Oskanian will address Armenian-American activists gathering in the nation's capital for a major three-day advocacy conference designed to promote key community issues to Washington's most influential decision makers, reported the Armenian Assembly of America. Assembly Board of Trustees Chairman Hirair Hovnanian said, "We are honored that Foreign Minister Oskanian will address our National Conference later this month. We also look forward to Armenia signing the $235 million Millennium Challenge Compact it was recently awarded by the U.S. government. "Oskanian will join Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice at the signing of the five-year Compact which is expected to benefit the lives of 75 percent of Armenia's rural population. The Conference opens on March 26 with a welcoming reception at the U.S. Botanic Garden featuring special guest, NKR Deputy Foreign Minister Masis Mailian. Assembly leaders will convene earlier that day for their annual Trustees Meeting. The following day participants will sharpen their advocacy skills during a series of workshops and panel discussions, all leading up to a full day of meetings with elected officials on March 28. In those meetings, activists will seek support on such issues ranging from U.S. reaffirmation of the Armenian Genocide and ongoing and robust assistance to Armenia, as well as fighting against attempts to isolate Armenia by supporting passage of the South Caucasus Integration and Railroad Act. This unique event will also honor Armenian-American veterans of the Armed Forces. Additionally, Armenia Mission participants and Assembly Intern Alumni will have reunion events on March 26 and 27 respectively.