KeghartBy Hrayr Kafessian, Toronto, 18 March 2009
Honourable Hranush Hacobyan, Minister of Diaspora of the Republic of Armenia, was on a fact finding tour in Canada towards the end of February 2009. She appeared at several public meetings in Montreal and Toronto outlining the role of the new ministry, its scope and expectations. Of interest was a friendly gathering hosted by the chairman of the central committee of the Armenian Democratic Liberal Party Mr. Michael Kharabian. Representatives of all local Armenian political, religious, cultural and social organizations were invited and almost all were present.
By Hrayr Kafessian, Toronto, 18 March 2009
Honourable Hranush Hacobyan, Minister of Diaspora of the Republic of Armenia, was on a fact finding tour in Canada towards the end of February 2009. She appeared at several public meetings in Montreal and Toronto outlining the role of the new ministry, its scope and expectations. Of interest was a friendly gathering hosted by the chairman of the central committee of the Armenian Democratic Liberal Party Mr. Michael Kharabian. Representatives of all local Armenian political, religious, cultural and social organizations were invited and almost all were present.
Mr. Hrayr Kafessian, the chair of the local chapter of ADLP, recently filed a rather comprehensive report about the thoughts of the honourable Minister related to issues facing the Diaspora, accomplishments of the ministry and an itemized plan. Keghart.com is pleased to bring to your attention the section dealing with her informal presentation in Armenian language.
An Open Letter penned by Dr. Ishkhan and Mrs. Anahit Babajanian is also introduced for scrutiny of how well processes are organized.
Open Letter to the Minister of Diaspora
Dear Minister of Diaspora,
It is with sincere regret and disappointment we are made aware that the profession, care, and patriotism of the diaspora is not put to any constructive use in our homelands. In official circles calls go out for the diaspora to help, but when independent volunteers are ready nepotism, connections, and red tape interfere with our efforts.
For the record, we were able to volunteer in Karabakh two years ago and constructively contributed to the people there. We hope you have access to that information. Our qualifications include actively practising medicine in 3 different countries, including well-known hospitals in the USA, over 40 years of experience in the medical field, and fluency in 5 languages.
In contrast to our homelands, United States, Jewish, and other foreign hospitals have eagerly asked for volunteer doctors, including myself, to go serve their needs. It is sad that our own nation isn’t enthusiastic about such projects nor appreciates the patriotism of Diasporan Armenians, focusing only on Diaspora’s financial aid instead of additionally benefiting from their professional service. It seems even the Diasporan Ministry comes short of understanding the selfless patriotism of diaspora Armenians.
We are very sorry for us and for all Armenians worldwide for their selfless patriotism.
Dr and Mrs Ishkhan and Anahit Babajanian MD /Retired Pediatrician
USA March 12, 2009
Please also visit:
Reflections on the Occasion of Honourable Hranush Hacobyan’s Visit to Canada
and
Identity Crisis: Diaspora-Armenians are Foreign Nationals in Armenia
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