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"Genocide Recognition Is Not That Easy"

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  • "Genocide Recognition Is Not That Easy"

    "GENOCIDE RECOGNITION IS NOT THAT EASY"

    A1+
    [06:04 pm] 08 October, 2007

    In 2005 the Lithuania's Parliament adopted a resolution recognizing
    the 1915 mass killings and deportations of Armenians in Ottoman Turkey
    as genocide.

    "Lithuania was the first to recognise the Armenian genocide among
    the Baltic countries," said Ara Tunian, the chairman of the Armenian
    Community in Lithuania.

    "I lobbied for the passage of the resolution for two years. I
    negotiated with the Saeima (Lithuanian Parliament) together with
    community members Ruslan Harutiunian and Vahagn Grigorian. We submitted
    cogent arguments to the Saeima.

    Several exhibitions were opened in the Saeima. We disseminated
    corresponding material via the Lithuanian Government and the Saeima
    and sent verified information to Lithuanian deputies, Ara Tunian said.

    The Armenian community was formed in 1990s.

    Officially, 2150 Armenians live in Lithuania who are actively engaged
    in the country's interior life. Many work in local self-government
    bodies. According to Ara Tunian, today the community is concerned
    over preserving the Armenian element.

    The community does its utmost to prevent conflicts with national
    minorities, especially with Azeris.

    Armenians get in touch with Azeris during events dedicated to national
    minorities. Azeris accuse Armenians of the Khojalu events. "So far
    we have avoided serious collisions though Azeris provoke conflicts
    every now and then."

    Psychologist Ara Tunian moved to Lithuania in 1986. He is namely
    discontent with the RA Government's attitude. "People get disappointed
    and leave abroad in search of better life," Tunian says.
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