Addressing a crowd of Armenian and Hellenic activists on Wednesday night, Congressman Xavier Becerra (D-CA) reaffirmed his support for U.S. affirmation of the Armenian Genocide, the Armenian Assembly of America (Assembly) told PanARMENIAN.Net.
At an event cosponsored by the Assembly, along with the American Hellenic Council of America and the Armenian National Committee of America, Rep. Becerra stated, “As a close friend and ally of Armenia, it is long past time for us to recognize the historical fact of the genocide committed against the Armenian people at the turn of the last century – a historical fact that should be recognized, and learned from regardless of the strong relationship that exists between us [and Turkey]. That is why I continue to be a strong supporter and cosponsor of Rep. Adam Schiff’s ‘Affirmation of the United States Record on the Armenian Genocide Resolution’ in Congress.”
“As an advocate for human rights issues, Congressman Becerra has demonstrated his unwavering support to the Armenian-American community.
The Assembly appreciates his steadfast support as an active member of the Armenian Caucus and as a cosponsor of H. Res.252, the Armenian Genocide Resolution,” stated Assembly
Western Region Director, Yeghig L. Keshishian.
Keshishian and members of the Southern California Regional Council – Joyce Stein, Talin Yacoubian, Al Cabraloff and Richard Mushegain – also met separately with Congressman Becerra to discuss a number of issues confronting U.S.-Armenia relations. Keshishian shared strong concerns about the administration’s 38 percent cut in assistance to Armenia, as well as its support for increased military assistance to Azerbaijan. “It is not only disappointing to see the Obama Administration decrease funding to Armenia while increasing military assistance to oil-rich Azerbaijan, but it also runs counter to U.S. interests in the South Caucasus,” stated Keshishian.
