Armenian Assembly Commends Senator Mark Kirk Washington, DC - Last week, the Senate Appropriations Committee approved its version of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2012 State, Foreign Operations Appropriations Bill, which outlined U.S. funding and policy priorities abroad, including Armenia and Nagorno Karabakh, reported the Armenian Assembly of America (Assembly). Overall, the Bill provides $ 626.7 million in assistance for the countries of Europe, Eurasia and Central Asia (AEECA), which is $ 69 million below the FY 2011 level. While the Bill does not contain any "congressionally-directed spending items or 'earmarks,'" the report language recommends funding for Armenia "consistent with the budget request." The Administration requested $ 40 million in economic assistance to Armenia for FY 2012. The Senate Committee vote mirrors the action in the House State, Foreign Operations Appropriations Subcommittee, which called for $ 40 million in economic support to Armenia. The Senate Bill also states "That funds made available for the Southern Caucasus region may be used for confidence-building measures and other activities in furtherance of the peaceful resolution of conflicts, including in Nagorno-Karabakh," while the report language states that "The committee supports humanitarian assistance for victims of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and urges a peaceful resolution of the conflict." "We would like to express our appreciation to the Chairman and Ranking Member of the Senate State, Foreign Operations Appropriations Subcommittee, Senators Patrick Leahy (D-VT) and Lindsey Graham (R-SC) respectively, as well as long-time friend of Armenia, Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY)," stated Executive Director Bryan Ardouny. "In addition, we commend Senator Mark Kirk (R-IL) for his important efforts and leadership. As both Armenia and Nagorno Karabakh commemorate their 20th anniversary of independence this month, the Committee's action renews America's commitment to Armenia's and Karabakh's democratic growth." The next step would be for the House and Senate to complete action on their respective bills. However, with the new fiscal year beginning on October 1st, Congress must pass a short-term continuing resolution before turning its attention back to the FY 2012 appropriations bills. Established in 1972, the Armenian Assembly of America is the largest Washington-based nationwide organization promoting public understanding and awareness of Armenian issues. The Assembly is a non-partisan, 501(c)(3) tax-exempt membership organization.

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