Pope Francis on the Situation in Artsakh

Pope Francis has expressed concern over the humanitarian situation in Nagorno-Karabakh, as reported by Vaticannews.va.

Below is the Western Armenian text of his speech:

“The Prayer for Peace on January 29, 2023, was marked by the Holy Father's renewed call for an immediate solution for the Lachin Corridor, deeming the situation of the Armenian residents blockaded in Artsakh as ‘inhumane.’ On December 18 of the previous year, Pope Francis had already expressed his concern regarding the situation in the Lachin Corridor, indicating that he is particularly worried about the humanitarian instability of the population and the risks of worsening conditions, especially during winter.”

The Holy Father then called upon those involved in the situation to ‘be committed to finding peaceful solutions for the welfare of the people.’ His Holiness's concern and call were directed towards the 120,000 Armenian residents of Nagorno-Karabakh, including 30,000 children.

The surrounding and isolation of Armenians by Azerbaijan under the guise of 'environmental' considerations poses a significant threat of humanitarian crisis. This is why, a month later, His Holiness has not hesitated to raise his voice again and reiterate his appeal for a solution concerning the Lachin Corridor, expressing his closeness to the innocent population facing these inhumane conditions.

“I renew my appeal in light of the serious humanitarian situation prevailing in the Lachin corridor in the South Caucasus. I am close to all those who, during winter, are forced to endure such inhumane conditions. It is necessary to exert all possible efforts at the international level to find solutions for the welfare of the people,” said Pope Francis in his addressed appeal.