The Mother See Calls on Authorities to Reject Defeatist Mindset and Destructive Actions

On May 23, at the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, presided by His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, a meeting of the Supreme Spiritual Council took place, which was also attended by the bishops residing in the Mother See.

During the meeting, challenges facing Armenia and Artsakh were discussed, as well as recent statements regarding the Armenian-Azerbaijani negotiation process.

The Supreme Spiritual Council issued a statement: “The vision of free and independent life for Armenia and Artsakh has become a reality over the last three and a half decades due to the heroic struggle, sacrifices, and commitments of our globally dispersed people. The deeds and illuminating example of our fallen children, who defended the homeland, have kept the spirit of our people strong to withstand every adversity, continuing its historical presence on native soil.

The tragic consequences of the 44-day war in Artsakh have subjected our homeland to new security challenges and existential threats; however, even in such a difficult situation, the zeal of our people and national institutions to continue defending the just rights of Armenia and Artsakh has not diminished.

Recent statements made by Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan during a press conference on May 22 revealed the true nature of the peace agenda presented to the public, highlighting the dangerous and unacceptable positions adopted by the authorities in the negotiation process concerning the future of Artsakh and certain territories along Armenia’s borders.

The Supreme Spiritual Council considers unilateral concessions justified under the guise of peace to be reprehensible and unacceptable. With such short-sighted actions recognizing the Republic of Artsakh as part of Azerbaijan, the Armenian authorities will inevitably place our brothers and sisters from Artsakh before the threat of new genocide and dispossession. The independence of Artsakh, forged through the blood and toil of our children, and Armenia’s territories are not subject to bargaining.

The homeland belongs to all of us, and decisions regarding the homeland must be made in accordance with the fundamental provisions of the Constitution of the Republic of Armenia and legislation, rather than being subject to the discretion of individual political groups and factions.

We urge the authorities to reject a defeatist mindset and the destructive actions stemming from it, and to find reasonable and dignified solutions to overcome national challenges. We call on our entire people and national institutions at this critical moment to soberly assess the complex situation and remain unwavering and united in pursuing our national interests and the right to self-determination of Artsakh. In this matter, we must recognize the decisive expression of our people's will.

Peace to our homeland, a secure and safe life to all our people in Armenia, Artsakh, and the diaspora.”