Conflict Erupts Between Turkish and Armenian Teams During Pan-Armenian Games

Nearly a month after the 8th Pan-Armenian Games, issues have arisen between two participating teams, leading to a confrontation. This was reported by the media outlet 'Hraparak'.

According to the information received, representatives from Turkey and Armenia's Ararat region clashed in Gyumri during the football championships. Turkish Armenians were conversing in Turkish amongst themselves, which caught the attention of nearby Ararat residents who intervened. One remarked that Armenians should speak Armenian, while another retorted that they were speaking Turkish to avoid being understood. This exchange escalated into a fight, affecting both the Turkish Armenians and the Ararat residents. The situation became serious enough that one of the teams had to be swiftly relocated to Yerevan.

In response to inquiries from the media, police spokesperson Zarzand Gabrielian confirmed that such an incident was recorded in Gyumri. 'An incident occurred during the game itself, which was resolved on the same day. This was not a situation that was reported to the police; rather, officers were present at the game and witnessed the incident, preventing further escalation,' he stated.

It's worth noting that the 8th Pan-Armenian Games were held in Armenia in August, attracting an unprecedented number of participants.