Armenian Apostolic Holy Church The Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin

Regarding the difficult situation in Artsakh, the Supreme Spiritual Council issued a statement:

"We note with indignation that the humanitarian situation in Artsakh is deepening as a result of Azerbaijan's ongoing belligerent and anti-Armenian actions and the complete blockade of Artsakh. It is deeply worrisome that, contrary to the efforts of the Russian Peacekeeping Troops, Azerbaijani aggression is gaining new dimensions.

In the existing difficult situation, when the people of Artsakh are deprived of supplies of necessary food, medicine and vital supplies and face the genocidal actions of Azerbaijan, we appeal to the co-chairing countries of the Minsk Group, the member states of the European Union, to urgently take preventive actions, including sanctions against Azerbaijan, so that an hour before the road to Artsakh- the Berdzor (Lachin) corridor, will be unblocked and normal life will be restored in the Republic of Artsakh. It is necessary for the international community to take the most practical steps to condemn the inhumane and hostile policy of Azerbaijan directed against the people of Artsakh. Peace cannot be established in Artsakh under threats of coercion and reprisals.

We appeal to the authorities of the Republic of Armenia to give up concessional positions, show determination and ensure a resolution of the situation with the comprehensive application of fundamental human rights, which will become a guarantee for the independent, safe and dignified life of the people of Artsakh on their native land.

We urge all our people in Armenia and Diaspora to continue to invest efforts with undiminished consistency in support of the Artsakh world and its faithful and heroic people.