Aram I: "We are forcing Armenians off their homeland"
The forum of leaders and representatives of various diaspora organizations kicked off at the Sport and Concert Complex after Karen Demirchyan today.
Over 550 individuals representing 151 organizations and groups from 46 countries are participating in the two-day forum which was opened by Serzh Sargsyan. The forum is also attended by different public and political figures and spiritual leaders in Armenia.
The forum participants will discuss educational issues and attempts to deepen relations between Armenia and Armenians overseas.
"Artsakh is willing and is ready to work in this format. We view it as practical mechanism for strengthening Armenia-Artsakh-Diaspora trinity," Karabakh President Bako Sahakyan said in his addressing remarks.
Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II gave his patriarchal blessing to the forum attendees, saying, "The proclamation of Arsakh and Armenian independence opened a new chapter in the history of Armenia and its people."
The most striking was the speech by Catholicos of the Greater House of Cilicia Aram I who expressed concern over continuing emigration from Armenia and corruption.
"Today our country and our people are facing serious challenges. Our enemy wanted an Armenia without Armenians, but today we are forcing Armenians off their homeland. This problem has economic reasons whose solution is indispensable. And the Church cannot remain indifferent against these unhealthy phenomena," he said.
