CATHOLICOS OF ALL ARMENIANS
HOLY SEE OF ECHMIATZIN
No 116
16 January 2003
16 January 2003
ALLAHSHUKYUR PASHA-ZADE
CHAIRMAN OF CAUCASIAN
MUSLIMS BOARD
We regret having learnt from mass media about the ongoing destruction of the unique cross-stones (khachkars) and tombstones of the Armenian cemetery of Jugha, located in the Autonomous Republic of Nakhijevan. Despite the fair protest voiced by the Armenian people, and UNESCO's appeal to preserve the rare specimens of Armenian national culture that have a secure place in world civilization, the demolition of these unsurpassed cultural and architectural monuments has not stopped.
You are certainly aware of the immense historical and cultural value of this unique cemetery, dating as far back as the 5th century. Eighty years ago, it retained over 10,000 monuments of Armenian culture and architecture, whereas at present half of them lie ruined. The annihilation of this 15-centuries-old cultural heritage is an act of vandalism and desecration. Moreover, by perpetrating it, the Azeri authorities are conducting an imprudent policy that cannot contribute to the good-neighbourly relations of our peoples.
We are convinced that such actions are not in the best interests of the Azerbaijani nation. Both the Armenians and the Azerbaijanians strive to finally overcome the unspeakable difficulties and privations they have recently suffered, for the sake of peace and prosperity in our region and throughout the world.
Well-aware of Your great concern for the preservation of spiritual values, we hope Your influence and authority are of great instrumentality in the settlement of this problem, for the sake of preserving the centuries-old good-neighbourly relations of our peoples and the strengthening of the spirit of goodwill and peacemaking, which should guide us in our further collaboration.
The Holy See of Echmiatzin is giving You its fraternal regards, praying that the Almighty God grant You good health and many years of prolific service.
May our Lord protect entire mankind and bless all the ways leading to collaboration and mutual understanding!
WITH BEST REGARDS,
GAREGIN THE SECOND CATHOLICOS OF ALL ARMENIANS
GAREGIN THE SECOND CATHOLICOS OF ALL ARMENIANS