Armenian Community of Bulgaria condemns attacks on Armenian church 

ArmInfo. The Association "Armenian Community of Bulgaria" is deeply concerned about the recent events in Armenia. In particular, the series of constant and systematic pressure on the Armenian Apostolic Church, as well as the arrests of church and political figures and the harsh measures  applied to them are worrying. This is stated in a statement received  by ArmInfo by the Association "Armenian Community of Bulgaria".

The Association recalled that the foundation of a democratic society  is the observance of the principles of freedom of speech, the rule of  law and due process.

"No state institution can act as an instrument of political  repression. Any trial must be conducted transparently, objectively  and fairly, based on clear and reliable evidence. We condemn any  actions that undermine civil liberties and the foundations of the  rule of law. The Armenian Apostolic Church has been an unshakable  pillar of our identity and unity for centuries. Attacks against it  threaten not only our spiritual heritage, but also our national  unity, especially in such a difficult regional situation.

We call on the Armenian authorities to return to the rule of law and  democratic values, respecting the fundamental rights of every citizen  and promoting national unity. Only in a united and free society will  we be able to respond to the serious challenges facing us, preserving  our identity and strengthening the unity of Armenians around the  world," the statement reads.

On June 27, Armenian security forces attempted to storm the Mother  See of Holy Etchmiadzin to detain the head of the Shirak Diocese of  the Armenian Apostolic Church, Archbishop Mikael Ajapakhian, but to  no avail. Believers did not allow the security forces to enter the  Holy of Holies. The archbishop is accused of calling for the  overthrow of the government in the country. He does not admit guilt.  Before this, another representative of the clergy, Bagrat Galstanyan,  the leader of the "Sacred Struggle" movement, was detained under a  far-fetched pretext. This was preceded by attacks on the Armenian  Church by the Armenian prime minister's couple and his associates.