Naïri Hokhikyan Addresses Artsakh Authorities: 'If There is Pressure from Moscow or Yerevan...'

Interethnic relations expert Naïri Hokhikyan writes on his Facebook page: "I do not know what exactly is happening within the leadership of Artsakh. Nor do I want to know, as these political kitchens are always rich in various conspiracies. I don’t know whether Ruben Vardanyan will remain the State Minister of Artsakh or not. I don’t know whether Arayik Harutyunyan will stay as the President of Artsakh or step down; I have no idea whether any minister or high-ranking official will remain or be removed. These names are not my primary concern.

The most important thing is the security of Artsakh, which is not a bargaining chip. I urge the current authorities of Artsakh: whatever you are doing internally is your business, but always remember that there is Artsakh and its people. Speak openly and sincerely with the public; if you have disagreements, share them with the people. If there is pressure from Moscow or Yerevan regarding any issue, always remember that your primary support is the ordinary resident of Artsakh, whom you turn to in the most challenging situations.

Your internal divisions or instability are what our enemy wishes for. Do not give joy to the enemy. If someone leaves their position, always remember that the most important thing is Artsakh; everything else, even your position, business, or even your life, is worthless without Artsakh. Please, do not turn into a small Nikol. Do not turn Artsakh into a business; God will not forgive you and your children.

Arayik Harutyunyan, you lost a brother during the liberation of Artsakh. No business or political position can surpass the homeland. Never forget that, please. Ruben Vardanyan, you have put your business reputation and your own credibility at stake for the sake of Artsakh. If you engage in shady dealings, remember that you will cease to be the businessman and politician you are today. You will either be destroyed or achieve great successes precisely through Artsakh.

God forbid, if there is no Artsakh, there will be neither Arayik Harutyunyan nor Ruben Vardanyan, nor the many high and low-ranking officials following them. The greatest sanctity is the Armenian land of Artsakh, for which your relatives' blood has also been shed.

I propose to Arayik Harutyunyan and Ruben Vardanyan, regardless of everything, to come together hand in hand before the public, even through television, to convey a message of unity. The people of Artsakh will move mountains just to be assured that they have patriotic and national leaders."