The US Congress hosted a number of discussions within the framework of the International Religious Summit, one of which referred to the problems of religious freedom of Armenia. The Voice of America writes about it.
"A number of discussions in the US Congress on February 3 within the framework of the International Annual International Religious National Assembly summit on the topic of religious persecution and freedoms were held on February 3 with the participation of American congressmen, human rights activists and public figures.
Co-Chairs of the International Annual Religious National Assembly Sam Brownbeck and Katrina Lantos Swet, and Chris Smith stressed the need for respect for human religious freedoms.
One of the discussions was dedicated to the issue of religious freedoms in Armenia, Nigeria and Syria, which was also performed by American congressmen.
In his speech, Congressman Bilirakis stressed that religious persecuted are unacceptable. According to the Republican Congressman, this gathering reflects the unity of humanity and the importance of fighting together for the rights of each individual, regardless of its beliefs.
"It is our goal to raise our collective responsibility for those who are silent due to fear and pressure. Today we are lucky enough to have joined us from individuals, activists, religious leaders, political experts and a large group of conscientious citizens. Each of you brings valuable prospects and experience with him, "Gas Bilirakis stated.
In his turn, Congressman Chris Smith highlighted the summit, emphasizing that this through this is the opportunity to find out the US legislature on the ground.
Speaking about Armenian issues, he criticized the policy pursued by the previous administration, particularly in the Armenian issue of Nagorno-Karabakh, condemned Turkey to the denial of the Armenian Genocide, and Azerbaijan and the ethnic cleansing of Nagorno-Karabakh. Azerbaijan has detained innocent people and uses food as a means of pressure in Nagorno Karabakh, Congressman Smith emphasizes.
"I have met with Aliyev twice in his office, and debate with him for his policy and approaches to the Armenian people, particularly in Nagorno Karabakh. I think we need to deepen our friendship and cooperation with the people of Armenia and make it quite clear, "Congressman Smith said.
During the discussion on Armenia, the speakers raised the threats to the Armenian captives and detainees in Nagorno-Karabakh in Azerbaijan, calling for the current US administration.
American-Armenian organizations involved in the international summit of religious freedoms view it as a good opportunity to raise issues of concern to Armenians.
According to the director of the Armenian National Committee of Washington, the director Aram Hamparian, this summit in the first days of the Trump administration has the opportunity to change the policy adopted by the previous administration, making it more responsible. He hopes that the current administration will defend against Azerbaijan, the 907 resolution banning the military assistance to Baku will make efforts to release Armenian detainees and a dignified return of the Armenian population.
"This summit is a good opportunity to receive the support of coalition partners and Christian friends and involve them in issues of concern to the Armenian nation. But it also has the opportunity to work hard to help Christians facing Christians in Nigeria, Syria, China or other parts of the world, "Hamparian said.
In his turn, Mariam Khaloyan, a sponsor of one of the discussions of one of the discussions in the religious Freedom Summit, highlighted the summit a good opportunity to dial with other communities and groups, increasing awareness of issues of concern to each other.
"We raise awareness about ethnic cleansies and developments in Artsakh in the last few years and emphasize that Azerbaijan continues genocidal policy towards Armenian heritage and religious monuments," Khaloyan said.
The work of the summit will start on February 4, during which many discussions are planned for human rights activists, activists, clergy and leaders.
It is known that the Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan will also address the summit, who is on a visit to Washington. The speeches of the United States Vice President Jay Di Vencs are also scheduled for the summit, "the media reported.
