Discussions regarding religious freedom issues in Armenia and various other countries took place at the international Religious Freedom Summit held in the US Congress according to VOA. American-Armenian organizations view this summit as a platform to bring issues of concern to the Armenian people to the attention of the international community.
Congressman Chris Smith, addressing Armenian issues, criticized the previous administration’s policies, particularly regarding the Armenian population of Nagorno-Karabakh. He condemned Turkey for its denial of the Armenian Genocide and Azerbaijan for the ethnic cleansing carried out in Nagorno-Karabakh. Smith emphasized that Azerbaijan continues to oppress the Armenian population of Nagorno-Karabakh, using food as a tool of pressure. He called for deepening friendship and cooperation with Armenia.
During the discussions, concerns were raised about the rights of the Armenian population of Nagorno-Karabakh, Armenian prisoners of war and detainees held in Azerbaijan, and threats to Armenian cultural heritage in Nagorno-Karabakh. American-Armenian organizations called on the current US administration to take action on these issues.
Aram Hambaryan, Executive Director of the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) of Washington, noted that this summit is an opportunity to change the policies adopted by the previous administration, making them more responsible. He expressed hope that the current administration will impose sanctions against Azerbaijan, implement Resolution 907 prohibiting military aid to Baku, and make efforts to release Armenian detainees held in Azerbaijan and ensure the dignified return of the Armenian population to Nagorno-Karabakh.
Hambaryan emphasized the importance of the support of other communities and Christian allies and their involvement in issues concerning the Armenian nation. He also stressed that this is an opportunity to support Christians facing challenges in Nigeria, Syria, China, and other parts of the world.
Mariam Khaloyan, a representative of the Armenian Assembly of America and a sponsor of one of the discussions within the Religious Freedom Summit, stated that the summit is a good opportunity to engage in dialogue with other communities and groups, raising awareness of issues that concern each other. She highlighted the awareness of the ethnic cleansing and developments taking place in Artsakh in recent years and noted that Azerbaijan continues its genocidal policies against Armenian heritage and cultural and religious monuments.
The summit’s work will begin on February 4, during which numerous discussions are planned, along with speeches by human rights defenders, activists, clergy, and leaders. It is known that Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, who is on a visit to Washington, will also deliver a speech at the summit. A speech by the US Vice President is also expected during the summit.