10th Global Forum of the UN Alliance of Civilizations

The Primate of the Artsakh Diocese, His Grace Bishop Vertanes Abrahamyan, participated in the 10th Global Forum of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations, where he delivered a speech. His Grace addressed the audience:

"Your Excellencies, Esteemed Forum Participants, Dear Brothers and Sisters, I greet you all with gratitude for the opportunity to speak on this important international platform where the preservation of cultural and spiritual heritage is being discussed.

As the Primate of the Artsakh Diocese of the Armenian Apostolic Church, I draw your attention to the issue of Artsakh/Nagorno-Karabakh.

For centuries, Artsakh has been more than just land; it has been the home of generations of Christians who built churches, raised crosses, and prayed for peace for all nations. Today, these sanctuaries are desecrated and destroyed.

We witness the erasure of millennia-old cultural heritage before our eyes. This is not just a loss for the Armenian people; it is a loss for the entire world. The destruction of cultural heritage is the destruction of our collective memory and the shared heritage of human civilization.

I appeal to all present: the international community must unite to halt these acts of vandalism, to protect Christian sanctuaries, and to restore justice. We cannot remain indifferent while crosses are broken and churches are turned to ruins.

If we, as humanity, wish to live in harmony and peace, the injustices suffered by the people of Artsakh/Nagorno-Karabakh must be condemned and appropriately addressed by the international community.

Steps such as the dignified and safe return of more than 150,000 indigenous Christians forced to flee their homes and the release of prisoners held in Baku can pave the way for building trust and inspire hope for a peaceful future.

History teaches us that only unity and determination can preserve our shared heritage for future generations. We have a duty to protect and uphold the identity of the people who lived and shaped this heritage for centuries.

Thank you for your attention. May God bless us all."