«The so-called report on the Armenian Apostolic Holy Church, published by the Government of the Republic of Armenia, is unconstitutiona»: Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin

The so-called report on the Armenian Apostolic Holy Church, published by the Government of the Republic of Armenia, is unconstitutional, anti-canonical, and unlawful both in its content and in its form.
The “report,” compiled on the basis of accusations and defamatory fabrications disseminated through social media and mass media using squandered public funds, is a manifestation of political retribution, vindictiveness, and reprehensible interference in the internal life of the Church.
We deem it necessary to reaffirm the position adopted by the Episcopal Assembly convened in St. Pölten, Austria, on February 17–19, 2026, according to which the authorities of the Republic of Armenia must:
cease the persecution of the Church and respect its centuries-established sovereignty and autonomy, basing Church–State relations on mutual respect, a clear delineation of competencies, and the primacy of national interests;
put an end to the repression directed against the clergy and the nationally elected Catholicos of All Armenians through fabricated accusations and defamation;
act exclusively in accordance with the Constitution of the Republic of Armenia, its legislation, and international law, remaining faithful to the proclaimed democratic principles, guaranteeing freedom of conscience, religion, and belief in the country, and fostering social solidarity instead of division;
resolve existing problems and disagreements in a spirit of dialogue, without preconditions, refraining from futile ultimatum rhetoric.
It is evident that it is precisely the authorities of the Republic of Armenia that are seeking to create an artificial crisis in the life of the Church. Any initiatives aimed at reforming the Church that are dictated by political arbitrariness, manipulation, and coercion are unacceptable.
The processes of addressing the challenges facing the Armenian Church and advancing its orderly development are carried out solely on the basis of decisions adopted by the Church’s supreme canonical governing bodies.
The current reprehensible policy aimed at weakening the Church and discrediting ecclesial life can never serve the good of the Homeland and our people dispersed throughout the world, strengthen national unity, or enable our nation to confront the present trials posed by external security threats.
MOTHER SEE OF HOLY ETCHMIADZIN