THE AAE CALL UPON THE AGBU

Azat Artsakh–Republic of Nagorno Karabagh (NKR)
18-03-2004

Brussels, March 15th, 2004 – It is with deep regret that the Assembly
of Armenians of Europe learnt about the decision of the AGBU
Administrative Board to close gradually the Melkonian School of
Cyprus. The Boarding School of the Melkonian Educational Institution
will be the first to be shut down. It is undeniable truth that the
Armenian School is the stronghold that preserves the Armenian Diaspora
from being assimilated and keeps alive the Armenian spirit. Indeed,
since its foundation the Melkonian Educational Institution has not
been just a school, but the principle basis for the preservation of
our national identity outside of Armenia. Many political and cultural
figures have been educated here. Taking into consideration that many
young Armenians attend the Melkonian School, the closing of the latter
will have grave consequences not only on the Armenian Community in
Cyprus, but also in the countries of Middle East, Europe and countries
of ex-Soviet Union Republic. The Melkonian School offers the best
opportunity to the young Armenians to get acquainted with the Armenian
history, culture and traditions and inspires them with the Armenian
values. The fact that the Melkonian Educational Institution is the
only Armenian secondary school in Europe (besides the school, recently
established in France) emphasizes its importance. Such decision puts
under question the very principles and objectives of the AGBU
Administrative Board which for many decades has been administrating
the Melkonian School and their commitment to the preservation of
Armenian values. Therefore, the Assembly of Armenians of Europe calls
upon the Administrative Board of the AGBU to reconsider their decision
for the sake of the whole Armenian Diaspora. By applying such a
decision, the AGBU will definitely fail to fulfill its historical
mission, which is the preservation of the Armenian Identity and
Armenian values.

AAE.
18-03-2004