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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 28, 2005

AGBU ADDRESSES THE LAWSUIT FILED BY HIS BEATITUDE ARCHBISHOP MESROB
MUTAFYAN, ARMENIAN PATRIARCH OF ISTANBUL

NEW YORK, NY – We regret the actions of His Beatitude in filing a
lawsuit against the Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU). We believe
that His Beatitude has not been fully informed of the true position with
regard to AGBU’s operation of the Melkonian Educational Institute. AGBU
remains committed to serve and pursue the best interests of the Armenian
nation and not the particular interests of the few, no matter how vocal.
The decision to close the Melkonian Educational Institute was carefully
considered and is fully permitted under the terms of the unconditional
grant made to AGBU. In addition, contrary to the allegations made,
through the years AGBU has paid to the Patriarchate of Constantinople,
pursuant to Garabed Melkonian’s wishes, all sums provided for by him and
much more, as evidenced by receipts and other documents. As throughout
our history, AGBU will continue to honor the vision of its many generous
benefactors including the late Garabed Melkonian, for the benefit of all
Armenians worldwide.

– AGBU CENTRAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS