MINISTER CONCERNED ABOUT ANTI-DIASPORA TELEVISION BROADCASTS IN ARMENIA

Gibrahayer
February 19, 2009

YEREVAN – Armenia’s Diaspora Ministry issued a statement on Thursday
regarding recent concerns, published in the press, about the negative
manner in which Diaspora Armenians are being depicted in television
broadcasts.

"This could create a schism between Armenians from Armenia and from
Diaspora. Such incidents upset both Armenian and Diasporan audiences,"
said the Ministry statement.

The Ministry explained that currently one of the most important bridges
between the Diaspora and Armenia is television, through which Armenians
in the Diaspora find a lasting link with the homeland.

"Each insulting statement can have an irreversible impact on
Armenia-Diaspora cooperation and efforts to unite our nation,"
continued the statement.

The Ministry said it took into consideration a wave of protests from
the Diaspora and has appealed to Armenian broadcasters to be mindful
that any and all broadcasts contain a positive message of bringing
all Armenians together around an independent Armenian Republic.

The Ministry also announced its production entitled "Established
Diasporans," which began airing on Armenia State Television, with
the first instalment featuring VivaCell General Manager Ralph Yerikian.

From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress