Yesterday, Sunday 27 September 2020 afternoon Sydney time, we were devastated to receive the disturbing news from our beloved Artsakh. Since seven in the morning, Artsakh time, Azeris with their allies and hired mercenaries launched an aggressive military attack and declared war against Artsakh, creating panic and fear in the Armenian civilian population. There were several air strikes on the border and also in the capital Stepanakert.

This attack, which was not unexpected, resulted in many casualties, including Armenian soldiers and innocent civilians young and old. As a result, the Artsakh president, Mr. Arayik Harutyunyan, announced martial law and gave his orders to fully mobilise the army and in a speech given soon after the Azeri military launch, called all men, age 18 and up, to be recruited in preparation, if this turns to a full scale war. In his evening media press conference, the President made clear that Artsakh is not in war against Azerbaijan only, but also with their ally and partner Turkey.

The Armenian Missionary Association of Australia joins the Australian Armenian organisations with the Armenian National Committee of Australia and the entire Armenian nation and the civilized world and in the strongest terms, condemns this aggression. Also, calls the Australian Government, Federal and State, to condemn this violent attack, which resulted and will still result in the loss of civilians. We are sure that the Friends of Artsakh, which include Australian politicians, religious and community leaders, as well as many public figures, will join in condemning this aggression.

The Armenian Missionary Association of America Executive Director, Mr. Zaven Khanjian, has already announced that the Armenian Missionary Association, places its facilities in the Artsakh Republic under the disposal of the civilian authorities to shelter women, children and the elderly to keep them safe during the violent attacks.

The Armenian Missionary Association of Australia calls on all peace-loving people and nations to join in prayer, seeking God’s protection for the people. Please join us in prayer for the people of Artsakh and all those brave young men, who are defending their land, the land of their ancestors.

To you, our dear friend and President, Mr. Arayik Harutyunyan, we say: “Be strong, and courageous, because we are sure that you will lead the people of Artsakh and the brave men, to protect the land that God has given to our forefathers. Be strong and courageous, because we all are with you in these very difficult and critical times. God is with you and we all are in this with you, even if we are miles away from our beloved motherland Artsakh and Armenia”.

Artsakh is our stronghold. Artsakh is and always will be in our hearts with its beauty and inspiration.

In prayer and reassurance.

Rev. Dr. Krikor Youmshajekian
President and CEO
Armenian Missionary Association of Australia