With Karapetyan’s arrest, they are trying to silence those who support Church — Bishop Hovakim Manukyan

What is happening in Armenia is painful and is having a negative impact on our compatriots living in the Diaspora, Bishop Hovakim Manukyan told Alpha News, referring to the arrest of businessman Samvel Karapetyan.

“This is a painful and condemnable event. They are trying to silence those who stand by the Church. It could have serious consequences and affect Diaspora Armenians who have businesses or are trying to invest in Armenia. These clashes aren’t new. Many entrepreneurs in the Diaspora have clearly stated that they stand united around the Church, and these problems have a negative impact on the Armenian community,” he said.

Bishop Manukyan also expressed hope that reason will prevail.

“This only benefits our adversaries and enemies,” he added.