UK "Closely Monitoring" Armenia's Church-State Tensions

The United Kingdom is closely monitoring the situation between the Armenian government and the Armenian Apostolic Church and expects that all actions will comply with Armenia's constitutional and legal frameworks. This was stated by the UK's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Stephen Doughty, in response to a written inquiry from Member of Parliament Brendan O'Hara.

The MP, representing the Scottish National Party, had asked what discussions the Foreign Secretary has had with international partners regarding the "alleged attacks by the Armenian government against the Armenian Apostolic Church," and what diplomatic steps are being taken to ensure the protection of the church.

In response, Minister Doughty noted that the British side expects the provision of a proper legal process, within which all individuals will be treated fairly as prescribed by law, and judicial proceedings will remain transparent and impartial.

"The UK Government remains strongly committed to promoting and protecting the right to freedom of religion or belief around the world," the British official concluded.