Excerpts from His Holiness Aram I’s closing remarks at the closing session of the 2019 Year of the Media
1) First of all, I would like to state with a high degree of satisfaction that the united presence of the press workers representing various circles of Armenia, Artsakh and the Diaspora is an eloquent testament to the ability of our media representatives to collectively address issues concerning our nation and the problems faced by the homeland and Diaspora. And finding ways to cooperate has become an imperative and urgent necessity and at the same time a commitment. I’d like to honor all of you for your participation in bringing into focus our pan-Armenian concern regarding the Armenian press.
2) … Our differences did not lead us to polarization, because our goal was the same: a) Strengthening of the homeland and the protection of the highest interests of our nation; b) Preservation of values and the execution of our high ideals. This approach must become embedded in our thoughts and deeds everywhere and at all levels. We have no other choice.
3) I wholly share your concerns, your crises and your expectations. They are not just yours, but also all ours. We shall always remind ourselves that the Armenian press for us, is not just a news source, but a sacred mission. … As a mission, the Armenian press represents the pan-national value and, therefore, it is our expectation that it enjoys the unequivocal and solid support of our homeland, the church, the organizations and our nation.
4) … Along with our media workers, we must also hear The People, their evaluations and expectations. Let’s not forget that without The People the press loses the purpose of its existence. Therefore, the wealth of ideas and proposals expressed during this conference should be followed-up by all means.
5) No press can exist without freedom. We have consistently talked about the freedom of the media, emphasizing the obligation and the right to guarantee and respect it, both by the state and the media sponsoring organizations. In this respect, we have also found as vital and essential the development and growth of pluralism in opinion. We talked about freedom driven by a sense of responsibility and accountability, as well as the moral obligation of the press to be the accurate reflection of the will of The People; the defender of the Truth; and the voice of righteousness! At the same time, we reminded ourselves that the freedom of the press should become a driving force of constructive criticism, keeping it away from attempts to plant hatred and polarization.
6) Rising above local issues, Armenian press has common concerns and pan-Armenian orientation, always maintaining diversity and pluralism. It has become clear that there are differences in nuances and in prioritization between the Armenia-based and Diaspora-based press. We find it necessary to highlight the factors that connect the Armenian press so that the media members can become active participants in the discussion and formulation of the pan-Armenian issues. In this regard, the role of the press is immense.
7) We spoke extensively about the imperative of enhancing the quality of the media. In our opening message, we have said that the Armenian press should go beyond being mere news mediums. It should give great importance to critical and analytical articles so that — in case of a necessity, it can criticize and awaken the church, the authorities and structures and bring them to order as well as keep people aware of contemporary national and international issues.
8) We addressed a number of issues related to the Armenian press in foreign languages. It is necessary to be realistic. The role of the Armenian language in foreign languages has become indispensable.
9) Therefore, re-energized and enriched by new way of thinking and new information; by being better acquainted with one another, we will return to our headquarters more knowledgeable and aware pan-Armenian concerns and resume your work as such. The current conference should not be merely an important and significant event. It should be converted into active process that opens new horizons for our mission.
10) … While remaining committed to our local concerns, how can we formulate a pan-Armenian media policy? The press represents a huge and potent force. How can we use it for constructive purposes, keeping it away from the contemporary disinformation waves? …
11) Crises shouldn’t be the only driving forces that unite, but also most importantly, our national values and aspirations that can forge our unity and serve as the source of collective strength. The current Armenia that exists on a small segment of historical Armenia is surrounded by unfriendly nations and faces serious challenges. The role of media is decisive in terms of solving pressing issues affecting Armenia and our nation; and in strengthening our collective potential.
