Armen Smbatyan’s arrest poses a real risk to the RA international reputation

Special Representative of the Russian President on
International Cultural Cooperation Mikhail Shvydkoy turned to Nikol Pashinyan,
asking to change the measure of restraint imposed on Ambassador Extraordinary
and Plenipotentiary of the RA to the Russian Federation Armen Smbatyan.

“This move made by the Yerevan judiciary cannot but
cause serious concern, as it is absolutely unlawful,” the Russian official
wrote.

He noted that he and Armen Smbatyan have a long-standing friendship
and professional relationships. 

“Unquestionable is the enormous contribution that he
made to the relationships between Armenia and Russia when he was the Ambassador
Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Armenia to Russia. His extraordinary
organizational skills and ability to develop a strategic vision boosted the
humanitarian projects launched by the Interstate Fund of Humanitarian
Cooperation of the State Parties of the CIS in a way that these projects turned
into remarkable events in all member states of the CIS.

“It is beyond doubt that all are equal before the law.
With this in mind, I have no doubt that the judicial process will cast light on
every unclear aspect of the case and Armen Smbatyan will have the opportunity
to get his good name and reputation back. Considering Armen Smbatyan’s
contribution to the international reputation of Armenia, it would not be
exaggerating to say that his being under arrest until the trial verdict is
reached, poses a real risk to the country’s international reputation,” Shvydkoy
wrote.

He asked to consider his letter a motion to change the
measure of restraint imposed on Armen Smbatyan.