YEREVAN (Armenpress)–Armenian human rights ombudswoman Larisa Alaverdian addressed a letter to UNESCO chief director Koitiro Matsuura connected with vandalism in the Armenian cemetery of Old Julfa.
"There is no doubt that Armenian cultural monumen’s are intentionally being destroyed–monumen’s which are historic not only for Armenian people but also for all of humanity," says the letter.
The letter suggested that UNESCO–which works to prevent such acts of vandalism–take measures to prevent the destruction of cultural monumen’s.
"We think it necessary that an international commission be created which will immediately leave for the scene–study the situation–and present objective conclusions concerning the situation to UNESCO and other international organizations," suggested Alaverdian.
She says it is imperative that immediate steps be taken to stop the vandalism–because every day more historic monumen’s are being destroyed and it is impossible to restore them.
"Only the interference of the international community and organizations can stop [the vandals]. Such destruction of monumen’s is–beyond doubt–cultural terrorism against Armenian people," said Alaverdian–expressing hope that UNESCO’s chief director will respond by taking the appropriate measures to prevent the further destruction of cultural and historic monumen’s.
