Baku: The Albanian-Udi Christian religious community of Azerbaijan has issued a statement condemning the reactions from Armenian society and political circles to recent diplomatic visits to the Ganjasar and Khudavang monasteries, which the community considers an integral part of Albanian historical and cultural heritage.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the community, a successor to the independent Albanian (Caucasian) Apostolic Church, criticized Armenian officials and lobbying circles for their attempts to present Azerbaijani historical monuments as Armenian heritage. The community accused Armenia of threatening the fragile peace process in the region by denying and falsifying historical facts.
The statement emphasized that Caucasian Albania is an essential part of Azerbaijani statehood, and Armenia's policy of denying this heritage is unacceptable. It labeled Armenia's actions as a manifestation of false national exceptionalism and racism. The community highlighted the significant historical contributions of the Albanian Church, which it claims has left an indelible mark on the religious and cultural life of the Caucasus.
The community also pointed to historical facts, such as the adoption of Christianity by Albanian King Urnayr in 313, and the construction of the Ganjasar Monastery between 1216 and 1238. The monastery served as the residence of the Albanian Catholicosate and holds significant historical value for the community. The statement lamented the Armenian Gregorian Church's attempts to claim parts of the Albanian Apostolic Church's heritage following its termination in 1836.
The community condemned ongoing Armenian efforts to appropriate the historical and cultural heritage of Caucasian Albania, calling it an act against both the past and future. It emphasized the importance of studying and presenting history as it is, reaffirming the community's rejection of Armenian claims to their heritage.
The statement highlighted the Azerbaijani government's efforts to restore and protect historical and religious monuments, including those belonging to Albanian heritage. These efforts are seen as crucial for addressing historical injustices and preserving tolerance within the country.
The community expressed gratitude to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev for his support and reiterated the necessity for Armenia to accept the new realities in the region. They called for an end to actions obstructing the peace process and emphasized their commitment to preserving their heritage and pursuing the truth.