"I thank those public figures who issued a statement in my support. Such a step is never forgotten," reads the statement of Gagik Tsarukyan, leader of the "Prosperous Armenia" party, who is currently under arrest.

The statement particularly notes:

"I know some of you personally, we have been at the construction site of the statue of Christ with others, and many of you I do not know, but we will certainly meet. Honestly, the first thought that occurred to me after hearing your statement was: how can a nation have so many famous, influential individuals—people who have achieved serious success in their fields—yet our country remains in such a state?

Our nation has immense potential. We can straighten our backs, we can restore our self-confidence, we have much to say to the world—in culture, science, sports, and all areas. For me, the most painful thing during these days is that at the enterprises associated with me, people are deprived of the opportunity to go to work and earn their daily bread. Enterprises that work and create value have been halted: do you understand what a blow this is to entire business sectors on a national scale, and what a blow it is to working-class people who earn their living through labor?

The unjust case brought against me has nothing to do with these institutions; everyone knows that I stepped away from the management of these enterprises a long time ago, have no connection to their current matters, and did not interfere in their work. Nonetheless, it is also clear to everyone that the illegal suspension of these enterprises' activities is done to cause me pain.

I want to express my hope that common sense will eventually prevail, and that ultimately, the operation of these enterprises will not be hindered. These enterprises provide jobs to thousands of people, and tens of thousands of other partners are connected to them, whose businesses are also suffering seriously during this time. All of this truly inflicts massive damage on both the working citizens and our country as a whole. During these days, I am mentally very often at the construction site of the statue of Christ: every stone, every step, every meter is precious and important to me.

Recently, I was thinking that the time has come to create a working group to organize the opening ceremony of the statue. I plan for influential guests from all over the world, famous figures, world-renowned personalities, official delegations, friends of my country and my people, and representatives of different nations and religions to attend. I must say that I already have assurances from many influential figures that they will come to our country for the opening to see the new wonder of the world. All of this needs to be worked out, planned, discussed, and negotiated. In short, there is a lot of work to be done. With God's help, it will all be done. I have a deep, unwavering feeling that the erection of this statue will open a new, bright period for our country. This statue must open a new page for our country."