The Diaspora-Armenian communities face the peril of assimilation and weakening, Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU) President Berj Setrakian stated Saturday addressing the AGBU General Meeting being held at the newly opened Matenadaran (Armenian ancient manuscript library) building at the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin.     

In his words, solely ten thousand from the one-million-strong American-Armenian community is actively involved in pro-Armenian activities, and the situation is the same in Europe as well. The diaspora annually collects $10-12 million for pro-Armenian activities, but this amount is insufficient.  

As per Berj Setrakian, if the seven-million Diaspora Armenians were to donate $25 each, $100 million would be collected on a yearly basis. According to the AGBU President, the low level of fundraising also weakens the influence of the Armenian lobby groups in the US and Europe.