The Turkish authorities are trying all ways and means to ensure the presence of as many people as possible at the liturgy in Surb Khach (Holy Cross) church on Akhtamar Island.

Turkish Premier Recep Erdogan made his contribution. He emailed letters to a number of public organizations analysts, journalists and public figures of Armenia, inviting them to visit Turkey on September 17-22 and attend the liturgy. NEWS.am found out that many of them declined the invitation.

Chairman of the European Integration NGO Karen Bekaryan is among those who declined the Turkish Premier’s invitation.

Talking to NEWS.am, Bekaryan said that he had explained the reason for refusal: “I do not want to take part in a show which is going to be presented as opening of a church.” President of the Caucasus Institute Alexander Iskandaryan declined the invitation. “Excuse me, but I am not a clown,” he said jokingly. Head of the Armenian Center for National and International Studies Richard Giragosian declined the invitation as well. The Turkish Premier’s step is a “forced step and continuation of Turkey’s game.”

The three spiritual centers of the Armenian people, the Holy See of Echmiadzin, Great House of Cilicia and Jerusalem Patriarchate will not take part in the liturgy.