It is a pleasure to know that a liturgy was conducted at an ancient Armenian church, but it is also upsetting that it was done for the exclusive purposes of Turkish propaganda, Armen Martirosyan, an MP of the Heritage Party, told a September 20 press conference, commenting on the liturgy in Surb Khach church on Akhtamar Island, Van, Turkey.

According to him, the Turkish Government’s gesture was not aimed improving Turkish-Armenian relations. The main aim was to ensure Turkish diplomatic activity in the international arena and getting a peacemaker’s status. “The absence of a cross on the dome of the church proves that, at the highest diplomatic level, Turkish diplomats, being well aware of Turkey’s benefits, are regularly trying to take advantage of any trifle and score a triumph in international processes related to the Armenian Cause. The sooner the authorities properly assess the situation and draw necessary conclusions the better,” Martirosyan said.

As to how well Turkey succeeded in carrying out its plans concerning Surb Khach church, Martirosyan said: “If the sides sit down at the diplomatic table, Turks will say a liturgy has been conducted at the Armenian church, whereas the Armenian side did not take part in it for some reasons. Nevertheless, the liturgy will be viewed as a positive fact. May be Turkey failed to succeed one hundred per cent, which, however, does not mean that it has not obtained benefits from this process. Turkey’s benefit is minimal, but it will use it as a trump card in international processes.”

According to Martirosyan, the subject of Surb Khach church on Akhatamar Island has not yet been exhausted, as it is part of the Armenian-Turkish process. The issue is most likely to be considered settled after the Turkish authorities install a cross atop the church for it to serve its purpose.