Lebanese Minister of Tourism Avedis Guidanian has responded to the criticism made in his address on the Internet after a scandalous TV show, during which he noted that when facing a choice between Armenia and Lebanon, he would choose the former.

Although the audience applauded him on hearing his choice, the minister’s answer came under fire, the961.com reports. Several Lebanese even demanded his resignation.

“Let’s make things clear, I am a Lebanese with Armenian roots, Lebanon is my home country,” the minister said.

Guidanian was also rebuked for his comments regarding the Turks. “I would not promote anything related to Turkey, none of their products, or establish relations with them. I cannot prevent Turks from coming to Lebanon and I do not want to welcome them at an airport,” he said.