At December 23 news conference in Yerevan, Armenian Diaspora Minister Hranush Hakobyan spoke about recent outbreaks of nationalism and violence in Moscow.

“We’re very distressed over the recent events in Moscow and hope for Russian government to prevent further outbreaks of violence. The events in question must not affect friendly relations between Armenia and Russia,” she stressed.

“As Russian President and Prime Minister, Dmitry Medvedev and Vladimir Putin stated, Russia is a multicultural country. National minorities living in Russia, including Armenians, are rightful residents of the country. I call on all Armenians to demonstrate neutral and calm attitude. We have nothing in common with nationalists,” Ms. Hakobyan said.