The family of former State Minister of Artsakh, businessman, and philanthropist Ruben Vardanyan has sent a condolence message to Catholics worldwide on the passing of Pope Francis and urged the Holy See to assist in securing the release of Armenian prisoners held in Azerbaijan on fabricated charges, in line with the values of Pope Francis.

"The Vardanyan family expresses its deep condolences to Catholics around the world. Our thoughts are with those gathered in St. Peter's Square and all Catholics worldwide.

We call on the Holy See to honor the legacy of Pope Francis by taking steps toward the release of the 23 Armenian captives, including our father Ruben Vardanyan, who have been unjustly imprisoned. The Holy See can play an important role in diplomatic efforts to secure the captives’ release, remaining faithful to Pope Francis’ commitment to justice and human dignity. Their continued detention contradicts the principles of peace and reconciliation that Pope Francis consistently advocated during his pontificate," the message states.

Quoting Pope Francis' words that "Religions cannot be used for war. Only peace is holy," the family stressed that the Church must put these words into practice by supporting the immediate release of Armenian prisoners.

"We urge the Church to act on these words by supporting our demand for the immediate release of Armenian prisoners. These Christians deserve protection from persecution, as they are now facing hardships because of their faith.

The time to act is now.

We call on all people of conscience to join our appeal for justice and freedom in support of the 23 Armenian captives, including Ruben Vardanyan, who remain imprisoned solely for their beliefs and heritage," the Vardanyan family’s message reads.

In September 2023, following a nine-month blockade and the ethnic cleansing of the entire Armenian population of Artsakh, Azerbaijan captured former Artsakh presidents Arkadi Ghukasyan, Bako Sahakyan, and Arayik Harutyunyan, as well as former State Minister Ruben Vardanyan, Foreign Minister Davit Babayan, and several other former officials. The fabricated charges they face could lead to life imprisonment. A show trial against the Artsakh leadership began in Baku on January 17.