January 22, 2003 - 20:15 AMT
IRANIAN ARMENIANS NOT EXPERIENCING PROBLEMS IN THE MUSLIM COUNTRY, SAID HEAD OF ARMENIAN DIOCESE OF IRAN
Iranian Armenians do not experience problems living under the same roof with the Muslim brothers. As reported by "Arminfo" agency referring to "IRNA" agency, head of the Armenian diocese in Azerbaijan Iranian province Nshan Tupozian said. He condemned "the mendacious propaganda" of foreign media that Teheran did not observe national minority rights. In his words, national minority rights, including those of the Iranian Armenians, are neatly recorded and reflected in the Iranian legislation. Tupozian in particular noted that Armenians were fully free in their schools, clubs and churches. The presence of an Armenian deputy in Mejlis of the Iranian Assembly is another evidence of the positive approach of the Iranian authorities to national minorities. "Difficulties are present everywhere, but Iranian Armenians have not had any negative experience of relations with the Iranian authorities," - he emphasized.