Nicolas Aznavour, co-founder and chair of the Aznavour Foundation, issued a statement urging support for Ruben Vardanyan amidst the politically motivated trial in Baku.

Aznavour highlighted his admiration for Vardanyan as a visionary and patriot whose charitable and educational initiatives have significantly impacted lives. “The Aurora Prize is a testament to his faith in compassion, resilience, and hope,” he stated. Vardanyan, detained for 471 days in Azerbaijan, represents human dignity and values under threat. Aznavour emphasized the need for unity to secure his freedom and uphold justice.

Vardanyan, in a recent message, reaffirmed his innocence and reported mistreatment during his detention.