Russian Armenians urge Aznavour against performing outside Akhaltsikhe mosque

PanARMENIAN.Net - Russia’s Javakhk community addressed legendary chansonnier Charles Aznavour with a request to refrain from performing outside the recently restored Turkish mosque in Rabat fortress in Akhaltsikhe, Georgia.

“Though according to unreliable Georgian media outlets, central and local budgetary funds were allocated for restoration purposes, local population points to the Turkish side as the sponsor.

The Akhaltsikhe fortress covers over seven acres. It houses architectural monuments, including mosques and madrassas dating back to 1752.

According to Georgian media outlets, as a result of Georgian-Turkish negotiations Turkish side pushed forth Ahmedie mosque restoration, along with the construction of Azizie mosque in Batumi. Under the agreement, the mosque will be granted the status of a historical monument.

Earlier, Georgian publications disseminated information expressing Charles Aznavour’s readiness to headline a concert dedicated to the fortress opening.

Should the son of Mikayel Aznavourian, Akhaltsikhe defense active participant, perform outside the newly renovated Turkish mosque?

We address honorary citizen of Akhaltsikhe Charles Aznavour with a request to reconsider his decision. We are sure performance in Surb Nshan churchyard would receive better reaction by Samtskhe-Javakheti’s Armenian population,” the statement reads.