Nicolas Aznavour, son of world-renowned singer Charles Aznavour and co-founder of the Aznavour Foundation, along with his wife Christina, has sent a congratulatory message to philanthropist Ruben Vardanyan on the occasion of his birthday. Vardanyan is currently imprisoned in Baku on politically motivated charges.
"Dear Ruben, on this special day, we want to take a moment to express how important you are to us—not only as a friend but also as someone whose dedication to Armenia and the Armenian people has left a profound mark on the modern history of our nation. We have long admired your strength, your vision, and your unwavering work for future generations. You have never feared taking bold steps, speaking difficult truths, or bearing heavy responsibilities, always guided by a deep love and sense of duty toward your homeland.
Today, as you face one of the most difficult chapters in your life, our thoughts are with you and your family more than ever. We hope that this birthday, even under these circumstances, brings you a moment of warmth—a reminder that you are not alone and that your courage inspires many of us. We remain hopeful that the day will come when we can once again welcome you in freedom and continue together the work we deeply believe in," the message reads.
Ruben Vardanyan, former State Minister of Artsakh, who is currently held in a Baku prison on fabricated charges, had previously stated in an audio message via his family that he has always acted according to his moral beliefs and never betrayed his principles, even during the most difficult times. He staged a 23-day hunger strike in protest of the ongoing judicial farce.
"I understood what I was getting into, and I was ready—and still am—for even harsher conditions. I am not a victim, and I don’t need pity, because this was a conscious decision," he said.
