AMBASSADORS' TOUGH STATEMENT REGARDING CIVILITAS CASE

15:29 27/03/2013
Story from Lragir.am News:
http://www.lragir.am/index.php/eng/0/country/view/29428

The U.S. embassy is not worried about the programs implemented by the
Civilitas on the money of American taxpayers, said the U.S. ambassador
to Armenia John Heffern. He noted that the programs under investigation
by the National Security Service are also American, which have been
fulfilled duly.

John Heffern said that they cannot see any victims, no one has
complained. We are sure there is nothing to investigate either by
the NSS or any other body, Heffern said.

In answer to the question whether the case is politically motivated,
Heffern said that he cannot judge about the motives. I think this is
not a legal investigation but I can't say what it is, said the U.S.
ambassador.

The German ambassador to Armenia Reiner Morell said that the Civilitas
introduces positive changes in terms of democracy. He noted that
Germany has also funded the Civilitas programs adding that the latter
acts in accordance with law.

Morell added that investigation should have real grounds, while he
cannot see real grounds. He says that in such cases the country's
positive image is harmed amid political developments and ahead of the
Association Agreement. He said happy with these processes expressing
hope that they will be finalized.

Similar statements were made by the ambassador of Switzerland and the
consul of Norway. They added that their concerns are also appeals to
the Armenian authorities.

The National Security Council launched a criminal case against
Civilitas Foundation last May.