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A group of renowned Russian musicians have called on the competent Armenian authorities to release conductor Sergey Smbatyan and his father, composer Armen Smbatyan.

Sergey Smbatyan, the artistic director and chief conductor of the Armenian State Symphony Orchestra, and Armen Smbatyan, Armenia’s former ambassador to Russia and Israel, were arrested for large-scale fraud in late July.

In an open letter, the Russian artists, who include conductor Yuri Bashmet, opera diva Maria Guleghina, pianist Alexander Romanovsky, opera singer Veronika Jioeva, as well as TV host and actress Sati Spivakova, expressed deep concern over the prosecution and arrest of their Armenian colleagues.

They highlighted the artists’ undeniable contribution to the development of Armenia’s cultural and public life.

“We believe that the judicial system of Armenia is based on the principles of justice and humanity and prioritizes the citizens’ rights and freedoms. In the current situation, the use of arrest as an extreme measure of restraint is unduly harsh, as both figures do not pose a threat to society and the interests of their country. We sincerely hope that the situation will be resolved in the nearest future,” reads the letter.