They were genuine intellectuals - Duryan, Bayandur and Kamsarakan

A local NGO has released a condolatory statement over the deaths of Ohan Duryan, Anahit Bayandur and Simon Kamsarakan in the first days of 2011.

Ohan Duryan is a famous Armenian song-writer and conductor. Anahit Bayandur is a well-known translator and human rights activist, and Simon Kamsarakan is a well-known public figure.

In the statement, Sardarapat movement said that their deaths are a "huge loss for the Armenian society."

It also said that they all had one thing in common – they were "genuine intellectuals and citizens" who have always stood next to the struggling Armenian nation.

Further the statement said that their absence is "noticeable and regrettable," but "their lives and civic behavior will serve as a good example for every Armenian".

"Enjoying the love and the respect of the Armenian people, their good names and reputation will remain in the memory of the Armenians forever," read the statement.

"May our friends be remembered forever and may the God's endless mercy be with them," it added.