26^th May 2004

Attn: Mr. Pefkios Georgiades
Minister of Education and Culture
Ministry of Education and Culture
Republic of Cyprus
NICOSIA

Your Excellency

We are writing to express our concern about the closure of the Melkonian Educational Institute.

We, as parents from Lebanon, decided to entrust our children’s education in the hands of the MEI because we believe that the opportunities available at the school are excellent. First of all, the curriculum available at the school is of the highest standard and in the event that our children are not permitted to return, they will have difficulties adapting to the curriculum in Lebanon, also their university education will be jeopardised.

Unfortunately, it has been brought to our attention that members of staff at the MEI have been entrusted by the AGBU Central Board in America with the task of contacting Lebanese parents in order to discourage them from sending their children to the MEI for the academic year 2004-2005. We are outraged that such action is being taken.

The wish of all the parents in Lebanon is for our children to graduate with the Melkonian Educational Institute diploma. Whatever the A.G.B.U. will decide about the future of the school should only be considered after the graduation of all current students. This is an important ethical matter, which we trust your excellency will address with immediate urgency.

We implore you to deeply consider our plight. Any advice or interference on your behalf would be greatly appreciate.

Yours Sincerely