Bulgarian Pilgrims Visit the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin
03.10.2017
On October 3, in the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians; received a group of pilgrims from Bulgaria. They were accompanied by Rev. Fr. Isahak Poghosyan, Primate of the Armenian Diocese of Bulgaria and Mr. Vasken Yacoubian, Director of the AGBU Armenia office. The group of Bulgarian national dignitaries, artists, and parliament members; traveled to Armenia to attend the opening of the exhibition of paintings by renowned Bulgarian-Armenian painter Petik Petrosyan. The exhibition has been arranged under the auspices of His Holiness and organized through the efforts of the National Gallery of Sofia and Armenia.
During the meeting, His Holiness recalled his pontifical visit to Bulgaria, stressing that he has witnessed the progress of the faithful Bulgarian-Armenian community and their aspiration to unite around the Armenian Church and live with national values. His Holiness also noted with satisfaction that the Armenian community in Bulgaria has a rich history and with their abilities have always been involved in the development and advancement of the country.
His Holiness noted that the Armenian communities of the Diaspora are an important bridge in the establishment of close, friendly relations between the host countries and the homeland.
Referring to the painting exhibition of the late Mr. Petik Petrosyan, His Holiness expressed his appreciation to all the organizers, stressing that such cultural events only contribute to the mutual recognition of the two peoples.
The Catholicos of All Armenians expressed confidence that such visits will become a stimulus for the revival of the diocesan life, as well as for the strengthening of Armenian-Bulgarian ties.
The meeting was attended by Ms. Maria Tsotsorkova-Kaymakchieva, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentary of Bulgary to the Republic of Armenia.
