Armenian Apostolic Holy Church The Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin

On May 25, in the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, hosted Mr. Masanori Fukushima, the newly appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to the Republic of Armenia. At the meeting, His Holiness conveyed his best wishes to the Ambassador and wished success in his mission, highlighting the importance of the close cooperation established between the two countries. His Holiness noted with gratitude the cooperative relations established between the Mother See and the Embassy of Japan, in particular, the contribution of the Embassy to various educational programs being implemented by the Mother See and the Dioceses, as well as, to the preservation and care of cultural values. In his turn, the newly appointed Ambassador assured His Holiness that he will make his best to strengthen the ties between the two nations. Emphasizing the importance of the current ties between the two countries, the Ambassador noted that the Government of Japan should continue to provide humanitarian assistance to Armenia. Reflecting on the further programs, Ambassador Masanori noted that efforts should be made to strengthen economic ties between the two countries and develop cooperation in the cultural sphere, with special emphasis on youth communication programs. During the conversation, reference was made to the military operations unleashed by Azerbaijan against the Republic of Artsakh, the catastrophic consequences of the war, and the current challenges, as well as the need for the response of the international community. The Pontiff of All Armenians particularly emphasized the importance of raising the voice for truth in the prevention of such disasters, stressing that silence can lead to the recurrence of crimes. The Ambassador also expressed his sorrow on this regard, noting that the settlement of conflicts is acceptable only by peaceful means. On the occasion of the meeting, His Holiness expressed his gratitude for the support of Japan to Armenia during those difficult days.