Catholicos of All Armenians Received Lebanese Planning Affairs Minister
28.04.2017
On April 28, in the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians; received Mr. Michel Pharaon, Minister for Planning Affairs of Republic of Lebanon. He was accompanied by Mr. Suren Karayan, Minister of Economic Development and Investment of the Republic of Armenia.
During the meeting, His Holiness welcomed the steps aimed at strengthening the friendly ties between the two countries and the joint programs. In his remarks, His Holiness expressed gratitude to the people and authorities of Lebanon, who a century ago gave shelter to survivors of the Armenian Genocide, and continue to express a kind and caring attitude towards the Armenian community, providing an opportunity for them to live a national-ecclesiastical full life.
Minister Pharaon expressed happiness on the occasion of his visit to Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, stressing that he is familiar with the history of the Armenian people and their sufferings. He noted that the Lebanese people share the feelings of the Armenian people. The minister also highlighted the role of the Armenian community of Lebanon in various fields. According to Minister Pharaon, Christians and Muslims live in harmony in Lebanon, and although sometimes various challenges endanger the peaceful life, Lebanon is a country founded on religious tolerance and solidarity.
They also reflected on the difficult situation in the Middle East, and the survival challenges facing many people, especially the Christian communities. Expressing his concern in this regard, the Catholicos of All Armenians noted: “We extend our prayers to the Almighty God to bring peace to the Middle East. We also extend our prayers to You, asking for God's abundant grace and support”.
The meeting was attended by His Grace Bishop Moushegh Babayan, Administrative Director of the Mother See.
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