Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan received Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States within the Holy See Secretariat of State.

Welcoming Richard Gallagher’s visit to our country, Nikol Pashinyan expressed confidence that it would give new impetus to the furtherance and strengthening of relations between Armenia and the Vatican. Nikol Pashinyan stressed that the Government of Armenia is keen to develop bilateral relations with the Vatican, noting that the Armenian people entertain warm feelings for Pope Francis and the Holy See. In this regard, the head of the Armenian government emphasized the fact of strong Armenian-Vatican spiritual and cultural historical linkages, noting that they may serve a solid basis for closer cooperation.

Richard Gallagher noted that the Holy See, too, highly appreciates the deeply-rooted ties with Armenia, adding that Pope Francis has the same warm feeling for the Armenian people. The Secretary for Relations with States within the Holy See’s Secretariat of State noted that Armenia is represented in the Vatican with its rich historical and spiritual heritage.

The interlocutors discussed steps to strengthen and develop relations between Armenia and the Holy See. They exchanged views on international developments, including the ones underway in the Middle East, as well as regional issues. Both sides highlighted the contribution made by Armenia and the Holy See to the maintenance of global peace.

Taking the opportunity, Nikol Pashinyan and Richard Gallagher referred to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict settlement process and the latest developments.