As part of his official visit to the Holy See, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan met with His Holiness Pope Leon XIV. The Pope welcomed Pashinyan’s presence at the Vatican and his participation in the canonization ceremony of Archbishop Ignatius Maloyan and six other Blesseds.
Pope Leon XIV highlighted the strong relationship between the Holy See and Armenia, emphasizing the importance of the Mekhitarist Congregation of Venice in deepening bilateral ties.
The two leaders discussed the prospects for establishing peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan, as well as key humanitarian issues. His Holiness congratulated the Armenian side on recent progress and expressed hope that regional peace would usher in a new era of cooperation and stability.
Prime Minister Pashinyan once again congratulated the Pope on his election and wished him strength and success in his sacred and demanding mission. He expressed confidence that under Leon XIV's leadership, the close dialogue between Armenia and the Holy See would continue, along with the Vatican’s sustained attention to issues vital for Armenia.
Pashinyan reaffirmed the Armenian government's commitment to the peace agenda, emphasizing its significance for the prosperity and sustainable development of Armenia and the region.
The canonization ceremony of Archbishop Ignatius Maloyan and six other Blesseds was held in Saint Peter’s Square, presided over by Pope Leon XIV. Prime Minister Pashinyan attended the ceremony, where an Armenian prayer was recited in honor of Maloyan.
