Pope Francis today met the President of the Republic of Armenia during which the two men discussed the situation facing Christians and other religious minorities in the region and the humanitarian crisis there.
In «cordial discussions» with Serzh Sargsyan, «satisfaction was expressed for the development and strengthening of bilateral relations, highlighting the special role of Christianity in the history and life of Armenian society,» a Vatican statement sad.
«With regard to the regional political situation,» it continued, «it is hoped that complex and hitherto unresolved issues may be overcome through dialogue between all the interested parties.»
The Vatican said mention was also made of conflict in the Middle East, and «trust was expressed in the common efforts of interested nations and religious communities to achieve a peaceful co-existence of peoples throughout the entire region.»
The statement said: «Special attention was paid to the situation faced by Christian communities and other religious minorities in the area, and to the humanitarian crisis regarding refugees from the affected zones.»
After meeting the Pope, President Sargsyan met with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican Secretary of State, accompanied by Archbishop Dominique Mamberti, Secretary for Relations with States.
