ETCHMIADZIN. – The Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II on Sunday received members from the Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU) Syria Chapter and trustees of the Cilician Armenian High School of Aleppo, who were accompanied by Chairman of the Executive Body of the Armenian Orthodox Church Diocese of Damascus, and AGBU Central Board of Directors member and Middle East and Armenia Programs Director Vasken Yacoubian.

Yacoubian reflected on the current state of affairs in Syria and presented the ongoing activities by the special committee which is formed to assist Syrian Armenians, Information System of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin informs.      

In his turn, the Catholicos expressed his concern with respect to the current situation in Syria, specifically the dire situation of the Syrian-Armenian community. He recorded that the culture and heritage, the spiritual and national values, which are built in Syria by the Armenians’ efforts, are in jeopardy today. In this connection, Karekin II extended his appreciation to the AGBU representatives and all members of national institutions that stand with the Armenian community in Syria and make every effort to assist Syrian Armenians.   

Also, the Catholicos prayed to God for peace in Syria so that the Syrian people, including the Syrian-Armenians who are an integral part of this country, will be able to return to their fully normal life.