The official opening of Armenia’s Embassy at the Holy See of the Vatican, the reception marking the 22nd anniversary of Armenia’s independence, and the official opening of the exhibition devoted to St. Gregory the Illuminator were held Thursday in Rome.    

Armenian Minister of Foreign Affairs Edward Nalbandian, who is on an official visit to Italy, addressed those present at the reception which Armenia’s Ambassador to the Vatican had organized.

“It is a highly symbolic day today. Armenia, being the first country to proclaim Christianity as the state religion, is opening a diplomatic representation at the Holy See.

“Our relations have deep historical roots. [And] the Christian faith has become the foundation of these special ties. Prominent figures have contributed to the strengthening of relations.

“It is quite symbolic that the official opening of the diplomatic representation of the Republic of Armenia coincides with the anniversary of the National Day [i.e., the Independence Day] of our country. With the restoration of the independence of Armenia, it is two decades that the cooperation between our country and the Holy See has gained new momentum.  

“Armenia highly appreciates the Armenian Genocide’s recognition by the Holy See in 2000, which was reconfirmed in 2001, too,” Nalbandian stated, in particular.  

Armenia’s FM also underscored the official opening of the exhibition devoted to St. Gregory the Illuminator, who is Founder of the Armenian Apostolic Church.   

“The opening of the Republic of Armenia Embassy bespeaks the high level of the close friendly relations between Armenia and the Holy See,” he added.     

On the same day, Edward Nalbandian visited and toured the Embassy of Armenia in the Holy See of the Vatican.