Armenia's Ambassador to the Vatican Mikael Minasyan on May 7 gave an official dinner in honor of Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II who was on a visit to the Vatican.

The dinner was attended by representatives of the Armenian church, the Vatican clergy and representatives of the diplomatic corps.

The event started with the prayer of His Holliness Karekin II that was followed by the speech of Ambassador Minasyan.

Ambassador noted that for Christians, especially those in the Middle East, friendly inter-church relations are an important message to the entire world.

“Armenian church, along with the Armenian communities, is scattered all over the world, the geography of which is reflected in the presence of ambassadors this evening,” he said, extending his respect to the diplomats.

Karekin II, in turn, thanked Ambassador for his contribution to strengthening of ties between Armenia and the Vatican, Armenian and Catholic church. His Holliness touched upon the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide underscoring its importance for not only retstoring historical justice for the Armenians but also as a precondition for lasting peace and preventing crimes against humanity in future.