Today, Sept. 24, RA President Serzh Sargsyan met with His Holiness Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II. State-church relations, as well as Armenia-Turkey normalization process were discussed, RA Presidential Press Service told NEWS.am.

President Sargsyan underlined that Armenia-Turkey normalization undergoes crucial public and political debates. Regardless the documents will be signed or not, the wide format of the discussions, enabling everyone to express his opinion on the matter.

“They certainly contain emotional aspects and elements, but it couldn’t be different since a large segment of our nation is the descendants of the Genocide victims. Besides, there are sacred places for us across the border – our churches, our historical capital, and the remains of ancestral homes. I realize that as often wrestle inwardly with my dreams. However, I am confident these discussions are essential,” the RA President said.

Sargsyan pointed that some aspects of the documents stir concerns as Armenian historical and cultural heritage still remains on Turkey’s territory.

President Sargsyan stated Oct. 1 he leaves for a week visit to discuss the current developments in Armenia-Turkey normalization with representatives of Armenian communities in Paris, Los Angeles, Beirut, and Rostov-on-Done.

H. H. Karekin II welcomed the President’s decision to see Armenian communities as Diaspora being an integral part of Armenian nation should have an opportunity to directly discuss the Yerevan’s official position on the vital issue. “Diaspora is significant part and parcel of our nation and it is only right that our brothers and sisters, who are holding today heated discussions on the Armenia-Turkey Protocols, provided with an opportunity to hear from you personally all the answers to their questions. In addition, you will learn their thoughts, viewpoints, and concerns,” Karekin II emphasized.

Karekin II informed that the Spiritual Council would discuss the process of the Armenian-Turkish normalization and the Protocols to make a relevant statement at its forthcoming sitting.

“Mr. President, I wish you every success. Godspeed and be blessed on your alms,” the Catholicos of All Armenians declared.