President of Armenia Armen Sarkissian has sent a congratulatory message to Pope Francis on the anniversary of his election as Pope.

Armen Sarkissian has served as Armenia’s first Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Vatican, and in 1997, he received the St. Gregory the Great Order from His Holiness Pope John Paul II. In 1999, the Armenia-Rome exhibition opened through his active efforts and in the presence of the late Pope John Paul II and the late Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin I.

Recalling this in his message, President Armen Sarkissian also stated that the Armenians have centuries-old ties with the Vatican, and currently, the interstate ties between Armenia and the Vatican continue to grow harmoniously. The President also wished His Holiness good health, success and vigor to lead the hierarchical mission of the Universal Church for many years to come.