Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan sent a congratulatory message to His Holiness Pope Francis on the occasion of the anniversary of his election as Pope, the press service of the government of the republic reported.

"We are deeply grateful to Your Holiness for the prayers, messages and support aimed at establishing peace and justice throughout the world in the matter of constantly strengthening our interstate ties. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Armenia and the Holy See. These relations are based on centuries-old Christian values, common historical and spiritual heritage," the PM said.

"We are very grateful to you that Your Holiness also keeps in the spotlight the humanitarian consequences of the Artsakh war, which require an early solution in order to lay a solid foundation for regional peaceful coexistence."

"We wish you good health and success in your sacred mission of leading the Universal Church," he noted.