YEREVAN.- The first session of Armenia’s parliament of fifth convocation opened on Thursday morning.

The meeting is chaired by Republican MP Mkrtich Minasyan, the Armenian News-NEWS.am reporter says. President Serzh Sargsyan and Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II are present.

President Sargsyan addressed the lawmakers congratulating them on the first day of their work.

“I think this parliament features all political forces existing in Armenia. I congratulate Armenian National Congress on their entering the parliament,” he said.

The ANC members previously said they would not attend the first session. The members of Heritage Party and Prosperous Armenia leader Gagik Tsarukyan were absent as well.