Armenian PM meets Pope Leo XIV

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan met with Pope Leo XIV during his visit to the Holy See.

Prime Minister Pashinyan shared photos from the meeting on social media.

“His Holiness warmly welcomed Prime Minister Pashinyan’s visit to the Vatican and his participation in the canonization ceremony of Archbishop Ignatius Maloyan and six other [saints]. He emphasized the close relations established between the Holy See and Armenia, particularly highlighting the important role of the Mekhitarist Congregation of Venice in deepening these ties,” the Prime Minister’s Office said in a press release.

Prime Minister Pashinyan once again congratulated His Holiness on his election as Pope, wishing him strength and success on the challenging and responsible path of fulfilling his sacred mission. He expressed confidence that under Pope Leo XIV’s leadership, the tradition of close dialogue between the Holy See and Armenia will continue, along with the consistent attention given to issues important to Armenia.

During the meeting, regional issues were also addressed. The Armenian PM and Pope Leo XIV discussed the establishment of peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan, as well as humanitarian matters. His Holiness congratulated the progress made in this regard and expressed hope that the establishment of peace in the region would mark the beginning of a new phase of cooperation and stability.

Prime Minister Pashinyan reaffirmed the Government of Armenia’s commitment to the peace agenda, for the benefit of Armenia and the region’s prosperity and sustainable development.

On Sunday, the Armenian PM attended a Mass in St. Peter’s Square, where Pope Leo XIV canonized seven new saints, including Archbishop Ignatius Maloyan.

A meeting with the Vatican’s Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, is also expected.