YEREVAN, JUNE 24, ARMENPRESS. Pope Francis welcomed the proposal of Armenian President Sargsyan to erect statue of St. Gregory of Narek in Vatican, director of the Vatican’s Holy See Press Office Federico Lombardi told the reporters in Yerevan media center. “The meeting of Armenian President and Pope Francis at the Presidential Palace went on in a cordial atmosphere. The President presented the Pope with a statue of St. Gregory of Narek, which was very beautiful. The Armenian president also told the Pope that Armenian philanthropists wish to initiate the erection of a statue of St. Gregory of Narek in Vatican. The Pope welcomed the idea. We are well aware what Gregory of Narek means for Armenian people. Gregory of Narek symbolizes the Churches of the East and the West”, “Armenpress” reports Lombardi saying.

Federico Lombardi was captivated by Ararat Mount. In his words, he has always wished to see that mountain. “I know very well how important that mountain is for Armenian people. Besides, it is a shared symbol for all, as Noah's ark landed on that mountain”, he said.

Director of the Vatican’s Holy See Press Office also answered the question why Pope’s car is so simple. He said the Pope Francis loves to lead a simple life. He stated that it is necessary to look for the Pope in the smallest and simplest cars.