Pope Francis Awards President Armen Sarkissian

Pope Francis has awarded President Armen Sarkissian with the Grand Collar of the Papal Order of Pius IX, the highest honor of the Holy See, in recognition of his significant contribution to the development of relations between Armenia and the Holy See, as well as for serving as the first ambassador of the Republic of Armenia to the Vatican. This information was reported by the press office of the Armenian President.

“The Pope has delegated me to present you with the highest award of the Vatican,” said the Apostolic Nuncio, who is on an official visit to Armenia. “This is a testament to the unique relationship that exists between our countries. By opening the Apostolic Delegation in Yerevan, we aim to establish high-level relations and show the world the importance of the first Christian nation in history to us.”

It was noted that President Sarkissian is the first in Armenia and the only one in the region to receive the highest distinction from the Holy See.

Considering it a great honor to receive such a high award, President Sarkissian specifically stated, “I accept it as a recognition of my humble work, as well as recognition of the fact that I have been the first ambassador of Armenia to the Holy See. I have always worked for the close relations between Armenia and the Vatican. Therefore, I accept this, promising that I will do more.”