Aram I Meets with Pope Leo XIV

The Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia, Aram I, has met with Pope Leo XIV.

On the morning of Monday, May 18, 2026, His Holiness Aram I had a private meeting with His Holiness Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican. During the meeting, the Catholicos first addressed the following issues:

• The determination of a unified date for Easter, the day of commemoration for all martyrs, and the convening of the Vatican General Assembly, highlighting the imperative need for these matters within the ecumenical Christian life.
• Regarding the Artsakh issue, the Catholicos emphasized the right of the Armenian people of Artsakh to return, with international guarantees, the preservation of churches and historical monuments in accordance with international law, and the urgent necessity for the immediate release of the captured leaders of Artsakh in Baku.
• The Catholicos also spoke about the current situation in Lebanon, emphasizing the sovereignty and presence of the Lebanese state over all Lebanese territories, the withdrawal of Israel from southern Lebanon, and the respect for the ceasefire.

Naturally, he also touched upon the importance of inter-church movements, considering it essential to prioritize moral issues alongside theological questions in this regard.

On the above points, the Pope expressed his understanding and support, providing necessary clarifications in return. It is noted that after this meeting, the Catholicos and the Holy Father had a private conversation on these and other topics, exchanging views and concerns.