Cyprus President Christofias meets Armenian Church leader

Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of all Armenians Karekin II believes that the wide experience which President of the Republic of Cyprus Demetris Christofias has on EU matters will help Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan in his efforts to strengthen his country’s relations with the European Union.

President Christofias, who is on an official visit to Armenia, met Supreme Patriarch Karekin II who stressed, after they exchanged presents, the very good relations which the Church of Armenia has with the Ecumenical Patriarch, the Archbishop of Greece and the Archbishop of Cyprus.

The Patriarch gave President Christofias a replica of the Symbol of Victory and wished the people of Cyprus and the President great victories.

Receiving the gift, President Christofias dedicated it to peace and efforts to free Cyprus from Turkey’s military occupation of the island’s northern part.

He added that the Armenian President’s efforts to ease relations with Turkey is wise, adding that Armenia is showing good will, noting that if the other side does not respond positively, it will be its problem.

President Christofias toured the church museum and the cathedral while this afternoon he will meet his counterpart President Sargsyan. After their meeting and talks, they will give a joint press conference.

Tonight, the Armenian presidential couple will host an official dinner for President Christofias and First Lady Elsi.