His Holiness Catholicos Aram I presided over the Armenian Genocide commemoration event organized by the three Armenian political parties in Lebanon: The Social Democrat Hunchakian Party, the Armenian Revolutionary Federation, and the Democratic Liberal Party (Ramgavar) at the Catholicosate of Cilicia in Antelias. The gathering followed a torchlight procession from the Armenian neighborhood in Bourdj Hammoud to the Catholicosate.
Representatives from these political parties delivered speeches at the gathering followed by His Holiness Aram I’s pontifical message, in which he emphasized that April 24 is not just a day of remembrance but a call to strengthen our demand for justice. He highlighted ongoing challenges, including Turkey and Azerbaijan’s denial of crimes and threats to Armenian lands.
His Holiness urged Armenians to remain vigilant against the new pan-Turanism and rejected negotiations compromising Armenia’s territorial integrity. He emphasized the importance of restoring justice, demanding the return of Artsakh to its people and the release of Armenian politicians and prisoners of war.
Quoting the Turkish President’s dismissive remarks on the Armenian Genocide, His Holiness confronted Turkey’s denial and emphasized Armenia and the Diaspora’s unity. He warned against attempts to suffocate Armenia and emphasized unity around sacred values and pan-Armenian rights.
In conclusion, His Holiness emphasized honoring martyrs and respecting the Armenian people’s struggle, urging unity for the nation’s salvation.
