‘We Will Overcome,’ Says Karekin II as Hundreds Show Support for Catholicos at Yerevan Airport

Hundreds of supporters flocked to Yerevan’s Zvartnots Airport on Wednesday to greet His Holiness Karekin II, Catholicos of All Armenians, upon his arrival back to Armenia from a trip abroad, amid a smear campaign to depose him by Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan continued.
“I know that you have come to express your indignation regarding the statements made by the prime minister in recent days against the [Armenian Apostolic] Church and [its] clergy,” Karekin II said upon exiting the airport, referring to the now 14-day old campaign by Pashinyan aimed at deposing him from office.
“We know that these statements made by the prime minister have caused outrage. I believe that with the mercy and help of God, together with you, we will be able to overcome these difficult time wisely, without excessive emotion, unrest,” the Catholicos added.
“Remain strong in your faith, loyalty to the [Armenian Apostolic] Church. We appreciate this attitude of yours. But, also, we want to say that it obligates us, the clergy [of the Armenian Apostolic Church] all the more, to carry out our mission with the same dedication and loyalty,” he added.
“We implore that in these difficult times, the unity in our national life is kept strong and firm. Do not allow such actions and deeds that would endanger our national accord find a place in our lives in any way. We believe that with our joint efforts, by combining our abilities, we will be able to withstand all trials, overcome all difficulties. May God help our people, today and forever,” said the Catholicos of All Armenians.
Karekin II also said that issues related to the Armenian Apostolic Church and its clergy were being discussed by the relevant bodies—and in accordance with the church order.