His Holiness Catholicos Aram I Visits His Excellency President of the Republic of Lebanon General Joseph Aoun
On Wednesday morning, April 1, 2026, His Holiness Catholicos Aram I, Catholicos of the Armenian Church, Holy See of Cilicia, and Honorary President of the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC), paid an official visit to the His Excellency President of the Republic of Lebanon, General Joseph Aoun. His Holiness was accompanied by His Eminence Archbishop Shahe Panossian, Prelate of Lebanon, and His Grace Bishop Dajad Ashekian, Chancellor of the Catholicosate of the Holy See of Cilicia.
Following the meeting, His Holiness addressed the press, stating:
“We visited His Excellency President General Joseph Aoun both on behalf of our community and personally, to express our full solidarity with him and with the government in their efforts and positions.”
“We firmly believe that safeguarding Lebanon’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, strengthening the authority of the State, ensuring the presence of the Lebanese army across all Lebanese regions, and preserving national unity—especially under the current critical circumstances—are urgent priorities. We believe this reflects the will of all Lebanese. It is crucial to avoid rhetoric that fuels internal divisions and instead focus on uniting around our nation’s higher, shared interests.”
“Lebanon is confronting a grave threat. We categorically condemn [Israel]’s incursions into Southern Lebanon, as well as the ongoing bombardments and loss of life. Such actions constitute a blatant violation of international law. The international community, particularly Lebanon’s allies, must not remain indifferent in the face of these continued aggressions.”
“Addressing the refugee crisis requires a comprehensive and well-coordinated approach. We deeply commend the State and all communities for their continued care and solidarity toward refugees. It is our sincere hope that conditions will soon improve, enabling them to return safely to their homes and regions.”
This news was originally published on the Website of the Armenian Catholicosate of Cilicia, Antelias - Lebanon.