ARF Leaders Discuss Artsakh in Vatican Embassy Meeting

WASHINGTON—A delegation representing the Western and Eastern U.S. leadership of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) held a meeting Tuesday at the Apostolic Nunciature to the U.S.—the Vatican Embassy—to discuss Azerbaijan’s recent aggression against Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabagh Republic/NKR), and calling on the Holy See to advance peace in the region.

(L-R) Daron Der Khachadourian, Monsignor Rolandas Makrickas, Hayg Oshagan, and Hovsep Avakian

The delegation was comprised of the chairmen of the ARF Western and Eastern Central Committees, Daron Der Khachadourian and Hayg Oshagan, and Washington-based ARF Eastern U.S. Central Committee member Hovsep Avakian.

The ARF representatives met with Monsignor Rolandas Makrickas, counselor of the Apostolic Nunciature (as the Nuncio was out of town) and briefed him about the current situation in Artsakh, particularly Baku’s recent offensives along the entire NKR border, which began on April 2.

They also commended Pope Francis’ announcements on the Armenian Genocide, and discussed the Pope’s upcoming visit to Armenia in June. They noted that the papal visit will play a crucial role in advancing peace and resolving the Nagorno-Karabagh conflict through negotiations. The delegation also stressed that such discussions cannot be held under the threat of war.

Makrickas thanked the delegation, noting that he shares the concerns voiced during the meeting. He also stressed that such discussions should take place on a regular basis.