President Sargsyan extends condolences over Alexy II deathDecember 6, 2008 - 14:34 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan extended his condolences to his Russian counterpart Dmitri Medvedev over the death of Patriarch of Moscow and of All Russia Alexy II, the RA leader's press office told PanARMENIAN.Net The letter states: "I express my deepest condolences on the occasion of demise of the Patriarch of Moscow and of All-Russia Alexy II. The life and works of His Holiness were and will be the example of persistence, dedication and profound desire to serve his people. Sixty years, which he spent with the Church, encompass all the stages of Russia's modern history, some of which were particularly difficult in the state-church relations. Today, it can be stated with confidence that he made an enormous contribution to the re-establishment of the Church's position in the Russian society. Undoubtedly, the main achievement of the Patriarch was the re-union of the Russian Orthodox and Russian Church Abroad - a task to which he was genuinely dedicated. In Armenia His Holiness was well-known, highly esteemed and loved. He had a great input in the development of the relations between the Russian Orthodox and Armenian Apostolic Churches. We also remember and greatly appreciate his efforts directed at the strengthening of peace in the Caucasus. On behalf of the people of Armenia and my own behalf, I express our sincere condolences to you, the people of the Russian Federation, and the followers of the Russian Orthodox Church." Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads. Partner news | Kazakhstan welcomes Yerevan, Baku’s agreement to meet in Almaty Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has welcomed the agreement of Baku and Yerevan to hold negotiations in Almaty. Armenia offers to temporarily host, preserve Gaza manuscripts The Armenian Foreign Minister has said Yerevan is ready to help preserve manuscripts from the conflict zone in Gaza. Aliyev says no need for mediators in Armenia-Azerbaijan process Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev believes that Baku and Yerevan do not mediators in the process of normalizing relations. Aram I supports Karekin II’s “patriotic position” Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia Aram I has expressed support for the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. |