YEREVAN, MAY 10, ARMENPRESS. Catholicos Aram I of the Great House of Cilicia received the Armenian peacekeepers who are stationed in southern Lebanon within the UNIFIL international peacekeeping contingent. The Armenian peacekeepers were led by Commander Karen Atoyan.

Armenia’s Ambassador to Lebanon H.E. Samvel Mkrtchyan was also present at the meeting.

The Catholicosate of Antelias told ARMENPRESS Commander Atoyan mentioned the peacekeepers have taken part in various military exercises, as well as defense operations.

The Catholicos welcomed the Armenian peacekeepers and said that the Army is the core of the Fatherland, the source of strength and guarantee of firmness.

“Today Armenia and Artsakh face numerous challenges and have many needs. The Armenian Army is entitled to keep the fatherland viable and strong. Thank God that Armenia has a powerful Army. The quality of the Armenian Army isn’t defined by modern equipment and specialized weapons, but rather the spirit of service, devotion, faith, decisiveness and realization of duty”, he said.

Speaking on the Armenian peacekeepers’ mission in Lebanon, the Catholicos expressed joy over the fact, because Armenians are a peace-loving nation, a nation which is a part of establishing peace.

Catholicos Aram I was also pleased to note that the visit of the Armenian peacekeeping contingent coincided with the 25th anniversary of the liberation of Shushi. He emphasized that the Shushi liberation is a symbol.

The Armenian Ambassador thanked the Catholicos for the reception and encouraging words.

The Catholicos also gave prayer-books and crosses to the soldiers.