Catholicos of Cilicia Aram I sent his patriarchal blessing to the newly elected President of the National Assembly of Artsakh, David Ishkhanyan. The congratulatory message reads, in part:

Dear Mr. David Ishkhanian,

President of the Parliament

Artsakh Republic

Stepanakert

Dear Mr. Ishkhanyan,

We greet you with warm Christian love and patriarchal blessings and cordially congratulate you on your election to the post of the Republic of Artsakh National Assembly President from the Antelias Mayravanq Catholicosate of Cilicia.

At this crucial moment for Artsakh, the mission you are carrying out puts you in front of serious problems. Knowing you closely, we are confident that you will meet all threats to the independence of Artsakh with a strong spirit of determination and prudence.

On behalf of the Great House of the Catholicos of Cilicia, and in person, we assure you that our Holy See will continue to stand strong for the strengthening of the Artsakh state and its brave people, on the security and independence of Artsakh.

Let's pray to the Almighty God to give you health and wisdom, so that you boldly defend the rights of Artsakh and solve the problems it faces. May God preserve and protect the children of our beloved people in Armenia, Artsakh and in the diaspora of the world.

Pray: ARAM A. CATHOLIC

THE GREAT HOUSE OF Cilicia"