On Tuesday afternoon, February 10, 2026, H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khacherian, Prelate of the Western Prelacy in the United States, welcomed to the headquarters of the Western Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church of America the newly appointed Consul General of the Republic of Armenia in Los Angeles, Ms. Anna Avetisyan, accompanied by her diplomatic attaché, Ms. Mariam Khachyan.
Also present were Mr. Vahe Hovaguimian, Chairman of the Executive Council of the Western Prelacy, and members of the Council.
After the exchange of formal greetings, Archbishop Khacherian expressed his appreciation for the increasing presence of young Armenian women in diplomatic service, and spoke about the strong sense of national cohesion and diversity of the Los Angeles Armenian community, the largest Armenian community in the Diaspora. The Prelate reflected on its deep sense of national identity and explained how this vibrant community also contributes to the broader cultural life of a country shaped by many ethnic backgrounds, where coexistence encourages greater tolerance among immigrant communities, mutual respect and constructive economic and cultural engagement.
The Consul General of Armenia in Los Angeles shared her admiration and positive experience from her first weeks in Los Angeles, highlighting the meaningful connections she has formed and the welcoming spirit she has encountered. Ms. Avetisyan also spoke about her prior diplomatic work with Armenia’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and her service abroad. The Consul General expressed hope that cooperation between the Consulate of the Republic of Armenia and the Western Prelacy will continue to grow during her tenure, and she conveyed her appreciation for the Prelacy’s longstanding service to both Armenia and Armenian communities worldwide.
In the course of the meeting, Archbishop Khacherian emphasized the importance of unity among the Homeland, the Armenian Church, and Armenians throughout the world. The Prelate shared that, given the geopolitical challenges Armenians have faced over centuries, the Armenian Church, through its two hierarchical Sees, has remained a central guardian of Armenian identity and values across spiritual, traditional, intellectual, educational, cultural, and humanitarian spheres. Archbishop Khacherian concluded by expressing hope that these enduring spiritual and moral values will continue to guide and strengthen the lives of future generations.
At the conclusion of the visit, Archbishop Khacherian offered his fatherly blessing and wished the guests success in their service.
