Among the series of meetings held by His Holiness Aram I at the Vatican, particular significance was attached to his encounter with Cardinal Koovakad, the Prefect for Interreligious Relations. This encounter built upon previous discussions between the two leaders, which began last summer in Kazakhstan, further deepening their ongoing dialogue on interreligious affairs.
During the meeting, both His Holiness and the Cardinal emphasized the urgent need to strengthen interreligious dialogue and cooperation worldwide. His Holiness highlighted that such dialogue must engage with the most pressing challenges of contemporary society—ranging from environmental crises and violence to technological advancements, ethical dilemmas, and related global issues.
His Holiness pointed out that issuing joint statements is not sufficient; instead, it is vital to foster peaceful coexistence and constructive cooperation among religions around the critical issues confronting humanity today. “Coexistence has become a necessity in our globalized world,” His Holiness remarked. “Therefore, all religions are obliged to live together in a spirit of mutual understanding.” He also reflected on the longstanding history of Armenians living alongside Muslims, particularly in the Middle East, as a testament to the potential for interfaith harmony.
During their earlier meeting in Kazakhstan, His Holiness Aram I had expressed concern about a conference organized by Azerbaijan at the Vatican’s Gregorian University, where biased perspectives were presented on Artsakh and the Armenian Church. He reiterated this concern, emphasizing the expectation that academic institutions uphold objectivity, especially when addressing sensitive topics under their auspices.
Cardinal Koovakad agreed with His Holiness Aram I on expanding the scope of interreligious meetings to address urgent societal issues. He also clarified the Vatican’s ongoing dialogue with Azerbaijan and affirmed that his department would actively pursue the concerns highlighted by His Holiness.
At the conclusion of the meeting, His Holiness Aram I presented Cardinal Koovakad with a commemorative gift depicting the Virgin Mary.
