Speaker of the National Assembly of the Republic of Armenia Mr Hovik Abrahamyan sent messages of condolences to the Speaker of the State Duma of the Russian Federation Mr Boris Gryzlov and the Speaker of the Federal Council of the Federal Assembly Mr Sergey Mironov on the death of Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia Alexy II.

“I learnt with deep sorrow about the death of Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia Alexy II. The Russian Orthodox Church and the Christian world lost a wise spiritual leader, who for long years served to the church and people with hope, faith and love being an example of devotion, steadfastness during the Soviet years and becoming an advocate of reunification of the Russian foreign churches during the independent years. After the post-Soviet period numerous cases of the re-establishment of spiritual values, restoration of the role of the church, re-construction of the churches and converting to Christianity of the people are connected with his name. He was everywhere, where the people needed him. With his patriarchal blessing and warm word of love, compassionate attitude the Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia won not only the respect and love of the Russian believers, but he made his great contribution in the inter-church relationship, promoting the establishment of peace and security in regularly emerging hot lines. His steps directed to the overcoming of the conflicts of the South Caucasus region have been highly appreciated in Armenia.

On behalf of the National Assembly of the Republic of Armenia and on my behalf I express my deep condolences to the deputies of the State Duma of the Russian Federation and the Federal Council of the Federal Assembly, all believers on the death of Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia Alexy II. His cherished memory will always remain bright and unforgettable in Armenia.”