ANTELIAS–In his speech "Genocides in The 20th Century and Lessons to Humanity," delivered to the international conference "Lasting Peace in Africa," His Holiness Aram I–emphasized that taking a punitive approach is crucial in preventing genocides. Referring to the Armenian Genocide as "still awaiting justice," his statement stressed that neither negation nor denial would promote dialogue–or serve to restore justice–build peace–or achieve reconciliation."
Teny Simonian–who accompanied the General Secretary of the World Council of Churches Dr. Sam Kobia–delivered the address on behalf of Aram I–who was unable to travel to Kigali–Rwanda for the conference.
In another address to a public gathering at the Kigali stadium–His Holiness Aram I expressed extended support to the people of Rwanda in their process of renaissance and reconciliation. "The truth must be told and accepted; memory must be respected." That text was delivered by Very Rev. Krikor Chiftjian–the Communication Officer of the Armenian Catholicosate of Cilicia.
Kobia and Simonian–on behalf of His Holiness Aram I–met with the President of Kenya and the Prime Minister–and referred to the Armenian Genocide in their official meetings and at public gatherings.