LONG BRANCH, NJ – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), Co-Chair of the Armenian Caucus, visited the Armenian quarter of Jerusalem during the first week of August and met with the Armenian Patriarch of Jerusalem, Nurhan Manougian. The two discussed the United States’ support for Armenia and Artsakh. Congressman Pallone was on a week-long trip to Israel sponsored by the American Israel Education Foundation.
“The Armenian presence in Jerusalem continues to be important for both religious and economic purposes, and the Patriarch plays a major role in support of both,” Pallone said.
The Congressman said that the Patriarch is very concerned about the continued Civil War in Syria and the impact on the Armenian community in that country.
“He said that many Armenians want to return to their homes and businesses in Aleppo and others areas despite the ravages of war. Support for Armenian refugees by the United States and the Republic of Armenia is very important to the Patriarch,” Pallone continued.
“I explained that the Armenian Caucus in Congress continues its efforts to bring the United States and Armenia closer together and to encourage the peace process with regard to Artsakh. I also mentioned that I plan to travel to Armenia and Artsakh in September in conjunction with Armenia’s Independence Day celebration, and that this would be an opportunity for the House Members to build on these goals.”
Before meeting the Patriarch, Congressman Pallone visited the Cathedral of St. James, including its rare manuscript room, the Gulbenkian library, and other locations within the Armenian quarter associated with Jesus Christ. The Congressman also visited the Armenian section of the Church of Holy Sepulchre, and several Armenian ceramic shops within the Old City.
