NEW YORK — On Thursday, July 18, Bishop Daniel Findikyan opened the doors of New York’s St. Vartan Cathedral to a visiting dignitary from Armenia: Deputy Prime Minister Tigran Avinyan.
The Primate led Avinyan and his entourage on a tour of the cathedral, explaining its history and artwork, and highlighting the role it has played in community life for the past half century.
During a private reception in the tahlij of the Diocesan Complex, joined by Diocesan Vicar Fr. Simeon Odabashian and others, the Primate and Deputy Prime Minister discussed developments in Armenia, and the role of the church in keeping Armenians connected. Bishop Daniel asked Avinyan to convey his blessings and good wishes to Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, who visited the cathedral last September.
Avinyan was visiting New York this week to take part in an international forum on sustainable development at the United Nations, where he gave an address on environmental issues and opportunities in the Republic of Armenia. He also met with Armenian leaders in the fields of technology, business, finance, and philanthropy.
The 30-year-old Avinyan has been serving in his current role in the administration of Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan since May 2018.
(Avinyan’s visit to Boston will be covered in the issue of August 3.)
