President Emmanuel Macron sent a letter to Armen Sarkissian: “Today, France more than ever is resolute to protect the memory of the victims, fight against denial and draw serious lessons from that tragic page of history”

On the occasion of the 105th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, President of the French Republic Emmanuel Macron sent a letter to the President of Armenia Armen Sarkissian.

The letter states:

“Mr. President,

Dear Friend,

On the 105th anniversary of commemoration of the Armenian Genocide, I send to you and the people of Armenia my warmest fraternal and friendly greetings.

In France, April 24 is remembered as the day when 600 Armenian intellectuals were murdered in Constantinople which signaled the beginning of the Genocide. Today, France more than ever is resolute to protect the memory of the victims, fight against denial and draw serious lessons from that tragic page of history.

Last year, my country, in accordance with my directive, declared April 21 the Day of Commemoration of the Armenian Genocide. In a strict adherence to the instructions dictated by the current healthcare situation, I made a decision that this year too, the Day will be observed in Paris, in a lesser ceremony with the participation of the members of the French government.

That legacy and common memory create the base for the special relations between our countries. The pandemic of the coronavirus, which has overwhelmed the world these days, has brought about new healthcare, economic, and social challenges. We will face these challenges together. And I am confident that France and Armenia will work together within the international framework for the benefit of a more efficient multilateralism and greater solidarity.

No matter what difficulties may come, Armenians can count on friendship with France. True to our commitments, France stands by Armenians in their aspirations for peace and prosperity.

Mr. President,

Please accept the assurances of my deep respect.”