On November 2, RA Minister of Diaspora Hranush Hakobyan received President of the U.S.-based Syrian-Armenian Relief Fund Raffi Kendirjian.

Minister Hranush Hakobyan cordially greeted the guest, appreciating his pro-national efforts aimed at maintaining the Armenian community in Syria and his willingness to help the Syrian-Armenians in Armenia. “For me, the greatest benefactor is the person who does something for the nation. I take pride in the fact that there are people like you who live for the Homeland, love the nation and serve the nation. The Armenians of Syria are extraordinary, diligent, creative and modest people. Their housing and employment issues remain unsolved.”

The Minister presented the daily activities that are carried out with the Syrian-Armenians, as well as their problems and difficulties. The Minister also talked about the consistent and transparent activities of the Center for Coordination of Syrian-Armenians’ Issues NGO.

Raffi Kendirjian expressed gratitude for the cordial reception and words of appreciation. Touching upon the Syrian-Armenians’ problems, he emphasized the following: “I am glad and proud to hear all this. Your words mean a lot to us. I will also meet with the leaders of the structures dealing with Syrian-Armenians’ issues in order to have a complete picture of the situation. Our organization was founded four years ago. We have carried out support programs in Syria. Currently, we are planning on helping solve the housing and employment issues for our compatriots in Armenia.”

During the meeting, the sides discussed the state of Syria, the developments and perspectives, as well as future joint programs.

The mission of the Syrian-Armenian Relief Fund is to provide financial assistance to the Syrian-Armenians devastated by the Syrian civil war. The organization collaborates with U.S.-based Armenian ecclesiastical structures, as well as political parties and charitable organizations.