Costa Says Visit to Armenia was a Special Experience

Washington, D.C. – Representative Jim Costa (D-CA) released the following statement regarding his recent trip to Armenia. Rep. Costa traveled to Armenia.

“Visiting Armenia was a special experience that I will always hold dear and never forget,” said Rep. Costa. “The people of Armenia reminded me of the families I had the pleasure to grow up with in California’s San Joaquin Valley, and being in Armenia truly felt like home. Highlights of the four-day trip included visiting the Armenian Genocide Memorial and laying flowers at the Eternal Flame, receiving a blessing from the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, his Holiness Karekin II, and speaking to students and faculty at the American University of Armenia.” Rep. Costa continued saying, “Additionally, I had the opportunity to meet with the President, Foreign Minister, and President of the National Assembly. We discussed the need for Congress and the Administration to appropriately recognize the Armenian Genocide and ways, through trade, education, and our shared culture, that the United States and Armenia can continue to build our relationship.”

“Congressman Costa’s visit to Armenia was historic and a unique experience,” said Berj Apkarian, Honorary Consul of the Republic of Armenia in Fresno.  “The visit provided the opportunity to strengthen the economic, academic and cultural ties between the Valley and the Republic of Armenia.  I am grateful to Congressman Costa for his vision and support.”

Below is a list of what Rep. Costa and Mr. Apkarian did during their visit to Armenia:

1. Visited the Armenian Genocide Memorial Complex and the Armenian Genocide Museum Institute

2. Met with Mr. Galust Sahakyan, President of the National Assembly of the Republic of Armenia

3. Met with Minister of Agriculture of the Republic of Armenia, Mr. Sergo Karapetyan

4. Lectured at the American University of Armenia  

5. Visited with Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, His Holiness Karekin II

6. Toured St. Etchmiadzin Cathedral and Museum

7. Met with Mr. Serzh Sargsyan, President of the Republic of Armenia

8. Visited the Embassy of the United States of America to the Republic of Armenia 

9. Meeting with Ambassador Richard M. Mills, Jr.

10.  Visited the Khor Virap Monastery Complex

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