– Pope Francis has departed from Italy for a three-day Apostolic Voyage to Armenia.

As the Pope began his journey, he sent the following telegram to Sergio Mattarella, the President of Italy:

In the moment in which I undertake my Apostolic Voyage to Armenia in order to draw from the ancient wisdom of that people, to confirm them in the faith, to support every effort along the path of peace and reconciliation, I address to you, Mr President, and to the whole Italian nation my cordial greetings, which I accompany with an encouragement to the entire country to remain on the front line of solidarity, looking to the future with confidence and hope.