On October 18, 2012, with the participation of the President of Armenia Serzh Sargsyan and Holy Etchmiadzin benefactors Vatche and Tamar Manoukians, His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians presided over the opening ceremony of the “Vatche and Tamar Manoukian” Matenadaran in the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin.

The ceremony commenced with an opening remark by President of the Council of Holy Echmiadzin Monastery Archbishop Nathan Hovhannisyan. His Holiness and Mr. Manoukian participated in the ribbon-cutting ceremony after which the Catholicos of All Armenians blessed the benefactors and dedicated the newly-opened Matenadaran.

“… This is a memorable and festive day at the Holy See. The newly-built Matenadaran, spreads wonderful and blessed luster to our cherished ancient monastery. Dearly beloved, this magnificent structure embodies the love for freedom and the Armenian Apostolic Church of national benefactors Vatche and Tamar Manoukian,” said His Holiness in part in his closing remarks.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, the Pontiff, the President, and the benefactors toured the Matenadaran building.

The ceremony was also attended by the President of the RA National Assembly Hovik Abrahamyan, the RA Prime Minister Tigran Sargsyan, AGBU President Berj Setrakian, AGBU members and guests.