    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: WILLIAM J. CLINTON (1999, Book II)]
    [July 2, 1999]
    [Page 1127]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Death of Catholicos Karekin I
    July 2, 1999

        Hillary and I were saddened to learn of the death of His Holiness
    Karekin I, Catholicos of the Armenian Apostolic Church. I have sent my
    condolences to the Vicar General at the Holy See of Echmiadzin.
        His Holiness was widely respected for his deep scholarship, his deep
    sense of principle, and his sincere devotion to the broadest possible
    ecumenical dialog. To all who followed his inspired leadership in
    Armenia, the United States, and around the world, I offer heartfelt
    sympathy and condolences on behalf of myself and the American people.
    All the members of the Armenian Apostolic Church are in our thoughts and
    our prayers.