Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan issued the following condolence message on the passing of famous Armenian artist, film director, screenwriter Yervand Manaryan. The message reads, in part:

I was deeply grieved to learn of the passing of the outstanding Armenian artist   Yervand Manaryan.

Yervand Manaryan was a brilliant artist. The characters created by him were a great contribution to Armenian cinematography and earned an unforgettable place in the hearts of Armenian viewers. He was a great actor, screenwriter, director and teacher who enjoyed popular love and fame.

He was not only an outstanding artist, but also an active citizen of the Republic of Armenia, who fought for justice and always expressed his civic position. The famous artist’s memory, his creative and civic activities will remain in the hearts of many generations of the Armenian people.

On behalf of the Armenian nation and myself, I express my deepest condolences to Manaryan’s family, friends and fans.”