Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan confirmed he is willing to meet with Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II, but only to discuss a plan for the Catholicos’ dignified resignation.

“Yes, I’m ready to meet him with one point on the agenda: ensuring his dignified departure. Whenever he’s ready, so am I,” Pashinyan said following a cabinet meeting, according to Aysor.am .

He also dismissed rumors that he plans to appoint a temporary church leader, such as Archbishop Navasard Kchoyan of the Ararat Diocese. “That cannot be my decision. It must be made by the Council of Bishops. If I’m asked for an opinion, I’ll give one. If not, I won’t,” he told reporters, according to Armenpress.

Pashinyan said that people interpreting his position otherwise misunderstand the situation. “My agenda is entirely spiritual and substantive. Individuals are only involved to the extent that they relate to the Church’s spiritual essence,” he said.

He rejected any claims of political scheming or plans to back a candidate. “If I were interested in intrigue, there were many opportunities long ago. The direct answer is no. I’m not thinking of any candidate, nor have I discussed one with anyone.”

The Prime Minister added that offering an opinion now would violate the principle of non-interference in church affairs.