In line with this history, as well as the Republic of Armenia’s own Constitution and Laws, international protections of religious freedom and Canon Law, the Church-related elements in the Government’s Program, specifically those relating to the retirement or election of the Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians and the adoption of the Charter of the Church, are not matters to be dictated by any political authority. This centuries-old principle of self-governance reflects the global nature and role of the Armenian Apostolic Church.