Russia has always perceived the Armenian Genocide as its own pain and misfortune, Maria Zakharova, the spokesperson of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), said during Thursday’s weekly press briefing.

"April 24 is another anniversary of the Armenian Genocide in the Ottoman Empire. This lamentable date has a huge historical, spiritual, moral, and political significance for our ally, Armenia, the friendly people of the republic, and the multi-million Armenian diaspora in Russia. We have always perceived this tragedy as our own pain and misfortune," said Zakharova.

According to her, Russia was one of the first countries to announce the official recognition of the Armenian Genocide.

Armenian Genocide commemorative events were held Wednesday in many Russian cities.