Armenia's Independence Day

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Commentary
Reflections on the 24th Anniversary
Of Armenia's Independence
By Harut Sassounian
Publisher, The California Courier
www.TheCaliforniaCourier.com

On the occasion of the 24th anniversary of Armenia's independence, I
had the honor of delivering the keynote address at the celebration
organized by the Armenian Consulate in Glendale, California. Here are
excerpts from my remarks reflecting on some of the accomplishments
since independence, and the challenges that still lie ahead.
The most remarkable achievement in the early years of the Armenian
Republic was the liberation and establishment of the Republic of
Artsakh (Nagorno Karabagh). As a result, a whole generation of
Armenians under age 20, born and raised in independent Artsakh, has
not spent a single day under Azerbaijan's oppressive regime -- and God
willing -- never will! Artsakh's independence is an irreversible
reality. Artsakh will never again be a part of Azerbaijan!
However, our challenges in Artsakh are not yet over. While it is true
that we sacrificed much to win the war, we must now win the peace!
This is not the time to let our guard down. Armenia's border towns
come regularly under attack from Azeri bombardment.
Armenians must take a series of important steps to ensure that
Artsakh's independence is secured. Artsakh must not only survive, but
thrive! To accomplish this imperative necessity, we must first bolster
Artsakh's defenses. The best way to avoid war is to have a good
defense.
For Azerbaijanis, recovering Nagorno Karabagh is a hollow luxury; but
for Armenians, Artsakh is an existential necessity!
Besides reinforcing Artsakh's defenses, Armenians need to replenish
its population. We must create new facts on the ground so that the
Azeri regime is convinced that Armenians, rather than abandoning
Artsakh, are relocating there in larger numbers, thus making the
return of that territory practically impossible.
Another key objective is putting Artsakh's independence on firm legal
grounds and gaining international recognition! The Armenian-American
community has successfully countered the massively financed Azeri
lobby in Washington and all 50 states.
Lastly, we must create better living conditions in Artsakh, by
providing housing and jobs, so Armenians currently there, and those
planning to relocate, can enjoy safe and comfortable lives.
However, none of these burdens should be borne alone by the people of
Artsakh, but by the collective will of all Armenians and their
supporters throughout the world.
To ensure Artsakh's survival, we need a strong Armenia, which is also
a necessity for the preservation of Armenian communities worldwide.
Now, almost a quarter century after independence, we must do
everything in our power to ensure that the homeland is secure and
prosperous.
Regardless of our ideological, political and religious differences, we
must ALL unite under the banner of the Yerakouyn -- the Tricolor. It
matters not whether we agree or disagree with any particular
leader. Government officials come and go, but the Armenian people and
the homeland are everlasting!
However, we must keep in mind that the relationship between citizens
and their government is a two-way street. Government officials are
duty bound to create a social environment that is fair, conducive to a
prosperous life, free of discrimination and intimidation. Citizens
must have the chance and the choice, through democratic processes, to
elect their preferred representatives without any interference from
the authorities.
The political opposition, on the other hand, has the responsibility to
hold the government accountable for its actions through constructive
criticism and peaceful means, without risking the country's stability
and security.
Unfortunately, there is still widespread poverty and unemployment in
Armenia. Immediate solutions must be found to feed the hungry, help
the needy, and heal the sick, which will stem the tide of emigration
-- an existential threat to the homeland!
Despite the hardships that many Armenians continue to suffer from --
some man-made, and others due to circumstances beyond government
control, such as blockades by Turkey and Azerbaijan -- we must
acknowledge that there has been, over the past 24 years, a gradual
progress in the living conditions of Armenia's population.
Another successful accomplishment was the worldwide commemoration of
the Armenian Genocide Centennial earlier this year. Thanks to the
persistent efforts of the Diaspora in the last 100 years, and the
Armenian government's international diplomatic contacts in the past
quarter century, the recognition phase of the Genocide is pretty much
accomplished. We must now seek justice through restitution. The
Turkish government must return everything that was confiscated during
the Genocide and pay compensation for whatever cannot be returned.
The challenge ahead is creating a more efficient mechanism for
coordinating the efforts of all 10 million Armenians from Armenia to
Artsakh, and throughout the Diaspora.
One such approach would be to rename and transform the existing
Centennial Committees in various countries as well as the Central
Centennial Committee headquartered in Yerevan into permanent bodies
responsible for:
1) Managing all pan-Armenian issues and crises affecting Armenian
communities such as Syria;
2) boosting Artsakh's security, economy, and autonomy;
3) halting and reversing emigration from Armenia; and
4) seeking restitution from Turkey for all human and material losses
suffered by Armenians during the Genocide.

[onjig]

A Day to Remember! Every day, every year!

Edited September 22, 2015 by onjig

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VALERIE BOYER CONGRATULATES ARMENIA ON INDEPENDENCE DAY

00:36, 22.09.2015

MP of the National Assembly of France Valerie Boyer congratulated
Armenia on Independence Day.

"Today, on 21 September 2015, Armenia marks the 24th anniversary of
its independence which was reached through universal voting - around
94% of votes in favor.

I congratulate all Armenians on the joyful holiday of idependence!"

Boyer wrote on her Facebook page.

http://news.am/eng/news/287175.html

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EVENT DEDICATED TO 24TH ANNIVERSARY OF ARMENIA'S INDEPENDENCE TAKES PLACE IN HANOI

15:58, 22 September, 2015

YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 22, ARMENPRESS. On September 21, an official
reception dedicated to the 24th anniversary of Armenia's independence
took place in the banquet hall of "Melia" hotel complex located in
the capital city of Vietnam, Hanoi. As "Armenpress" was informed
from the Department of Press, Information and Public Relations of the
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, high ranking legislative and executive
officials of Vietnam, a number of accredited ambassadors and heads of
international organizations, diplomats, members of "Armenia-Vietnam"
Friendship Group, representatives of economic, social-political, and
cultural circles, and journalists. Assistant of the Vietnam Foreign
Minister was the honored guest of the reception.

The Ambassador of Armenia to Vietnam, Raisa Vardanyan, gave the opening
speech in front of the guests and introduced the development path of
Armenia since independence, achievements and success.

Referring to Armenian-Vietnamese bilateral relations, Ambassador
Vardanyan highly appreciated the cooperation based on mutual interests
and friendship.

Assistant of the Vietnam Foreign Minister emphasized in his speech
that regardless of the geographic distance between the two states,
Armenian-Vietnamese relations have always been cordial. He expressed
conviction that the May, 2015 agreement between Vietnam and the
EAEU on forming free trade zone will foster economic development and
strengthen business ties between the two states.

http://armenpress.am/eng/news/819465/event-dedicated-to-24th-anniversary-of-armenia%E2%80%99s-independence-takes-place-in-hanoi.html

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HIS HIGHNESS THE AMIR CABLES ARMENIA'S PRESIDENT ON NAT'L DAY

Kuwait News Agency (KUNA)
September 21, 2015 Monday

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah

KWUAIT, Sept 21 (KUNA) -- His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad
Al-Jaber Al-Sabah sent on Monday a cable of congratulations to the
President of Armenia, Serzh Sargsyan, on the occasion of the national
day of his country, wishing him everlasting health and wellness,
and further progress and prosperity for his country.

His Highness the Deputy Amir and Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahamd
Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber
Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah sent similar cables. (end) lbAll KUNA
right are reserved 2015.

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20:32 23/09/2015 » SOCIETY

24th anniversary of Armenia’s independence marked in Rome’s St Blaise Church: Vatican Radio

The 24th anniversary of Independence of the Republic of Armenia was marked in St. Blaise Armenian Catholic Church in Rome late Monday, September 21, Vatican Radio reported. The event took place under the patronage of the Armenian embassy to the Holy See.
Prefect of the Congregation for the Oriental Churches Cardinal Leonardo Sandri celebrated a Holy Mass in St. Blaise Church. The Vatican-based ambassadors, members of the clergy, and the faithful were present at the Mass.

In his speech, Cardinal Sandri reminded those present that Armenia was the first country to adopt Christianity as its official religion. He said that diplomatic relations between the Holy See and Armenia were established in 1992.

Cardinal Sandri also enumerated such significant events as the 2001 visit of Pope John Paul II to Armenia on the 1700th anniversary of the adoption of Christianity by Armenia, as well as the unprecedented Liturgy celebrated by Pope Francis in St Peter’s Basilica in April 2015 to mark the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide.

Source: Panorama.am

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THOUSANDS OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIANS CELEBRATE ARMENIA'S INDEPENDENCE

by MassisPost September 23, 2015, 11:17 am 0 Comments

GLENDALE, CA - Armenian Americans throughout Southern California
celebrated the 24th anniversary of the independence of the Republic
of Armenia at the Armenian Independence Day Festival on September 20th
at Verdugo Park in Glendale. The annual event, spearheaded by the Nor
Serount (New Generation) Cultural Association, along with; the Gaidz
Youth Organization, the "Homenmen" Armenian Athletic Association,
and the Armenian Council of America, drew thousands of attendees who
bared the triple digit temperature to partake in the festivities.

Onlookers cheered for the vibrant Nor Serount dance ensembles of
young children and musical guest performers delighted dancers of all
ages with traditional folk dance music and patriotic songs. The joyful
mood originated by the Master of Ceremonies, Mr. Stepan Hovagimian who
not only entertained the crowd but also highlighted the significance
of Armenia's Independence to Armenians worldwide. Educational and
cultural booths adorned the park featuring authentic Armenian cuisine,
souvenirs, hand-woven rugs, tapestries, books and media.

Mr. Harut DerTavitian, Chairman of the Nor Serount Cultural
Association, addressed the audience and stressed the importance and
considerable work the organizations take in organizing a free event
such as the Armenian Independence Day Festival. Mr. DerTavitian
highlighted the volunteers and tremendous effort put in by the
organizations to not only underscore the pride Armenians have towards
their homeland's independence, but to also accentuate the historic
Armenian culture and heritage in order to foster stronger bonds for
generations to come.

Among dignitaries present for the joyous occasion were Glendale City
Mayor Ara Najarian along with Glendale City Councilmembers Paula Devine
and Vartan Gharpetian, Glendale Unified School District Board Members
Dr. Armina Gharpetian and Nayiri Nahabedian, Glendale City Clerk
Ardashes Kassakhian, former Assemblymember Anthony Portantino and
representing the office of Congressman Adam Schiff, Mary Hovagimian.

http://massispost.com/2015/09/thousands-of-southern-californians-celebrate-armenias-independence/

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HIS HIGHNESS THE AMIR CABLES ARMENIA'S PRESIDENT ON NAT'L DAY

 

Kuwait News Agency (KUNA)

September 21, 2015 Monday

 

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah

 

KWUAIT, Sept 21 (KUNA) -- His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad

Al-Jaber Al-Sabah sent on Monday a cable of congratulations to the

President of Armenia, Serzh Sargsyan, on the occasion of the national

day of his country, wishing him everlasting health and wellness,

and further progress and prosperity for his country.

 

His Highness the Deputy Amir and Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahamd

Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber

Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah sent similar cables. (end) lbAll KUNA

right are reserved 2015.

HIS HIGHNESS THE AMIR CABLES ARMENIA'S PRESIDENT ON NAT'L DAY

 

Kuwait News Agency (KUNA)

September 21, 2015 Monday

 

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah

 

KWUAIT, Sept 21 (KUNA) -- His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad

Al-Jaber Al-Sabah sent on Monday a cable of congratulations to the

President of Armenia, Serzh Sargsyan, on the occasion of the national

day of his country, wishing him everlasting health and wellness,

and further progress and prosperity for his country.

 

His Highness the Deputy Amir and Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahamd

Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber

Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah sent similar cables. (end) lbAll KUNA

right are reserved 2015.

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News.am, Armenia

Sept 19 2019

Burj Khalifa to light up in Armenian flag colors on occasion of Armenia's Independence Day

18:57, 19.09.2019

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

On the occasion of Armenia's Independence Day, Dubai's Burj Khalifa will light up in the colors of the national flag of Armenia on September 21 at 9:10 pm, Armenian Embassy in the UAE reported.

Burj Khalifa is the tallest skyscraper in the world (828 meters high and over 163 floors high).

Armenia will mark the 28th anniversary of independence on September 21.

 

https://news.am/eng/news/534321.html

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Boys will be Boys;)

[MosJan]

yerani

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Armenpress.am

Tbilisi’s TV tower lights up in colors of Armenian national flag

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12:35, 21 September, 2019

YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 21, ARMENPRESS. The TV broadcasting tower in Georgia’s capital Tbilisi lit up in the colors of the Armenian national flag on Armenia’s Independence Day, the Armenian Embassy in Georgia said on Facebook.

In 2018 as well Tbilisi’s TV tower also lit up in the colors of the Armenian flag.

Today, the Third Republic of Armenia is celebrating its 28th anniversary of Independence.

Edited and translated by Aneta Harutyunyan

 

 

https://armenpress.am/eng/news/988912.html?fbclid=IwAR2GnRY_g5pI3A2DSW_cH4tq6r-Orm79m_66QLYGHqfWy9DQ6sQPg6z5-sE

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Public Radio of Armenia

Sept 10 2020

Niagara Falls to be lit up with colors of Armenian flag on Independence Day

On September 21st, Armenia’s Independence Day, the Niagara Falls will be lit up with the colors of the Armenian flag, the Armenian Embassy in Canada reports.

The initiative will be realized through collaboration between the Embassy of Armenia to Canada and the Niagara Falls Illumination Board.

The Embassy invites those who wish to celebrate this exciting occasion to attend the event, which will commence at 10pm on September 21st and proceed for fifteen minutes.

Armenia will celebrate the 29th anniversary of independence on September 21.

https://en.armradio.am/2020/09/11/niagara-falls-to-be-lit-up-with-colors-of-armenian-flag-on-independence-day/

[MosJan]

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Public Radio of Armenia

Sept 11 2020

Armenian flag to be raised in front of Ottawa City Hall on Independence Day

In celebration of the Independence Day of the Republic of Armenia, the Armenian tricolor will be raised in front of Ottawa City Hall on September 21st.

Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson will be present at the ceremony to be held at 9 am local time.

In addition, the Niagara Falls will be lit up with the colors of the Armenian flag through collaboration between the Embassy of Armenia to Canada and the Niagara Falls Illumination Board.

Armenia will celebrate the 29th anniversary of independence on September 21.

https://en.armradio.am/2020/09/11/armenian-flag-to-be-raised-in-front-of-ottawa-city-hall-on-independence-day/

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Video on Armenia’s history and culture to be projected on Jesus Christ statue

 

A video presenting Armenia, its history and culture will be projected on the famous Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro in the evening of September 21, the day Armenia celebrates the 29th anniversary of independence.

The event also aims to mark the 100th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the First Republic of Armenia and Brazil.

 

 

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https://www.aravot.am/2020/09/21/1136268/?fbclid=IwAR0AoiV3NzuxXxd0riuUQ9qy99650zk74_AIEaaWnk0gHi71ckMR631_n1I

 

Վաշինգտոնի քաղաքապետը սեպտեմբերի 21-ը Վաշինգտոնում հռչակել է որպես «Հայաստանի Անկախության օր»

Ամբողջական հոդվածը կարող եք կարդալ այս հասցեով՝ https://www.aravot.am/2020/09/21/1136268/?fbclid=IwAR0AoiV3NzuxXxd0riuUQ9qy99650zk74_AIEaaWnk0gHi71ckMR631_n1I

© 1998 - 2020 Առավոտ – Լուրեր Հայաստանից

[MosJan]

https://www.aravot.am/2020/09/21/1136273/

 

 

Բարեկամ Ղազախստանի մայրաքաղաք Նուր-Սուլթանում այս կերպ են նշում Հայաստանի Անկախության օրը, ֆեյսբուքյան իր էջում տեղեկացնում է Ղազախստանում ՀՀ նախկին դեսպան Արա Սահակյանը:

Ամբողջական հոդվածը կարող եք կարդալ այս հասցեով՝ https://www.aravot.am/2020/09/21/1136273/

© 1998 - 2020 Առավոտ – Լուրեր Հայաստանից

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Conservative Party, Canada

Sept 21 2020

The Hon. Erin O’Toole, the Leader of Canada’s Conservatives and of the Official Opposition, issues statement to mark Armenian Independence Day

September 21, 2020

September 21, 2020
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

OTTAWA, ON – The Honourable Erin O’Toole, Leader of Canada’s Conservatives and of the Official Opposition, issued the following statement on Armenian Independence Day:

“Twenty-nine years ago today, Armenian people voted in favour of establishing an independent state, ending decades of Soviet Communist occupation.

“Canada is home to a strong, hardworking Armenian community which exemplifies the best of Canada. Your compassion and care for the elderly and those in need was especially highlighted during the pandemic. Volunteers from the Armenian Canadian community delivered care packages, personal protective equipment and other necessities to the most vulnerable.

“Today, we also pay tribute to the special and meaningful relationship our two countries enjoy. We share deep rooted people-to-people ties that continue to flourish. Canada’s Conservatives have always stood strongly in support of Armenia and its people. We are proud that in 2006, under our previous Conservative government, Canada finally recognized the Armenian genocide, Medz Yeghern.

“On behalf of Canada’s Conservatives, I would like to wish all those celebrating a happy Armenian Independence Day!”

-30-

For more information, please contact:

Anton Sestritsyn

(613) 995-9054

Anton.Sestritsyn@parl.gc.ca

https://www.conservative.ca/the-hon-erin-otoole-the-leader-of-canadas-conservatives-and-of-the-official-opposition-issues-statement-to-mark-armenian-independence-day/

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Office of the Prime Minister of Canada

Sept 21 2020

Statement by the Prime Minister on Armenia’s Independence Day

September 21, 2020
Ottawa, Ontario

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on Armenia’s Independence Day:

“Today, we join Armenian communities in Canada and around the world to celebrate the 29th anniversary of Armenia’s independence.

“Canada was one of the first Western countries to recognize Armenia’s independence, establishing diplomatic relations in 1992. Since then, the relationship between our two countries, built upon shared values and strong people-to-people ties, has only grown stronger. More than 60,000 Canadians of Armenian descent make important contributions to our communities and our country every day.

“Armenia and Canada work closely together in international organizations, including the United Nations and La Francophonie. In 2018, I was able to visit Armenia and discuss, with Prime Minister Pashinyan, ways to further strengthen our bilateral relationship. We look forward to deepening our partnership in important areas like gender equality and women’s empowerment, trade and investment, and climate change for the benefit of the people in both our countries.

“On behalf of the Government of Canada, Sophie and I wish everyone celebrating a happy Independence Day.”

https://pm.gc.ca/en/news/statements/2020/09/21/statement-prime-minister-armenias-independence-day

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State Department, USA

Sept 21 2020

Armenian Independence Day

PRESS STATEMENT

MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE

SEPTEMBER 21, 2020

On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Armenia as you celebrate Independence Day, in commemoration of your declaration of independence from the Soviet Union. The United States is committed to continuing to build our bilateral partnership as we strengthen the ties between our people based on shared democratic values and a desire for peace and prosperity.

The United States welcomes Armenia’s continued commitment to strengthening the rule of law, establishing an independent judiciary, and increasing economic and investment opportunities. We commend Armenia’s ongoing efforts to combat corruption through transparency, due process, and increased accountability to citizens, and we will continue to support you in these efforts.

We also remain committed to helping to find a peaceful resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and urge the sides to resume substantive negotiations under the auspices of the Minsk Group Co-Chairs as soon as possible.

Although COVID-19 has brought the world unique challenges this year, we are proud that our close cooperation in combating the pandemic has further strengthened the partnership between our peoples.

I wish the Armenian people a year of peace, freedom, and prosperity.

https://www.state.gov/armenian-independence-day-2/

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News.am, Armenia

Sept 21 2020

King and Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia congratulate President on Armenia's Independence Day

15:45, 21.09.2020

On the occasion of Independence Day of Armenia, Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, King of Saudi Arabia, and Mohammad bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Vice-President of the Council of Ministers and Minister of Defense, have conveyed congratulatory messages to President of Armenia Armen Sarkissian.

“On behalf of the people and government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, we cordially congratulate Your Excellency on the occasion of the Independence Day of your country, wishing you health and happiness, and wishing the people and government of the Republic of Armenia ongoing advancement and prosperity,” the congratulatory message of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud reads.

https://news.am/eng/news/603248.html

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