September 2, 2014 - 13:54 AMT
Artsakh marks 23rd anniversary of independence

The Nagorno Karabakh (Artsakh) Republic celebrates its 23rd independence anniversary today.

On September 2, 1991, the joint session of the Nagorno Karabakh regional council and the council of people’s deputies of Shahumyan region proclaimed the Nagorno Karabakh Republic, adopting the Declaration of Independence.

The declaration reads that the Nagorno Karabakh Republic exercises the authority envisaged by the USSR constitution and legislation and is entitled to determine its legal status.

Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan issued a congratulatory message on Independence Day of the Nagorno Karabakh Republic.

“The historic choice of the people of Artsakh is an irreversible reality now. You succeeded in founding and building a statehood through the support of the entire nation and, first of all, owing to your unyielding will, superhuman efforts, and enormous sacrifices.

The Nagorno Karabakh Republic stands proudly among nations boasting better organization of public institutions and a powerful army.

We are not by far the only ones to admire promotion of democracy, cultural and educational progress, as well as the pace of economic growth in the Nagorno Karabakh Republic. Artsakh people have already demonstrated to the world and themselves that they are civilized enough to build a powerful and prosperous statehood.

The war imposed on us and the frequent provocations along the borders are nothing compared to the powerful spirit that has been guiding the people of Artsakh and Armenians all over the world.

That very spirit inspired our heroes to wage a fight for freedom, and it is behind our drive for creative undertakings,” the presidential message said.