Republic of Armenia Greatest Achievement of Determined Work of Many Generations

PanARMENIAN.Net - Armenian President Robert Kocharian congratulated the Armenian people with the 15th anniversary of Independence. The President said "I congratulate all of us on the occasion of the 15th Anniversary of Independence of the Republic of Armenia.



For the people with millennia long history the last fifteen years of statehood is just a blink. However, it took in a war, energy crisis, blockade, and all the hurdles of the transitional period. The starting point for establishing Armenian statehood was extremely difficult. But the spirit of our people was high and great was the desire to overcome all the difficulties in the name of freedom and dignity. In the flames of war that spirit gave birth to heroes and formed the army, which we are proud of. The armed forces of the Republic of Armenia are a powerful defender of the Motherland of all Armenians. The Republic of Armenia is the greatest achievement of determined hard work of many generations.



Today Armenia is a steadily developing country. Successful reforms are underway in all areas of life. The high tempo of economic growth makes Armenia a new, more promising country. It is of vital importance, since competitive and effective economy is the main guarantee for the building of a truly democratic state.



A number of strategic programs, which are being implemented in our country, are aimed at the general development and advancement of our people and our country, and particularly, at the resolution of social problems. Among priorities the state has identified poverty reduction, improvement of life quality, and equal development of the country as a whole.



In the establishment of the Armenian state the input of Diaspora is hardly to be overestimate. Since day one it has mobilized all its resources and stood by our state. Symbolically, the third Armenia-Diaspora conference is also being held during these jubilee celebrations. It is also important that through the years of independence the factor of Diaspora has been reevaluated, and our relations have become reciprocal and complementary.



In foreign relations Armenia has proved to be a stable, reliable and predictable partner. We continue to successfully deepen the engagement of our country in international affairs, preserving and strengthening at the same time traditional ties.



The just resolution of the NK conflict remains the highest priority. And it can only be based on the respect and recognition of the Artsakhi people's right to self-determination. Nothing should threaten security and development of the Nagorno Karabakh Republic.



Dear compatriots,



Such a precious jubilee is both inspiring and binding - we must do the utmost for the strengthening of Armenia. We should spare no effort to build a new country being citizens of which will make proud many generations of our people.

Once again I congratulate on the occasion of the 15th Anniversary of Independence.



Long live the Republic of Armenia! Long live the glorious Army of Armenia!