Clinton responds to ANCA letter on Genocide mischaracterization

PanARMENIAN.Net - U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, in a written response to a letter of protest from the Armenian National Committee of America, did not this time mischaracterize the Armenian Genocide as a “matter for historical debate,” but stopped far short of properly naming this atrocity a crime of genocide.

In her response to ANCA chairman Ken Hachikian, Mrs. Clinton said:

“The issue you raise is a serious one. On April 24, 2011, President Obama memorialized the 1.5 million Armenians who, in 1915, were massacred or marched to their death in the final days of the Ottoman Empire, resulting in one of the worst atrocities of the twentieth century. During my visit to Armenia in 2010, I visited the memorial at Tsitsernakaberd as a sign of respect for those who lost their lives during this tragedy. In his statement, the President also noted “History teaches us that our nations are stronger and our cause is more just when we appropriately recognize painful pasts and work to rebuild bridges of understanding towards a better tomorrow.” In support of the President’s policy, I continue to urge Armenia and Turkey. Only by working together to address these horrific events can they achieve a full, frank, and just acknowledgment of the facts.

In addition to my ongoing dialogue with Armenian and Turkish officials, the United States will continue to support the courageous steps taken by individuals in Armenia and Turkey to foster a dialogue that acknowledges the history they share in common as part of efforts to move forward. It is my belief that their efforts are laying the foundation for a more prosperous and peaceful future for the peoples of both countries and the region as a whole.”