The United States is proud to be a friend of Armenia, a young state with an ancient heritage. US president George W. Bush stated in his annual address to American Armenians yesterday. "We are deepening our partnership to help achieve a secure, prosperous, and dignified future for the citizens of Armenia. The United States is committed to achieving a just and lasting settlement to the Nagorno Karabakh conflict. We will also continue to help Armenia as it strives to strengthen its democracy and market economy," - George Bush said.