SPEECH BY PRESIDENT ROBERT KOCHARIAN ON THE OCCASION OF INDEPENDENCE DAY
YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 21, ARMENPRESS:
Your Holiness,
Dear Compatriots,
Esteemed Guests,
I congratulate all our people and all those present on the occasion
of Independence Day. The Republic of Armenia celebrates its fourteenth
year of independence as a steadily developing country. We continue to
successfully implement pervasive programs of reforms. These programs
practically encompass all the spheres of the Republic’s life.
It’s been the fourth year that Armenia’s economic growth shows
double-digit numbers. First of all, this is a result of our
people’s diligent work as well as of the effective policies of
the authorities. It has also become possible through the internal
political stability, which is a necessary precondition for the
country’s advancement. It is very important that the results of this
progress are channeled predominantly into the social sphere. The
economic growth should have a direct impact on the well-being of
our citizens. We are resolute to fully implement the plan on the
Reduction of Poverty. The guarantees of overcoming challenges faced
by our country are strengthening of the rule of law, more efficient
administration and civic accord.
Very soon a referendum of Constitutional changes will be held in
Armenia.
People of Armenia, who fourteen years ago this day made their historic
choice to build a free, democratic and prosperous country, must take
their next step on this road. This will provide for an opportunity
to have an improved, more balanced Constitution. By accepting it we
will record significant political progress and will reinforce the
international prestige and image of our country. It will also be
the best guarantee of the irreversibility of the reforms which are
currently underway.
In foreign policy we will continue to work for Armenia’s deeper
international involvement by our active participation in the discussion
and resolution of the problems, which concern the humankind. We think
that the best way for the gradual solution of the existing problems is
the cooperation of all the countries of the region. We are committed
to a peaceful resolution of the Nagorno Karabagh issue, which must be
built on the actual existence of the Republic of Nagorno Karabagh and
right of people to self-determination. Our state is safe and secure
thanks to Armenia’s armed forces, which were born by our independence
and have now become its shield. Our army was formed by the heroes,
who shed blood to create powerful foundations for the Republic of
Armenia – the motherland of all Armenians.
Ladies and Gentlemen, I once again congratulate all of us on the
occasion of Independence Day.
This is a holiday, which the best sons of our people have dreamed of
and made possible through the centuries-long endeavors. I am confident
that present and future generations will continue this sacred task
in the name of strong and prosperous Armenia.
From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress