ITAR-TASS, Russia
Armenia marks 17th independence anniversary
21.09.2008, 20.22
YEREVAN, September 21 (Itar-Tass) — Armenia has managed to defend
itself, develop the state system, lay down the foundation of the
national economy and give a fresh impetus to culture, education and
health care in the 17 years of independence, President Serzh Sargsyan
said at the Sunday event that marked the national Independence Day.
`Our country is developing,’ he said. `Our fellow citizens, their
labor and loyalty are the backbone of this process.’
`We are forming new traditions of the Armenian state,’ Sargsyan
said. `We are a mature country, which must eradicate the phenomena
hindering our progress and encourage the values gained through the
effort of generations ` freedom, democracy and everyone’s equality in
the eyes of the law.’
Russian President Dmitry Medvedev congratulated Sargsyan on
Independence Day, the Kremlin said earlier in the day.
`I cordially congratulate all citizens of the friendly Armenia and you
personally on the national holiday, Independence Day,’ the message
runs. `Over recent years Armenia has achieved impressive results in
the consolidation of statehood and the economic development and has
built up its authority on the international scene.’
`Russia values high the traditional friendship with Armenia. I am sure
that mutual confidence, dynamic political dialog and efficient
business cooperation will promote further development of the allied
relations between Russia and Armenia. This course fully meets the
interests of out states, as well as the goals of peace, stability and
security in the South Caucasus,’ the message runs.
Medvedev wished health and success to the Armenian president and
prosperity to the people of Armenia.