OBAMA MARKS ARMENIAN INDEPENDENCE DAY
armradio.am
22.09.2008 11:02
Presidential candidate Barack Obama joined with Armenian Americans in
celebrating Armenian Independence day in statement that noted Armenia’s
first modern instance of independence in 1918 and congratulated all
Armenians on Armenia’s rebirth in 1991 as an independent state after
70 years of Soviet rule, reported the Armenian National Committee of
America (ANCA).
Senator Obama has, at several points during the campaign season, shared
his views on Armenian American issues, including in a statement this
April dedicated to the remembrance of the Armenian Genocide. In January
of this year, in a statement on the eve of the California primary, he
outlined his views on a broad array of Armenian American concerns. The
Illinois legislator, who was then facing Senator Hillary Clinton (D-NY)
for his party’s nomination, called for Congressional passage of the
Armenian Genocide Resolution (H.Res.106 & S.Res.106), and pledged
that, as president, he will recognize the Armenian Genocide. He also
reaffirmed his support for a strong "U.S.-Armenian relationship that
advances our common security and strengthens Armenian democracy,"
and promised to "promote Armenian security by seeking an end to the
Turkish and Azerbaijani blockades, and by working for a lasting and
durable settlement of the Nagorno Karabagh conflict that is agreeable
to all parties, and based upon America’s founding commitment to=2
0the principles of democracy and self determination."
In yesterday’s statement, which again cites the Armenian Genocide,
Senator Obama noted that "after centuries of living in the Persian,
Russian, and Turkish empires, Armenians first achieved their modern
independence in 1918 and regained it after 70 years of Soviet rule
in 1991. Their struggle continues, but in the years of renewed
independence they have been able to guide their own destiny through
years of war and economic dislocation."
"On this day, September 21, Armenians and friends of Armenia everywhere
celebrate the independence of the Republic of Armenia, and I extend my
warmest and best wishes on this happy occasion. Throughout their long
history, a spirit of independence, self- reliance, and survival defines
the Armenian people. After centuries of living in the Persian, Russian,
and Turkish empires, Armenians first achieved their modern independence
in 1918 and regained it after 70 years of Soviet rule in 1991. Their
struggle continues, but in the years of renewed independence they have
been able to guide their own destiny through years of war and economic
dislocation. Even in the face of genocide, the pain of the past has not
defeated the Armenians, either in Armenia or the far-flung Diaspora.
America has benefited tremendously from the vigor and talents of the
Armenian people. Armenian-Americans have made enormous contributions
to American life – to our20arts and academia, to business, science, and
politics – while still maintaining strong ties to their ancestral home.
Recent events in the Caucasus region remind us of both the importance
of rededicating ourselves to peace, and the possibility of progress
even where there is a long history of alienation. The conflict in
Georgia shows the danger that lurks when rising tensions are ignored
and the United States pursues a diplomatic strategy of neglect. But
in recent days we have also seen the hopeful step – taken by the
Presidents of Turkey and Armenia – to restart dialogue that could,
in time, bring a welcome normalization of relations and offer Armenia
more diversified opportunities for trade, transport, and energy
supplies. American policy must build on this step, to ensure that
Armenia enjoys a future not merely of independence but of partnership
and cooperation with the U.S. and its allies," Senator Obama stated.