Armenian National Committee of America
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PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 24, 2004
Contact: Elizabeth S. Chouldjian
Tel: (202) 775-1918
Presidential Contenders Mark 13th
Anniversary of Armenian Independence
WASHINGTON, DC – President George W. Bush and Sen. John Kerry
congratulated the Armenian people on the 13th anniversary of
Armenian independence, reported the Armenian National Committee of
America (ANCA). On September 21, 1991, the Republic of Armenia
declared its independence from the Soviet Union, beginning a new
chapter in Armenia’s over 3000-year history.
“We want to thank President Bush and Senator Kerry for joining with
Armenian Americans from across the country in marking the 13th
anniversary of Armenia’s rebirth, in 1991, as an independent
state,” said ANCA Executive Director Aram Hamparian. “Their
remarks underscore the powerful bipartisan American consensus in
support of further strengthening the U.S.-Armenia relationship and
fostering the enduring bonds – born of shared values – between the
American and Armenian peoples.”
In a statement released this week, Democratic Presidential nominee
John Kerry stated, “Time and again, Armenians have demonstrated
the ability of the human spirit to triumph over adversity and even
to persist in the face of genocide. I salute the courage and
independence of the Armenian people.” Earlier this year, Sen.
Kerry had also marked the independence of the first Republic of
Armenia (1918-1920), celebrated on May 28th, noting that: “The first
Republic of Armenia rose 86 years ago from the ashes of the
Armenian genocide, but was partitioned soon afterwards. Yet,
Armenians yearned for independence, and seven decades later
realized their dream of self-determination.”
In his message to Armenian President Robert Kocharian, President
Bush cited Armenia as a “key partner with the United States.” He
specifically cited Armenia’s assistance in the war against terror
and impending deployment of non-combatant troops to Iraq. “I look
forward to enhancing the cooperation between our countries and
strengthening the deep ties of friendship between our people,”
concluded President Bush.
The complete text of the statements by both President Bush and Sen.
Kerry are provided below.
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Statement by Democratic Presidential Candidate John Kerry Marking
Armenian Independence Day
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“This past week marked Armenian Independence Day. Time and again,
Armenians have demonstrated the ability of the human spirit to
triumph over adversity and even to persist in the face of genocide.
I salute the courage and independence of the Armenian people.
“From California to Massachusetts, Armenian Americans have made
great contributions to our country in business, politics, science,
and the arts. I have been a long-time supporter of Armenia in the
United States Senate. As president, I will continue to strengthen
the ties between our countries.”
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Message by President George W. Bush to President
—————————————- ————
Dear Mr. President:
I extend to you and to all the people of Armenia congratulations on
the thirteenth anniversary of your nation’s independence on
September 21.
Today, an independent Armenia is a key partner with the United
States. I am particularly grateful for the important counter-
terrorism assistance that Armenia has rendered to the United States
as well as your offer to supply non-combat troops to Iraq this
fall. I look forward to seeing you troops on the ground soon.
The United States will work tirelessly to assist the government and
people of Armenia in their efforts to achieve economic growth,
build democratic institutions and resolve the crippling Nagorno
Karabakh conflict. I look forward to enhancing the cooperation
between our countries and strengthening the deep ties of friendship
between our people.
Sincerely,
George W. Bush