U.S. Representatives, members of Congress of Armenian heritage Anna Eshoo and Jackie Speier issued a statement on the occasion of recent presidential elections in Nagorno Karabakh (Artsakh) Republic.

"I couldn’t be prouder of the highly successful free and fair presidential election in Nagorno Karabakh. Despite decades of violence and threats from overpowering, undemocratic neighbors, the people of Artsakh have maintained an unwavering commitment to freedom and democracy, and they will always have my support."

Rep. Speier concurred, noting “Democracy lives in Nagorno Karabakh! The fifth free and fair presidential election in the Republic is a true testament to the commitment and independence of its people and proof that Democracy can bloom in an area of the world where there is little.”

Nagorno Karabakh held presidential elections on July 19. Bako Sahakyan, gained 47 085 (66,7%) of the votes to win the presidential race. His major rival Vitaly Balasanyan garnered 22 966 (32,5%) of votes while Arkady Soghomonyan received 594 (0,8%) of votes.