Armenian Defense Ministry hosted a celebration on the occasion of Armenian Independence Day.

“Independence Day is the most cherished holiday for all Armenians. Freedom was gained at a cost of great efforts and sacrifice,” Defense Minister said.

Seyran Ohanyan noted restoration of Armenian statehood through Sept. 21 referendum in 1991 as the sole way to defend Artsakh.

“Independence enabled to take operative measures for establishment of a democratic system of government, implementation of foreign policy in the interests of Armenia’s and Artsakh people and formation of regular armed forces,” Minister Ohanyan said.

The Defense Ministry further hosted a ceremony awarding outstanding soldiers and liberators with state awards of Armenia, Nagorno Karabakh Republic and Defense Ministry.