September 3, 2007 - 13:20 AMT
Nagorno Karabakh marks 16th anniversary of independence
Festivities dedicated to the 16th anniversary of Nagorno Karabakh's independence were held in the capital and regions of the republic. The NKR leadership and citizens attended the Stepanakert Memorial Complex to honor the memory of those killed in World War II and Karabakh war. Military marched down the capital's streets.

The Armenian delegation led by NA Speaker Tigran Torosian took place in the solemn events including opening of the new parliament building.

On September 2 evening the NKR President offered a reception.

Exhibition of Nagorno Karabakh and Armenian painters and a photo exhibition dedicated to the Karabakh war opened in Stepanakert.

A concert in the Renaissance Square in the NKR capital ended in fireworks.

On occasion of the independence anniversary veterans of the WWII, the families of those killed in the Karabakh war and disabled people received pecuniary aid, IA Regnum reports.

16 years ago, on September 2, 1991 the session of the Nagorno Karabakh and Shahumyan regional councils adopted a declaration on proclamation of the Nagorno Karabakh Republic.

In response, the Azeri side launched regular bombardment of Stepanakert. Consequently, through Baku's fault the national-liberation movement turned into an armed opposition.