July 3, 2008 - 19:38 AMT
Pennington: U.S. to support Armenian people and government as they work together to realize their aspirations
On July 4, the United States of America celebrates the 232nd anniversary of its independence and the signing of the Declaration of Independence on that day in 1776.

On July 3, Americans and Armenians jointly marked the day at a celebration at the U.S. Embassy in Armenia, the Embassy's press office told PanARMENIAN.Net.

During the event, U.S. Chargé d'Affaires Joseph Pennington stated, "Two hundred and thirty two years ago, the founders of the United States risked their lives and fortunes in pursuit of freedom by adopting the Declaration of Independence. That document asserted that all people have certain inalienable rights, among them life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness."

He added that immigrants have come to the U.S. for many reasons, but "all have been united by a desire to live in freedom." He took note of the strong Armenian-American community in the United States and its contribution in helping to make America great. The Chargé d'Affaires concluded his speech by stating that, "as a true friend of Armenia, the United States will always support the Armenian people and the Armenian government as they work together to realize their aspirations." Earlier in the day, President Serzh Sargsian called on the Charge d'Affaires to express his congratulations to the embassy on the occasion of American Independence Day.