Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan issued a congratulatory address on occasion of the 20th anniversary of adoption of Declaration of Independence of the Republic of Armenia.

The message says:

“Dear fellow citizens, I cordially congratulate you on the 20th Anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence.

August 23, 1990 is one of crucial and momentous episodes of our modern history. It signifies the point in time when dreams of the people of Armenia and the entire Armenian nation began to turn into reality; it also symbolizes our centuries-long yearn for independence.

Last two decades made it clear that the adoption of the Declaration was timely and appropriate, that objectives and ideas enshrined in the Declaration are viable, and continue to be called to life through the joint efforts of all segments of the Armenian nation.

It was not easy to turn our intents into reality; nonetheless we remained true to our principles and values. We did not succumb to hardships and did not diverge from the road toward political freedom and responsibility to master our own destiny.”