On September 1, a solemn award ceremony took place at the residence of Artsakh Republic President Bako Sahakyan. Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan, who arrived in Artsakh a day before to partake in independence celebration, was present at the event.

In connection with the 20th anniversary of the NKR proclamation a group of Artsakh liberation movement activists, freedom fighters and servicemen, distinguished public figures and politicians, philanthropists, scientists, workers of culture, education and sports spheres, journalists from Artsakh, the Republic of Armenia, Diaspora and abroad were granted with state awards.

President Sahakyan characterized September 2, 1991 as a historical day, a turning point in the life of the Armenian nation that marked the formation of Artsakh’s independent statehood. The President stressed the invaluable contribution of Armenia and Diaspora compatriots in creation of NKR statehood, also thanking all friends of Artsakh, who’ve been actively supporting the people of Artsakh during those years.

President Sargsyan, in turn, named Artsakh Republic’s proclamation an important event for the whole Armenian nation, calling it a triumph of freedom and dignity of a human being and a nation, enabling restoration of violated rights and the victory of historical justice. President Sargsyan called Artsakh the pride of Armenians worldwide.

NKR National Assembly speaker Ashot Ghoulyan, prime-minister Ara Haroutyunyan, other officials, guests from Armenia, Diaspora and abroad were present at the event, the Central Information Department at Artsakh President's Office reported.