Armenian President Robert Kocharian has issued a congratulatory message over the 15th anniversary of the Nagorno Karabakh Republic's independence. It says, "I congratulate you on the occasion of the 15th anniversary of declaration of independence. Artsakhi people have made their historical choice: they have defended their national rights in an imposed war, and today they are building a free and democratic state. Powerful Karabakh is the greatest memorial to the immortal heroes of the liberation war in Artsakh.

The state construction in Nagorno Karabakh is directed at the multifaceted development of the country and the rise of the living standards. The existence of a firm and democratic statehood in Artsakh is necessary for the peaceful and fair settlement of the Karabakh conflict.

It is the duty of the Republic of Armenia and all Armenians contribute to the development and mightiness, as well as the international recognition of the Nagorno Karabakh Republic.

Once again I congratulate all of us on this great jubilee and wish peace and progress."