STEPANAKERT — President of the Nagorno Karabakh Republic Bako Sahakyan has issued a congratulatory address on the State Independence Referendum and Constitution Day of Artsakh:
Dear compatriots,
On behalf of the Artsakh authorities and on my own behalf, I cordially congratulate you on the NKR State Independence Referendum and Constitution Day.
This day has entered into the millennia long history of our nation as the beginning of a new path, which marked the firm determination of the Artsakh Armenians to build a free and independent state as well as a civil society based on democratic principles, universal human and national values. Both the 1991 Independence Referendum and the adoption of the basic law of our country – the Constitution in 2006 once again proved that the Artsakh people are resolute and ready to defend their interests and freedom in accordance with the norms and standards of international law.
The path we have chosen is irreversible, as it is just and sanctified by the blood of our martyrs. We are obliged to strengthen our statehood day by day, develop our economy and improve the living conditions of people. We ought to realize our nation’s aspirations and desires, guided by the letter and spirit of the law and build a strong legal state. That is the only way towards the prosperity of Artsakh, its international recognition and integration with the civilized world. And we are glad that the number of Artsakh’s friends, who respect and value the decisions and efforts of our citizens to follow democratic path is steadily increasing year after year. This is an ongoing process which will definitely reach its logical conclusion, and Artsakh will occupy its worthy place among sovereign and developed states.
Respected people of Artsakh,
I once again congratulate all of us on the most significant state holiday and wish peace, robust health and all the best.”