Representatives Congratulate Artsakh on Independence

The Armenian Council of America would like to express our appreciation to the Congressional Caucus of Armenian Issues specifically Representatives Frank Pallone Jr., Gus Bilirakis, Adam Schiff, and Jackie Speier for their unyielding support of Artsakh’s self determination.

H.E. Arayik Harutyunyan

President of the Republic of Artsakh

Stepanakert

President Harutyunyan:

We write to congratulate you and the people of the Republic of Artsakh on the 29th anniversary of your independence.

It has been incredible to watch the progress Artsakh has made since the formation of the republic in 1991. Despite constant pressure and acts of aggression taken by the regime of Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, your country continues to make great strides in creating a market-based economy, strengthening the rule of law, and fully transitioning into a representative form of government. Truly, Artsakh’s transformation over the years is a testament to its people and to the leaders like you who have helped guide it along the way.

We believe that Artsakh has earned the right to participate in the ongoing negotiations at the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) Minsk Group by continually acting as an exemplar of democracy and freedom in the region. Artskah must be allowed to directly participate in negotiations regarding its future status and security to ensure a durable and lasting peace. Our hope is that your country will once again be included in these talks soon.

Again, we offer our sincerest congratulations on this important occasion and offer our full support for your country. We remain committed to pushing for official engagement between the United States Government and your administration, and we look forward to working with you to build on Artsakh’s already impressive transformation.

Sincerely,

Frank Pallone, Jr. Member of Congress

Jackie Speier Member of Congress

Gus M. Bilirakis Member of Congress

Adam B. Schiff Member of Congress