STEPANAKERT (Armenpress/NKR Foreign Ministry)–In celebrating the 15th anniversary of the Karabagh nation liberation movement–the Nagorno Karabagh Republic (NKR) held several events marking the anniversary–and dedicated the session of the NKR National Assembly to the Karabagh movement.
The public–along with President Arkady Ghoukassian and representatives of the Republic’s leadership began the day by laying wreathes and flowers at the Stepanakert Memorial Complex where soldiers fallen during the national liberation movement and victims of the Sumgait slaughter are buried.
On the same day–the NKR National Assembly adopted a statement clearly stating that the democratically elected leadership of the Nagorno Karabagh Republic is committed to a peaceful resolution to the Karabagh conflict. The statement praised the efforts of international peace brokers from the OSCE Minsk group–and asked for the international community’s cooperation with efforts to advance democratic values in the country.
It addressed Parliamen’s of all countries to assist the people of Karabagh who are committed to democratic values and a spirit of cooperation. The statement expressed hope that–taking into account the 15 year-experience of building a state and civil society in Karabagh–as well as the creation of a tolerant environment in the Republic–the international community would be ready to assess prospects for its independent status.
A scientific conference on the Karabagh movement took place at Karabagh State University. Activists met with representatives of private enterprises and institutions. There was also a photo-exhibit and exposition of young artists’ works. Similar events were held throughout the Republic.
Marking the 15th Anniversary of Artsakh movement–Baroness Caroline Cox and Robert Wareing of the British Parliament forwarded the following message to President Goukassian:
Your Excellency
It is a great pleasure to congratulate you–your colleagues and the people of Karabakh on this auspicious occasion–the 15th Anniversary of the Karabakh Freedom Movement–when the people of Karabakh fought successfully for their independence .
We–at the British Parliament–have tirelessly supported the actions of the Karabakh People and have debated in both its Houses the complex situation created by that struggle .
Bearing always in mind that before resolving to take arms–the Authorities and the people of Karabakh –during the Referendum of 1991 with a majority of 98% and according to strict Human Rights Legislation had voted overwhelmingly for self-rule and independence .
During the past fifteen years–you have protected that freedom–you have housed your refugees–you have re-built your towns ruined by the war–you have developed your economy–you have maintained a fair foreign policy and you have created a democratic–tolerant and strong statehood dedicated to maintain peace and stability in the region .
Many congratulations and best wishes .
Signed in their absence and following their instruction by :
The Baroness Cox ( Chairman of the Group ) and Robert Wareing MP British-Armenian All-Party Parliamentary Group