Dear compatriots,
On the eve of the New Year, as many of us try to assess the passing year, we wish to be lucky and avoid misfortunes. We connect hopes with the coming year. Perhaps, that is the reason why the New Year and Christmas are the kindest holidays. Like many of you, I celebrate these holidays with my family and friends.
However, being the President of the republic, I try to assess how the passing year was for Armenia and our people. I’m doing that for the tenth time this year.
I can assert with confidence that the year 2007 was one of the most successful years. The activity of the authorities was mainly directed toward reinforcement of security, economy, the social sphere and democracy.
The high pace of economic development was maintained, allowing us to provide greater means to address social issues, the most important of which is poverty reduction.
The effectiveness of our Armed Forces and the capacity to defend the peaceful life of the citizens also increased. Armenia’s international involvement and rating steadily improved as well.
The parliamentary elections and their results proved the maturity of our society and the positive perception of the reforms underway in the country.
This is the best guarantee that the coming year 2008 will also be successful. We must soberly estimate that there are still many things to be done. Everyday work is needed to overcome the existing challenges. This first of all refers to the improvement of the quality of life. Our citizens deserve a better life. Our country and the Armenian citizenship must be the pride of everyone.
We must add to the efforts of the development of the Nagorno Karabakh Republic by helping our brothers and sisters build an effective state–a statehood that is able to defend itself.
The strengthening of the army will continue to be a priority. Ensuring the security of the country is once of the essential components of progress. We have to remember all those who sacrificed their lives for the peaceful development of the country.
We must deepen the involvement of the Diaspora in the development of the country. The Diaspora is the most effective way to maintain the national identity.
Dear compatriots,
Presidential elections are expected at the beginning of the next year. The proper conduct of these will become a guarantee of stability for the coming five years. Without stability it is impossible to speak about success.
I believe in the prosperous future of Armenia and the potential of our people. I wish health, wealth and happiness to your families. Let the New ear become the year of success.
