[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 34 (Monday, March 11, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E261]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                            NAGORNO-KARABAKH

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. JUDY CHU

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, March 11, 2013

  Ms. CHU. Mr. Speaker, this year marks the 25th anniversary of a 
critical turning point in the political freedom of the Armenian people 
of Azerbaijan. Let us take this occasion to remember their struggle for 
self-determination and freedom.
  In 1988, the Nagorno-Karabakh region of Azerbaijan petitioned to 
become part of Armenia. For the next 2 years, the Armenian population 
was the target of racially motivated pogroms. Hundreds of Armenians 
were murdered and more wounded during three violent attacks in Sumgait, 
Kirovabad, and Baku.
  In 1991, Nagorno-Karabakh officially declared independence, becoming 
a democratic state committed to freedom and respect for human rights. 
Despite dual blockades and threats from neighboring Azerbaijan, Nagorno 
Karabakh has held a series of democratic elections and continues to 
work hard to strengthen its economy. I stand with the people of 
Nagorno-Karabakh in this noble pursuit.

                          ____________________