[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 103 (Thursday, July 3, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1099]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      COMMEMORATING THE RETIREMENT OF AMBASSADOR TATOUL MARKARIAN

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. BRAD SHERMAN

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, July 3, 2014

  Mr. SHERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the distinguished 
service of His Excellency Tatoul Markarian, Ambassador Extraordinary 
and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Armenia to the United States of 
America.
   His Excellency Dr. Markarian is completing his term as Ambassador to 
the United States after nine years of service. Dr. Markarian has been a 
crucial figure in fostering relations between Armenia and the United 
States.
   As Armenian Ambassador to the United States, Dr. Markarian has been 
credited with creating closer ties with the United States by 
coordinating visits between the two countries' government officials and 
diplomats. He has been instrumental in securing increased humanitarian 
assistance from the U.S. to both Armenia and Artsakh, two struggling 
economies that are in great need of economic support. This has been 
highlighted by Armenia becoming a competitive potential candidate for 
Millennium Challenge Corporation funding, which aims to reduce 
widespread poverty and strengthen infrastructure. Ambassador Markarian 
has also been largely responsible for coordinating improved bilateral 
talks between both countries, through the U.S.-Armenia Economic Task 
Force and Strategic Dialogue.
   Dr. Markarian has had a long career in public service. He served in 
the Republic of Armenia's legislative and executive branches at a 
crucial time, during the Republic's early years, first as assistant to 
the Vice Chairman of the newly created Armenian parliament, then as an 
advisor to the Vice President of Armenia and Chief of Staff to the 
Prime Minister. During his tenure as Ambassador to the United States he 
concurrently serves as the Ambassador to Mexico.
   I commend his Excellency Dr. Markarian on his service and 
accomplishments. His service has strengthened the relationship between 
Armenia and America. I wish the best for him, his wife, and three sons 
in their future endeavors.

                          ____________________