[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 157 (Monday, September 24, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1282]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




IN RECOGNITION OF THE REPUBLIC OF ARMENIA FOR 27 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE 
                         FROM THE SOVIET UNION

                                  _____
                                 

                        HON. FRANK PALLONE, JR.

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, September 24, 2018

  Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, as Co-Chair of the Congressional Caucus on 
Armenian Issues, I congratulate Prime Minister Pashinyan and the people 
of the Republic of Armenia on 27 years of independence from the Soviet 
Union. Since this day 27 years ago, the Armenian people have lived up 
to their pledge to create a free and independent nation, built on 
strong democratic principles and a market economy.
  Earlier this year, Armenia saw incredible and unprecedented change in 
its government as a result of the Velvet Revolution. The peaceful 
transition of power after the revolution is a clear indication of the 
will of the Armenian people, strongly demonstrating a commitment to a 
fairer and more democratic state. Since my first visit in 1997, I 
continue to be struck by the incredible progress Armenia has made 
towards bolstering its government transparency, strengthening its 
democratic institutions, and empowering its civil society. I believe it 
is critical for the United States to continue to deepen its ties with 
our regional partner at every level of government to ensure this 
transformation continues.
  The Republic of Armenia has also consistently championed the right to 
self-determination of its neighbors in the Republic of Artsakh. This is 
a right that Artsakh continues to fight for in its steadfast pursuit of 
regional security and stability despite a tenuous cease fire. The 
United States must continue to support a negotiated end to hostilities 
with Azerbaijan along the lines of the Royce-Engel peace proposals, and 
take further action to ensure that all parties of the conflict are 
included.
  I join with the Armenian people and the Armenian-American community 
in celebrating 27 years of independence. I send my best wishes on this 
important day and pledge my continued commitment to a strong United 
States-Armenia partnership.

                          ____________________