[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 147 (2001), Part 12]
[Senate]
[Page 17527]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



                       ARMENIAN INDEPENDENCE DAY

  Mr. JOHNSON. Madam President, I rise today to recognize the 10th 
anniversary of Armenia's independence.
  On September 21, 1991, the people of Armenia began their journey of 
freedom and democracy. The road they have travelled over the past 10 
years has been full of challenges including natural disasters, conflict 
in Nagorno Karabagh, and the struggles associated with economic and 
political transformation. Any of these could have led Armenians off the 
path of liberty. However, it is through the perseverance of Armenians, 
and those around the world who support them, that Armenia begins this 
new century a strong republic and an example for young democracies 
worldwide.
  The events of September 11, 2001, pose a new challenge to Armenians, 
Americans, and those who reject terrorism and fight the war against 
fear. In his September 11 letter to President George Bush, Armenian 
President Robert Kocharyan called on Armenians to confront the ``evil 
of terrorism'' with ``determination and resolve.'' At this most 
critical time, Americans are thankful for Armenia's support, and 
together, along with a global coalition of freedom-loving nations, we 
will find the strength and patience to continue our journey.

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