[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 152 (2006), Part 14]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 19096]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                   ARMENIAN INDEPENDENCE DAY REMARKS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT GARRETT

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 21, 2006

  Mr. GARRETT of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, today marks the 15th 
anniversary of the independence of Armenia. On this day in 1991, 
Armenia was finally given the opportunity for self-rule for the first 
time in centuries. After suffering under harsh rule of the Turks, who 
attempted to slaughter them, and then the Soviets, who imprisoned them 
and persecuted them for their Christian beliefs, Armenia is now heading 
for a bright future filled with liberty and economic growth.
  After decades of stagnation under the failed communist economic 
system, Armenia now ranks as the 27th most economically free nation in 
the world. A member of the World Trade Organization, Armenia is working 
through the World Bank and International Monetary Fund to grow its 
economy. I have strong faith that Armenia will continue to grow despite 
the harsh embargoes of its neighbors in Georgia and Turkey.
  Armenia is justifiably proud of its deep cultural roots that go back 
to the dawn of recorded civilization. Ninety-nine percent of Armenians 
are literate and they have preserved both a distinct language and 
alphabet. Located in the shadow of the famed Mt. Ararat, Armenia's 
growing tourist industry prides itself on the nation's fascinating 
history.
  Armenian-Americans are contributing to the development of their 
homeland by investing and promoting the nation on the international 
stage. Today is a great day for them and their homeland. I congratulate 
Armenia on 15 years of freedom and progress and trust that our nations 
will grow even closer in the future as we seek to promote liberty 
around the world.

                          ____________________