[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 152 (2006), Part 15]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 20668]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




      COMMEMORATING THE 15TH ANNIVERSARY OF ARMENIAN INDEPENDENCE

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. JOE BACA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 27, 2006

  Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 15th 
anniversary of the Republic of Armenia's independence.
  Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Armenia re-established 
its freedom in the South Caucus region in 1991. Since then, Armenia has 
committed itself to becoming a modern and thriving nation-state. 
Despite many external threats, Armenia has fought to overcome trade 
obstacles and grow its economy. The Armenian Government has also 
remained a close ally to the United States and is even now providing 
personnel to the present war in Iraq.
  The tragedies of the Armenian Genocide from 1915 to 1917 did not 
dampen the spirit of these persevering people. Armenia has thrived and 
its people carry on its rich culture and heritage all over the world. 
Today, over 1 million Armenian-Americans reside in the United States, 
and of that, more than 500,000 Armenian-Americans make my home State of 
California their home.
  We in the United States do not take our freedom for granted and are 
committed to spreading democracy across the globe. As we celebrate the 
independence of Armenia, let us remember that freedom is a universal 
right that should be afforded to anyone, anywhere.

                          ____________________