    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2003, Book I)]
    [April 24, 2003]
    [Pages 385-386]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Message on the Observance of Armenian Remembrance Day, 2003
    April 24, 2003

        Today marks the anniversary of a horrible tragedy, the mass killings
    and forced exile of countless Armenians in the final days of the Ottoman
    Empire. Many Armenians refer to these appalling events as the ``great
    calamity,'' reflecting a deep sorrow that continues to haunt them and
    their neighbors, the Turkish people. The suffering that befell the
    Armenian people in 1915 is a tragedy for all humanity, which the world
    should not forget. I join the Armenian-American community and Armenians
    around the world in mourning the horrendous loss of life.
        I also salute our wise and bold friends from Armenia and Turkey who
    are coming

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    together in a spirit of reconciliation to consider these events and
    their significance. I applaud them for rising above bitterness, and
    taking action to create a better future. I wish them success, building
    on their recent and significant achievements, as they work together in a
    spirit of hope and understanding.
        As we remember those who perished and suffered, we salute the nation
    of Armenia, and Armenians everywhere. The United States is grateful for
    the contributions of Armenian Americans to our national life.
    Generations of Armenians have employed wisdom, courage, and centuries-
    old traditions to overcome great suffering and enrich their adopted
    American homeland.
        The United States is proud to be a friend of Armenia, a young state
    with an ancient heritage. We are deepening our partnership to help
    achieve a secure, prosperous, and dignified future for the citizens of
    Armenia. The United States is committed to achieving a just and lasting
    settlement to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. We will also continue to
    help Armenia as it strives to strengthen its democracy and market
    economy.
        On behalf of the American people, I send solemn wishes to the
    Armenian people on this day of remembrance. Our nations stand together,
    determined to create a future of peace, prosperity, and freedom for the
    citizens of our countries, for our regions, and for the world.

                                                              George W. Bush

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