    [Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 40, Number 18 (Monday, May 3, 2004)]
    [Pages 685-686]
    [Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    <R04>
    Message on the Observance of Armenian Remembrance Day, 2004

    April 24, 2004

        On this day, we pause in remembrance of one of the most horrible
    tragedies of the 20th

    [[Page 686]]

    century, the annihilation of as many as 1.5 million Armenians through
    forced exile and murder at the end of the Ottoman Empire. This terrible
    event remains a source of pain for people in Armenia and Turkey and for
    all those who believe in freedom, tolerance, and the dignity of every
    human life. I join with my fellow Americans and the Armenian community
    in the United States and around the world in mourning this loss of life.
        The United States is proud of the strong ties we share with Armenia.
    From the end of World War I and again since the reemergence of an
    independent Armenian state in 1991, our country has sought a partnership
    with Armenia that promotes democracy, security cooperation, and free
    markets. Today, our Nation remains committed to a peace settlement in
    the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and is grateful for Armenia's continuing
    cooperation in the war on terror. By advancing understanding and
    goodwill, free nations can help build a brighter future for the world.
    Our country seeks to help Armenia expand its strategic relations with
    the United States and our European allies.
        Generations of Armenian Americans have also strengthened our
    communities and enriched our Nation's character. By preserving their
    heritage, faith, and traditions, Armenian Americans enhance the
    diversity that makes America great.
        I commend individuals in Armenia and Turkey who have worked to
    support peace and reconciliation, including through the Turkish-Armenian
    Reconciliation Commission, and call on Armenia and Turkey to restore
    their economic, political, and cultural ties. I also send warm wishes
    and expressions of solidarity to the Armenian people on this solemn day
    of remembrance.

                                                    George W. Bush

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