[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

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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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