Karekin II, Catholicos of All Armenians, has issued a congratulatory message on the occasion of the 35th anniversary of Armenia’s Independence Day. The message reads as follows: “From the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, we bring our Patriarchal blessing to our people in our homeland and in the diaspora and congratulate on the occasion of Independence Day.

Today we celebrate the 35th anniversary of the re-establishment of independent Armenian statehood. During these years, our homeland has gone through many trials, but our people have never been discouraged, have never despaired, have even continued the sacred mission of homeland building at the cost of great sacrifices, and have made their potential serve for national awakening. Independence Day today is an invitation for us to re-evaluate the path we have taken and the course of our lives. In the current difficult conditions, more than ever, it is necessary to be united and remain consolidated around the homeland in order to be able to withstand internal and external threats.

Strengthened by the message of the Independence Day holiday, let us build and brighten our country with unremitting dedication and protect the right of our people to a free and safe life on this sacred land with all zeal and responsibility. Let us firmly hold on to the hope, faith and love of Christ, remain faithful to our national-spiritual values, and together build a just, law-abiding, and united society for the sake of our secure and bright future.

We raise a prayer to God to keep our homeland in peace, guide our people with the wisdom of His Holy Spirit, and grant a prosperous and progressive life. Amen.”