The President of the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic (NKR; Artsakh), Bako Sahakyan, on Saturday issued a congratulatory address on the 70th anniversary of the victory achieved in the Second World War, and the anniversaries of the NKR Defense Army and the Liberation Day of the NKR City of Shushi

“Dear compatriots:

“Dear veterans of the Great Patriotic and Artsakh Liberation Wars:

“Respected generals, officers, and soldiers of the Defense Army:

“On behalf of the republic’s authorities and myself personally, I cordially congratulate you on the 70th anniversary of the Victory, the Day of the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic Defense Army and the Liberation of Shushi.

“Seventy years ago, the people of Artsakh also had a worthy contribution in forging the glorious victory against Nazism, one of the greatest evils in human history. Our compatriots were distinguished by their heroism and courage, endurance and dedication, both in the battlefield and the rear. Tens of thousands of people of Artsakh went to the war, half of them did not return. Eternal honor and glory to all our martyrs! Their memory will always remain bright in the history of our people.

“We are deeply grateful to our brave fathers and grandfathers for their heroic path, for the lessons of patriotism and selflessness they taught to us. These lessons were studied well by the next generations that forged victories decades after the Great Patriotic, during in the Artsakh Liberation War. Together with Mother Armenia and our sisters and brothers worldwide, we defended the freedom and independence of Artsakh, peace and tranquility of our native people, liberated the ancient fortress of Shushi, and laid solid foundations for new victories.

“In the hearth of this struggle was born the Nagorno- Karabakh Republic Defense Army, the pride and glory of the whole Armenian nation and the main guarantor of our security. The army continues to fulfill the tasks set before it with dignity, giving a worthy counterblow to the adversary’s encroachments, and keeping the Motherland’s borders unassailable.

“Owing to our people’s freedom-loving spirit and strong will, we recorded great successes and achievements during the years of independence. Only in this way, united and consolidated, are we able to solve the matters we face, bring various programs to life, and achieve the fulfillment of national goals.

“Dear compatriots:

“I once again congratulate us all on this glorious Triple Anniversary, and wish peaceful, prosperous, and victorious path to our heroic people and Motherland,” the NKR President’s address runs.