U.S. Congress Member Adam Schiff congratulated Armenians on the country’s Independence Day, Armenian News – NEWS.am correspondent reports.

In his statement, Schiff said that while Armenians’ path to independence had never been easy, they preserved through foreign domination, outside threats and the first Genocide of the 20th century. He also uttered “Happy Independence Day” congratulation in Armenian.

“There’s no doubt that the Armenian community is an invaluable asset to our society, breaking new ground socially, economically and politically across the nation, and enriching our customs traditions and quality of life.

On this important day, I wish to say congratulations to the people of Armenia, to Armenians in America and to all Armenians,” the Congressman’s statement reads.