President of the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic (NKR, or Artsakh), Bako Sahakyan, on Thursday issued a congratulatory address on the NKR State Independence Referendum and Constitution Day.

“Our people cherish this holiday as it symbolizes their struggle towards building a free and independent, democratic and legal state marked with the rule of law, where human rights and freedoms, legal interests and security of the citizens and the state are protected.

“After proclaiming its independence in 1991, Artsakh went through the imposed war, overcame numerous difficulties and challenges registering glorious victories and achievements on its path.

“The adoption of the Constitution, our country’s basic law, has been among the most important achievements of the state-building process. The referendum held in 2006 once again witnessed the fact that the path chosen by our people was right and steady, with nobody and nothing being able to disrupt it. Our adversary, who never misses the opportunity to turn to provocations, also shall realize this.

“Joining hands with our sisters and brothers from Armenia and the Diaspora, we will do our best to further strengthen the Artsakh statehood, safeguard our people’s security and ensure their well-being, increase the defense potential, develop economy, and improve the living standards of the citizens. Artsakh must become a developed and modern country and take its deserved place in the international community,” the NKR President’s address runs, in particular.