“Any peaceful resolution of Karabakh conflict will be reached primarily on consent and expression of free will by NKR people,” RA President Serzh Sargsyan’s message on the 18th anniversary of NKR independence reads.

“Today Nagorno-Karabakh Republic is an established state with its structures, army and the foremost — citizens who independently determine their destiny. Presently, we, like all international community see a modern state, that puts into practice freedom, sovereignty and democracy principles. Under all objective and non-objective obstacles and facing hardships, it undergoes progress, develops economy and culture, as well as maintains the peace,” the message says.

According to Sargsyan, Armenia and the whole Diaspora have always been and always be the anchorage for Artsakh. “We owe this day to those who belong to the ages, who made supreme sacrifices at the altar of their motherland and liberty. I pay court to their tombs and once again congratulate you with this bright holiday. I wish you wellbeing, happiness and fortitude,” Sargsyan concluded.