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Mr. President, today we recognize the 25th anniversary of Armenia’s independence. On this day each year, we come together to celebrate the strength and indomitable spirit of the Armenian people.
For the last 25 years, Armenia has been a key friend and trusted ally of the United States. It is an alliance between our two nations that will only continue to deepen in the years ahead. Armenia has come a long way to free itself from terror and tyranny–from the Soviet Union and from the horrors of genocide. This journey continues today, with our shared responsibility to ensure that the Armenian people are able to build their own independent and prosperous future. It is our duty to continue to stand with Armenia and with all Armenian people around the globe as they continue this fight.
We must keep pushing for truth and never allow the forces of denial to succeed in suppressing our collective memory. We have a responsibility to ensure that the evil that was perpetrated upon the Armenian people is never concealed nor denied. We must heed the words of Pope Francis that it is our duty to continue to honor the memory of those Armenians who perished in the Armenian genocide.
I am proud to stand with my colleagues in the Senate to commemorate Armenia’s independence and continue to support the Armenian people.