![Chairman of the Armenian National Assembly Hovik Abrahamian looks on as U.S. Ambassador Marie L. Yovanovitch delivers remarks at the celebration of U.S. Independence Day. [Photo: Isabella Zaratsyan/StateDept]](https://am.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/92/2016/09/amb_800px-350x234.jpg)
Thank you for joining us to celebrate the birthday of the United States of America.
July 4th is not for a few weeks, but the legacy of America’s independence is worth celebrating every day of the year. On Independence Day, Americans reconnect with family, friends and community, remember our history, and renew our commitment to democracy, freedom, and peace. Americans cherish these universal values, as do people everywhere. Thus, it is fitting that we open our doors and honor this day with our friends and neighbors here and around the world.
Our fates and our fortunes intertwine as never before. We all share responsibility for building a more peaceful and prosperous future. Armenians and Americans enjoy a strong bond that began long before Armenia’s independence. And for the last twenty years, the United States has steadfastly supported Armenia’s democratization, economic growth, and security. Today’s celebration symbolizes this on-going partnership. There’s nothing we can’t accomplish, no challenge we can’t meet, if we pursue common goals and seek common ground.
As many of you know, I will soon be departing Armenia, but Armenia will remain in my heart. I wish that I could be here to witness this country’s continuing progress, especially in the pivotal next two years. So let me take this opportunity to congratulate Armenia on 20 years of independence and wish the Armenian people my very best as you build the Armenia of tomorrow.
And in the spirit of the occasion, please join me in a toast celebrating our two countries’ independence, a toast to friendship – a friendship based on mutual support and respect for democracy, freedom, and peace.
