STATEMENT ON ARMENIAN INDEPENDENCE DAY, 2009After 600 years of foreign domination, and immediately following the devastation of genocide, the people of Armenia rose up in defiance of foreign occupation and declared independence on May 28, 1918. This short-lived, yet symbolic period of independence was followed by almost 70 years of Soviet rule, however it had played an integral role in preserving a homeland for the Armenian nation.
Upon break-up of the Soviet Union, a referendum was held in Armenia on the question of secession. Following an overwhelming vote in favor, full independence was declared on September 21, 1991 and thus the Armenian nation demonstrated, once again, its collective will for a free, united and independent Armenia.
On the 18th anniversary of this occasion, and in light of the difficult position facing Armenia with respect to the Turkish-Armenian protocols, ANC Australia wishes the people of Armenia and the Armenians of the Diaspora a united bright future.
Armenian National Committee of Australia
