On the occasion of the holiday, representatives of the political, state, and spiritual circles of the country made statements and congratulatory messages, presenting their assessments of the historical event and their positions on current challenges.
Speeches and Messages from Representatives of the Executive and Legislative Authorities
The Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan delivered a speech during the military parade organized at Republic Square in Yerevan. He announced that after 35 years of conflict, peace has been established between Armenia and Azerbaijan, which, according to him, was necessary for the First Republic to maintain its independence. The Prime Minister emphasized that a course for the sustainability of the state has been adopted, and the current army is a factor of peace. During the parade, military products from 7 countries and products from the local defense industry were showcased.
The Speaker of the National Assembly of the Republic of Armenia Alen Simonyan noted in his message that the restoration of statehood after the heroic battles of May 1918 was a turning point for national consciousness. He emphasized the current process of building a sovereign, free, and democratic state, where citizens have direct participation and which enjoys the respect of international partners.
Message from the President of the Republic of Armenia
The President of the Republic of Armenia Vahagn Khachaturyan congratulated the citizens, noting that the First Republic, created after centuries of interruption, became the foundation for the revival of Armenian statehood. He emphasized that statehood is a daily responsibility that requires political maturity and public solidarity. Referring to the upcoming parliamentary elections, the president noted that they will be an important test for democracy and the stability of the state system.
Statements from Opposition Forces and Former Presidents
The second president of the Republic of Armenia Robert Kocharyan addressed the heroic battle of Sardarapat in his message, stating that it is an example of uniting and saving statehood in difficult times. He urged citizens to demonstrate civic courage in the elections scheduled for June 7 and to bring about changes in the country through voting.
The third president of the Republic of Armenia Serg Sargsyan mentioned in his speech that May 28 is a day of restoring statehood and a test of values, which proved the vital necessity of living freely in one's homeland. He criticized the current authorities, characterizing the military parade at Republic Square as a pre-election political step aimed at concealing the consequences of the war, territorial losses, and the issue of prisoners. Sargsyan also called for rejecting the current political force in the elections on June 7.
The Supreme Body of the ARF Dashnaktsutyun issued a statement mentioning the founders of the First Republic (Aram Manukyan, Hovhannes Kajaznuni, Garegin Nzhdeh, Dro, Ruben Ter-Minasyan). According to the statement, the country is currently at a fateful crossroads, where statehood, identity, the church, and Artsakh are under threat. The ARF called for nationwide resistance and unity for the preservation of national values.
Message from the Catholicos of All Armenians
His Holiness Garegin B. Catholicos of All Armenians sent a message with a patriarchal blessing from the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. He mentioned the heroic battles of Sardarapat, Garakilisa, and Bash Aparan, emphasizing the role of Catholicos George VI and the clergy. The Supreme Patriarch noted that in the face of current external and internal challenges, it is necessary to unite for the strengthening of the state and the improvement of Armenian life.
