Armenia, in co-operation with the U.S., has created an inclusive economy that expands global connections - Blinken

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YEREVAN, 21 September. /ARKA/. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken congratulated the people of Armenia on Independence Day./pp ‘As the first country to recognise Armenia's independence, the United States is proud to continue to support Armenia as it becomes a thriving member of our community of democracies,’ the Secretary of State said in a congratulatory message on the State Department's website.’/pp

Blinken noted that by working with the United States and international partners, Armenia has built an inclusive economy that expands its ties to the world./pp ‘Trade between the United States and Armenia has roughly doubled over the past ten years. We are working to diversify Armenia's energy supply and ensure energy security for its people and the region. Our people-to-people ties, the foundation of our relationship, continue to grow and strengthen, bolstered by a strong Armenian diaspora in the United States and around the world. Working together, we can create greater prosperity for our people and region, making the South Caucasus more connected, stable, and secure,’ the message reads./pp

The Secretary of State emphasised that the US remains unwavering in its support for the democratic aspirations, sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of the Armenian people./pp ‘We honour Armenia's commitment to responsible governance and the rule of law during a period of serious challenges. We will continue to advocate for a lasting and dignifiednbsp;peace for the South Caucasus region,’ Blinken said in his congratulatory message./pp

On 21 September, Armenia celebrates the 33rd anniversary of independence. On this day in 1991 by the decision of the Supreme Council of the republic a referendum on secession from the USSR and creation of an independent state was held. Almost the entire population voted in favour of the declaration of independence - about 99% of the country's citizens with the right to vote. -0-/p