On 30 September-1 October, Armenian Ambassador to the United States of America Tigran Sargsyan paid a working visit to Los Angeles to participate in the events dedicated to the 23^rd anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Armenia, reports the MFA news service to “Hayern Aysor”.
The Armenian Ambassador discussed a broad range of issues related to Armenia’s foreign and domestic policies, U.S.-Armenia relations, the Armenia-Diaspora partnership and issues concerning the Armenian American community during a meeting with the spiritual leaders of the Armenian Apostolic Church, as well as leaders and members of Armenian organizations at the Consulate General of the Republic of Armenia.

In the evening, Ambassador Sargsyan, Consul General of the Republic of Armenia in Los Angeles Sergey Sarkisov, NKR Representative Robert Avetisyan, leaders of community organizations, members of political, religious, cultural and non-governmental organizations, as well as diplomats accredited to Los Angeles and several guests took part in an event dedicated to the 23^rd anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Armenia.

In his speech, Ambassador Sargsyan congratulated the gathered on the 23^rd anniversary of Armenian Independence and mentioned that the establishment of the Third Republic of Armenia was inspired and spiritually nourished by the First Republic established in 1918-20. The Ambassador stressed the fact that if it weren’t for those years of heroic acts, Armenia wouldn’t be independent today either, and if it wasn’t for the sacrifices of our ancestors who maintained that piece of land of our homeland through bloodshed and indescribable deprivations, Armenia wouldn’t have made achievements today either.

Ambassador Sargsyan stressed the fact that even though Armenia’s road to independence wasn’t easy, the country has always been persistent to build a democratic state hinged on a market economy, human rights and fundamental liberties. “In this sense, the technical and financial assistance provided by the U.S. government is of major significance, and Armenia is grateful to the American government for always supporting Armenia,” the Ambassador mentioned.

Tigran Sargsyan also highly appreciated the role of the Armenian Diaspora in nation-building. “The role and significance of Armenian Americans in Armenia’s victories and achievements are unforgettable. Taking the opportunity, I would like to express my deep gratitude to you and urge you to always support the Armenian government, show more active participation and make more investments in order to contribute to the country’s strengthening and development. We are certain that your efforts are sincere and that Armenia and the Diaspora will be able to overcome all the challenges and make our homeland stronger through joint and coordinated efforts,” Ambassador Sargsyan highlighted.

During the visit, Ambassador Sargsyan also had a meeting with member of the U.S. House of Representatives Brad Sherman. Congressman Sherman congratulated Ambassador Sargsyan on the start of his diplomatic mission in the United States of America and reaffirmed his commitment and willingness to continue his close collaboration with Armenia and the Armenian people.

The sides discussed a broad range of issues on the agenda of the Armenian Caucus and exchanged views on Armenia’s foreign policy, the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, as well as the developments and security issues in the region.