SHUSHI, NKR (A.W.)—On the 23rd anniversary of the Liberation of Shushi and Nagorno Karabagh Republic (NKR) Army Day, a number of celebratory events were held in Shushi on May 8.
Artsakh (NKR) President Bako Sahakyan visited Shushi, where he laid flowers at the Shushi Tank Memorial, the restored T-72 tank that first entered Shushi during the Artsakh War, manned by Gagik Avsharyan.
“We are proud of the feats of heroism and courage of our fathers and grandfathers, as well as our present-day heroes,” Sahakyan was quoted as saying. He also expressed regret over those who could not be there to share in the joy of the celebrations.
Together with Armenia and the Armenian Diaspora, Artsakh will carve a secure future, said Sahakyan. He added that the people of Artsakh continue to be committed to building their country, strengthening the economy, and ensuring that Artsakh remains secure.
Also participating in the celebration events were Armenia’s Prime Minister Hovik Abrahamyan; Artsakh Prime Minister Ara Haroutyunyan; National Assembly Chairman Ashot Ghoulyan; Artsakh’s second president, Arkady Ghoukassyan; Primate of the Artsakh Diocese of the Armenian Apostolic Church, Archbishop Pargev Martirossyan; high-ranking officials; and guests from the diaspora.
Officials then visited the Shushi Arts Center to view a photo exhibit titled “From Shushi to Shushi.” They also attended a concert at the Shushi Stadium.
Later in the day, Sahakyan recognized the individuals who have served Artsakh.
Janna Galstyan, an Artsakh War veteran, was awarded the Golden Eagle Order and the title of “Hero of Artsakh.” Currently, she chairs the Committee on Defense, Security, and Legal Matters in the National Assembly of Artsakh.
More than 300 individuals—11 posthumously—received recognition and medals for their courage in defending Artsakh.
Twenty-five individuals—1 posthumously—who had fought in the battles leading up to the Liberation of Shushi were awarded the Medal for the Liberation of Shushi.
The parents of three servicemen who lost their lives while defending the border were given the Gratitude Medal.
As Shushi celebrated its liberation, another Artsakh soldier was reportedly killed on the contact line.
One of the great days in modern Armenian history. God bless the heroes of Artsakh.