January 11, 2012 - Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird today issued the following statement on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of Canada’s recognition of Armenia’s independence:
“Twenty years ago today, Canada was among the first Western nations to recognize Armenia as an independent state and, a few days later, to formally establish diplomatic relations. Today, we enjoy a strong and growing partnership, notably through our ongoing cooperation in multilateral organizations.”
“Over the years, we have forged bonds of friendship and cooperation based on our shared commitment to promoting democratic values and global peace and security. These links have been further strengthened by the presence of more than 50,000 Canadians of Armenian descent who continue to make significant contributions to Canada’s cultural, political and economic life.”
To mark the anniversary, Minister Baird recently met with Armenian ambassador to Canada, Armen Yeganian, and presented him with a framed reproduction of the official declaration establishing diplomatic relations between Canada and Armenia.
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