Robert Kocharyan, the Second President of Armenia, sent a message on the occasion of Independence Day.

"Dear compatriots,

Today marks the 30th anniversary of our independence, but we don't feel the joy that we should feel on this significant day. We are celebrating this holiday for the first time after the planned heavy defeat, territorial losses, the partial loss of our sovereignty.

The formation of Armenia as an independent state was inextricably linked with our victory in Artsakh. Just a year ago we were proud of our Armed Forces and were a significant factor in the geopolitical situation in the South Caucasus.

Today, we have not only ceased to be guarantors of the security of Artsakh, but are also unable to protect our sovereignty and our citizens. We have lost what we were proud of for the last thirty years, which gave the country strength and geopolitical value.

States are built thanks to national ascent and are based on national unity. The authorities symbolizing defeat can't be a source of inspiration and creation.

Today, congratulating on the Independence Day, I want to express my hope and confidence that the nation will find the strength to get rid of the authorities that caused the national catastrophe," the message reads.