“We will hold the flag of Artsakh high”: Montevideo marks 35th anniversary of Artsakh’s independence

The Misak Torlakian branch of the Armenian Youth Union marked the 35th anniversary of Artsakh’s independence at the Vramian Club in Montevideo. The gathering brought together members of various structures within the Vramian Club with the aim of preserving the memory of Artsakh, defending the rights of its people, and affirming the new generation’s commitment to a cause they consider vital and ongoing.

Discussing the historical process behind the declaration of independence on September 2, 1991, the young participants also addressed the current situation of the people of Artsakh following the 2020 war, the blockade of the Lachin Corridor, and the forced deportation of the Armenian population in 2023.

As part of the commemorative events, the organization UJA Montevideo installed a timeline board at the Vramian Club, presenting the most important milestones in the modern history of Artsakh, from the national liberation struggle that began in the late 1980s to recent events. The goal of the initiative is to create a space for memory and reflection for club members and visitors.

During the event, it was noted that the declaration of independence is “the political expression of a necessary, legitimate, and just process of liberation, the decision of a people who, after decades of persecution and amid brutal and evident threats, sought to realize their right to live freely on their own land.” The young organizers stressed that September 2 remains a day of celebration for the Armenian people, even as it is now accompanied by the pain of celebrating far from Artsakh: “September 2 is a day of celebration, and it will remain so, even though today we must face the most painful contradiction, celebrating the republic’s independence at a time when we can no longer do so in Artsakh itself.”

The consequences of the 2020 war, the blockade of the Lachin Corridor, and the forced deportation of the Armenian population from Artsakh in 2023 were also addressed, along with a call for the release of Armenian prisoners held in Azerbaijan. “We have not forgotten them. You are not alone. And as long as even one of them remains unjustly imprisoned, their release will also be part of our struggle.”

UJA called on young people to take part in the life of the organization and the community, and reaffirmed its commitment to the cause of Artsakh and to preserving its memory. “We will hold the flag of Artsakh high for as many years as it takes.”

Source: DiarioArmenia