Wednesday, September 21, marked the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the Republic of Armenia. The rebirth of the Armenian homeland is one of the most momentous developments in the history of the Armenian people. Armenia declared independence from the Soviet Union on September 21, 1991, and became a member of the United Nations on March 2, 1992.
On the occasion of the 20th anniversary, members of the Armenian community were graciously received at the Montreal City Hall by Montreal Mayor Gérald Tremblay and the Chairman of the Council, Mr. Harout Chitilian to mark the 20th anniversary of the independence of the Republic of Armenia and the 50th anniversary of the arrival of Armenian immigrants in Montreal. His
The participants were honored by the presence of many distinguished guests, including the new Ambassador of the Republic of Armenia to Canada, His Excellency Armen Yeganian, and several representatives of the consular corps from Russia, China, Japan, Egypt, Iraq, Portugal and Jamaica.
In addition several elected officials joined the community to celebrate these historic Armenian community milestones, such as members of the executive committee of the City, Mrs. Mary Deros and Mr. Alan DeSousa, the leader of the Official Opposition, Mrs. Louise Harel, Councillors Mr. Aref Salem, Mr. Frantz Benjamin, Mr. Étienne Brunet, Mr. Marc-André Gadoury and Mr. Francois Robert. The master of ceremony was the chief of staff of the Mayor of Montreal, Mr. Agop Evereklian. The evening concluded with the prayer and blessing of His Eminence Bishop Bagrat Galstanian.
