The National Day of Armenia, celebrated in The Hague on October 10th, 2024, was a memorable event marking the 33rd anniversary of Armenia’s independence. Organized by the Embassy of Armenia in the Netherlands, the celebration attracted a remarkable turnout, including prominent Dutch politicians, parliamentarians, ambassadors from various continents, representatives of international organizations, and members of the Armenian diaspora.
Among the distinguished guests were Mr. Erik Weststrate, Director for Europe at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands, members of the Dutch parliament, and members of the diplomatic corps accredited to the Netherlands.
The event commenced with a warm welcome from H.E. Mr. Viktor Biyagov, the Armenian Ambassador, who expressed his deep honor and privilege in celebrating the nation’s independence. In his speech, the Ambassador emphasized the significance of Armenia’s independence journey, stating, “It is more than three decades now that my country has joined the international family of independent states, fulfilling the historical aspiration of the Armenian nation to live and create in their sovereign country.”
A key part of the speech drew upon the words of Nelson Mandela, a global symbol of freedom and perseverance, with the Ambassador quoting from Mandela’s Long Walk to Freedom: “I have walked a long walk to freedom. It has been a lonely road, and it is not over yet.” The Ambassador connected this sentiment to Armenia’s ongoing efforts to safeguard its hard-earned freedom and independence in modern times.
“Our nation continues to stand at the intersection of tradition and innovation, preserving our rich cultural heritage while embracing the opportunities of the modern world. Today, Armenia is committed to building a society that is democratic, prosperous, and forward-looking. We are actively investing in areas such as education, technology, and economic development, while also strengthening our commitment to create durable peace,” the Ambassador stated.
The Ambassador proudly shared that Armenia’s economy has been growing annually between 7% and 9% since 2021, reflecting the country’s resilience and forward-thinking investments in sectors like education, technology, and economic development. He also underscored the government’s efforts to establish peace, particularly through initiatives such as the “Crossroads of Peace,” which focuses on developing regional connectivity.
In terms of international relations, the Ambassador emphasized the strong political dialogue and cooperation between Armenia and the Netherlands, particularly mentioning the Dutch Good Growth Fund (DGGF), PUM program, and MATRA, which actively support Armenia’s development. He also touched on the historical ties between the two nations, dating back to trade between Armenian and Dutch merchants in the Middle Ages.
“The historical ties between Armenia and the Netherlands, though defined by 32 years of diplomatic relations, date back to the times of St. Servatius and the flourishing trade between Armenian and Dutch merchants in the Middle Ages. During World War II, when Europe was engulfed in one of the darkest periods of its history, many brave men and women stood up against tyranny and fought for freedom. Among them were Armenian soldiers and civilians who, having endured immense hardship themselves, joined the Dutch resistance movement.
These courageous Armenians risked their lives to protect the values of liberty and justice, values that both of our nations hold so dear today. They fought side by side with their Dutch brothers and sisters, contributing to the liberation of the Netherlands and Europe. Once again, we live in a time defined by constant turbulence and unrest, and my country has not been immune to these challenges,” Ambassador Biyagov said.
The evening was enriched by traditional Armenian music performed by the “Black Swan” quintet. Following the speeches, guests were invited to enjoy a lavish buffet featuring a generous variety of Armenian gastronomic delights, showcasing the country’s rich culinary heritage.
The Ambassador’s speech also reflected on the current challenges Armenia faces, particularly in light of the ethnic cleansing of Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh and the threat posed to Armenian cultural heritage in the region. Ambassador Biyagov called for international advocacy to ensure the safe return of Armenian captives still held in Azerbaijan and urged the global community to protect justice and human rights.
“The Azerbaijani government’s policy of eradicating the Armenian trace from Nagorno-Karabakh did not end with the brutal ethnic cleansing. There is an imminent threat to the Armenian cultural heritage of Nagorno-Karabakh, as part of the deliberate and systematic destruction and appropriation of Armenian cultural and religious sites and artifacts. This is happening in complete noncompliance with the legally binding order of the International Court of Justice, which ordered Azerbaijan to take all necessary measures to prevent and punish acts of vandalism and desecration affecting Armenian cultural heritage,” the Ambassador expressed.
Concluding his remarks, the Ambassador expressed profound gratitude for the support and friendship of the Dutch government and diplomatic corps, acknowledging their professionalism and solidarity. He invited Mr. Erik Weststrate to offer his remarks, which highlighted the continued collaboration between the Netherlands and Armenia.
The National Day of Armenia celebration in The Hague was a commemoration of Armenia’s past and a reflection of its aspirations for a peaceful and prosperous future, with friends and partners standing alongside.
