Monday, 8 December 2008
SPEECH OF TIGRAN SARGSYAN, THE PRIME MINISTER OF THE REPUBLIC OF ARMENIA, ON THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE EARTHQUAKE
Distinguished Guests;
Today, we commemorate the 20th anniversary of the disastrous earthquake that took place on December 7, 1988. 20 years ago, our land was shaken. Together with it, our hearts and minds were shaken. All Armenians were shaken. The disaster claimed the lives of thousands of innocent civilians, including a large number of children. One third of our country was leveled to the ground. At the time, not everyone was fully aware of the gravity of the tragic blow, and the impact it would have in our people's hearts and our country's economy.
The situation looked desperate, but we did not fall into despair: we stood strong, as we were supported by people from virtually every corner of the earth, turning Armenia and the Earthquake Zone into a zone of universal solidarity and compassion.
Today, we wish warmly and profoundly to thank all those that that stood by our sides just after the earthquake, endangering and sacrificing their lives, assisting and saving our fellow Armenians, and for many years helping our country to overcome the consequences of the catastrophe.
We remember everyone; we are grateful to them for their heroic deeds, selfless philanthropy, and helping us out at difficult times.
The other reason why we did not fall into despair lay deeper: we had history and genes of resisting pain
