Statement on Armenian Independence Day

Please read the following statement from Elizabeth May, MP for Saanich—Gulf Islands and Leader of the Green Party of Canada, recognising Armenian Independence Day:

”September 21st marks Armenian Independence Day. Today we reflect on Armenia’s rich culture and identity, as well as the tragedies of the Armenian genocide and the continued persecution of Armenians like what we have seen in Nagorno-Karabakh. The blockade of this region by Azerbaijan and expulsion of over 100,000 ethnic Armenians must be condemned. I was honoured to share words at the Armenian genocide commemoration event on Parliament Hill in May. It is shocking that Baku has been chosen to host the upcoming UN climate change conference (COP29) at a time when Azerbaijan has just displaced 99% of a regional population. I will not be attending. The ethnic cleansing must end. Armenians have a right to exist and live in security.”