A scene from the Mardakert liberation celebrations

MARDAKERT, The Nagorno-Karabakh Republic—The President of the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic Bako Sahakian took part in festivities dedicated to the 18th anniversary of the liberation of Mardakert on Tuesday.

In his speech the president described the liberation of Martakert as one of the most significant victories in the Artsakh Liberation War.

He added the Karabakh Defense Armed Forces and ready and prepared to resolutely rebuff and retaliate against any attack jeopardizing the freedom and independence of the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic.

Sahakian said developing the Mardakert region is one of the main priorities of his administration as part of its socio-economic improvement policy, adding that the government was doing its utmost for the prosperity of the region.

The president also presented state awards to a group of veterans of the Artsakh Liberation War, reported the presidential information department.

The Askeran stadium inauguration

On Monday, Sahakian took part in the inauguration of a stadium in the Askeran region.

He underscored the important role of such facilities for the promotion of healthy living, physical education and athletic programs.

Sahakian presented gifts to the individuals who had played an active role in the realization of this project and the construction of the stadium.

Artsakh Diocese Primate Archbishop Paregev Martirosyan, speaker of the National Assembly Ashot Ghoulyan and other officials also took part in the ceremony.