New Years Message

December 29, 2005

Dear People of Armenia,

On behalf of President Bush and the American people, I sincerely wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

In 2005 the United States and Armenia continued their strong tradition of friendship. During the past year, the United States and Armenia deepened their cooperation in the areas of business development, law enforcement, border security, and agriculture, to name just a few. Through U.S. assistance programs, which have totaled over 1.6 billion dollars since 1992, the United States is working to strengthen democratic institutions, provide for a more stable and secure South Caucasus, and build the economies of all three countries of the region.

As we look forward to 2006, it is my hope that Armenia and the United States can work together to create a bright future for the people of Armenia. The forthcoming year will serve as an opportunity for Armenia to establish itself as a thriving democracy and a country where the benefits of economic growth are shared broadly. The United States is committed to helping Armenia on this path.

Once again, I wish you a Merry Christmas, a Happy New Year, and all the best.