09/21/12 - E-mail on Armenian Independence Day -

Dear Friend,

I am delighted to send my best regards to you, your relatives, and the people of Armenia on the 21st anniversary of Armenia?s independence! On this day in 1991, the fledgling nation of Armenia finally fulfilled its aspirations of nationhood. While the road toward independence was fraught with disappointment, peril, and tragedy, the Armenian people have triumphed and are now set on course marked by liberty and great economic opportunity.

I recognize that much progress has been made by the Armenian people. At the same time, the Armenian people must remain vigilant. This year, Azerbaijan released Ramil Safarov, a lieutenant in the Azerbaijani military. Safarov had been recently extradited to Azerbaijan from Hungary where he was serving a life sentence for the murder of Armenian lieutenant Gurgen Margaryan in 2004. To the shock of many, the Azerbaijani government immediately pardoned Safarov upon his return to the country. Simply put, I believe that this pardon is reprehensible. I strongly implore Azerbaijan?s President Ilham Aliyev, as well as the Azerbaijan government, to reverse the pardon of Ramil Safarov. It is unacceptable that a convicted murder serving a life sentence is now walking free.

An important fact remains: today is truly a great day for each and every Armenian. I congratulate Armenia on 21 years of freedom and progress and trust that our nations will grow even closer in the future as we seek to promote liberty around the world.

Sincerely,

Scott Garrett

06/22/11 - Rep. Garrett writes a personal note to Karine Birazian Shnorhokian and family, expressing condolences on the passing of genocide survivor Mrs. Alice Khachadoorian-Shnorhokian.