Artsakh Republic President Bako Sahakyan has issued a congratulatory message on the occasion of "Defender of Fatherland" Day. President Sahakyan, in his address, notes that February 23 is marked as a pan-national holiday since all the people rallied as one in defense of the country and heroically resisted all the enemy’s advances, thus winning the right to freely live and prosper in their homeland. "The younger generation now continues with honor the immortal work of their fathers and grandfathers. They have mastered the lessons of patriotism and courage and today preserve the borders of the Fatherland. Due to its high morale and combat readiness, the Artsakh armed forces are considered the main guarantee of our independence and security, and play an important role in maintaining peace and stability in the region. Artsakh is strong and invincible due to its heroic people and capable army," President Sahakyan declared.