Former Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan marks 72nd birthday

Third Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan marked his 72nd birthday on Tuesday in his customary low-key manner, spending the day at home with his family, according to a statement from his office.

The statement noted that Sargsyan has never treated his birthday as a festive occasion, particularly in recent years amid “terrible losses and heavy trials” for the country. Instead, he traditionally receives greetings from relatives, colleagues and supporters with restraint and courtesy.

Sargsyan’s office highlighted his lifelong role in Armenia’s defense, state-building, and the organization of Artsakh's self-defense during the war years, calling his contributions “direct and unique.” It also pointed to his willingness to acknowledge mistakes during his presidency and to publicly apologize for them.

The message expressed hopes for Armenia and Artsakh to regain security, dignity and unity, wishing Sargsyan strength and health to see those goals realized.

Sargsyan served as Armenia’s president from 2008 to 2018.