Armenian Foreign Minister: Armenia-Russia Relations Need “Healing”
Yerevan, June 7 – Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan stated on Sunday that relations between Armenia and Russia are in need of “healing.” Mirzoyan made the remarks to journalists after casting his vote in the parliamentary elections.
The Minister highlighted that the current Armenian authorities advocate for a balanced foreign policy and deeper relations with the European Union. In contrast, other political forces express support for strengthening ties with Russia.
Concerns Over Russian Statements and Economic Pressure
Mirzoyan noted that he has observed sharp, critical statements from the Russian side directed at the Armenian authorities at various levels. He also pointed to attempts at directive management and economic sanctions, which he believes are, intentionally or unintentionally, linked to the ongoing elections.
“I believe that relations between Armenia and Russia need some healing. And we hope that, especially after the elections, in a healthy, constructive atmosphere with our Russian partners, we will be able to both normalize these relations and discuss existing problems that arise from time to time in the relations of any two countries, as well as find solutions that will be beneficial to both the Republic of Armenia and the Russian Federation,” Mirzoyan stated.
High Voter Turnout and a “Turning Point” Election
Regarding the elections, Mirzoyan expressed confidence in a very high voter turnout. “Honestly, I am confident that the turnout will be very high. This is my impression from the campaign. People are very interested in the elections. People are very interested and understand that the future of our country depends on their vote, on each person’s vote. I have often encountered this perception among our citizens, so I think the turnout will be very high. I can also say that our people are very wise and really understand all the nuances and challenges,” the Armenian Foreign Minister said.
Mirzoyan expressed his conviction that these parliamentary elections can be considered a turning point, as the overwhelming majority of Armenian citizens will vote for peace in these elections. “And from this point of view, the people of Armenia will once again show the whole world that they share the peace agenda, are committed to peace, but there is also another aspect. Peace also brings with it the strengthening of sovereignty. Peace also opens new opportunities for economic development. We have talked a lot about this during the campaign and earlier. That is why it is widespread,” the Minister declared.
Electoral Code Reforms and Concerns About Non-Resident Voters
Addressing speculation that many Armenians from Russia come to vote and then leave, and whether there is a need to change the Electoral Code, Mirzoyan stated that such a need exists. He emphasized that from a political point of view, it is not right for people who do not reside in the country to determine the fate of the country.
Parliamentary Elections in Armenia: Overview
The regular parliamentary elections in Armenia took place on June 7. Across the republic, 2,500 polling stations opened at 08:00 local time, most of which are equipped with surveillance cameras. According to the Migration and Citizenship Service of the Armenian Ministry of Internal Affairs, slightly more than 2.5 million citizens of the country have the right to vote. As of 11:00 AM, the turnout was 14.48 percent. 18 political forces are participating in the elections: two blocs and 16 parties. The most popular are the “Civil Contract” party of the current Prime Minister of Armenia, Nikol Pashinyan, the “Strong Armenia” bloc of businessman Samvel Karapetyan, the “Armenia” bloc of the second president Robert Kocharyan, and the “Prosperous Armenia” party of businessman Gagik Tsarukyan. Since early morning, observers and journalists have been reporting numerous violations in the organization of the voting process.
Source: https://arminfo.info/full_news.php?id=101650&lang=1
