STEPANAKERT (Azg)–Nagorno-Karabakh National Assembly Chairperson Arthur Tovmasian reminded certain high-ranking Armenian officials–in an Azg interview–that they came to power through the Karabakh movement and will in the same fashion lose that power if they oppose the will of the people of Karabakh.
He commented that instead of supporting Karabakh–some Armenian authorities are harming Karabakh in a sly manner. He pointed out that no people has ever abandoned its historical territory–and that Karabakh would not become the first exception to that rule. However–Tovmassian said that the alternative might occur if national division on the issues remains.
Tovmassian said that it was unfair to blame Armenia’s poor economic condition on the lack of resolution of the Karabakh problem. "We faced a more difficult situation in 1988-93–but we never complained. We remember them today. When the blockade is lifted–with the help of neighboring countries–the energy crisis will be over–and trade activities will be resumed.
Tovmasian explained that proponents of the "step-by-step" solution to the Karabakh conflict are suggesting surrendering a part of the motherland to secure prosperity of another. He pointed out that
"From the 11th century–until today–history has proven the contrary. Not only will we not prosper by surrendering territory–but we will also face the danger of extinction," he said.