YEREVAN (Noyan Tapan)–"The establishment of the Political Council is our first attempt to consolidate political forces for joint work," President Robert Kocharian said while addressing the first meeting of the Presidential Political Council.
Kocharian stressed that the political forces represented in the Political Council must build their relations upon mutual understanding and the ability to listen to one another. "We have to be more patient to form a new level of relationship," said the president.
Kocharian said there will always exist different opinions and positions–and the opportunity to express them in a civilized manner will be beneficial. "I am ready for an open and sincere dialogue and close cooperation with all political forces; the same I expect from you," Kocharian said.
According to the president–a very important period is expected in connection with the upcoming parliamentary elections. The elections should not add to tension and have a negative impact on the country’s stability and economic growth. In that regard–Kocharian noted the important role of the Political Council.
According to the president–there is a growing concern among politicians that the Political Council is designed as a substitution for Parliament. "The National Assembly has its own place and its powers are described by the Constitution," Kocharian said. As for the Political Council–it is a structure where all political forces can exchange their views–where direct contact between the president and political parties can be established and this–in turn–will make it possible to specify positions on different issue.
Pointing out that not all political parties are taking part in the work of the Political Council–the president declared that the doors of the Political Council are open. "Let’s hope that those who are currently absent will soon sit at this table too. I rely on the support of those present," the president said–addressing the members of the Political Council.