YEREVAN (Noyan Tapan)–"I am convinced that any country can develop and thrive only on the condition that people get actively involved in the decision making process," renowned French singer of Armenian origin Charles Aznavour said in a statement spread by the Yerevan Office of the "Aznavour for Armenia" organization on May 24.
Aznavour said that "no one should be afraid of constructive criticism. Such was my intent when I gave an interview to ‘Nouvelles d’Armenie.’ But–unfortunately–although for understandable reasons connected with the coming parliamentary elections in Armenia–different political forces construed my interview so as to accommodate it to their own interests," stated the great singer–categorically rejecting the widespread erroneous speculations in the Armenian press.
"I’ve always faithfully helped Armenia and its people and will continue to do so in the future–however–I don’t want my help to be taken for granted," Aznavour underlined. He went on to say that the humanitarian aid rendered to Armenia as well as assistance in development must be continued without bureaucratic obstacles–while laws must never embarrass donations coming to Armenia.
"I am glad that in this regard we are of the same opinion with Armenian President Robert Kocharian and a general revision of laws is being made – bureaucracy is being dealt with–Diasporan Armenia’s are encouraged to get actively involved in rebuilding Armenia," the singer said.