YEREVAN (Yerkir)–Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) Bureau representative Hrant Margarian said the ARF agreed to join Armenia’s ruling coalition to have the opportunity to improve the country. "We are there–and we have decided to be there to tackle negative factors and carry out actual reforms," Margarian said during an interview with the Armenian language newspaper Alik–published in Tehran. Margarian pointed to poverty and corruption as key areas requiring massive reform.
Addressing ARF’s position in the coalition–Margarian said that the ARF does not have full power to fulfill its objectives. "We are considered responsible for a government in which our role is only partial. We are just now–through rigorous efforts–making strides to assume the role [of coalition partner]. We completely realize what we are up against," stressed Margarian.
Talking about the political situation within Armenia–Margarian underscored the importance of open dialogue. "By way of personal example and as reflected through our official positions–the ARF has consistently encouraged dialogue between political parties and authorities–as well as an open and honest exchange of ideas–and establishment of such relationships between the government and the people," he said.
JAVAKHK OUT OF DISPUTES
Addressing recent developmen’s in Georgia–Margarian noted that Armenia–and Armenia’s–must be concerned as they are directly affected–not only as a neighboring country–but as residents. "The situation in Georgia has immense impact on the Armenian population of Javakhk–which has always been overlooked by the Georgian authorities," Margarian said. "Naturally the Armenia’s of Javakhk–because of their socio-economic and basic human rights situation–are more concerned about developmen’s," he said.
He stressed–however–that maintaining unity is crucial in order to advance Javakhk’s interests.
"The struggle between the new [regime] and the old one is not ours. Our goal is to gain favorable conditions for Javakhk and Javakhk Armenia’s," Margarian stressed–and called for staying out of confrontations within the Georgian government.