Armen Sarkissian to Buy a House in Gyumri Soon
Over the years, residents of Gyumri, Spitak, and Vanadzor have patiently borne their burdens, waiting for the day when they could collectively turn their gaze towards them. This was stated by Armenian President Armen Sarkissian during a press conference in Gyumri, responding to journalists' questions.
In addressing the question of why it took 31 years to reconstruct Gyumri, President Sarkissian noted that one must not forget the history. Beside the great tragedy of 1988, there was the issue of the liberation of Artsakh, the establishment of the newly independent state, and our national liberation movement.
“When I became prime minister, although I was very young, I had a lot of experience and had seen many things. When I came to Gyumri as prime minister, I expected that people would receive me with difficulty, because they had been forgotten for many years and were living in poor conditions. I was prepared to respond to every word and attitude as the country’s prime minister. However, the opposite happened; people welcomed me with warmth and kindness. One elderly woman offered to take me to her home not to show me how poorly she lived, but to host me. She opened her heart and shared what she had with me. Frankly, after that, the dignity and love of the people of Gyumri grew much greater in my eyes, and when I was unable to continue my work due to health reasons, I had nightmares for many years. So, consider me a Gyumretzi, and I want to buy a house here soon, not to go back and forth, but to come and stay here,” added the President of Armenia.