Chalon, Whose Cubs Were Crushed in the Amulsar Area, Does Not Move a Step from Defensive Positions: Zohrabyan

ARF MP Naira Zohrabyan wrote on her Facebook page: "Chalon, whose cubs were crushed under the wheels of the security guards in Amulsar, does not move a step from the defensive positions. Yes, this is the same Chalon whose three cubs were crushed under the wheels of the 'shumakers' of Amulsar's security service. Chalon has been here since the first day of the defense of Amulsar's positions and has not left the positions even for a day.

It is evident that the situation in Amulsar is escalating every day, and I fear we may have unpredictable developments. The government must clearly state its position regarding the exploitation of Amulsar, and delaying this further may contain serious risks. The more the authorities remain silent, the deeper the problem will become. I believe no one has any doubt that for the residents of Jermuk and Vayots Dzor, the environmental safety of their home and children is a matter of life or death, and there will be no retreat in this struggle.

Jermuk, and Armenia in general, as the exploitation of Amulsar poses a direct threat to the precious waters of Lake Sevan, will not turn into a cyanide 'basin,' and this is clear. Urgent solutions must be found. I understand that there are issues regarding investments and the country's investment image; I understand that there are issues related to international arbitration. However, opinions among experts I have spoken to on this matter vary. Some believe we can definitely win in international arbitration, while others insist we will have to pay huge sums. I do not dispute anyone's viewpoint. Just let me remind you of the Prime Minister’s words from the parliamentary podium: 'They say - oh, Lydian is appealing to the international court, that's it, we've lost as a nation. If they appeal, let them. Why should we be so defenseless?'

I completely agree with the Prime Minister. We are not defenseless. We have no right to turn Jermuk into Chernobyl. And Amulsar will definitely remain a mountain.

P.S. Yesterday, one of our wealthy compatriots from the United States called me, and we also discussed the issue of a pan-Armenian fundraising campaign in case of international arbitration, if, of course, there is a need for it."