Discussions Held on Addressing Issues Faced by Artsakh Residents and Upcoming Steps

An expanded consultation led by Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has taken place, attended by members of the government and heads of other departments.

The meeting began with a minute of silence in memory of the fallen heroes in the war.

The Prime Minister stated that the purpose of the consultation is to discuss issues related to our compatriots who have moved from Artsakh to Armenia during the war. “In particular, we must discuss what support programs we are implementing for them. But we must also state that our primary concern is for them to receive that support in Artsakh. That is, this should be a program that facilitates the process of our compatriots returning to Artsakh. In this regard, let’s first note what we have done during this time, how we have supported them, and what programs we plan to implement in the near future and how we will carry them out,” the Prime Minister emphasized.

Officials reported that support work for our compatriots in Artsakh was organized around the clock on the first days of the war under the direct coordination of the Prime Minister's office in close collaboration with partners from the Republic of Artsakh. Volunteer groups have also been involved, operating both in Artsakh and Armenia. The work has focused on providing shelter, food, and addressing educational, healthcare, and other issues for Artsakh children.

All relocated residents have received food and essential supplies, as well as clothing, funded by donations and state resources.

It was noted that some of those relocated to Armenia have settled in individual apartments, various state-owned institutions, as well as hotels and guesthouses. The government plans to implement support measures for their utility expenses in the near future.

Minister of Labor and Social Affairs Zaruhi Batoyan emphasized that during these days, no Artsakh resident has remained without shelter for even a single night.

Following this, attention was given to organizing the restoration of infrastructure and housing stock necessary for Artsakh residents to return to their native villages, the implementation of social support measures, and the identification of other issues.

Prime Minister Pashinyan has instructed to promptly establish a working group with the government of Artsakh that will address these issues and propose relevant solutions. Progress reports will be provided to the Prime Minister on a weekly basis.