Vitaly Balasanyan, Secretary of the Artsakh Security Council, Issues Statement

The Secretary of the Security Council of the Republic of Artsakh, Vitaly Balasanyan, has issued a statement. This was reported by the Artsakh Public Television.

The statement particularly notes: "There are rumors circulating that the Azerbaijani flag will be placed on state buildings in Renaissance Square in the city of Stepanakert. I feel it is necessary to categorically refute these news. Some media outlets and social networks are spreading news that the Artsakh Defense Army will be disbanded and that, according to the logic of those news, there will be no organization to protect the borders of Artsakh. In this regard, I would like to inform that the state bodies of Artsakh are currently engaged in the organization of professional units on a contractual basis specifically for the purpose of protecting our borders.

There are concerns in certain circles of society that, for example, the neighborhoods of Krgyzhan and Ajapnyak in Stepanakert or the village of Ivanyan in Askeran will soon be settled by Azerbaijani families. Rumors are also circulating that Azerbaijanis are making purchases in the commercial points of Stepanakert. I assure you that such rumors are baseless.

Dear citizens of Artsakh, on behalf of the authorities of Artsakh, I assure you that despite the irreparable losses we have suffered due to the military actions, the state is always committed to fulfilling its obligations to ensure the safety of the population and the normal functioning of life. Therefore, I urge you not to give in to fake news and to be convinced that everything possible is being done to create and expand the conditions necessary for a dignified life for the people of Artsakh."