Around 20,000 Artsakh Residents Continue to Stay in Armenia, Minister Says

The focus remains on those displaced from Artsakh. According to reports, the majority of the 90,000 displaced residents have already returned to Artsakh, while around 20,000 Artsakh residents continue to reside in various regions and communities in Armenia at this time. Minister of Labor and Social Affairs Narek Mkrtchyan stated this during a media session in parliament.

The minister announced a new program for the residents of Artsakh, providing support of 50,000 and 25,000 drams to various target groups. He noted that there is currently no need for widespread accommodation for the people of Artsakh at this moment. 'If previously we paid for hosting Armenians from Artsakh in their homes, now we will provide the funds directly to the Artsakh residents, allowing them to decide how to use that money,' said Narek Mkrtchyan. He also added that two employment programs are being implemented for the people from Artsakh. 'The targets are clearly defined in the program—those with disabilities, families with children, and all pensioners will receive 25,000 drams,' the minister stated.