Ruben Vardanyan on the Situation in Artsakh

Artsakh Republic Prime Minister Ruben Vardanyan spoke to News.am and provided details about the recent incident in Kashen and his latest statements. The interview is presented below.

“Mr. Vardanyan, you were in Kashen when the so-called Azerbaijani environmentalists came to visit the mines with the peacekeepers. You met and communicated with the people there. What happened?”

“Yes, I visited Kashen as soon as I learned about the planned visit of the Azerbaijani 'environmentalists' accompanied by the peacekeepers. Although the matter is not directly under my coordination, considering that the population had not been properly informed and this could lead to incidents, I went there with the Secretary of the Security Council Vitali Balasanyan and Interior Minister Karen Sargsyan, to be on-site and prevent potential provocations and conflicts. Just two days ago, I mentioned in an interview with Artsakh Public Television that we continue to be in a military situation. The behavior of the Azerbaijani side indicates that provocations will continue, and we must be prepared for them in every possible way. This incident is a testament to that.”

“We must understand that the situation in Artsakh is tense, and we are facing serious challenges. Therefore, we need to establish clear mechanisms for decision-making on difficult issues, taking into account both operational needs and communication with the population. In normal conditions and situations, discussing environmental issues is a matter of inter-state relations between neighboring countries. We announced that the Artsakh Republic is ready to invite an international environmental-expert group, including Azerbaijani environmentalists. However, provocations from our neighbor continue, and we must be maximally prepared for them, using appropriate measures.”

“Regarding the incident, the competent authorities of the Artsakh Republic have already approached the command of the Russian peacekeeping forces, suggesting that any future tripartite actions be thoroughly discussed, considering both the proper communication with the population and the tension in the situation.”

“You mentioned in your recent interview with the Artsakh television that changes are inevitable and that they are already significant for individuals associated with the government and, in particular, members of the elite. Could you elaborate on what you meant?”

“I meant that very clear rules are being established. For instance, those who have outstanding tax and credit obligations to the state, but are capable of fulfilling them, must do so. There is no other option. I don’t understand why, for example, someone who generates income should not pay taxes. At the same time, we are ready to support those who have such obligations but genuinely cannot meet them due to various objective circumstances. This is what I meant. You know, the sense of justice is very acute in Artsakh. I was initially surprised that alongside security, many cited injustice as a problem. I consider one of my and my team’s goals to restore justice, faith, and trust within society. I am confident that this can be achieved through transparent work, a systemic approach to issues, and discipline. These are also the principles that will underpin our government’s activities.”

“Mr. Vardanyan, various rumors are circulating in Artsakh that you are planning layoffs, establishing a new work regime, or have generally prohibited state procurements. What layoffs are being discussed?”

“There have been no layoffs, and there have been no changes to the work schedule. Yes, my workday starts at 7 AM and ends at midnight. However, I believe that the challenges we face demand much greater involvement from all of us, especially from state system employees. Of course, procurements have not been banned; it’s just that during the first cabinet meeting, given the significant budget deficit, ministries were instructed to coordinate new financial obligations with the prime minister's office. I certainly regret that some unnecessary speculations have begun. But this will not interfere with me. What we do, we do for Artsakh and the people of Artsakh. We will carry out our work publicly and transparently. We are determined to continue our work and bring our initiated efforts to completion. We will do everything possible to ensure that Artsakh remains Armenian, safe, and prosperous.”