What Suren Papikyan and the CP Discussed in a Closed-Door Meeting: Details from 'Joghourd'

'Joghourd' newspaper reports that the National Assembly's Civil Contract faction met yesterday, January 24, with Defense Minister Suren Papikyan. The meeting was prompted by the tragic incident that occurred in the village of Azat in the Gegharkunik region, resulting in the death of a conscript in a fire.

Details from the closed-door Papikyan-CP meeting have emerged. According to sources close to the CP, while the most pressing questions were addressed to the head of the defense department, the meeting overall proceeded in a calm and non-tense atmosphere. 'We discussed all the issues and concerning phenomena that exist not only in the army but also in society in general. We all understand that the responsible party for the incident (at least at a political level) is all of us, the team, therefore there was no need to escalate or create tension,' said our source, adding that the issue of Papikyan's resignation was not discussed, and there wasn't even a question or opinion expressed regarding it.

Moreover, attendees encouraged Papikyan, suggesting that at this critical moment, when the army truly needs support, he should not consider stepping down. We also learned that a significant number of MPs were absent from the defense minister's meeting; some were on business trips, others were affected by viral infections circulating lately, and some simply did not find it appropriate to attend.

For more details, see today's edition of the newspaper.