I Am Ready to Serve in Artsakh Regardless of Office: Arthur Davtyan

Former Prosecutor General of Armenia Arthur Davtyan is currently in Artsakh, coinciding with rumors in the press that he is to be appointed the Prosecutor General of the Republic of Artsakh.

In an interview with Armenpress, Davtyan addressed the rumors regarding his possible appointment and the purposes of his visit to Artsakh.

- Mr. Davtyan, you have been in Artsakh for quite some time. The press claims that you will be appointed as the Prosecutor of Artsakh; is this accurate?

- I believe it is not appropriate for me to respond to that question. The relevant authorities of Artsakh will address it if necessary.

- In that case, what is the purpose of your visit to Artsakh? Your visit is under the spotlight given that Artsakh has been under blockade by Azerbaijan for over 100 days, and the position of Prosecutor is vacant since Gurgen Nersisyan has been appointed as State Minister.

- I deeply regret that my visit, as well as anyone else from Armenia to Artsakh, attracts such attention.

My visit to Artsakh is the least I can do at this moment; many others should come. This is not my first visit to Artsakh at all since my term ended. Since last December, despite the difficulties in visiting Artsakh, nothing is impossible if there is a strong desire. On September 2 of last year, during the Independence Day of Artsakh, being in Stepanakert, I expressed my willingness to support the resolution of problems in any possible way and as needed. My only goal is to simply be with Artsakh and its people during these difficult times.

- How do the authorities of Artsakh and Armenia perceive your visit?

- I have not noticed any negative reactions regarding my visits from any circles. The authorities of Artsakh have always welcomed me with open arms and enthusiasm, both during my term and now.

- What is the situation in Artsakh? Are you meeting with officials?

- The situation, undoubtedly, is complex. Due to Azerbaijan's blockade of Artsakh, all human rights, from food, healthcare, to basic living organization and free movement, have been violated. Nevertheless, the efforts of the Artsakh authorities and relevant bodies are directed at overcoming the challenges they face and solving complex issues in all areas of life. My spirit is uplifted by the resilience of the heroic people of Artsakh and their willingness to fight for justice. The role of the Russian peacekeeping forces in ensuring the safety of the people of Artsakh is invaluable. Regarding my interactions, they are diverse and openly mutual. I assure you that Artsakh welcomes everyone in a collective sense with open arms.

- How would you respond to the rumors regarding the competition for the position of Prosecutor General in Artsakh, in which your name is also mentioned?

- In my opinion, those discussions are ridiculous, at least regarding me. Personally, I am ready to serve in Artsakh, regardless of any office or position. I am prepared to serve wherever my professional knowledge and skills will ensure effectiveness. I do not care about the official status whatsoever; it is obviously a platform for specific responsibilities and tasks, but one can still be useful without it. It is absolutely unacceptable today to generate the idea of competition for any official position in Artsakh.

- After your term as the Prosecutor General of Armenia, have you been offered any other position by the Armenian authorities?

- I do not think this question is on the public's priority agenda.

- If you are there to be with the people of Artsakh, then when will you be returning to Armenia?

- I do not have a specific schedule for either coming or leaving; God will guide.

- Is it not difficult to engage solely in lecturing after a dynamic career as a Prosecutor General?

- Nothing in life is difficult when you live harmoniously. I certainly have not had the opportunity to be bored.