VIDEO: "The Goal is to Create Discomfort for Smokers" - Pashinyan

During today’s cabinet meeting, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan addressed the issue of non-compliance with the smoking ban in cafes and restaurants. He demanded clarifications from the responsible authorities.

In response, Minister of Internal Affairs Vahe Ghazaryan provided statistics for 2023, labeling the situation as concerning: “As of this year, a total of 7,186 administrative records have been drawn up, of which 790 pertained to public catering establishments. There are 6,044 administrative records for smoking in prohibited areas,” he reported, adding that 352 records have been compiled against official persons.

“We will activate and do everything to achieve positive results,” the minister stated.

Pashinyan added that the goal should not be to fine people but rather to encourage them to stop smoking. “We also need to place responsibility on the owners and employees,” he said.

Commenting on the purpose of these decisions, the Prime Minister noted: “The goal is to create discomfort for smokers so that it is not comfortable to smoke. We want to inhibit the opportunity to smoke in every possible way.”

According to him, this is not being done for the government but for the citizens: “We are doing this for the citizen and the country. This is a matter of health and an ecological issue.”

The Prime Minister also expressed dissatisfaction that the decision to cover cigarette displays in stores is not being upheld.

In this context, Minister of Health Anahit Avanesyan remarked, “Behavioral changes are difficult to implement; this has been the case in all countries, but we have seen some changes.” According to Avanesyan, surveys have shown a reduction in the number of smokers.

She also informed that supportive institutions have been created for those who want to quit smoking: “Our hotline has become quite active, and applications come even from minors. We support individuals with psychological and other means to help them quit this harmful habit.”