‘These are absurd genre stories: Vahe Ghazaryan and I have read them and smiled’ - Arpine Sargsyan

Recently, media reports have circulated regarding the strained relations between Minister of Internal Affairs Vahe Ghazaryan and his deputy Arpine Sargsyan, suggesting that Sargsyan is allegedly attempting to undermine Ghazaryan.

MediaHub inquired today whether the relationship between Sargsyan and Ghazaryan has indeed become strained. “Such discussions are simply not serious; Vahe Ghazaryan and I have a very good relationship,” stated Arpine Sargsyan.

When asked about the recent arrests of officials from the Ministry of Internal Affairs in the Syunik province by the Anti-Corruption Committee, Sargsyan responded, “As the Anti-Corruption Committee is the body conducting the investigation, it would be appropriate to obtain information from colleagues regarding pre-investigation secrecy and the remaining matters.”

In response to whether there are senior officials in her system who are involved in corruption, she replied, “There can be similar manifestations, but in this case, the important thing is the state response, and given that circumstance, an arrest was made based on apparent similar suspicions. The investigation will show.”

Regarding the media reports about her and Vahe Ghazaryan, suggesting she is undermining him and receiving support from Soros-linked individuals, Sargsyan described them as “simply publications that bring a smile, aimed at creating an illusion of problems.” She emphasized again, “Vahe and I have a very good relationship, and these stories belong to the absurd genre.”

When asked how she and the minister reacted upon reading those reports, she said, “Yes, we smiled, and I would recommend that you smile too.”

Finally, she expressed her satisfaction with Vahe Ghazaryan’s work, responding affirmatively when asked if she was pleased with his performance.