The Minister of High-Tech Industry on Removing Russian Channels from Multiplex

For quite some time now, satellite footage has been serving various government departments in Armenia. This was stated today by the Minister of High-Tech Industry, Mikayel Hayrapetyan, during a briefing with journalists in the National Assembly.

Addressing the operations of Russian television channels broadcast in Armenia, Hayrapetyan mentioned that the Armenian government has its own perspectives and solutions on this matter. "Consultations will be held in Moscow soon, as per the bilateral intergovernmental agreement, during which the Armenian side will present its proposals regarding solutions. The solutions arise from both the overall logic of the agreement and the national interests of Armenia, aiming to ensure television content that does not imply interference in Armenia's internal affairs, insult to Armenian symbols, or disregard for the feelings and dignity of the Armenian people," said Hayrapetyan.

In response to a remark that such a discussion has already taken place, after which it was announced that Yerevan did not present evidence, the minister stated, "You are correct, this refers to the consultations of December. I must say that the solutions included in the proposal package of the Armenian side also consider previous attempts, which have resulted not only in a lack of any changes in content but also in an increase in the frequency of such broadcasts lately. This means that the tools mentioned in the agreement, which were established as a form of control or prevention of such broadcasts, are essentially not working. And, taking this into account, the Armenian side has formulated its views on solutions. If they had been working, there would have been no need for your question. We understand this, and we will consider it as a fact when working with our Russian counterparts," he added.

When asked if there are deadlines for when these negotiations will begin, the minister replied, "Yes, there is a specific date, but I will not announce it now." Regarding whether the issue of removing these channels from the public multiplex will be part of these negotiations, Hayrapetyan responded, "Out of political correctness, I will refrain from detailing our proposals and solutions. I can only assure you that every decision or position adopted by the Ministry of High-Tech Industry is fundamentally based on the dignity of the Armenian people and Armenia."