Opposition MPs Express Gratitude but Did Not Mention Fear: Mirzoyan

During a Q&A session between the National Assembly and the Government, NA President Alen Simonian exercised his right to raise an urgent question directed at Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan. “After yesterday's closed meeting, our opposition colleagues mentioned that you are frightened; we are only hearing comments from our opposition colleagues. I would like us to also reflect on yesterday's meeting, as you see fit,” he said.

Mirzoyan responded, stating that in the neighborhood where he grew up, there were people who would not openly express their opinions in front of him but would speak behind his back with very specific political assessments. “I will refrain from voicing that assessment, as I do not consider it appropriate for Parliament, but I remember another episode. I remember when I was speaking and answering the questions of the opposition, they were upset that I was lecturing them and spoke in an accusatory tone. They also expressed gratitude, but I cannot recall anyone saying, ‘You are speaking so frightened, Mr. Mirzoyan,’” he detailed.

He also noted that yesterday he took the opportunity of the closed session, which meant what was said would only be accessible to the political arena of Armenia and not to other capitals, to attempt to provide a rational explanation or initiate dialogue with them by clarifying that Armenia can only rely on the foundations of legitimacy in negotiations, particularly concerning border demarcation. “We cannot afford to justify things that have no legal basis. Those people admitted that they knew where the border of the Republic of Armenia exists, and I consider those outbursts after the meeting to be meaningless,” he concluded.

It is noted that yesterday's meeting, convened at the invitation of the opposition, also included Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan. The session was held behind closed doors. Opposition MP Gegham Manukyan also noted that Ararat Mirzoyan appeared to be frightened.