Authorities Reactivate Visits to Russia Once Again: 'Hraparak'

'Hraparak' newspaper reports: 'After a prolonged boycott, the authorities have once again reactivated visits to Russia. From July 4-6, a delegation led by Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly Hakob Arshakyan will travel to Cherepovets, Vologda Oblast, Russia for a working visit. The delegation also includes Vahe Qalumyan, the chairman of the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Territorial Management, Local Self-Government, Agriculture, and Environmental Protection; MP Sergey Sandikov from the ruling Civil Contract party; and Sofia Mnatsakanyan, the head specialist of the international organizations department of the National Assembly’s staff.

It should be noted that Alen Simonian has been traveling exclusively to Western countries for quite some time and, due to his anti-Russian statements, is likely considered an undesirable official in Russia. He and Maria Zakharova have been indirectly criticizing each other, and he may also be avoiding trips to Russia. Consequently, recently, Hakob Arshakyan has been participating in business trips to Russia and meetings with Russian circles.'