We Are Completely Different, Apart from Being Presidents: Robert Kocharian

Robert Kocharian addressed the calls for former presidents to step back from politics and not participate in elections, stating that he is curious about what is underlying the "identification of former leaders."

“In terms of character, the three former presidents are completely different. If it’s possible to invent people who are very far from one another, then the three of us—Ter-Petrosyan, myself, and Serge Sargsyan—are those individuals. We are completely different in characteristics. Our viewpoints are also completely different. Our working styles, too. The effectiveness of our years in office is also distinct. From a team perspective, we are entirely dissimilar. What connects us? Our employment records, which state we have been presidents. Nothing else connects us,” he said.

Kocharian also reminded that after leaving the presidency in 2008, he has held no state position. He noted that the happiest years of his life were between 2008 and 2018, when he was a free man, worked in a large company, earned substantial income, and bore no responsibility for everything.

“This is another pleasure for a person who went through tough trials from 1988 to 2008—taking responsibility for crisis and emergency situations. Now, I am faced with a situation that is also crisis-related, standing at a crossroads of taking responsibility or avoiding it. I believe that no one can lead this country out of this situation better than I can. That’s why I am participating. If anyone has a name that has more extensive experience in all directions, great,” he added.