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Press releases
28
11, 2009
Statement by President Serzh Sargsyan at the 12th convention of the Republican party of Armenia
Dear Party members,
Distinguished Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen:
It was exactly two years ago when speaking at the 11th Convention of the Republican Party, I acknowledged the most serious challenges and problems which the world was infused with at that time, and the measures that in my opinion our country had to take to meet those challenges to make Armenia a modern, democratic, and competitive state.
These challenges and problems are well known to all, and many of them have not lost their intensity even today. However, the last two years witnessed changes, which in addition to the already existing ones brought about new problems.
Certainly, first of all I mean the severe global economic and financial crisis. Not a single country was able to avoid the negative impact of the crisis. In our country, the economic decline reached 18 per cent, something that had not be anticipated in any of our programs. However, even in those circumstances we have been able to evade similar negative developments in the social area. Our citizens felt the impact of the crisis on their lives in a lesser degree than could have been expected judging from the macroeconomic indices. Salutations to all our entrepreneurs, major companies which accepted our appeal and cooperated with the government, acting sometimes contrary to the instincts of the classical business. Together we have been able to steer clear of much more undesirable developments. Today, we entered the stage when negative developments are slowly but steadfastly are being reversed. We must be able not only expeditiously overcome the consequences of the crisis but emerge with a new, qualitatively different economic reality and structure.
Events of August 2008 in South Ossetia also had a significant impact on Armenia, as well as on the countries of our region. The war revealed the vulnerability and fragility of peace and stability in the region; moreover, it made even more apparent the necessity to settle the existing conflicts.
Among our internal problems I cannot but mention the events that followed the presidential elections. Those were unacceptable and extremely dangerous developments.
The most terrible thing, however, was the divide that appeared within our nation. Those were difficult times for all of us. Today, we can say that together we were able not to deepen that divide further, and halted at the chasm’s edge.
We can be content with that, but we cannot relax and pretend that everything is fine, by no means. What is ahead demands the utmost flexibility, skills, knowledge and will power, because our most important task is to unify the society, make it one united force as tight as a fist, and to shape a culture of dialogue, tolerance, and ability to listen.
The events that followed the presidential elections exposed the intrinsic weakness and immaturity of the state, political, and social institutions established during the years of independence.
The immaturity of the electoral system, political parties, institutions of civil society, mass media, of the freedom of assembly and other liberties, which allow the rise of evil and intolerance, result in social and political predicaments. Had the social institutions been more developed, had the political forces been more responsible, had the law enforcement bodies been more professional and well-equipped, it would be possible to thwart those events and emerge with dignity from the vortex of unleashed provocations.
I am confident that this is the greatest lesson learned from those events and the main challenge in our internal life. Thus, it becomes clear that efficient steps aimed at the further development and completion of all state, political, economic, and social institutions are essential.
There is no doubt in my mind that the Republican Party of Armenia in the coming years can and must assume the role of the promoter of political, social, and economic progress.
Past achievements, political experience, human resources and professional potential of the PPA proved that this Party is the leading political force in our country and that that status should be preserved in the near future.
Together with the coalition partners, the Republican Party of Armenia has assumed responsibility to serve our people and our country. Considering all the complex processes that are going on in the world and, particularly, in our region we can state that it is historic responsibility.
We have assumed responsibilities to serve our people willingly. Until now, we have not made a single step that would disagree with our promises or programs. We have been implementing them step-by-step in both foreign and internal policies. Of course, not everything goes smoothly, but we have never been so naïve as to believe that it is easy to do good and big things. There are objective difficulties and inner resistance or inertia, however there are also subjective factors. But we have displayed political will and persistence in concluding the initiated programs with success. This will continue to be our work mode.
I would like to mention with satisfaction that the PPA has been persistent also in its further evolution. The process of reassessment within the party continues, the party is constantly purifying and strengthening. Regional, territorial and grassroots organizations are multiplying and developing, the number of horizontal counseling bodies, such as program oriented councils and those engaged in professional partisan works, grow. We are a political force that is far from changing its opinion or position every week, which is not an uncommon fashion. Our “yes” means “yes”, and “no” means “no”. We are a predictable and dependable force, which our partners and supporters can rely on and build projects with. Everyone should know that hopes and programs related to the Republican Party can be both short-term, as well as long-term and strategic. The entire history of the Party, since its inception until now, provides all necessary proof. We are steadfast in achieving our goals, but we are also able to listen and reckon with the proposals and criticism. We are steadfast but also flexible. Flexibility and alertness in our complicated times and in our complicated region are truly important. Today, we conduct our activities as a party of the 21st century. Today, there are almost no issues that would be interesting only for us. All significant issues we are concerned with positioned within the context of global concern. It is necessary to know well that context. A stroke of brush is precise only in the context of the entire picture. In this area not only the Republican Party but also our society as a whole has things to do. Only a modern society can shape a modern party, and vice versa - a modern party can facilitate modernization of the society.
Dear members of the Party,
It is true that in the last two year we have witnessed vigorous geopolitical changes, economic relapse, and upheavals in social life. And today we have reached a point when
Armenia is not a helpless boat that rocks on the waves of global tempest, but makes her own dignified way forward,
Political processes have mostly returned to political realm where they belong,
The unprecedented decline brought about by the global economic and financial crisis that shook the world is subsiding.
I state it, certainly, with satisfaction; this is the outcome of hard and principled work.
However, it’s not the situation we wanted to be in. Of course not. We have only been able to shape the environment conducive to and necessary for the implementation of the announced objectives, we have been able to resist strong negative impulses and developments, and we have been able to make the most important first steps toward reaching these objectives. And today we have all necessary prerequisites to concentrate only on the objectives of growth. Today, we have all necessary prerequisites for action, for making change and being changed, always keeping in mind that every successive day Armenia must become a better place than she was yesterday. The time has come to freely change and unavoidably be changed. The place of the Republican Party in Armenia’s life, its role and the example it presents are really significant. And the changes, which we will register within the party, will be easily adopted and accepted throughout our society. It’s a fact. Thus, as the ruling party, the Republican Party is obligated to view its partisan changes in a larger context, attaching to them the utmost importance.
Today, the Republican Party is a serious and maturing political force, which shapes and spreads traditions. With this regard the development of democratic institutions within the Party is and will continue to be an important factor for the development of democracy in the country. It is obvious, that the more democratic principles are involved in the decision making within the Party, the sooner the society will follow suit of the ruling party.
The Republican Party is not the party of the leader. The Party is not Serzh Sargsyan, Serzh Sargsyan is just a Republican. I can state with confidence that this is an important impulse for the country’s development. This is an important signal for today’s as well as tomorrow’s leaders, for comprehending one’s role within the ruling elite. Even if today it is not acknowledged as such, tomorrow it inevitably will be.
It is said that if you want to change something, start with yourself. The Republican Party should change from just a political leader to a social and political leader. To forge country forward and up, the leading force should be exemplary. If the first generation of the Republicans faced the task of preventing other political movements from diverging the Party’s values and changing the country’s course of development, the current generation of the Republicans faces other challenges – to eliminate inconsistency that is sometimes present between the words and the deeds. Hence, the Party should become the model of the Armenia we want to build. The reputation of such a party is unquestionable, its power – unshakable, and its victory is a positively changing Armenia.
It is quite natural that dangerous developments in any area are being eradicated and can be eradicated by the authorities. Fight against poverty, corruption, and other challenges facing our state first and foremost mean the fight of the leading party against them. Only a strong party can handle such a fight. You know that I have been presenting all important decisions and projects first of all for the Party discussions. Being a staunch believer in a work style which allows taking into consideration a wide range of opinions and acting on that premise, I have always been presenting crucial issues such as the anti-crisis measures or the Armenian-Turkish protocols for the Party debates. Frankly, these are usually the most difficult tests for all the initiatives. And this is the right way to act, because accountability within the party is not for unequivocal justification of the activities of the parties represented in the executive brunch but for the prevention of any mistakes.
Because,
The Party belongs not only to its current members, it belongs to the future.
The Party is not for the present only, and we are not its members only today.
The Republican Party is basically is a pillar of the reinstated Armenian statehood. And the stronger that pillar is, the stronger our statehood will be. The more modern the Party is, the more advanced the society will be.
The time has come to enforce modern political culture.
With this regard, political progress can be achieved only if within each political party a vast array of its members, including those who have different views on some issues, perceive themselves as equal members of the party, i.e. participate equally in the decision-making and feel equally responsible for their implementation. If on the party level this issues are not solved, if within the party each and every internal opposition is suppressed, which we have witnessed in our political field, then once that party assumed the leadership of the country, it will suppress any opposition. The Republican Party of Armenia is not and will not be doing it, and it is proved by the heated debates we are having during the discussions.
To establish a stable political system in Armenia it is necessary first of all to have a stable intra-party system. And the leading party should become the pioneer, showing the way by its own example.
Dear Friends,
The pace of events nowadays has visibly accelerated. Our region and our country do not any longer wait in the wings of global politics, but have come forward, while our state and our people find themselves in the epicenter of events. The time has come in dealing with challenges to make quick decisions. Is there a guarantee that the smartest, strongest, most reliable, and the most united leadership will not err in making decisions to meet these challenges? Or after making mistakes will realize it on time, will accept and will try to redress them, because mistakes are unavoidable? As recently as yesterday to make no mistakes was a synonym of doing nothing. Today, however, doing nothing means to make mistakes. And, unfortunately, many are holding their breath to see that mistake happen. It means that we should act being at the same time alert of the possibility of making a mistake. Be assured that our people will forgive mistakes, but will not forgive doing nothing. There is no recipe for staying clear from mistakes. However, there is a chance to avoid them. It is, first of all, flexibility in making decisions and in changing them. New situations require new solutions and bring forward new logic for their resolution. A hostage to yesterday’s solutions moves along a direct and predictable line. Political flexibility is possible only when one relinquishes the ambition of being the only smart and the only sensible. The smartest man can have a good idea once a day. The wise will listen to a thousand of smart and start working with a hundred of good ideas. We should be able to listen to each other and the others. The others may be smart, but one who leads the country must be also wise, to be flexible. If the opponent says something and it is a better and a more convincing idea, I have to realize his idea and not yours only because it happens to be yours. The Republican should continue to evolve to become a more flexible party, a party that is able to listen - to listen and make choices. To be a ruling party means to make choices, otherwise the best solutions will give way to simply good solutions. In a rapidly changing world to resist external challenges our country must first of all have a stable internal structure. What does it mean to be stable and what is our idea of political stability? Very often political opponents misuse the stability argument. Political stability doesn’t mean rigid ideas, stagnant ideology, or indisputable authority. Our comprehension of political stability assumes freedom of thought. The factor of stability limits the format, not the content; it urges to build and create, not to keep silent. It will be possible, if in the political field the Republican Party assumes the pioneering role in strengthening the culture of a genuine dialogue. Heated debates shouldn’t be underestimated, however we will secure political stability of our country by choosing the road of political dialogue. One can be tough toward the ideas but not toward those who express them. This must be done and we will do it first, we will uphold that principle. In establishing the culture of political dialogue in the country the foremost responsibility and opportunity lies with the ruling party. Let’s assume that responsibility with honor. Let’s create an exemplary model of the modern ruling party, which will serve the model also in the future.
Dear Fellow Republicans,
During the two years that passed since the last Party convention, the RPA through the established leadership has been able to prove that it can effectively solve the most complex problems facing the country. We proved with our work that when there is a will and resolve, headway could be achieved on any issue, even on the most painful one.
It is attested by our initiative to establish normal interstate relations with Turkey without preconditions and the developments that ensued. Today, when the Armenian-Turkish protocols have been initialed, it can be stated with confidence that even though right now we are at the very beginning of the process and the Protocols are yet to be ratified and implemented, we, indisputably, have been able to break the ice and make significant progress in our relations with Turkey. It will undoubtedly contribute to the political and economic development of our two countries, to the regional cooperation; it will strengthen peace and stability in the region. Now we have reached the stage when the Parliaments of our two countries are to ratify the Protocols. This is a process that will provide a mirror image of the parties’ seriousness, credibility of their word, and sense of responsibility. Armenia is a country which honors and duly fulfills her international obligations. I hope Turkey is guided by the same principle. I would like to mention the principle of “sensible timeframe” which is employed here. If Turkey protracts the process of ratification, Armenia, as I have already said, will take without delay corresponding steps envisaged by international law. At the same time, I reiterate that Armenia is ready to carry on with the initiated process. I would like to inform that I have already appealed to the Constitutional Court to decide on the validity of the obligations referred to in the Armenian-Turkish Protocols from the viewpoint of the Constitution of the Republic of Armenia. And once again I want the world to know that the signing of the Armenian-Turkish Protocols and the establishment of relations with Turkey does not mean to abandon or forget the Armenian Genocide. On the contrary, I am confident that through the establishment of relations with Turkey, interaction with the Turkish public it will be possible to expedite the process of recognition in Turkey and all over the world. Harboring quite legitimate concerns regarding possible scenarios for the development of the Armenia-Turkey relations, we however, should not be afraid to have relations with that country, we shouldn’t dismay because of the difficulties, shouldn’t back off from taking bold steps. On the contrary, we should continue steadfastly, to get to the realization of our national and state goals through the well-calculated and wise steps. I agree that before we haven’t had the political culture and diplomatic experience of relating with Turkey as two equals. I agree that Turkey is a powerful state, with a singular diplomatic demeanor. I, certainly, agree with all these observations. However, I categorically disagree with the conclusion that some draw based on these observations that it is necessary to stay clear from the Turks, because they can be deceitful. It is an erroneous conclusion. Yes, we don’t have experience of interacting with the Turks, but it must be started one day, must it not? And let me assure you – we learn fast…And today we are not what we were one year ago. The same goes for the resolution of the Nagorno Karabakh conflict and for our relations with Azerbaijan. Armenia favors peaceful resolution of the NK conflict, through peace negotiations, however we will not allow any encroachment against Nagorno Karabakh and any such attempt will be countered with the toughest measures. In the NK conflict settlement the principles stated by the Armenian authorities remain unchanged and are enshrined in the programs of the Republican Party and the President of Armenia. We are guided by these basic principles. We conduct negotiations based on these principles. Any reasonable person understands that a conflict settlement is a very convoluted process, and it may take years to get to the final solution. However, today’s situation with the conflict resolution inspires hope that we may be able to get to its logical conclusion in a reasonable period of time. In our relations with Turkey and Azerbaijan we will place above all our national and state interests and we will be resolute in finishing the job. Indisputably, conflicts get a long-lasting and durable solution only when they are based on just and reasonable compromises. The time of colonizing people, who live on their own land, has passed. We have stated loud and clear that the NK conflict resolution must be anchored on the collective will of the people of Nagorno Karabakh. Only in that case the solution will be durable, realistic, and peaceful. Treaty among all the parties to the NK conflict must enclose in one package solutions to all problems as well as international mechanisms which will guarantee the implementation of these solutions.
Dear Fellow Republicans,
After the parliamentary and presidential elections, the Republican Party of Armenia reached principal position, which allowed to attain majority in the legislative and executive branches, and along with the coalition partners assumed full responsibility of governing the country. This fact played a crucial role in preserving internal stability, conducting efficient economic policy under the global economic and financial crisis, initiating effective steps in foreign policy, and moving forward on other directions. Moreover, the results of the elections to the local governance bodies and to the Yerevan Municipal Council testified to the public’s growing trust toward our Party. The Republican Party not only continues to get most votes in different elections but also works seriously to improve the entire electoral process. It is no coincidence that at the Yerevan Municipal Council elections the international and local organizations for the first time registered serious positive changes in such parts of the electoral process, which in the past were mostly criticized. Before next parliamentary and presidential elections, the Republican Party along with its coalition partners should double its efforts to firmly implement all our programs. We cannot delay and should successfully continue the process of reformation.
I would like to mention that in recent months the macroeconomic developments and strong tendencies toward the stabilization of the economy permit us to make more confident forecast regarding the prospects of the country’s economic development in 2010. It also allows to review some indices in the draft budget for 2010, providing for the increase of the state budget in both funding and spending. Already today it can be stated with confidence that in its spending part the budget 2010 will exceed factual spending for 2009. Furthermore, the 2010 budget will exceed the 2009 budget. We have had the opportunity to get favorable loans from the European Union, which will allow in the future to augment the 2010 budget with another 60 billion AMD and increase spending. As a result, next year the spending part of the state budget will come close to 1 trillion AMD. I would like to stress that all the talks that the Republic of Armenia has a huge state debt are only for those, who are not well familiar with the economic policy and are aimed at terrifying our people. The very notion of “debt” exists just for this kind of situations. Had we had plenty of money, we wouldn’t borrow. Besides, money is lended to those who have good credit. When our state is given charity, we receive grants and not loans. And if we are lended money, it means we have established good credit. Better times will come, our budget will grow, our GDP will grow, and we will bounce back. In the budget to be presented to the National Assembly we will definitely be able to increase spending in the important areas such as economic development and export facilitation, development of agricultural infrastructure, education and defense, assistance to the NKR, and others.
Active steps aimed at the increasing the country’s international competitiveness, particularly, reforms in tax and customs administration, creation of equal opportunities for all, equal territorial development, reformation of the pension system, and overall efforts directed at the modernization of the country will continue. And this is one of the most serious challenges facing not only me as the President or us, as the Republican Party and coalition partners, but all of us - our entire society and nation. Regardless of political and economic upheavals, regardless of the outcome of the elections, regardless of the international and regional situation we shouldn’t forget that we have to do all which is possible and impossible so that next generations inherit a much more developed, much more prosperous and developed country. I am confident that we are able to pass this historic test with the understanding that development and prosperity of our state depends exclusively on our people.
Hence, let’s repeat what we have stated long ago.
Each new day Armenia must be better than day before. This reasoning must guide us all – reasoning of a better Armenia, prosperous Armenia, and strong Armenia. The Armenia, where everyone can realize his or her potential rather than in the search of a better life leave the country; where everyone has a job and decent pay; where every child can get a good education, and every elderly – a pension that can provide a dignified living. A better Armenia for every citizen of the Republic of Armenia. A better Armenia for the children, workers, those who want to work, farmers, artists, people with initiatives, defenders of the motherland, elderly, disabled. A better Armenia for the sons and daughters of our nation who live in foreign land, a better Armenia for coming back home. A better Armenia for the fulfillment of the entire nation’s dreams.
Let’s role up our sleeves,
For you, Armenia,
Armenia, Forge Ahead!
Distinguished Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen:
It was exactly two years ago when speaking at the 11th Convention of the Republican Party, I acknowledged the most serious challenges and problems which the world was infused with at that time, and the measures that in my opinion our country had to take to meet those challenges to make Armenia a modern, democratic, and competitive state.
These challenges and problems are well known to all, and many of them have not lost their intensity even today. However, the last two years witnessed changes, which in addition to the already existing ones brought about new problems.
Certainly, first of all I mean the severe global economic and financial crisis. Not a single country was able to avoid the negative impact of the crisis. In our country, the economic decline reached 18 per cent, something that had not be anticipated in any of our programs. However, even in those circumstances we have been able to evade similar negative developments in the social area. Our citizens felt the impact of the crisis on their lives in a lesser degree than could have been expected judging from the macroeconomic indices. Salutations to all our entrepreneurs, major companies which accepted our appeal and cooperated with the government, acting sometimes contrary to the instincts of the classical business. Together we have been able to steer clear of much more undesirable developments. Today, we entered the stage when negative developments are slowly but steadfastly are being reversed. We must be able not only expeditiously overcome the consequences of the crisis but emerge with a new, qualitatively different economic reality and structure.
Events of August 2008 in South Ossetia also had a significant impact on Armenia, as well as on the countries of our region. The war revealed the vulnerability and fragility of peace and stability in the region; moreover, it made even more apparent the necessity to settle the existing conflicts.
Among our internal problems I cannot but mention the events that followed the presidential elections. Those were unacceptable and extremely dangerous developments.
The most terrible thing, however, was the divide that appeared within our nation. Those were difficult times for all of us. Today, we can say that together we were able not to deepen that divide further, and halted at the chasm’s edge.
We can be content with that, but we cannot relax and pretend that everything is fine, by no means. What is ahead demands the utmost flexibility, skills, knowledge and will power, because our most important task is to unify the society, make it one united force as tight as a fist, and to shape a culture of dialogue, tolerance, and ability to listen.
The events that followed the presidential elections exposed the intrinsic weakness and immaturity of the state, political, and social institutions established during the years of independence.
The immaturity of the electoral system, political parties, institutions of civil society, mass media, of the freedom of assembly and other liberties, which allow the rise of evil and intolerance, result in social and political predicaments. Had the social institutions been more developed, had the political forces been more responsible, had the law enforcement bodies been more professional and well-equipped, it would be possible to thwart those events and emerge with dignity from the vortex of unleashed provocations.
I am confident that this is the greatest lesson learned from those events and the main challenge in our internal life. Thus, it becomes clear that efficient steps aimed at the further development and completion of all state, political, economic, and social institutions are essential.
There is no doubt in my mind that the Republican Party of Armenia in the coming years can and must assume the role of the promoter of political, social, and economic progress.
Past achievements, political experience, human resources and professional potential of the PPA proved that this Party is the leading political force in our country and that that status should be preserved in the near future.
Together with the coalition partners, the Republican Party of Armenia has assumed responsibility to serve our people and our country. Considering all the complex processes that are going on in the world and, particularly, in our region we can state that it is historic responsibility.
We have assumed responsibilities to serve our people willingly. Until now, we have not made a single step that would disagree with our promises or programs. We have been implementing them step-by-step in both foreign and internal policies. Of course, not everything goes smoothly, but we have never been so naïve as to believe that it is easy to do good and big things. There are objective difficulties and inner resistance or inertia, however there are also subjective factors. But we have displayed political will and persistence in concluding the initiated programs with success. This will continue to be our work mode.
I would like to mention with satisfaction that the PPA has been persistent also in its further evolution. The process of reassessment within the party continues, the party is constantly purifying and strengthening. Regional, territorial and grassroots organizations are multiplying and developing, the number of horizontal counseling bodies, such as program oriented councils and those engaged in professional partisan works, grow. We are a political force that is far from changing its opinion or position every week, which is not an uncommon fashion. Our “yes” means “yes”, and “no” means “no”. We are a predictable and dependable force, which our partners and supporters can rely on and build projects with. Everyone should know that hopes and programs related to the Republican Party can be both short-term, as well as long-term and strategic. The entire history of the Party, since its inception until now, provides all necessary proof. We are steadfast in achieving our goals, but we are also able to listen and reckon with the proposals and criticism. We are steadfast but also flexible. Flexibility and alertness in our complicated times and in our complicated region are truly important. Today, we conduct our activities as a party of the 21st century. Today, there are almost no issues that would be interesting only for us. All significant issues we are concerned with positioned within the context of global concern. It is necessary to know well that context. A stroke of brush is precise only in the context of the entire picture. In this area not only the Republican Party but also our society as a whole has things to do. Only a modern society can shape a modern party, and vice versa - a modern party can facilitate modernization of the society.
Dear members of the Party,
It is true that in the last two year we have witnessed vigorous geopolitical changes, economic relapse, and upheavals in social life. And today we have reached a point when
Armenia is not a helpless boat that rocks on the waves of global tempest, but makes her own dignified way forward,
Political processes have mostly returned to political realm where they belong,
The unprecedented decline brought about by the global economic and financial crisis that shook the world is subsiding.
I state it, certainly, with satisfaction; this is the outcome of hard and principled work.
However, it’s not the situation we wanted to be in. Of course not. We have only been able to shape the environment conducive to and necessary for the implementation of the announced objectives, we have been able to resist strong negative impulses and developments, and we have been able to make the most important first steps toward reaching these objectives. And today we have all necessary prerequisites to concentrate only on the objectives of growth. Today, we have all necessary prerequisites for action, for making change and being changed, always keeping in mind that every successive day Armenia must become a better place than she was yesterday. The time has come to freely change and unavoidably be changed. The place of the Republican Party in Armenia’s life, its role and the example it presents are really significant. And the changes, which we will register within the party, will be easily adopted and accepted throughout our society. It’s a fact. Thus, as the ruling party, the Republican Party is obligated to view its partisan changes in a larger context, attaching to them the utmost importance.
Today, the Republican Party is a serious and maturing political force, which shapes and spreads traditions. With this regard the development of democratic institutions within the Party is and will continue to be an important factor for the development of democracy in the country. It is obvious, that the more democratic principles are involved in the decision making within the Party, the sooner the society will follow suit of the ruling party.
The Republican Party is not the party of the leader. The Party is not Serzh Sargsyan, Serzh Sargsyan is just a Republican. I can state with confidence that this is an important impulse for the country’s development. This is an important signal for today’s as well as tomorrow’s leaders, for comprehending one’s role within the ruling elite. Even if today it is not acknowledged as such, tomorrow it inevitably will be.
It is said that if you want to change something, start with yourself. The Republican Party should change from just a political leader to a social and political leader. To forge country forward and up, the leading force should be exemplary. If the first generation of the Republicans faced the task of preventing other political movements from diverging the Party’s values and changing the country’s course of development, the current generation of the Republicans faces other challenges – to eliminate inconsistency that is sometimes present between the words and the deeds. Hence, the Party should become the model of the Armenia we want to build. The reputation of such a party is unquestionable, its power – unshakable, and its victory is a positively changing Armenia.
It is quite natural that dangerous developments in any area are being eradicated and can be eradicated by the authorities. Fight against poverty, corruption, and other challenges facing our state first and foremost mean the fight of the leading party against them. Only a strong party can handle such a fight. You know that I have been presenting all important decisions and projects first of all for the Party discussions. Being a staunch believer in a work style which allows taking into consideration a wide range of opinions and acting on that premise, I have always been presenting crucial issues such as the anti-crisis measures or the Armenian-Turkish protocols for the Party debates. Frankly, these are usually the most difficult tests for all the initiatives. And this is the right way to act, because accountability within the party is not for unequivocal justification of the activities of the parties represented in the executive brunch but for the prevention of any mistakes.
Because,
The Party belongs not only to its current members, it belongs to the future.
The Party is not for the present only, and we are not its members only today.
The Republican Party is basically is a pillar of the reinstated Armenian statehood. And the stronger that pillar is, the stronger our statehood will be. The more modern the Party is, the more advanced the society will be.
The time has come to enforce modern political culture.
With this regard, political progress can be achieved only if within each political party a vast array of its members, including those who have different views on some issues, perceive themselves as equal members of the party, i.e. participate equally in the decision-making and feel equally responsible for their implementation. If on the party level this issues are not solved, if within the party each and every internal opposition is suppressed, which we have witnessed in our political field, then once that party assumed the leadership of the country, it will suppress any opposition. The Republican Party of Armenia is not and will not be doing it, and it is proved by the heated debates we are having during the discussions.
To establish a stable political system in Armenia it is necessary first of all to have a stable intra-party system. And the leading party should become the pioneer, showing the way by its own example.
Dear Friends,
The pace of events nowadays has visibly accelerated. Our region and our country do not any longer wait in the wings of global politics, but have come forward, while our state and our people find themselves in the epicenter of events. The time has come in dealing with challenges to make quick decisions. Is there a guarantee that the smartest, strongest, most reliable, and the most united leadership will not err in making decisions to meet these challenges? Or after making mistakes will realize it on time, will accept and will try to redress them, because mistakes are unavoidable? As recently as yesterday to make no mistakes was a synonym of doing nothing. Today, however, doing nothing means to make mistakes. And, unfortunately, many are holding their breath to see that mistake happen. It means that we should act being at the same time alert of the possibility of making a mistake. Be assured that our people will forgive mistakes, but will not forgive doing nothing. There is no recipe for staying clear from mistakes. However, there is a chance to avoid them. It is, first of all, flexibility in making decisions and in changing them. New situations require new solutions and bring forward new logic for their resolution. A hostage to yesterday’s solutions moves along a direct and predictable line. Political flexibility is possible only when one relinquishes the ambition of being the only smart and the only sensible. The smartest man can have a good idea once a day. The wise will listen to a thousand of smart and start working with a hundred of good ideas. We should be able to listen to each other and the others. The others may be smart, but one who leads the country must be also wise, to be flexible. If the opponent says something and it is a better and a more convincing idea, I have to realize his idea and not yours only because it happens to be yours. The Republican should continue to evolve to become a more flexible party, a party that is able to listen - to listen and make choices. To be a ruling party means to make choices, otherwise the best solutions will give way to simply good solutions. In a rapidly changing world to resist external challenges our country must first of all have a stable internal structure. What does it mean to be stable and what is our idea of political stability? Very often political opponents misuse the stability argument. Political stability doesn’t mean rigid ideas, stagnant ideology, or indisputable authority. Our comprehension of political stability assumes freedom of thought. The factor of stability limits the format, not the content; it urges to build and create, not to keep silent. It will be possible, if in the political field the Republican Party assumes the pioneering role in strengthening the culture of a genuine dialogue. Heated debates shouldn’t be underestimated, however we will secure political stability of our country by choosing the road of political dialogue. One can be tough toward the ideas but not toward those who express them. This must be done and we will do it first, we will uphold that principle. In establishing the culture of political dialogue in the country the foremost responsibility and opportunity lies with the ruling party. Let’s assume that responsibility with honor. Let’s create an exemplary model of the modern ruling party, which will serve the model also in the future.
Dear Fellow Republicans,
During the two years that passed since the last Party convention, the RPA through the established leadership has been able to prove that it can effectively solve the most complex problems facing the country. We proved with our work that when there is a will and resolve, headway could be achieved on any issue, even on the most painful one.
It is attested by our initiative to establish normal interstate relations with Turkey without preconditions and the developments that ensued. Today, when the Armenian-Turkish protocols have been initialed, it can be stated with confidence that even though right now we are at the very beginning of the process and the Protocols are yet to be ratified and implemented, we, indisputably, have been able to break the ice and make significant progress in our relations with Turkey. It will undoubtedly contribute to the political and economic development of our two countries, to the regional cooperation; it will strengthen peace and stability in the region. Now we have reached the stage when the Parliaments of our two countries are to ratify the Protocols. This is a process that will provide a mirror image of the parties’ seriousness, credibility of their word, and sense of responsibility. Armenia is a country which honors and duly fulfills her international obligations. I hope Turkey is guided by the same principle. I would like to mention the principle of “sensible timeframe” which is employed here. If Turkey protracts the process of ratification, Armenia, as I have already said, will take without delay corresponding steps envisaged by international law. At the same time, I reiterate that Armenia is ready to carry on with the initiated process. I would like to inform that I have already appealed to the Constitutional Court to decide on the validity of the obligations referred to in the Armenian-Turkish Protocols from the viewpoint of the Constitution of the Republic of Armenia. And once again I want the world to know that the signing of the Armenian-Turkish Protocols and the establishment of relations with Turkey does not mean to abandon or forget the Armenian Genocide. On the contrary, I am confident that through the establishment of relations with Turkey, interaction with the Turkish public it will be possible to expedite the process of recognition in Turkey and all over the world. Harboring quite legitimate concerns regarding possible scenarios for the development of the Armenia-Turkey relations, we however, should not be afraid to have relations with that country, we shouldn’t dismay because of the difficulties, shouldn’t back off from taking bold steps. On the contrary, we should continue steadfastly, to get to the realization of our national and state goals through the well-calculated and wise steps. I agree that before we haven’t had the political culture and diplomatic experience of relating with Turkey as two equals. I agree that Turkey is a powerful state, with a singular diplomatic demeanor. I, certainly, agree with all these observations. However, I categorically disagree with the conclusion that some draw based on these observations that it is necessary to stay clear from the Turks, because they can be deceitful. It is an erroneous conclusion. Yes, we don’t have experience of interacting with the Turks, but it must be started one day, must it not? And let me assure you – we learn fast…And today we are not what we were one year ago. The same goes for the resolution of the Nagorno Karabakh conflict and for our relations with Azerbaijan. Armenia favors peaceful resolution of the NK conflict, through peace negotiations, however we will not allow any encroachment against Nagorno Karabakh and any such attempt will be countered with the toughest measures. In the NK conflict settlement the principles stated by the Armenian authorities remain unchanged and are enshrined in the programs of the Republican Party and the President of Armenia. We are guided by these basic principles. We conduct negotiations based on these principles. Any reasonable person understands that a conflict settlement is a very convoluted process, and it may take years to get to the final solution. However, today’s situation with the conflict resolution inspires hope that we may be able to get to its logical conclusion in a reasonable period of time. In our relations with Turkey and Azerbaijan we will place above all our national and state interests and we will be resolute in finishing the job. Indisputably, conflicts get a long-lasting and durable solution only when they are based on just and reasonable compromises. The time of colonizing people, who live on their own land, has passed. We have stated loud and clear that the NK conflict resolution must be anchored on the collective will of the people of Nagorno Karabakh. Only in that case the solution will be durable, realistic, and peaceful. Treaty among all the parties to the NK conflict must enclose in one package solutions to all problems as well as international mechanisms which will guarantee the implementation of these solutions.
Dear Fellow Republicans,
After the parliamentary and presidential elections, the Republican Party of Armenia reached principal position, which allowed to attain majority in the legislative and executive branches, and along with the coalition partners assumed full responsibility of governing the country. This fact played a crucial role in preserving internal stability, conducting efficient economic policy under the global economic and financial crisis, initiating effective steps in foreign policy, and moving forward on other directions. Moreover, the results of the elections to the local governance bodies and to the Yerevan Municipal Council testified to the public’s growing trust toward our Party. The Republican Party not only continues to get most votes in different elections but also works seriously to improve the entire electoral process. It is no coincidence that at the Yerevan Municipal Council elections the international and local organizations for the first time registered serious positive changes in such parts of the electoral process, which in the past were mostly criticized. Before next parliamentary and presidential elections, the Republican Party along with its coalition partners should double its efforts to firmly implement all our programs. We cannot delay and should successfully continue the process of reformation.
I would like to mention that in recent months the macroeconomic developments and strong tendencies toward the stabilization of the economy permit us to make more confident forecast regarding the prospects of the country’s economic development in 2010. It also allows to review some indices in the draft budget for 2010, providing for the increase of the state budget in both funding and spending. Already today it can be stated with confidence that in its spending part the budget 2010 will exceed factual spending for 2009. Furthermore, the 2010 budget will exceed the 2009 budget. We have had the opportunity to get favorable loans from the European Union, which will allow in the future to augment the 2010 budget with another 60 billion AMD and increase spending. As a result, next year the spending part of the state budget will come close to 1 trillion AMD. I would like to stress that all the talks that the Republic of Armenia has a huge state debt are only for those, who are not well familiar with the economic policy and are aimed at terrifying our people. The very notion of “debt” exists just for this kind of situations. Had we had plenty of money, we wouldn’t borrow. Besides, money is lended to those who have good credit. When our state is given charity, we receive grants and not loans. And if we are lended money, it means we have established good credit. Better times will come, our budget will grow, our GDP will grow, and we will bounce back. In the budget to be presented to the National Assembly we will definitely be able to increase spending in the important areas such as economic development and export facilitation, development of agricultural infrastructure, education and defense, assistance to the NKR, and others.
Active steps aimed at the increasing the country’s international competitiveness, particularly, reforms in tax and customs administration, creation of equal opportunities for all, equal territorial development, reformation of the pension system, and overall efforts directed at the modernization of the country will continue. And this is one of the most serious challenges facing not only me as the President or us, as the Republican Party and coalition partners, but all of us - our entire society and nation. Regardless of political and economic upheavals, regardless of the outcome of the elections, regardless of the international and regional situation we shouldn’t forget that we have to do all which is possible and impossible so that next generations inherit a much more developed, much more prosperous and developed country. I am confident that we are able to pass this historic test with the understanding that development and prosperity of our state depends exclusively on our people.
Hence, let’s repeat what we have stated long ago.
Each new day Armenia must be better than day before. This reasoning must guide us all – reasoning of a better Armenia, prosperous Armenia, and strong Armenia. The Armenia, where everyone can realize his or her potential rather than in the search of a better life leave the country; where everyone has a job and decent pay; where every child can get a good education, and every elderly – a pension that can provide a dignified living. A better Armenia for every citizen of the Republic of Armenia. A better Armenia for the children, workers, those who want to work, farmers, artists, people with initiatives, defenders of the motherland, elderly, disabled. A better Armenia for the sons and daughters of our nation who live in foreign land, a better Armenia for coming back home. A better Armenia for the fulfillment of the entire nation’s dreams.
Let’s role up our sleeves,
For you, Armenia,
Armenia, Forge Ahead!