Over the last 5 years, significant developments in Armenia brought more liberalization for citizens: Samantha Power

YEREVAN, JULY 10, ARMENPRESS. USAID considers the issue of democracy from a global perspective, noting significant setbacks in democratic processes worldwide, USAID Administrator Samantha Power, speaking at a press conference, referred to the democratic processes taking place in Armenia. 

"Election results are increasingly contested, even in the United States, and political societies are under pressure everywhere. In some countries, people are afraid to criticize the government due to the risk of arrest.

I have not come here to assess the components of the Armenian democratic process from the perspective of an external observer, but in a more global context. There have been significant developments in Armenia over the past five years, which have brought more liberalization for citizens, particularly in the fight against corruption.

There is more transparency here.  We are not supporting any person or government, but we consider what the US can do to strengthen the structures and institutions, the springs and balances, to protect the field, where there are also criticisms about some of the phenomena in the democratic process,’’ said the USAID Administrator Samantha Power. 

Once again referring to the prospect of establishing peace in the South Caucasus, Power emphasized that all problems should be resolved to achieve lasting peace in the region. She noted that during her stay in Armenia, she focused on the opportunities and advantages important for the people of both Armenia and Azerbaijan.

 “According to recent polls conducted in Azerbaijan, there is broad support for the peace process. We call on the authorities of Azerbaijan to respect human rights, treat prisoners from Nagorno-Karabakh humanely, and conduct fair trials. The resolution of these issues will also ensure progress in the negotiations,’’ the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) Administrator Samantha Power said.