Diaspora-Armenians hail Premier Karapetyan’s call, they expect practical steps

YEREVAN, MARCH 1, ARMENPRESS. Diaspora-Armenians hail the call of the Armenian Premier Karen Karapetyan addressed to Diaspora-Armenians. Editor-in-chief of Lebanon-based “Aztag” daily Shahan Gantaharyan told “Armenpress” that the Premier’s call can be assessed as the natural continuation of the announcement of the Armenian President addressed to the Diaspora made during the last congress of the Republican Party of Armenia.

“I think we have already done some steps in that direction, various formats of cooperation with the involvement of Diaspora-Armenians are already in operation. In this stage I attach much importance to the involvement of Diaspora-Armenian cadres in the works of state bodies so that they are able to influence the process of decision making”, Shahan Gantaharyan said.

In his words, there is both desire and potential, there is just a need to coordinate that process. It is necessary to create conditions to ensure direct participation of Diaspora-Armenians. Shahan Gantaharyan noted that the PM’s announcement is positive and they are expecting practical steps to follow.

Communication officer of the European Armenian Federation for Justice and Democracy Peto Demirchyan told “Armenpress” that for years the Diaspora has been guided by the slogan “to the Fatherland”. Significant works have been done for Armenia and Artsakh.

“Diaspora-Armenians are involved in the Armenian business, in the state agencies as well. In a word, Diaspora is represented in Armenia and everyone helps in the limits of his/her capacities in trade, economy or education. Of course, the Premier’s announcement is appreciated, but I think here we talk about the involvement of larger segments, sine as we can see private individuals are present in Armenia’s life”, Peto Demirchyan said. According to him, Armenia should become somewhat inspiring for that, meaning that by possessing a fair social and economic system and by implementation of reforms Armenia should become a source of inspiration for many.

“There have been similar announcements in the past as well. Years ago when Armenia-Diaspora congress was convened it was announced that the Armenian political scientists and elected parliamentarians should consolidate, but nothing has been done so far. There are fine ideas, but there is a necessity to coordinate the process. By the way, it shouldn’t be forgotten that the Diaspora is not one united body”, he added.

On February 27 Armenian Premier Karen Karapetyan had addressed to the Diaspora-Armenians. He had called them to participate in the shaping of the future of Armenia, consolidate efforts, and multiply capacities.