Diaspora responds to PM's appeal (video)
The Assembly of Armenians of Europe (AAE) has responded to the appeal made by Prime Minister Karen Karapetyan to Diaspora Armenians. The Armenian premier has called on internationally recognized Armenians from around the world to take part in the reforms underway in Armenia. The Diaspora has its idea about in-depth cooperation. “We suggest that a commission comprising our [Diaspora] compatriots be set up adjunct to each ministry which will have two definite functions. It will provide consultations or have influence wherever it sees and reveals cases of corruption and show how the problem must be handled. Should this happen, I am convinced that there will be investments and corruption will disappear in the country,” says AAE President Karo Hakobyan. The Diaspora has heard similar appeals from the previous premiers as well, but the PMs did not take any steps. The state does not prepare the ground for immigration. “The Diaspora has such resources and potential that many nations in the world are devoid of. But we cannot use them. I am not only speaking about money, I am speaking about knowledge, experience, and education. If the plan did not work out in the past, why should it work out now?” he adds. How can we think about large-scale immigration if 40 000 people leave the country every year? “In purely economic terms, the capital must feel safe. Everything is well written on paper, but we are all aware of numerous difficulties in real life. Those very difficulties will not allow it to happen,” Mr Hakobyan says. Armenians in Europe are excited that Armenia has eventually reached a framework agreement with the European Union. “It [the agreement] opens an opportunity for Armenia to benefit from Europe, which, I think is positive. The closer contacts we develop with Europe, the more helpful we shall be to Armenia in political and economic terms, as well as to the Karabakh issue,’ the AAE President says. The Assembly of Armenians of Europe will not back any of the political forces running in the April 2 parliamentary elections. “We do not consider it right to support any political force because forces are changing all the time and the Diaspora splits in the result. We are against it. We second the force that accepts democracy and free elections. Anyway, the AAE will not remain indifferent and will carry out observation mission within the framework of the “Justice in Armenia” project.
