YEREVAN — Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has denied criticism suggesting that the government is “doing nothing” to secure the release and return of former political and military leaders of Artsakh detained in Baku. He stated:
“I do not consider anyone there to be my adversary. We understand that what is happening is not only deeply concerning but is also being used—and will continue to be used—to provoke new escalations in the region.”
He further revealed, “Moreover, we have intelligence indicating that banned psychotropic substances are being used against these individuals to extract testimonies or statements designed to provoke regional escalations. We are deeply concerned about this process.”
“This trial is being used against the Republic of Armenia. It is highly likely that banned psychotropic substances are being used to extract testimonies from these individuals, which can then be exploited in various ways against Armenia. We understand this issue deeply and comprehensively,” Pashinyan said in an interview, emphasizing that the government is utilizing all available means to address the situation.
“We are aware, based on intelligence, that these banned psychotropic methods are being used to extract testimonies that will be used against the Republic of Armenia. How can we say, ‘Oh, it’s fine; political opponents are in Baku prisons’? How can anyone think like that?” he stressed.
No Plans for Snap Elections
Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated that the Armenian authorities do not plan to hold snap elections.
“There are no snap elections in our plans,” Pashinyan said in an interview with Public Television, responding to a question about whether his recent activity on social media serves that purpose.
He dismissed criticism that while Azerbaijan’s leadership issues threatening statements, he is seen cycling or hosting podcasts from his home.
“We understand that there are forces both within and outside the region aiming to provoke new escalations. The key element in these escalations usually begins with a war of words. They are attempting to drag us into verbal confrontations,” Pashinyan explained. He added that their strategy is to avoid escalation and respond in ways that prevent war or at least avoid creating the conditions for conflict.
Universal Income Declaration Raises Questions
All employees registered or working under civil contracts must submit income declarations by May 1 if they are Armenian citizens and residents. The initiative for universal income declaration has raised questions and concerns among the public.
Pashinyan noted that every reform faces its challenges. He stated that if citizens benefit from the universal declaration system, up to 70 billion drams could be returned next year as a result of declarations filed this year. He explained this in the context of social credits.
He also announced that the 3,000-dram fee for electronic signatures required for declarations will be canceled.
Despite the government’s arguments, the public remains unconvinced. For instance, the “Country to Live” party has initiated a petition against the reform. One of the party’s co-founders, Mesrop Arakelyan, called the universal declaration an incomprehensible and unnecessary change, labeling it a “malreform.”
Military Reforms and the Ararat-Aragats Discourse
Pashinyan emphasized the importance of the Ararat-Aragats discourse for military reforms, which his administration considers a strategic issue.
“The Ararat discourse has very practical implications. Under the Ararat discourse, we cannot have a combat-ready army or procure weapons. If our rhetoric is centered around going to buy weapons with an Ararat painting, no one will sell them to us, as they do not want to enter a conflict with Turkey, especially because of us. Isn’t that clear?” he said.
The debate about contrasting Aragats with Ararat, the homeland with the state, and the nation with the people was sparked during Pashinyan’s meeting with students.
Public Transport Price Hike in Yerevan
When asked whether he supports an increase in public transport fares, Pashinyan responded, “I support Yerevan having public transport.”
He elaborated that he supports the city having public transport five or ten years from now, which requires a long-term transportation system.
Starting February 1, Yerevan residents will use public transport under new tariffs, ranging from 300 drams for a single ride to annual packages of up to 90,000 drams. Mayor Tigran Avinyan recently announced that citizen feedback was reviewed, and adjustments were made to provide a “fair solution.” These changes will be discussed at the February 11 City Council meeting.
However, technical issues related to ticket purchases and payments remain unresolved.
