Colonel General is powerless
Colonel General Gurgen Dalibaltayan thinks Armenia should surrender no territory during the negations over the Karabakh conflict settlement.
"I am a serviceman and any concession means a death for me. Yet, if the authorities of the two countries make a decision on concessions we have to accept them," the Colonel General said in reply to A1+''s question whether Armenian authorities will cede territories.
"Today's press conference was dedicated to the liberation of Shushi. "I was lucky enough to participate in the Shushi liberation," announced Mr. Dalibaltayan.
He voiced concern that many of the war participants and heroes are jailed today for their political viewpoints. "I really feel sorry for them and wish they were in freed as soon as possible. I do believe that the President of the Republic of Armenia will soon tackle the issue".
Mr. Dalibaltayan is also concerned over the present state of the Karabakh war veterans both in Armenia and beyond its boundaries.
In reply to A1+'s question how he would comment on the authorities' decision to deny RoA citizenship and residence to Shushi battalion commander Jirayr Sefilyan, Mr. Dalibaltayan said: "Badly. It is a political decision. I must say that Diaspora Armenians have had great contribution to the Artsakh war. They led a glorious and literate struggle. They deny Sefilyan citizenship as they don't want him to participate in elections. They grant him awards but deny citizenship."
With regard to the fighting efficiency of the Armenian army, the Colonel General said: "The military spirit of our army is very high.
General Dalibaltayan is convinced that Armenia is ready to strike a counter blow against any form of Azeri aggression.
. "But in case Turkey launches a war, we shall turn to our closest military partner - Russia. A huge operation has been elaborated and laid on the table. Provided that it is realized it will guarantee the guarantee of Armenian people."
