R. Hovannisian "I shall no longer resign"
Founder of the Heritage Party Raffi Hovannisian today gave a news conference on Armenian-Turkish reconciliation. At journalists' instance, Mr. Hovannisian also commented on his famous letter addressed to his fellow party members which has found different interpretations in Armenian political circles.
In the letter Raffi Hovannisian wrote that he had tendered his last resignation.
"I told my fellow colleagues to consider it my last resignation and not to expect any more resignations from me. I wrote that everyone should decide for himself," said Raffi Hovannisian.
Later the Heritage Leader called back his application as "under the given circumstances, Armenia and Nagorno Karabakh's security as well as Heritage party's existence is jeopardized. Moreover, our opposition does not have a common stand on the process."
"I decided to withdraw the resignation. At the beginning of 2010 the Heritage will convene a special session to address some global, inter-political and inner-party issues. Also raised during the meeting will be the issue of placing trust in me and my responsibility. It is enough of me to resign and apologize because of others - be they my proponents, party members or the president of the country.
Regarding the Armenian-Turkish Protocols, Raffi Hovannisian said: "With the ratification of the documents Armenian officials will finally bury the Armenian Cause. It is high time Armenian authorities stopped presenting Turkish officials' theses."
Speaking about Heritage-ARFD collaboration, Raffi Hovannisian noted that the Heritage is ready to cooperate with other forces as well in an attempt to prevent the signing of the Protocols.
Mr. Hovannisian today refrained from commenting on ARFD's protest actions against the Armenian-Turkish Protocols. "I think at present we need to overcome the interests of minor parties. You may call me a romantic person, but during the past years of my activity I have tried to unite the opposition forces creating a sound atmosphere in the political scene," the Heritage founder said to A1+.
