V. Karapetyan: "Changes are not far off"
The Armenian National Congress (HAK) does link its actions to the visit of foreign delegates, said HAK's foreign policy spokesman Vladimir Karapetyan.
"We ourselves must take measures to make radical changes in the country," said Karapetyan dismissing reports that HAK is planning its next rally on the day of PACE co-rapporteurs' visit.
"Foreign diplomats need not arrive in Armenia to get acquainted with the situation. BBC and other international TV companies gave a detailed coverage of our previous rallies."
The co-rapporteurs last visited Armenia 1,5 years ago. Karapetyan says the interval shows disregard for PACE Resolution 1677 adopted by the structure in summer 2009.
"To date, Armenia has not fulfilled the requirements of PACE resolutions. People arrested after the post-election clashes of March 1, 2008, still remain in prison. In fact, their release could create an opportunity for a dialogue, alleviate the tension existing in Armenia after the 2008 presidential elections.
According to the HAK representative, citizens' rights are grossly violated in the country.
"Nine political prisoners remain in captivity. Liberty Square remains closed for opposition's rallies. A1+ TV Company is not returned to the air. There is a lack of pluralism in Armenian media. No one, including the authorities, can refute these facts," he stressed
He noted that members of the Armenian delegation, mostly representatives of pro-government forces, voted for the last four PACE resolutions on Armenia.
"The Armenian parliament speaker voiced support for the last resolution. The fact is that the authorities are unable to meet its requirements, that is why I do not place great hopes on the visit of co-rapporteurs. I rely on our people and believe that changes are not far off."
