STRASBOURG CALLS TO ADOPT THE CONSTITUTIONAL REFORMS

A1+
| 15:47:27 | 10-10-2005 | Official |

Today in Strasbourg Diogo Freitas do Amaral, Minister for Foreign
Affairs of Portugal and Chairman of the Council of Europe Committee
of Ministers, made the following statement:

“After several months of intense debate, Armenia’s National Assembly
has just adopted a number of constitutional amendments, in line
with the country’s commitment undertaken when joining the Council of
Europe. The referendum to be held on 27 November on this reform will
be vital for Armenia. By turning out to vote during the referendum,
the people of Armenia will indeed be deciding on changes of fundamental
importance for their future.

The expertise of the constitutional amendments by the Council of
Europe’s Venice Commission has shown that the reform will allow the
alignment of the Constitution with European standards by enhancing the
independence of the judiciary, providing a more balanced distribution
of power between the executive and the legislative branches, as well
as promoting local democracy and freedom of the media.

I appeal to the sense of responsibility and concern for the common
good of Armenia’s political parties, beyond their differences, in
order to support this reform, which is essential to the country’s
future as a democracy. By participating in the referendum and showing
their attachment to the values of freedom and democracy, the people
of Armenia will show their desire to see Armenia fully assume its
part in the European construction.”

From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress