SERZH SARKISSIAN: "ARMENIA WILL SOON BECOME A GLORIFIED COUNTRY"

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25 January, 2008

On January 25 presidential candidate Serzh Sarkissian visited
St. Sargis Church before the scheduled meeting with residents of
Nor-Nork Commune. He was escorted by the leader of Araratian diocese
Navasard Ktchoyan.

Over a thousand people were waiting for the Prime Minister’s arrival
in Nor-Nork.

After welcoming local residents Serzh Sarkissian presented his
pre-election programme. "Taking into consideration the fact that
the amended Constitutions sets new criteria for the RA President
we decided to attach some figures to the programme as the President
still bears responsibility for everything in the country," Sarkissian
said and went on making pre-election promises, "The figures imply that
Armenia’s living conditions will better in a short time. It means that
pensions, salaries and social expenses will be doubled. People will
lead a dignified life. You must rely on me to achieve these figures."

According to the Armenian Premier, he reiterated the words at each
meeting.

"I always cite the example of Karabakh veterans. Many high-rank
officials thought the Karabakh conflict was already settled,
territories were surrendered and Armenia was defeated. But we were able
to win a victory due to people who sacrificed their lives for the sake
of the country and who strongly believed that the Cause was justified
and the war was sacred. I assure you that Armenia will soon become
a glorified country. I have all grounds to pledge that we shall live
in a different country in five years’ time," Serge Sarkissian said.

"I call on you to participate in the upcoming election and to vote
for the candidate you want. Yes, I do need your votes and I do not
refrain from asking people for support. One shouldn’t prefer his
personnel rating to the country’s interests. Ambition should be within
limits. I have always served my country."

Serzh Sarkissian’s speech was followed by a concert featuring Armenian
famous pop singers – Forsh, Shushan Petrossian, Arsen Safarian,
etc. But the show didn’t seem to attract the presentees. They rushed
to Serzh Sarkissian to pose questions and hand letters. Some wanted
job, others flats.

To note, today Serzh Sarkissian was escorted by Yerevan Mayor Erwand
Zakharian and head of the Cultural Department at Yerevan Municipality
Onik Vatian. They both joined the Armenian Premier at working hours.

It is due to mention that the meeting participants arrived at the
venue by buses N22.

When we asked one of the drivers where they were heading, the latter
said, "Don’t get on the bus. The bus is ordered. We are going to Jrvej
(a village in Kotayk Marz).