ONE PERSON CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE

A1+
[04:02 pm] 09 December, 2008

They didn’t ask us for experts. If they do, we will definitely
investigate," told journalists today U.S. Ambassador to Armenia Mari
Yovanovich regarding the issue of engaging experts in the March 1
fact-finding group.

The Ambassador underscored the willingness of the U.S. and noted that
experts had come to Armenia two months ago for September 11 and they
had consulted with members of the NA commission.

"Their visit was not aimed at participating in the investigation on
the March 1 case, but rather to share experience. The September 11
commission helped Americans recover and move on."

Since journalists had the chance to meet with the Ambassador during
the conference on "Investigation of corruption crimes and effective
means of criminal persecution", "A1+" asked Yovanovich if she knew
about the judicial system of Armenia and justice for that matter.

"I have not been here long enough," said Mrs. Ambassador. She believes
that the justice sphere must always be in action and is proud that
that recently the U.S. managed to put an end to huge corruption crimes
the participants of which were high-ranking officials.

"I believe that each country must start from where it is. Recently,
a group of U.S. officials were persecuted and punished. The fight
against corruption requires a great deal of work and political
will. The U.S. has managed to register progress and that instills
the hope that it is possible in other countries as well."

Of course, the Ambassador also pictures the difficulties of the
fight against corruption and recalls that in 1920, there was only
one prosecutor in Chicago who made a difference.

"One person can make a difference, if he is consistent. One person
can also make a difference in Armenia, if he has the will."