Samvel Karapetyan, leader of the Strong Armenia alliance participating in Armenia’s parliamentary elections, said Russia has its own interests in Armenia and consistently pursues its policies regardless of local political actors.
Karapetyan made the remarks during a briefing with journalists after casting his ballot at polling station No. 3/27 in Yerevan.
“I think the Russians have their own interests in Armenia and consistently pursue their policy. It has nothing to do with Pashinyan, me, or any political force,” he said.
Responding to a question about recent remarks by Russian President Vladimir Putin, who said Armenia has many pro-Russian political forces and figures and expressed hope that they would be able to participate in the country’s political processes, Karapetyan rejected suggestions that Moscow was backing him.
“Have you seen Russia supporting me? Vladimir Putin merely stated that people should have the right and the opportunity to participate in elections. Of course, I do not consider that support,” he said.
Asked what alternatives his alliance would consider if the current government could not be removed through elections, Karapetyan said any future scenario would depend on the Armenian people.
“How can I have another plan? It depends on the Armenian people. Whatever the Armenian people decide will happen. If Nikol Pashinyan is elected — although I believe that possibility is equal to zero — and the Armenian people accept it, then they will accept it,” he stated.
Karapetyan emphasized the importance of having a legitimate government, saying it is essential for the country’s development.
“I would like to see Armenia tomorrow with a legitimate government. That is very important for our country because without a legitimate government, we will not be able to ensure Armenia’s development,” he said.
The Strong Armenia leader added that he would answer additional questions from journalists in the coming days.
