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President Khachaturyan Affirms Armenia's Commitment to Democracy and Peace at AFD

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Momen Zellmi
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‘Democracy implies peace’, President Khachaturyan’s speech at Armenian Forum for Democracy 
Image Credit: Armenia News Agency

President Vahagn Khachaturyan highlighted Armenia's unwavering dedication to democracy and its progress in establishing democratic institutions during his speech at the 2nd annual Armenian Forum for Democracy. He emphasized the resilience of the Armenian people and their responsible participation in the democratic process, even amidst challenges like the 2020 war.

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Armenia's Democratic Journey

President Vahagn Khachaturyan addressed an audience of government officials, foreign ambassadors, and participants at the Armenian Forum for Democracy, celebrating the country's commitment to democratic values and its efforts in building democratic institutions. He emphasized that since its inception, the Republic of Armenia has been steadfast in its pursuit of democracy, despite various obstacles along the way.

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Armenia, in its three decades of independence, has faced numerous challenges, including issues within the state administration, a semi-war situation, and grave security threats. However, President Khachaturyan commended the resilience and determination of the Armenian people, stating that democracy is now an established fact in the country.

Democratic Values Amidst Challenges

The President acknowledged that the war in 2020 and subsequent political turmoil posed significant challenges to democratic values and ideals in Armenia. However, he emphasized that the Armenian authorities remained committed to the essence and principles of democracy throughout the crisis. The extraordinary parliamentary elections held in 2021 were a testament to this commitment, providing an effective and transparent means for citizens to express their will.

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(Also Read: Armenia Urges United States to Address Threats to Peace and Security in South Caucasus)

President Khachaturyan expressed his belief that the citizens of Armenia, through their participation in the elections, shouldered the responsibility of upholding democratic values. He asserted that in a free and democratic state, citizens, representatives of civil society, and public figures bear a greater responsibility compared to other systems. The 2021 parliamentary elections demonstrated the citizens' unwavering commitment to their democratic duty.

Democracy as a Pillar of Strength

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Addressing the interpretation that democracy has been subordinated to security concerns, particularly in the face of the Karabakh conflict, the President emphasized that democratic institutions are essential for the strength and power of the state. He stated that Armenia's independence referendum, first presidential and parliamentary elections were conducted amidst a war imposed on the country, making democracy an integral part of its statehood.

Despite the wounds of the 2020 war and the country still recovering from significant losses, President Khachaturyan highlighted the Armenian government's prioritization of democracy as a means to address challenges. He believed that democracy serves as a powerful weapon for Armenia to present itself to the world, reinforcing the importance of well-established democratic institutions in achieving peace.

President Vahagn Khachaturyan's speech at the Armenian Forum for Democracy underscored Armenia's steadfast commitment to democracy and its progress in building democratic institutions. Despite facing challenges, including the recent war, Armenia remains dedicated to democratic values, with the citizens actively participating in the democratic process. The President emphasized that democracy is a pillar of strength and a pathway to peace for Armenia.

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