ARMENIAN REVOLUTIONARY FEDERATION STATEMENT
Yerevan
The Armenian Revolutionary Federation announces the cessation of its
participation in the political coalition.
We deem it necessary to explain this step in view of its political
significance and consequences, and the public’s interest.
First of all, the ARF-Dashnaktsutyun joined the coalition in order
to overcome through the unity of forces the crisis facing the
country following the presidential elections and the threats to the
independence and security of the two Armenian states, and with the
aim of making coordinated reforms.
During this period there were certain achievements, but insurmountable
disagreements on matters of principle emerged with respect to the
direction of the foreign policy.
It has always been our conviction that one of the main directions of
the the state’s national security strategy is the universal recognition
and condemnation, especially by Turkey, of the Armenian Genocide. This
is seen not only in the context of the restoration of historical
justice, but also as a way to improve the overall environment of
mutual trust in the region, while also preventing similar crimes
in the future. In this sense, as we have already announced, we find
unacceptable and condemn the agreement by Armenia’s Ministry of Foreign
Affairs to join the April 22 joint statement with Turkey, on the eve of
April 24 and when the leaders of Turkey are=0 D making anti-Armenian
announcements and restating preconditions for the normalization of
relations. We also have principled disagreements with the position
of the authorities of Armenia on certain issues being discussed in
the Armenia-Turkey negotiations. We will publicize our positions
regarding those issues when they are discussed in public.
Henceforth, in the political landscape of Armenia the
ARF-Dashnaktsutyun will assume a new role, that of an opposition
force. Our main priorities will be:
1. To become a full-fledged alternative to the authorities, proposing
our own programs and solutions on all major issues.
2. As opposition to assume the role of effectively counterbalancing
and restraining the authorities.
3. To take the necessary actions to heal and crystallize the political
landscape, to form civilized relations between the authorities and the
opposition, to establish social justice and to strengthen democracy.
4. To carry on comprehensive activities emanating from electoral
promises, showcasing the ARF-Dashnkatsutyun’s ideological and political
character.
5. In the processes of normalization of Armenian-Turkish relations
and the resolution of the Karabagh conflict, to be guided exclusively
by our state-national interests and goals.
We appreciate the work carried out jointly with our coalition partners
and we wish them success in their endeavors in the interest of our
state and people.
ARMENIAN REVOLUTIONARY FEDERATION SUPREME BODY OF ARMENIA 27 A
pril 2009