Armenia’s premier continues meetings in US

Armenian Prime Minister Tigran Sargsyan, who is on a working visit to the United States, has visited the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America.

Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Leader of the Western Diocese, informed Armenia’s premier of the programs. Mr Tigran Sargsyan also held a meeting with representatives of the Armenian community, answered their questions concerning Armenia’s domestic problems and foreign relations.

Following the meeting, the Armenian premier came up to a group of US-based activists of the Teghut civil initiative. They expressed their concern over the environmental problems in Armenia, particularly over operation of mines.

Armenia’s government is well aware of the movement’s concerns and holds regular meetings with its members, the premier said.

Mr Tigran Sargsyan welcomes NGOs’ activities and initiatives as they meeting Armenia’s national interests.

The government’s duty is to create opportunities for NGOs to voice their opinions, he said.

Armenia’s government considers the movement’s opinion. “The government is assisting your movement as well. I am sure this dialogue is of benefit to our nation. Of course, many of your demands are difficult to meet, but we are ready to discuss the issues and try to find solutions that would be acceptable to you as well. I would also like to say I am glad that many of you intend to return to Yerevan. I am cordially inviting you to the Homeland,” Mr Tigran Sargsyan said.

Armenia’s premier is continuing his visit to the US. On December 11, he is to participate in the opening ceremony of the ArmTech 2012 conference.