Serzh Sargsyan: "2012 was a successful year"

At a traditional reception in the Central Bank of Armenia (CBA), Armenia’s President Serzh Sargsyan noted that the year 2012 can be considered successful though the economic indicators are not so high.

“I do not think 7% economic growth is high, but I think the government has accomplished its task,” the president said.

Addressing the managers of the banks operating in Armenia’s territory, Armenia’s leader pointed out their significant role as financial system representatives. It is due to their work that the gloomy forecasts proved inaccurate.

“If you remember it was universal forecast that the government would not be able to collect the budgeted taxes, the Armenian dram would devaluate at extremely high rates. I expected a collapse, but, fortunately, nothing like that happened,” President Serzh Sargsyan said.

“I am grateful to the Central Bank staff, to all the commercial banks – both the owners and staff – for their high results,” Armenia’s leader said. Serzh Sargsyan congratulated all the bankers and expressed a wish that all the problems should go down in history along with the passing year and that next year good dominate in all families.

The Armenian leader noted that next year will be closed with better results.

“It is most important that there be peace in our country, at our borders and in the region. It is extremely important that the international economic situation be favorable,” Serzh Sargsyan said. Despite all problems, Armenia’s development depends on everyone’s work - be it an ordinary citizen or the president.

“The better we realize it and the more efforts we make, the sooner we achieve our goals. We will start next year well and close it even better,” the Armenian president said.