Armenian parties unveil their economic platforms ahead of parliamentary elections

YEREVAN, January 13. /ARKA/. Senior members of some Armenian political parties disclosed today the economic sections of their election programs during a conference organized by the Armenian Center for National and International Studies with the supported of the U.S.-based National Democratic Institute (NDI).

"Economic platforms of parties are actively touted ahead of every elections in an attempt to attract voters, and today we decided to provide this opportunity to some political forces to unveil economic sections of their election programs," Ruben Mehrabian, head of THE Armenian Center for National and International Studies, said. 

The economic platform of the ruling Republican Party of Armenia was introduced by parliament member Vardan Ayvazian, who said the authorities’ main task is to ensure steady economic development.

Artsvik Minasian from the opposition Armenian Revolutionary Federation/Dashnaktsutyun, said his party advocates growing role of the government in market relations, which stems from the party’s ideology.

"The economic crisis has shown that governments should play a larger role in regulating economy The market does not have to regulate all economic processes in the country, it must serve the society and citizens,’ Minasian said.

Vahagn Khachatryan from the out-of-parliament opposition Armenian National Congress said Armenia needs now drastic reforms. He also stressed the importance of eliminating oligarchy, monopolies and corruption.

Tatevik Minasian from Free Democrats said their party’s economic policy is based on boosting private sector.

"We believe that the priority is to create a favorable taxation system, and reduce the shadow economy,’ she said.

The next parliamentary elections in Armenia will be held in May 2012.-0-