Armenian businessman ready to help Syrian Armenians

YEREVAN, September 24. / ARKA /. A prominent American-Armenian businessman Vahagn Hovnanian, who has been running businesses in Armenia for years, told journalists on Monday he was ready to offer jobs to Syrian Armenians in a quarry near the second largest town of Gyumri in northwestern province of Shirak.

He said lack of information about the skills of Syrian Armenians who have found refuge here somewhat complicates the selection work. The businessman added that his example should be followed by other wealthy people who must reach out to Syrian Armenians.

"There are many rich people here, they must open their doors, create jobs and conditions for Syrian Armenians to settle down here,’ he said, adding that would be the best illustration of their love to their country and nation.

Hovnanian also appreciated the measures of the government to ensure normal life to refugee Syrian Armenians, saying part of their problems must be assumed by private sector.

"We should not shoulder everything on the government, which already has thousands of problems. It is the duty of each of us to help them,’ he said.

Hovnanian said many of Syrian Armenians are still deciding whether to stay here or return to Syria after the conflict is or to move for permanent residence to other countries. 

"They want to be sure they can find a job here, and it is up to us to help them," - he said. -0-