On December 19, Armenian Revolutionary Federation member and National Assembly deputy Artur Khachatryan appeared on Hraparak TV’s Thursday program to discuss Armenia’s current challenges and their roots in government policies. He warned of heightened risks stemming from failed attempts to “normalize” relations with Azerbaijan and Turkey.
Khachatryan criticized the recently adopted 2025 state budget, labeling it a “debt survival budget.” He revealed that during parliamentary debates, the government reduced its growth forecasts for 2025 by 10%, acknowledging the opposition’s criticisms as valid. He highlighted that next year’s $2 billion increase in state debt will result in higher interest payments than the combined budgets of the ministries of health, justice, foreign affairs, economy, and regional administrations.
He also addressed new demands from Azerbaijan and Turkey’s stance in negotiations, arguing that Armenia’s current political and economic state leaves it ill-equipped for equal relations with Turkey.
When asked how Armenia can overcome its challenges, Khachatryan urged citizens to recognize the government’s destructive course, take responsibility, and act decisively to remove the current leadership.
