Strong Armenia party unveils national security program

Armenia’s opposition Strong Armenia party on Wednesday unveiled its national security program, arguing that businessman and philanthropist Samvel Karapetyan, its candidate for prime minister in the June 7 parliamentary elections, would deliver “strong and lasting peace” through economic revival and strong leadership.

Party board chairman Narek Karapetyan told supporters the plan was drafted with Armenian and international experts and builds on months of public outreach. He said the party’s economic commitments were backed by Samvel Karapetyan and would be implemented immediately if he became prime minister.

“These are not campaign promises but concrete steps that will raise living standards, revive struggling communities and provide resources for modern defence capabilities,” Narek Karapetyan said. He added that a stronger economy would allow Armenia to invest more in its armed forces and security.

The opposition figure accused Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan of weakening Armenia’s security and economy, citing fuel imports from Azerbaijan while Armenian citizens remain in Azerbaijani prisons. He said Armenia’s defeat in the 2020 war was the result of poor leadership.

“Pashinyan’s weak leadership guarantees temporary peace, while Samvel Karapetyan’s strong leadership would guarantee strong and lasting peace,” he said.