Strong Armenia promises jobs, tougher border policies

Narek Karapetyan, a senior member of the Strong Armenia party, pledged industrial expansion and stricter border policies during a campaign stop in Byureghavan ahead of Armenia’s June 7 parliamentary elections.

Addressing supporters as part of the party’s election campaign, Karapetyan said factories would be established in communities across Armenia to strengthen the economy and create jobs.

“Armenians must have something to sell to the world,” Karapetyan said. “Nations are recognized by what they create and produce. We must produce and offer something to the world. We cannot simply say we are the world’s first Christian nation and expect that to be enough. People respect those who create.”

Karapetyan also took aim at Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s ruling Civil Contract party, referring to it as a “small group” that voters should reject in the upcoming elections.

“With 10 days remaining, change is imminent,” he said. “We must reject the small group, keep the gates of Syunik closed, and do two things: create jobs so Armenians do not leave, and adopt laws so Turks do not come here.”

Karapetyan argued against opening Armenia to Turkish citizens, saying, “Where Turks have set foot, several decades later no Armenians have remained there. They should not be allowed into Armenia.”

Armenia is scheduled to hold parliamentary elections on June 7.