Kocharyan vows stability, state restoration ahead of elections

Former Armenian President Robert Kocharyan has pledged to restore state institutions, strengthen national security and steer Armenia out of internal and external turmoil, saying the country should not be forced to endure a constant cycle of crises.

In a video message released on Thursday, Kocharyan, the prime ministerial candidate of the opposition Hayastan alliance, said the country’s recent years of difficulties must be replaced by a period of rapid recovery.

“We are obliged to replace the disgrace of the last eight years with years of swift restoration, restoring the honor, dignity and potential of the Armenian people,” he remarked.

Kocharyan argued that meaningful progress remains possible despite current challenges and said Armenians must demonstrate that they alone determine their nation’s future.

“Armenia should not be a country where people are constantly occupied with overcoming crises,” he said.

Kocharyan stressed his political team seeks more than a change of government, describing its goal as the restoration of a state capable of protecting its citizens, maintaining strong relations with allies and earning the respect of neighboring countries.

He also promised stability in Armenia’s foreign relations, saying that under his leadership there would be no war, no confrontation with allies and no unnecessary tensions with neighboring states.

Kocharyan said Armenia faces a “historic mission” to emerge from domestic and foreign-policy chaos. He pointed to his previous experience in government, arguing that Armenia can maintain friendly relations with Russia while simultaneously developing ties with Europe and the United States.

“We have that successful experience,” he said.

The former president is confident he can engage in constructive dialogue with all parties, including Turkey and Azerbaijan, on the basis of mutual respect for interests.

Kocharyan said both the world and Armenian society have changed, describing his team as more open, collaborative and experienced than in the past. He said the group has learned from both its achievements and mistakes and is entering the political contest with a clearer understanding of past shortcomings.

He acknowledged that significant challenges lie ahead, including correcting mistakes made in recent years, implementing reforms and making urgent policy decisions.

“It will not be easy,” Kocharyan said. “But I am convinced it will be work that produces results and a sense of pride.”