The Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) announces the cessation of its participation in the governing coalition.
We deem it necessary to explain this step in view of its political significance and consequences, and the public’s interest.
The ARF had joined the coalition in order to overcome—through unifying forces—the crisis facing Armenia following the 2008 presidential elections and the threats to the independence and security of the two Armenian states, as well as with the aim of making coordinated reforms.
During this period there were certain achievements, but insurmountable disagreements on matters of principle emerged with respect to the direction of Armenia’s foreign policy.
It has always been our conviction that one of the main directions of the state’s national security strategy is the universal recognition and condemnation, especially by Turkey, of the Armenian Genocide. This is seen not only in the context of the restoration of historical justice, but also as a way to improve the overall environment of mutual trust in the region, while also preventing similar crimes in the future. In this sense, as we have already announced, we find unacceptable and condemn the agreement by Armenia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs to join the April 22 joint statement with Turkey—on the eve of April 24 and when the leaders of Turkey are making anti-Armenian announcements and restating preconditions for the normalization of relations. We also have principled disagreements with the position of the Armenian authorities on certain issues being discussed in the Armenia-Turkey negotiations. We will publicize our positions regarding those issues when they are discussed in public.
Henceforth, in the political landscape of Armenia, the ARF will assume a new role—that of an opposition force. Our main priorities will be:
1. To become a full-fledged alternative to the authorities, proposing our own programs and solutions on all major issues.
2. To assume the role of effectively counterbalancing and restraining the authorities.
3. To take the necessary actions to heal and refine the political landscape, to form civilized relations between the authorities and the opposition, to establish social justice, and to strengthen democracy.
4. To carry out comprehensive programs promised during the electoral process, showcasing the ARF’s ideological and political convictions.
5. To be guided exclusively by our national interests and goals when addressing the normalization of Armenian-Turkish relations and the resolution of the Nagorno-Karabagh (Artsakh) conflict.
We appreciate the work carried out jointly with our coalition partners and we wish them success in their endeavors in the interest of our state and people.
Armenian Revolutionary Federation,
Supreme Body of Armenia
April 27, 2009
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