You are Playing ‘Ghumar’ with the Offices of the Territorial Defense: Ani Khachatryan at the Council Meeting

During today’s council meeting, Ani Khachatryan from the ‘Luyis’ faction responded to the remarks of ‘My Step’ faction member Ernest Avanesov.

“Ernest Avanesov mentioned that the territorial defense offices are located within kindergarten buildings. He does not understand what kind of legacy that is. I regret, Mr. Avanesov, that you do not recognize the legacy left by the territorial defense. Most of those offices are also museums, and if you do not realize the legacy left by the territorial defense, go to Yerablur, and the boys there might tell you what kind of legacy the territorial defense has left. The territorial defense has left you Artsakh, has left you the Republic of Armenia, and now in the near future, if there is another war, I am sure that only ten percent of those present in this hall will go to the border, it will be the territorial defense that will protect both you and your children. And you are playing ‘ghumar’ with the offices of the territorial defense. It’s shameful; have a bit of patriotism,” said Ani Khachatryan with indignation.

She expressed hope that the mayor does not share the view that the legacy left by the territorial defense can be subject to discussion. “How can we ask that patriotic lessons not be given?” was the response from the hall.

Yerevan Mayor Hayk Marutyan considered the council member’s speech inappropriate and noted that they have a close relationship with the Union of Territorial Defense Volunteers and are currently discussing how the kindergartens should be transformed. “So, you can rest easy on this issue; we are moving forward together with the Union of Territorial Defense Volunteers,” said the mayor.

Ernest Avanesov also responded, saying, “Please do not politicize everything that concerns Artsakh or patriotism. Let’s line up our biographies and see who has done what. I ask everyone to maintain decorum, and no one should disrupt the order.”