We Must Be Ready for a Larger Influx of Our Fellow Citizens Residing in Russia, Says Zareh Sinanyan

Since the beginning of the military operations by Russia in Ukraine, we need to be much more prepared for a larger influx of our compatriots from Russia, something we have yet to witness. Zareh Sinanyan, the Chief Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs, stated this in an interview with Armenpress, noting that the number of Armenians wishing to move from Russia to Armenia has significantly increased compared to previous years.

“In total, from 2019 to 2022, more than 11,000 compatriots contacted our office regarding returning to the homeland, of which 5,000 did so in just the first six months of this year. We have provided responses to all inquiries, special consultations, and organizational, social, and healthcare support. The inquiries mostly related to obtaining Armenian citizenship or residence status (7,000), registration (600), education (600), job relocation (1,000), social support (1,000), property transfer (500), and other issues. The majority of applications came from Russia, Lebanon, Syria, EU countries, and the USA,” said Sinanyan.

He emphasized that since the outset of Russia's special military operations in Ukraine, working groups have been established through the efforts of the commissioner's office and the government to manage the significant influx towards Armenia effectively.

According to him, the primary influx is indeed from the Russian Federation, and many of those arriving are highly skilled professionals. In this regard, they play a significant role in ensuring that people find the right place and receive rapid solutions to their problems.