Charity Alone Cannot Sustain a Country: Development Requires Correct Economic Policy, Says Tsarukyan

Gagik Tsarukyan, leader of the Prosperous Armenia party, made a statement from prison. “As attempts are being made recently to reinterpret charity, I want to share my thoughts on this important issue. Years ago, I said and I now reaffirm: you cannot sustain a country with charity. A country develops with correct economic policies, new job creation, new economic capacities, a healthy economic environment, and effective governance,” he stated.

“Through charity, you can help thousands of people, contribute to the development of culture, science, education, sports, and other sectors. You can save lives, build churches, print books, make films, create opportunities for education, produce performances, and engage in many other important works. This is how it works worldwide. And the issue is not at all about the amount of money. I know hundreds of Armenian boys who, when starting to establish themselves, have sought to do something good for their city or village. Glory and honor to them.”

“We know the name of Mantashov, who enabled many Armenian talents to receive education worldwide and elevated the name of the Armenian people. We know the name of Kirk Kerkorian, who donated immense amounts to his historical homeland. We recognize the name of Samvel Karapetyan, who, according to his nature, has done incredible charitable work in Armenia and Artsakh without drawing attention to himself.”

“I will not speak about my own deeds. History will evaluate what I have done in Armenia; everything has happened in front of everyone’s eyes. But I want to open a topic. I have been troubled for years by one thought: why should only the diaspora always assist Armenia? We have a global Armenian community, and if Armenians in different parts of the world sometimes need help, why shouldn't anyone from Armenia extend a helping hand?”

“In the early stages of independence, there was an explanation for this, but afterwards it became an inertial mistake. Furthermore, a gross mistake. At one point, I decided to change this tradition. I resolved to be the Armenian benefactor who helps our compatriots in difficulty around the world. Thus, I, Gagik Tsarukyan, born and raised in Armenia, have helped our compatriots caught in the grasp of war in Syria, those in Lebanon, the Armenian community in Iran, various Armenian communities in the Middle East, and Armenian schools and churches facing financial issues in different countries.”

“The unity of the Armenian world is also created and strengthened through such actions, when an Armenian in difficulty anywhere in the world receives support from an Armenian in the homeland. I repeat: charity has nothing to do with the measure of money. Charity helps form a better society, a society that respects each other and offers a helping hand to each other.”

“On various occasions, I have said that there is no such thing as individual happiness. One cannot live like a pig, think only of personal gain, and be indifferent to the troubles of one’s country and people. I grew up in a family that lived modestly, but I saw that my mother always set aside a piece of bread for those who lived worse. What I have done for my country is little; may God allow me to do more. My sons will undoubtedly do the same.”

“Charity literally means good deeds. A good deed is, first and foremost, good intentions—for the sake of the country, for the sake of the future of the people. This is a heartfelt aspiration that everyone implements to the extent of their abilities. Encouraging good intentions is crucial for changing the atmosphere in the country; the desire to help each other is vital for building a strong nation and a robust society. The opposite of this is division and hostility, which are devastating for Armenia.”