This reporter caught up with Republican Party MP Galust Sahakyan in the National Assembly today and asked him the following questions.

The main topic on the agenda at the parliament is the 2013 budget. The opposition counters the government’s claim that there aren’t sufficient funds and point out that the funds aren’t being properly spent.

Sure, there have been some serious opposition speeches but most are artificially motivated for show. Sometimes they accuse us of acting in preparation for the upcoming presidential election. If we had the opportunity to do just that, we would have increased the minimum wage even more.

We do not come forth with populist actions in any election lead-up.

In your opinion is the 2,500 AMD wage raise in line with today’s inflation and economic situation?

Of course not, but we are led not by desires but by the situation that exists not only in Armenia but the entire world. 

Large amounts of money enter Armenia, starting with the transfers. Why can’t the government at least guarantee citizens the opportunity to purchase the minimum consumer basket of goods?

It’s not that the government cannot. Due to the economic crisis, the foundations for development have collapsed throughout the world in varying degrees. Just look at some of the countries in Europe who are pretty bad shape.

We believe this budget is the correct foundation for the future. We also want to see those desires expressed by the opposition fulfilled, but in time.

Don’t you think that the very cause for the exodus from Armeniais the restrained rate of spending you allude to?

That’s another issue worthy of a separate interview. The exodus isn’t a black or white matter. There are many aspects to it. Naturally, the opposition uses it against us.