Ruben Vardanyan, State Minister of the Republic of Artsakh, Head of the Operational Staff , today convened an extended consultation with the participation of the heads of state bodies. Presenting the current situation created as a result of Azerbaijan’s blockade of Artsakh, Ruben Vardanyan noted that during these winter days, Azerbaijan actually obstructs the supply of energy from Armenia. “The situation is difficult, and I want to thank our society for enduring all the difficulties. We have many problems related to both food and medicine. In the last two days, the problem of energy supply also increased. “Azerbaijan prevents both the import of food, medicines and the visit of specialists to the accident site for restoring the energy supply,” said the State Minister, emphasizing the economical use of domestic resources.

The situation is also difficult in the private sector, as the economy is also in crisis because of the blockade; many people are losing their jobs.

According to the State Minister’s assessment, Azerbaijan’s policy is clear: to achieve the ethnic cleansing of Artsakh through pressure. “But we are struggling for the right to live in our homeland, on our land. And it is very encouraging that our people accept this approach. But it requires us, as leaders, to be honest and sincere with the people, to understand the seriousness of the situation.”

The State Minister introduced the newly appointed ministers: Minister of Foreign Affairs of Artsakh Republic Sergey Ghazaryan, Minister of Justice Srbuhi Arzumanyan, Minister of Social Development and Migration Armen Mangasaryan and reappointed Minister of Urban Planning Aram Sargsyan. “I don’t want to congratulate the newly appointed ministers, I just want to thank them for taking responsibility in this extremely difficult situation.”

The State Minister noted that the Government uses all tools: diplomatic, legal, informational and continues to make every effort to open the way, but at the same time noted that as a Government, they are obliged to be ready for all possible developments.

He drew attention to the fact that the blockade significantly changes the way of life of people, imposing savings and restrictions, and the life of the population cannot be the same as under normal conditions. The State Minister emphasized the realization of awareness and explanatory works among the population and the direct meetings and contacts of the officials and members of the operational staff with people.