Epress.am News from Armenia
In a televised interview with ArmNews Armenian News Channel Yerevan Mayor Karen Karapetyan confirmed reports of his resignation, confessing that the decision was a very difficult one to make.
The former chief executive of ArmRosGazprom (alternatively spelled ArmRusGasprom) at the same time refuted rumors that he’s leaving his post due to disagreements with Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan or any of the president’s staff. He called such rumors “absurd”.
According to Karapetyan, the trust of the president and ruling Republican Party of Armenia (HHK) in him has been immense.
“The president respected my decision; we had a great talk. He played a huge role in my realization,” said the mayor, noting that leaving his position doesn’t mean leaving the team and not having anything to do with Armenia.
Karapetyan then thanked those Yerevan residents who tied great hopes to his actions and apologized if any expectations were unmet.
Asked about returning to politics, the mayor said he never considered his position to be political and has repeatedly said he has no desire to engage in politics.
As to the future mayor of the Armenian capital, Karapetyan said he doesn’t consider himself qualified to discuss the matter.
“That’s a decision for the president and the [Aldermen] Council,” he said.