Epress.am News from Armenia
Discussions to establish a commission to investigate the gas contracts signed with Russia in 2013 continued in Armenia's National Assembly today. Representatives of the four non-ruling parties addressed the parliament, stressing the need to create such a commission.
"Where did the $300 million debt come from and why as it hidden from the people? Second, how is it that we get it at the border at the normal price, [but] it comes to the consumer at a horrid price and he is unable to pay the debt. Third, how is it that we're going to keep a status quo with which we will deprive ourselves of the opportunity of having alternative energy?" asked Prosperous Armenia Party (BHK) MP Naira Zohrabyan.
From the ruling coalition [Republican Party of Armenia (HHK) and Rule of Law (OEK)], asking for the right to speak was HHK MP Gagik Minasyan, who said if it's cold outside, naturally citizens will have to pay more for gas.
"They say, the most expensive gas is consumed by citizens of the Republic of Armenia consume the most expensive gas, [but] that’s not true. Our parliamentary hearings are very liberal, data from 35 countries is represented. Armenian citizens are in 10th place; and business [consumers] at 6th. On this list are countries that produce their own gas or subsidize it," he said.
According to Minasyan, HHK will vote against the creation of a commission.
Armenian National Congress (HAK) MP Aram Manukyan, in his turn to speak, addressed ruling authorities' argument that being against the gas contract is like being against Armenian-Russian relations.
"Do not be in favor of Armenian-Russian relations more than I. We say that gas was stolen here in Armenia," he said, adding that he wants the Russians to know as well what frivolous people they're dealing with.