YEREVAN. – Armenian Premier Tigran Sargsyan held a New Year and Christmas reception, on Saturday at the Government Sessions’ Hall, for members of the country’s mass media.

The PM congratulated those present, on the occasion of these holidays, and wished them productive and interesting activities in 2013.

“The role of Armenia’s mass media was subjected to qualitative changes. The establishment of a civil society is impossible without participation by the media. And you are criterion by way of which we can judge how developed the civil society is at us.

Freedom of speech is strengthened in Armenia. At the same time, new problems stand before the media. The Government keeps focus on all your analytical materials and reflects on the criticisms. The issues that you raise become the subject of governmental discussions and receive solutions. This cooperation will contribute to the process of media-establishment,” Sargsyan said during the reception.            

Also, several members of the media were awarded with the PM’s memento and certificate of appreciation for their keeping focus on the activities of the Armenian government.