YEREVAN. – A group of Armenian citizens appealed to Russian Ambassador Ivan Volynkin on the occasion of possible increase in price of Russian gas.

The statement issued by “Let’s stop gas price hike” initiative says civil society cannot be indifferent about the problem of rise in gas and electricity prices. The initiative members note that every third citizen of Armenia lives before the poverty line. Increase in gas price will affect transportation fees, consumer goods and utility bills.

“We think it is possible to stop negative course of events with joint efforts. A priority task is to hold public debates,” the statement reads.

The application of ArmRusgasprom must be considered within 90 days. The Public Services Regulatory Commission refused to hold public hearings and set the next session to discuss gas price for June 7.

If ArmRusgasprom agrees to postpone the date, Commission will have an opportunity to meet demands of civil society, the statement said.

They asked Russian Ambassador to try to influence ArmRusgasprom policy to preserve socio-economic stability in the country.