YEREVAN. – U.S. Ambassador to Armenia John Heffern said he is following the exercise of people’s will by holding peaceful rallies in Armenia.

Speaking about the activeness of civil society, he said peaceful rallies are important for democracy development in the country. He also thanked the protesters and police officers who are caring out their work properly and are showing restraint.

Noting several incidents registered during the actions, Heffern said the U.S. Embassy is following the developments attentively. The Embassy continues close cooperation with the Police and National Security Service to achieve positive momentum, he added.

Numerous actions of protest have been staged in Yerevan over the recent months. Activists took to the streets protesting against increase in public transportation fares. At the moment students are protesting against tuition fee rise.   

Numerous actions were staged near the Komitas 5 construction site. During the protest the police officers used force against activists. The same actions repeated during a protest in front of the “Closed Market” in Yerevan, where activists oppose the distortion of cultural-historical monument.