YEREVAN. – In spite of the hardships that have fallen to our lot during the years of our statehood, we have managed to build a democratic state with a liberal economic model, Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan said addressing “At the Foot of Mount Ararat” media forum. (photos)

“We have not been alone in carrying out the difficult task of state-building; we have always enjoyed the support of friendly countries and their readiness to stand beside us in tough times.

Among our country’s important political achievements is certainly the establishment and development of civil society, which has actively engaged itself with the government’s various initiatives, especially in the recent years. In terms of indicators in the areas of human rights, rule of law, economic policy and development Armenia leads in the region, and considerably excels many countries of the region in a number of indicators.

With its accomplishments and limitations, the free press that comprehensively covers and introduces the public to the country’s domestic and foreign affairs, is also a top achievement since we gained our independence. According to the World Press Freedom Index 2015 annual report released by the Reporters Without Borders, Armenia was ranked the 78th out of 180 countries, occupying a leading position among the CIS countries, and even surpassing some EU member states such as Greece (91) and Bulgaria (106). It is obvious that we are not satisfied with that indicator, but we try to assess it from a comparative perspective, and if we see a real difference in a five-year or three-year period, yes, we more or less appreciate it.

We have got actively working political opposition. I myself attach great value to the establishment of constructive opposition and perfectly understand that it is a key component of a democratic consolidation.

Armenia has been actively engaged in the initiatives of the Open Government Partnership, which pursues the objective of promoting effectiveness, accountability and transparency in governance.

In this context, we also place great weight on the constitutional reform that we have initiated in Armenia. It is aimed at improving the constitutional mechanisms for realization of the rule of law and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms, ensuring steady balance between the branches of government and promoting good governance. Right now we have reached the stage of finalizing the revised text of the constitution; a process which hinges on the principle of utmost transparency and engages all interested parties.

We are fully aware that building a democratic society and country is an ongoing process, and we are ready to make consistent efforts to reach our goal.”

Photo by Arsen Sargsyan/NEWS.am