YEREVAN. - It would be illogical for me—as a leader of one of the most important ministries of Armenia—not to fix and ascertain my relations with the Republican Party of Armenia (RPA).

Defense Minister of Armenia Vigen Sargsyan said the aforementioned Saturday, at a press conference following the 16th Congress of the ruling RPA.

To the question as to why he decided to join the RPA right now, the Minister said: “I held the highest discretionary office of the republic—the office of the Chief of Staff of the Presidential administration. And I always closely cooperated with the ruling party, which is headed by the president. Together with this, there is a principled and great difference between the discretionary and political offices.”

According to Sargsyan, the office of a minister is a political one. “You manage the ministry not as an individual but as a representative of a political force. From this point of view, I though it would be illogical for me —as a leader of one of the most important ministries of Armenia—not to fix and ascertain my relations with the RPA. If you become a minister, being supported by a certain majority, you must be very honest to realize that you are implementing the policy proposed to you based on that political force. Consequently, if I accept the proposal of a majority to become a minister, I certainly consider the possibility of joining that party,” Sargsyan concluded.