“Armenia’s post-crisis economy has not yet taken up,” Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan stated at a convention on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the Republican Party of Armenia (RPA).

“Many problems enrooted in our economy haven’t yet been addressed properly, while enhanced competitiveness of our businesses, competitiveness and modernization of our entire economy require new and resolute steps.

“We also realize that even by increasing constantly and considerably the social programs, we haven’t been able to mitigate negative developments for the vulnerable groups of our society. We clearly see the burden of price hikes conditioned by global unfavorable developments and climatic calamities on our people, but at the same time we know about the unacceptable work style of some entrepreneurs who artificially raise prices in the volatile situation to grab a couple more of profit money.

“We do know about these and many other problems. We know and are ready to undertake new steps, to work more vigorously and to adopt more resolute decisions. While we have been and will continue to display utmost tolerance toward dissent, there will be zero tolerance toward corruption, bribery and squandering of budget money. Many people have things to do in this area; however I am confident that it is first of all the political responsibility of the Republican Party. Arrogance and corruption must be punished harshly, and party affiliation or any other connections must be dismissed,” said the Armenian leader.