YEREVAN. – The United States is prepared to assist Armenia in holding the next elections in accordance with international standards, US Ambassador to Armenia John Heffern stated during a press conference on Thursday.

The American diplomat noted that during his meetings with Armenia’s President and FM, they discussed numerous issues concerning Armenia and the region, including the upcoming elections. “I congratulated them for the positive steps that were taken at the beginning of the year. I expressed our readiness to assist Armenia, in all areas, in the next elections, so that the elections are held in accordance with international standards,” the Ambassador noted, adding that unbiased media are a necessary factor for conducting fair elections.       

Armenia’s parliamentary elections will be held in 2012, whereas the presidential elections, in 2013.