“I am convinced that you’ve never heard and you’ll never hear anti-Russian statements from me and my political supporters.” Non-pro-government Prosperous Armenia Party (PAP) Chairman Gagik Tsarukyan told the abovementioned to Nezavisimaya Gazeta daily of Russia.

When asked, as the leader of Armenia’s largest non-government political force, “Can you rule out an anti-Russian scenario of developments in Armenia?” Tsarukyan responded:“This bogus idea is artificially put into circulation. People in Armenia demand positive changes in their lives, and this is in no way linked to either Russia or the West.

“Armenia can’t afford to become an object for the conflict of geopolitical interests. More than a million of my compatriots reside in Russia temporarily or permanently.

“On the other hand, due to historical events, millions of Armenians live also in Western countries. It’s apparent that Armenia must become the center that unites them all.

“Armenia needs a strong strategic partner, in the shape of Russia. But this formula also has a reverse side: Russia likewise needs a strong and a dynamically developing ally in the South Caucasus, in the shape of Armenia.

“I would argue that this is the sole correct formula which will enable us to further deepen our relations. The stronger Armenia becomes, Armenian-Russian relations will become that much deeper and more solid.”