YEREVAN. – I will devote my knowledge of many years, experience, and all energy to fully fulfill the duties of the President of the Republic of Armenia, and to fully serve the citizens of the Republic of Armenia and our entire people.
President-elect Armen Sarkissian on Friday stated the aforesaid in his words of gratitude at the National Assembly (NA), after the results of the presidential election at parliament were announced.
He thanked all MPs for voting.
“I thank all those who voted for and against [me],” he said. “I want to thank [you] for your important contribution in the key process of changes taking place in our country.
“I will devote my knowledge of many years, experience, and all energy to fully fulfill the duties of the President of the Republic of Armenia, and to fully serve the citizens of the Republic of Armenia and our entire people.
“Of course, I look forward to your support and participation, as well as the support and participation of all our citizens in our important future triumphs: Artsakh [Nagorno-Karabakh], Armenia, and the [Armenian] Diaspora.”
Election of the fourth President of Armenia took place just a short time ago at the NA, and Ambassador to UK Armen Sarkissian was elected President by a vote of 90 for and 10 against.
The sole presidential candidate was Sarkissian, who was nominated for this office by the ruling coalition.
As a result of the constitutional amendments in 2015, the President of Armenia is not elected by nationwide elections but by the National Assembly, for the first time in history of the country.
Since Armenia has passed to a parliamentary system of government, the Prime Minister will be the top official in the country, whereas the powers of the President have been considerably reduced.
The fourth President of Armenia will assume office on April 9, when the tenure of the incumbent President comes to an end.
