YEREVAN. – There is no prerequisite for the increase in pensions and wages in Armenia, there was no such trend under the previous authorities just like today, former MP, economist Vardan Bostanjyan told Armenian News-NEWS.am.

The former deputy says it is quite natural that the government did not take the risk and the people will have to settle with the budget that was previously envisaged for 2019.

“The finance minister noted that it is not the most desirable budget, but they could not think of anything better for 2019,” the economist said.

Asked whether such a “stability” in the matter of raising wages and social charges will affect the already tough socio-economic situation in the country given the continuing increase in prices for basic foodstuffs, the economist replied that this was certainly have a rather negative impact and will especially negatively affect citizens who have very modest income. That is, we are talking about the overwhelming majority of the Armenian citizens.

The former MP did not rule out discontent among the population, but said the people are wise and “if we could stand it for many years not being in a better state, we will put up with it for a year or so”.

Speaking about the economic situation as a whole, the economist stressed that it would be possible to hope for success, only if new investments flow into Armenia, and the investments will come if foreign investors can see necessary conditions for this.

“Today we do not have any particular prospects in terms of legislation, and from other point of view,” the economist resumed.

According to the draft budget for 2019, economic growth is projected at 4.9%, while in 2017 it exceeded 7%. An increase in salaries and pensions is not expected.