YEREVAN. – Upon the invitation of Armenian Parliament Speaker Samvel Nikoyan, the observation group of the CIS Inter-parliamentary Assembly held meetings with the political forces participating in the elections.

“We noted with satisfaction that Armenia has made a huge step forward on legislative level towards conducting elections corresponding to democratic standards, that in fact complied with all recommendations of international organizations such as the Venice Commission and many others,” a IPA CIS member stressed.

Eight political parties and one block have presented their nominations – Republican Party of Armenian, Prosperous Armenia Party, Orinats Yerkir, opposition Armenian National Congress, opposition Heritage Party, ARF Dashnaktsutyun, the Communist Party of Armenia, Democratic Party of Armenia and United Armenians Party.

For entering the National Assembly, parties must poll over 5% of votes, while blocks - over 7%. The election campaign will be held till May 5 - the day prior to elections when campaigning is banned. The parliamentary elections will be held from 8 am to 8 pm on May 6, 2012.