Dispute in National Assembly: We are making a choice between freedom and servility (video)
Armenia’s accession to the Eurasian Economic Union is a crucial moment, lawmaker Alexander Arzumanyan said in parliament on December 3. He was surprised that some MPs in the hall were trying to present the situation in bright colours. “After joining the EEU we shall not have the same incomes and salaries as the Russian federation is now under the burden of sanctions,” he said. “Today we are making a choice between freedom and servility. Freedom cannot be acquired by agreements or laws, the spirit of freedom is set in the hearts of our people. This spirit was born in 1988, and now by voting for the EEU treaty we are killing that spirit. A nation that does not have a spirit of freedom cannot be independent. I am going to vote against the bill; it is unacceptable for our country and is fraught with many threats. Before pressing the button, think about your freedom." Vice-Speaker of the Armenian Parliament Eduard Sharmazanov tried to defend the idea of joining the EEU. “Emotional speeches are welcome but you need not exaggerate the reality. The treaty will allow us to develop the economy of the Republic of Armenia and Nagorno-Karabakh.” Sharmazanov also presented counterarguments to justify his words. The Secretary of the Heritage faction, Tevan Poghosyan, said he was going to vote against the treaty and called on his colleagues to feel responsible for the future of Armenia during the voting.
