Expert slams Armenian PM, labels him as "man with low social responsibility"
Negotiation expert Artur Martirosyan has voiced scathing criticism of Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, describing him as a leader lacking in social responsibility and asserting that Western powers have exploited him for their own interests.
In a conversation with Armenian media, Martirosyan highlighted Pashinyan's failed attempts to address Armenia's security concerns during negotiations in Brussels, Caliber.Az reports.
"Pashinyan and his team had high hopes that they would receive answers regarding Armenia's security dilemma in Brussels. But let's forget about NATO membership," Martirosyan lamented, indicating disillusionment with the outcome of the negotiations.
Martirosyan underscored Pashinyan's perceived vulnerability on the international stage, citing the lack of concrete assurances for Armenia's security.
"Look, different countries, including France, Germany, and Italy, signed agreements with Ukraine on a bilateral basis. We are not even talking about such approaches. They openly said, how else can we say that we cannot ensure your safety. That is, Pashinyan does not receive what would ensure this security, becoming very vulnerable," the expert said.
He criticized Pashinyan's approach as "adaptive," accusing him of shifting allegiances without maintaining consistency or principle.
"As a negotiator, I must say that the West is promoting the thesis of energy diversification because Russia’s argument is Russian gas. Pashinyan raised this topic, and they allegedly said in a Brussels statement: don’t be afraid, calmly oppose the Russians, we will solve your energy issues. And Pashinyan is trying to play an adaptive leader, but this does not mean that his goals and essence should be changed. This is a chameleon. No one trusts, no one respects a chameleon that can change color to another the next day. What will happen if it turns out that Russia is winning in Ukraine, will you turn 180 degrees and become pro-Russian? Will they believe you? Of course not. They didn't trust him from the start, they saw a figure they could use to advance their interests. By the way, they were used against Armenian interests," Martirosyan remarked, highlighting Western powers' strategic interests in the region.
Martirosyan went on to accuse Pashinyan of inconsistency in dealing with Russia, citing discrepancies between his rhetoric and actions. He characterized Pashinyan's behaviour as emblematic of a lack of sovereignty, suggesting that he has become a pawn in larger geopolitical manoeuvres.
Drawing a pointed analogy, Martirosyan referenced Russian President Vladimir Putin's remarks on individuals with "low social responsibility," implying that Pashinyan falls into this category. He criticized Pashinyan for purportedly prioritizing financial incentives from the West over Armenia's long-term strategic interests.