The Union of Armenian in Ukraine supported by Vilen Shatvoryan is building an Armenian church in Ukraine. The Church construction works will be completed in 2-3 years. At the same time, in the neighborhood of a big church, initiated and funded by the Armenian community in Kiev, a church is being built on 130 square meters of space and 20-meter high. The construction works will be completed in one or two months. In the conversation with Norik Gevorgyan, head of the Armenian community in Kiev, we noticed in the last period, the rich abroad Armenians also build churches in Yerevan, which gave rise to criticism. “If they had a chance to build a factory, they would do it, they have no chance, so they build a church. At least they build something,” our interlocutor responded.
We asked whether there was a case when they wanted to build a plant in Armenia and were refused, Norik Gevorgyan said, “We are all connected with Armenia by very different ties, and there is no such a notion that the government does not allow. It is clear that it will allow. Simply, there is a fear in the people, everyone understands the situation in Armenia to start a business there, and someone will seize it from their hands or enter into a share. There is no competition. I am a businessman, but I’m not ready to set up a business in Armenia,” detailed our interlocutor.
We inquired whether they do not trust the state or the government authorities. “The state is our state and we do not have the right not to trust, but the authorities give reasons for the lack of trust and it’s a big problem for our state. The Diaspora sees it very well and understands everything, no matter what it is said or presented that they are doing positive steps. When we see that there is a true and free competition, we will make a step. Today, I will set up a business in Georgia with great pleasure because I see positive steps. There is no positive trend in Armenia, and I do not think that will happen soon. The entrepreneur cannot be in the politics because he should think about his interests. While all our politicians are businessmen. A stagnant situation and I do not understand why the president is not doing anything,” opines our interlocutor. Our interlocutor tells that the Ukraine was in a similar situation, but after the signing of the EU Association Agreement, positive trends are noticed. The changes are not significant yet but are inspiring.
Nelly GRIGORYAN
