Minister of Defense Davit Tonoyan is in a private meeting with the National Assembly Standing Committee on the Protection of Human Rights. Before that, he spoke to reporters in a briefing about rumors that he will resign. He said that those rumors are obviously not justified and he will not resign. He assured that there was no discussion with the Prime Minister about his resignation.
When asked about how he would respond to National Security Service Chief Artur Vanetsyan’s resignation, Tonoyan said, “I cannot comment on it because that was his personal decision.” Tonoyan also did not comment on what was said in the resignation letter. “I believe Vanetsyan will comment on that when the time comes.”
Regarding observations that Vanetsyan resigned due to a disagreement with the Prime Minister, the Minister of Defense said that no one resigns without having a reason for it. He said that Vanetsyan is his friend. They have worked together closely and he will leave all commentary to Vanetsyan. “I am directly responsible for defense policies.”
Davit Tonoyan denied that any discussions were held with Chief of Police Valery Osipyan about his resignation. Tonoyan assured that they are working harmoniously with the government.
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Tonoyan also said that no one will be removed from their positions as the Ministry of Defense’s Chief of Staff or others. He said that he will wait until his work is finished as part of the April War commission, and then he will see what happens. “The work that is being carried out by the commission is very productive. The information that they have received is enough to reach conclusions.” When asked if there will be any painful surprises, Tonoyan said, “No. Investigative bodies have carried out the necessary work in regards to worrisome facts. The commission is not seeking to start criminal cases. Be happy. Everything is fine.”
Hripsime Jebejyan
