“Unfortunately, the situation is complicated because there is a shortage of all kinds of goods. Some products are not available at all. The fruit and vegetable shops have been closed for a long time,” Minister of Agriculture of the Republic of Artsakh Hrant Safaryan said on January 12 at the online discussion organized by the Artsakh Public TV Company on the occasion of the one-month blockade of Artsakh by Azerbaijan.
“Many territories have passed under the control of the enemy, including greenhouses, gardens, and fields. There are supplies, but it is not enough for the entire population. We are working to distribute food from the reserve fund equally and on time. All agricultural work has been stopped; there is a fuel problem. We are not sure that Azerbaijan will not cut off the gas again. It causes great damage to our agriculture. We are relying on local resources because we have not had an electricity supply for three days,” the minister emphasized.
According to Hrant Safaryan, Azerbaijan’s actions aim to make the local population leave their homeland, but the people of Artsakh have chosen the path of struggle.
Mesrop Arakelyan, Artsakh State Minister’s adviser (in the photo), mentioned that part of the expenses and obligations of the budget planned for December due to the blockade would be fulfilled in 2023. “Many companies do not work, though they have opportunities to work, which reduces tax revenues. Unfortunately, more than a thousand job cuts and business closures have occurred. This year’s budget will significantly change its structure. We hope to overcome the financial crisis by implementing various programs.”
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Luiza SUKIASYAN
