STEPANAKERT, Artsakh—The Speaker of the Republic of Artsakh’s parliament Ashot Ghoulyan received referendum observers Andreas Borgeas (U.S.), Gail Pellerin (U.S.), Karin MacDonald (U.S.), and Jim Karygiannis (Canada). Artsakh permanent representative to the U.S. and Canada Robert Avetisyan also participated in the meeting.
A scene from the meeting (Photo: Press office of Artsakh’s National Assembly)
“The [Speaker of the Parliament] welcomed the guests and highlighted their work in Artsakh, as these studies, tips and reviews are not just for one day, but also include a long-term partnership,” read a part of the statement, released by the press office of Artsakh’s National Assembly.
“It was a perfect referendum. I enviously refer to the fact that so many people were involved in the referendum,” said former Canadian Parliamentarian Jim Karygiannis during the meeting. “I have carried out observation missions in many countries, but have never seen anything like this. The turnout of over 75% in the referendum suggests that the voice of the people of Artsakh will be heard. This gives an additional impetus to the country to move forward confidently,” added Karigiannis.
Fresno County supervisor Andreas Borgeas admired the people’s enthusiasm during the referendum and intended to share the experience of Artsakh in the United States.
Director of the Election Administration Research Center at the University of California, Berkeley Law, Kerin MacDonald, noted that this was her third visit to Artsakh as an observer. During the meeting she stressed the importance of the changes in the Electoral Code. “We are delighted that great importance is given to a long-term cooperation and we are grateful that our proposals are taken into account,” said MacDonald.
Source: Armenian Weekly
Link: Speaker of Artsakh’s Parliament Meets with U.S., Canadian Obsevers