A number of urgent issues related to ensuring the primary needs of the people of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) in the context of Azerbaijan’s ongoing blockade of Artsakh were discussed today under the chairmanship of the State Minister of Artsakh. Discussed at the Operations Headquarters meeting and Head of Operations Head, Ruben Vardanyan.
The Artsakh government informed Armenian News-NEWS.am that in this connection the introduction of a coupon system in Artsakh was highlighted. This will ensure that the available food is distributed as evenly as possible. It was noted that the mechanisms for implementing the system had already been developed. Initially, it will primarily apply to a few types of products of importance. Technical and organizational work is currently underway to switch to a coupon system in the coming days.
At the meeting, information was presented on visits by members of the headquarters to the Artsakh region and meetings with the local population. It was noted that one of the main issues raised concerns the implementation of the coupon system itself.
The Minister of State has summed up the issues raised by the public during the meeting, ordered them to distinguish between the issues and discuss their possible solutions.
“These meetings show that the difficulties of the lockdown have not broken people’s spirits. Three groups of issues were raised: local issues related to specific reconciliations, systematic solutions. General issues that require and complaints – complaints, but also urgent issues that should be prioritized for solutions.”
The meeting also discussed the possibility of transferring critically ill patients to Armenia through the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and reuniting separated families with minor children. Cooperation with the ICRC in this regard was emphasized.
Issues related to cash circulation in Artsakh were also addressed. The Secretary of State has directed steps to be taken to resolve the situation within the framework of available opportunities. Implementation of awareness-raising activities among residents was emphasized to avoid people withdrawing large amounts of cash or keeping cash.
The current state of the food, pharmaceutical, petrol and diesel markets in Artsakh was also reported.
Measures being taken to ensure uninterrupted operation of energy supply, water supply and infrastructure in Artsakh were also presented.
