ArmInfo.The National Assembly of Armenia at the meeting on January 14 began discussions on the candidature of the Presidentof the parliament. The ruling faction "My Step" has nominated former First Deputy Prime Minister Ararat Mirozyan to this position.
In his speech, the candidate noted that, if elected, he was ready to join in the work on overcoming the existing challenges aimed at strengthening the Armenian statehood and forming a new culture in the parliament. Ararat Mirzoyan reminded about the main functions of the parliament - the development of legislative initiatives, control over the activities of the government, approval of the state budget, as well as other activities stipulated by the RA Constitution. In lawmaking, the My Step faction will, naturally, assist the government of the country.
At the same time, the candidate pointed out the importance of eliminating imbalances in the legislative initiatives of the government and the parliament. Parliament, he said, should be more proactive, and not act as an appendage of the executive body. It is also important, continued Ararat Mirzoyan, for the National Assembly to take a more active part in drafting laws aimed at implementing government programs, making joint decisions and developing a single agenda with all factions. The future Speaker also stressed the importance of increasing the efficiency of the state budget, and in this regard, it is proposed to improve the institutional capacities of the MPs and the staff of the National Assembly of Armenia. In addition, control over the implementation of the program budgeting project will also be strengthened.
Ararat Mirozyan also stated the need to activate the parliamentary commissions involved in investigative activities. "Nothing should restrict the activities of these commissions," the candidate noted, pointing out also the importance of giving new content to parliamentary hearings. These hearings, continued Ararat Mirzoyan, should be well prepared, with concrete conclusions and recommendations. "To implement all these activities, there is political will and institutional capacity", Ararat Mirzoyan said. He also noted the need to step up parliamentary diplomacy, aimed primarily at protecting state interests.
The candidate also pointed out the importance of cooperation with all parliamentary factions. "I intend to become the President of the National Assembly from all factions," he added, adding that he intends to carry out constructive work with all, including the extra-parliamentary forces and civil society. In order to increase the efficiency of the National Assembly, Ararat Mirzoyan proposed the creation of an expert center, which will strengthen the capabilities of the parliament and create conditions for the implementation of the ideas of the MPs.
To note, the counting commission was formed in the parliament, Vahagn Hovakimyan became its chairman, and Arpine Davoyan became the secretary.
In the National Assembly of the Republic of Armenia, the procedure of secret voting on the candidature of the President of the parliament began, which will last until 2:30 pm local time.