Several urgent issues related to ensuring the primary needs of the population under the ongoing blockade of Artsakh by Azerbaijan were discussed at the headquarters meeting held today under the leadership of Ruben Vardanyan, Minister of State of the Republic of Artsakh, Chief of the Operational Staff.
In this context, introducing the coupon system was emphasized, enabling the maximum proportional distribution of the available food products. It was noted that the mechanisms for implementing the system have already been developed. Initially, it is planned to be applied to several primary products. In the coming days, technical and organizational works are being carried out to switch to the voucher system.
During the session, information was presented about the visits of members of the operational staff to the regions and meetings with the population. One of the main issues raised was related to the introduction of the coupon system itself.
The Minister of State was instructed to summarize the issues raised by the population during the meetings, distinguish the problems and discuss the possibilities of their solution. “These meetings have shown that the difficulties of the blockade have not broken the spirit of the people. Three questions were raised: local problems related to a specific settlement, problems that will require systemic solutions, and grievances. There are also urgent problems to which solutions should be prioritized,” he said.
The State Minister was also presented with the situation of the roads and the process of organizing snow removal works. It was reported that due to the blocking of the Stepanakert-Goris highway by the Azerbaijani “eco-activists,” it is impossible to complete the highway’s cleanings, and a large section remains uncleaned, damaging the quality of the road.
During the session, the possibilities of transporting seriously ill patients through the International Committee of the Red Cross and reuniting families with minor children were also discussed. In these directions, I’ve highlighted the work in cooperation with the International Committee of the Red Cross.
Problems related to cash circulation were also addressed. The Minister of State has decided to go ahead and settle the situation within the framework of available opportunities. The implementation of awareness activities among the population has been emphasized so that people avoid withdrawing large amounts of money and keeping cash.
The current situation in the food, medicine, petrol, and diesel markets was also reported. The steps were presented to ensure uninterrupted energy supply, water supply, and infrastructure operation.
