In Moscow, the Human Rights Defender of Armenia Arman Tatoyan and Commissioner for Human Rights in the Russian Federation Tatyana Moskalkova discussed issues concerning our compatriots, who had left to work overseas or reside there. This kind of discussion is held for the first time, although the parties have discussions on individual cases concerning issues that our compatriots encounter. Respective staff members are designated by both parties for dealing with such matters.
The Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Armenia to the Russian Federation Vardan Toghanyan also participated in the discussion in Moscow. Within the effective cooperation established with the Embassy, the issues raised by the citizens have been also discussed at the meeting. In his speech, the Human Rights Defender emphasized the importance of working with the Embassy on such principles.
The Head of the Union of Armenians in Russia Ara Abrahamyan also participated in the meeting. He also raised issues of primary concern for Armenians that are regularly addressed to them.
The agenda included the issues related to calculating the working period in Russia and Armenia within one pension record, the access to medical services and the enjoyment of employment benefits. Issues relating to labor rights, the education of children in secondary schools and pre-school institutions, the use of Armenian driving licenses in the Russian Federation and other questions were also referred to during the meeting. The information available in media on the dismissal of Armenians from the Sochi airport was discussed as well.
A reception of our compatriots residing in the Russian Federation, who have raised their issues by applying to the Human Rights Defender of Armenia, to the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Armenia to the Russian Federation, as well as to the Commissioner for Human Rights in the Russian Federation, took place for the first time as a result of the cooperation between the Ombudsmen of Armenia and Russia. The ban to enter to Russian Federation for a citizen was removed as a result of the cooperation and he/she will soon be able to reunite with the family residing in Russia. In order to provide quick solutions to the citizen’s issues, concrete arrangements were made regarding other questions.
The Russian Commissioner for Human Rights Tatyana Moskalkova has expressed her readiness to assist citizens of Armenia and people of Armenian origin in solving issues pertaining to labor, social, health, pension, educational and other rights within her mandate.
At the end of the meeting the parties also discussed issues related to the development of cooperation.