Friday, 22 October 2004
RA Prime Minister A. Margaryan's Address to the Participants of International Conference Entitled "For the Advancement of Women - National Plan of Action" Held in Yerevan
Dear Hosts, Attendees and Guests,
Please accept my warm greetings on the occasion of this conference which among other objectives has been set the task of supporting the process of implementation of the national program for improvement of the status of women and enhancement of their role in the Armenian society. The beginning of the 21st century was marked by noticeable achievements in the area of women's rights protection. Suffice it to mention that the elimination of any discrimination whatsoever in regard of women was acknowledged by the civilized world to be a means for the assertion of human dignity and an integral part of the worldwide fight for the protection of human rights as stated in the Millenium Declaration. Current achievements have to be built on consistently so as to get tangible results in this sphere. The drive for women rights protection is a key feature characterizing the level of democracy in any State and society.
I consider it quite natural that such an important international conference is held in Armenia because concrete steps have been taken towards this end recently.
Four years ago a Council on Women's Affairs was set up under RA Prime Minister to bring together numerous representatives from both the executive branch and non-governmental organizations who are engaged in the coordination of activities aimed at addressing issues relating to women's rights. Following substantial and comprehensive discussions, a national plan of action for the advancement of women was elaborated and passed by the government referred to as the 2004-2010 Program for the Improvement of Women's Status and Enhancement of Their Role in the Society. It pursues the goal of ensuring equal rights and possibilities for men and women, which is an important prerequisite for building a democratic, socially-oriented state based on the rule of law. At this point of time, the most important task is the effective and timely implementation of this program which I feel is sure to be achieved through joint efforts employed by the State, society and international organizations.
Of course, women are assigned a key role in the history of any people. Invaluable was Armenian women's contribution to the cause of upbringing the young generations, preservation of national values and the cementing of family ties. They are carrying on this important mission with as much dedication today. Moreover, women are taking up ever more responsibilities in various fields of social activities, including education, scientific research, health care etc., in which they are distinguished by exceptional patience and dedication. Of course, we are well aware of the plenitude of outstanding problems facing our women. Notwithstanding, the Armenian government is doing and will do everything in its power to attend to women's problems and to implement the National Action Plan.
Convinced that the ongoing discussions and the proposals moved at this conference will serve a strong impetus for the solution of the challenges facing us, I would like to wish every success to the organizers, participants and supporters thereof.
