How do you explain the assassinations which took place a few days ago?

This is clearly a terrorist act,  which is to be categorically condemned. Of course, the perpetrators will be tried in the strictest sense, and will no doubt receive the appropriate verdict, according to the letter of the law. We expect that the trial will reveal reasons and links and other information to help us better understand why these individuals perpetrated this horrible crime.

Was this act politically motivated?

We are convinced that this act is  not linked to any political group, power or motive. This was a terrorist action by individuals. And despite any explanations we may hear later, it is, for us, unexplainable.  In Armenia, today, there is no political grouping which supports or backs this action. Everyone has unconditionally condemned it. Everyone has expressed support for the President, and what is most important, no one is in any way taking advantage of or using this tragedy for their own or their group's gain.

The Defense Ministry has issued a statement wherein they demand the resignations of some specific officials. Is there tension in that ministry, or between that ministry and the president? 

Before anything else, one should note that this statement clearly emphasizes that the army is in complete support of the President and is ready to provide all the necessary help to ensure stability in the country. It is true that there has been a call for some resignations, especially among the security ministries. And, of course, there is some logic to this demand. Some political parties have made the same demands. I believe that in the final analysis, the President will take into consideration the entire picture and will make the right decision taking into account the safety of the Armenian people and the stability of the country.   

You have  worked closely with most of the victims of this senseless act, how will the country deal with their loss?

This is going to be a very difficult time for all of us. All of the victims, and especially the Prime Minister and the Chairman of the National Assembly have been important figures in this country's development and their loss will be felt for a long time to come. It is especially difficult for me personally. I worked very closely with the Prime Minister. We were together for four hours immediately prior to his death, in a meeting with an American delegation. His strong and passionate commitment to his country and his people will not be forgotten. And Karen Demirchian's long and very productive years in public life will of course have their respected place in our history. He was a father figure to many, a man whose political maturity was a source of stability. Still, even with this huge loss of eight devoted public servants, it is gratifying that our institutions have become strong enough that the government and the country are able to continue to function.

Still, will Armenia's democratic processes not be permanently scarred by these events?

Absolutely not. On the contrary, this can only reinforce our democracy. The fact that the country is not in chaos, that there is internal stability, that everything is quiet is indicative of Armenia's political maturity. The system has been tested in the past. This is not the first time our statehood is being challenged by internal forces.  And our experience has shown that our democracy is quite strong and stable.

The country is stable now; will it remain stable?

Yes, it will for the simple for the reason that we have a very clear constitution. The constitution was tested and proved solid when the former President resigned. Today, we don't have anyone heading either our government or our parliament. But the constitution has clear provisions for this situation.  Today, the President is clearly in control, and remains the fundamental guarantor of the constitution. After the funerals, when emotions have somewhat subsided, the President will take the necessary steps regarding the appointment of a new prime minister, and for holding elections in parliament for new leadership there.

How will the Karabagh peace process be affected by these shootings?

This terrorist act is not linked to Karabagh or to any other regional issues. All the ongoing political processes will continue at their normal pace. 

There are those who say that in the absence of Sargsian and Demirchian, Armenia will distance itself from Russia.

As I have said, this tragedy is not and will not be linked to any other issues and processes. These killings were initiated by and perpetrated by individuals. There are no political forces backing them and pursuing political ends. Furthermore, Armenia's foreign policy is not determined by the orientation and preferences of  individuals for this or that country. Our foreign policy is driven by Armenia's national interests. These events, as tragic and horrible as they were, will not result in any change in Armenia's foreign policy.