The Minister of High-Tech Industry of the Republic Robert Khachatryan said that the agreement between the Ministry and TV channels envisages “certain steps” in case of detection of violations. The Minister avoided answering the question whether the possibility of switching off Russian TV channels in Armenia is being discussed.
The Ministry of High-Tech Industry is studying the issue related to violations of the provisions of the agreement on broadcasting Russian TV channels in Armenia, said the head of the ministry Robert Khachatryan. He noted that no concrete decisions have been made yet.
On 5 October, Armenia’s TV and Radio Commission revealed violations of the provisions of the agreement on broadcasting Russian TV channels in the republic.
“The agreement is concluded by the ministry, we are familiar with all its clauses and will take appropriate steps,” the minister said.
The minister did not explain what steps we are talking about, noting that “the agreement provides for taking measures in case of violations.” According to him, discussions are underway on all issues. At present, there are no concrete decisions, as well as a time limit for the discussions.
One of the journalists asked the head of the ministry to comment on the statements that Russian TV channels can allegedly threaten Armenia’s national security. Khachatryan avoided answering.
To remind, Armenia and Russia signed an interstate agreement in 2020, according to which Russian TV companies were allocated republican and metropolitan slots (frequencies). The Russian First Channel, “Culture” and RTR-Planeta are rebroadcast in Armenia through the public multiplex. The interstate TV channel Mir, headquartered in Moscow, also broadcasts in Armenia.