Today, NKR Prime Minister Arayik Harutyunyan, who is also the leader of the "Azat Hayrenik" party, was in Gyumri for the first time on an official visit. During a meeting he had with the Gyumri State Pedagogical Institute's staff and students, the NKR PM answered a few political questions. When asked what is the official position of the NKR government regarding the recent "road map" signed by the foreign ministers of Armenia, Azerbaijan and Switzerland, Mr. Harutyunyan answered, "Of course, when you say the word 'road map' the public isn't aware what document you are talking about. We welcome any step taken by the Armenian government that, in the first instance, assists in the development of the Republic of Armenia and which also assists in the recognition of Artsakh." Mr. Harutyunyan added that, "Without a strong and independent economy it is not possible to have independence and thus, if similar cooperation will lead to the economic development of the Republic of Armenia, the decreasing of social tensions, improvement in the welfare of the people, job creation, then of course we welcome it. But as to just how much that preliminary agreement will assist in these aims, we need to be patient. The final accord hasn't been signed and the demands haven't been specified. We must have faith in our country and the president of the RoA who are responsible for the foreign policy of our country. Artsakh has faith in the president of the RoA and is convinced that any agreement or accord will first of all be in our best interests." When asked when the superpowers might eventually recognize the independence of Artsakh and when might the Artsakh issue finally be solved, the NKR prime minister responded, "We have solved our problems. Today, Artsakh is de facto independent and has the possibility to freely express its will. In the context of human rights, Artsakh is considered to be a quite free nation where the country is developing and which has a capable army. And Artsakh is ready to defend the independence it has won and is ready to withstand any and all challenges. As to when might certain international organizations come around and recognize our independence; that's their problem. As I have said, we have solved our issues. Let Azerbaijan and the international organizations think what they must do to foster peace in the region."