The members of the new Armenian government took the path of office today at the Presidential Palace in Yerevan, the first time such a ceremony has been enacted since the country gained independence in 1991.

With Armenian President Armen Sarkissian looking on, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan approached the lectern first and read the oath of office.

“In the name of achieving pan-national goals and strengthening the fatherland, I swear to conscientiously carry out my obligations vis-à-vis the people, to uphold the laws and Constitution of the Republic of Armenia, to assist in maintaining the sovereignty and interests of the Republic of Armenia, and to remain faithful to the lofty calling of a government member.”

After Pashinyan took the oath of office, other government members did the same.

When the ceremony concluded, President Sarkissian congratulated them, wishing them success at their new posts.