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National Assembly of Armenia today passed in the first reading a bill on amendments to the 2006-2007 State Property Privatization Program, with 61 votes in favor, 22 against, and 16 abstentions. The bill was drafted due to the inclusion of Haypost Company in the 1st list of companies in which the state has a stake.

The privatization of Haypost CJSC national postal operator is expected to help attract private investment, increase financial flows, modernize the company and develop postal services.

Member of the opposition Prosperous Armenia faction Mikael Melkumyan said prior to the vote that although they are not opposed to the national postal operator’s modernization, they will abstain from voting now. He suggested setting up a parliamentary committee composed of members of all the factions.

Another opposition MP, Zaruhi Postanjyan of Heritage faction, said the privatization may push up prices of services so they intend to vote against.

ARFD, Orinats Yerkir, and Armenian National Congress (HAK) factions also spoke against the bill.