Dan Bilzerian needs defense ministry’s permission to visit Artsakh frontline – official
Famous American-Armenian millionaire, the King of Poker Dan Bilzerian’s visit to Artsakh is private and no official meeting with President Bako Sahakyan is planned during his trip, David Babayan, the head of the General Information Department of the country’s presidential office, told Panorama.am.
Meanwhile, he assures that even if such a meeting takes place, an official statement will follow.
“The visit is not politically motivated. Dan Bilzerian has simply visited a part of his historical homeland – Artsakh. We are always interested in welcoming famous people to Artsakh. Obviously, such visits contribute to the country’s recognition process,” he said.
Asked about the media reports suggesting the poker star plans to visit the Artsakh frontline, the official said it is up to Bilzerian to decide, stressing again his visit is not pre-planned.
“He can go if he wants. But if he wants to visit the frontline, he needs to get a permission from the Ministry of Defense. If he spreads such news, it means he has for sure been granted a permission, since no one has a right to head to the contact line without a permission,” he added.
Some media reports suggest the poker star plans to implement a large-scale program in Artsakh.
Bilzerian registered with the Armenian Armed Forces after he and his brother, Adam received Armenian passports on Monday, the day they arrived in Armenia.