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Armenian scientists have launched a campaign on Facebook using the hashtag “Drinking Coffee”. They are angered by Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan's statement at a meeting with scholars at the Mekhitarist Congregation in Venice’s St. Lazarus Island and representatives of the local Armenian community. 

“Carrying out a great deal of scientific activity in Armenia meant going to a building called research institute every morning, drinking coffee and returning home in the first half of the day,” he said. “Naturally, if you try to get any of such circles out of their comfort zone, it causes some problems. But we will follow that path. We will not allow the logic of ‘getting by’ in any sphere of Armenia."

A group of scientists responded to Pashinyan's remarks with humor and sarcasm on Facebook. They also shared information on the research work done by them and links to their scientific works.

“#DrinkingCoffee I received an invitation to attend one of the largest conferences (an average of 20,000 participants in attendance). One of my speeches will be under the special sign – Invited Guest,” young scientist Hripsime Mkrtchyan wrote on Facebook.

“Well, it's time to move on to tea to adequately represent Armenia.

"P.S. People are transient, knowledge is permanent,” he added.

“Just don’t tell the prime minister what scientists are doing in the morning, or else he may cut the already little funds,” physicist Vahram Mkhitaryan wrote, attaching the hashtags “Powerful Science, Powerful Armenia” and “Drinking Coffee”.

Researcher Sargis Aghayan shared on Facebook the list of his research works related to the incidence of diseases in the nature that are dangerous for humans.

“We not only consume a lot of coffee, but also cultural programs are part of all our campaigns. So, funding for science can be cut a little bit at the expense of coffee and culture,” he added.

Another researcher Lilit Nersisyan also shared the link to her current works on cancer. “I love mixing black and instant coffee in one cup to enjoy both. Nikol Pashinyan, what coffee do you prefer?” she asked, sarcastically.

Doctor of Nutrition David Pipoyan urged the Armenian premier to refrain from talking about science. “Haven't you heard of anything other than coffee?” he said, stressing Armenian scientists enjoy the “respect and love” of the international community.