Author: Bayram Elshadov
Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan continues to amuse the domestic public. Putting a helmet on his head, Vovaevich, according to tradition, jumped on his bicycle and rushed along a deserted highway, pedaling at dawn. Pressing his butt against the seat with all his might, Pashinyan babbled about how fashionable it is these days to ride a bicycle to work.
Oh, this Nikol Vovaevich! Having barely had time to press the pedals, he immediately began enthusiastically speaking about the new “bicycle renaissance” in Armenia. Of course, what other transport could be closer to people than a two-wheeled friend? If only they wouldn’t remember about all the broken roads there, which have been in a deplorable state for a long time and have turned into an obstacle course.
Pashinyan, having forgotten about all state affairs, is trying to show the citizens that I, a mere mortal prime minister, am vigorously pushing the pedals. Well, we can wait with crises and important issues. Some might think that this is simply a way to distract attention from economic difficulties or geopolitical failures. But no! This is a living metaphor for Armenian national politics - pedal yourself, hold on as best you can, and don’t ask unnecessary questions if you don’t want to fly into a ditch.
While Vovaevich continues his bike ride through the expanses of Armenian absurdity, the public involuntarily asks the question: does this prime minister have any brakes? The spectacle, of course, is top notch: helmet, balaclava, enthusiasm – everything is like in an ostentatious show. But the audience is unlikely to appreciate this endless circus with pedals. After all, Armenia still has a lot of internal problems, among which poverty and high unemployment stand out. And all because Yerevan, under all sorts of pretexts, is delaying the signing of a peace treaty, which would bring economic dividends to the country. So Pashinyan needs to ride his bike less and deal with these issues.
But what do we see now? Vovaevich, while he has strength, cheerfully merges with the morning asphalt. Perhaps his next trick is to jump off his bike and do a somersault in the air. Well, for now – spin, Mr. Prime Minister, spin. This will not make Armenia any better.
How can government policies support a cultural shift towards cycling as a primary mode of transportation?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Cycling Expert Dr. Lara Mikhailov
Editor: Welcome, Dr. Mikhailov! Thank you for joining us today to discuss a rather interesting initiative by Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, who has taken to cycling as a way to promote a “bicycle renaissance” in Armenia. What is your initial reaction to this development?
Dr. Mikhailov: Thank you for having me! It’s certainly a unique approach to engage the public in discussions about transportation and urban planning. Cycling has many benefits—not just for the individual, but for society as a whole, including environmental sustainability and improved public health.
Editor: Absolutely! But some critics have pointed out that while the idea is commendable, the state of the roads in Armenia, as noted in your article, poses significant challenges for cyclists. How crucial is infrastructure in promoting cycling as a viable mode of transport?
Dr. Mikhailov: Infrastructure is paramount. Without safe, well-maintained roads and dedicated bike lanes, cycling can become dangerous. If Pashinyan wants to encourage more people to ride bikes, investing in infrastructure should be a priority. It’s not just about promoting cycling; it’s about ensuring that it’s safe and accessible for everyone.
Editor: That’s a valid point. Pashinyan seems to be creating an image where cycling is central to the identity of the modern Armenian citizen. Do you think this could potentially revitalise urban areas and lead to a cultural shift towards more sustainable transport?
Dr. Mikhailov: It could certainly catalyze change! When political leaders embrace cycling, it sends a message about the importance of sustainable practices. However, for real cultural shift to occur, it needs to be backed by concrete policies—like investment in bike lanes, public awareness campaigns, and perhaps even incentives for businesses to support cycling.
Editor: The article mentioned that Pashinyan seemed to focus on the fashion of cycling rather than addressing the pressing issues that make it difficult. Do you think there’s a risk that this campaign might be perceived as superficial?
Dr. Mikhailov: Yes, there’s definitely that risk. If the initiative is seen as merely a trend or a photo op, it might backfire. People want to see genuine efforts to improve cycling conditions rather than just symbolic gestures. It’s important for leaders to advocate for sustainable transport while acknowledging the realities of the existing infrastructure.
Editor: In your expertise, what successful examples can Armenia draw upon from other countries that have effectively promoted cycling?
Dr. Mikhailov: There are many successful models! For example, the Netherlands is renowned for its cycling infrastructure. Cities like Amsterdam and Copenhagen have extensive, safe bike lanes, cycling education programs, and strong governmental support that encourage cycling as a primary mode of transport. Armenia could benefit from studying these models and adapting them to fit its own context.
Editor: Great insights, Dr. Mikhailov! As a final question, do you believe this “bicycle renaissance” could also help businesses and the economy in urban areas?
Dr. Mikhailov: Absolutely! Promoting cycling can foster local businesses and increase foot traffic in urban areas. When people cycle rather than drive, they tend to patronize local shops and cafes more. Additionally, cycling reduces traffic congestion and pollution, creating a more pleasant environment for everyone. Thus, this renaissance could have multifaceted benefits that extend beyond simply encouraging healthier lifestyles.
Editor: Thank you very much for your valuable perspective, Dr. Mikhailov! It’s clear that while the initiative is promising, a collaborative approach focusing on infrastructure and public support will be essential for its success.
Dr. Mikhailov: Thank you for having me! I look forward to seeing how this initiative evolves in Armenia.