The embattled opposition Prosperous Armenia Party (BHK) says it will continue to seek early elections, despite conciliatory remarks made by its leader following reports he held talks with President Serzh Sarkisian.
Reports of the meeting between Sarkisian and BHK leader Gagik Tsarukian came after several BHK members were detained for what authorities said was "suspicion of possessing weapons illegally."
The BHK says the detentions were an attempt to impose political pressure on them.
But the BHK has called off an opposition rally that had been scheduled in Yerevan on February 20 to demand Sarkisian's resignation.
Tsarukian also issued a statement saying he is ready to settle all disputes through "peaceful, lawful, and political means."
Sarkisian and Tsarukian have recently pledged to "oust" each other from politics.
The Armenian president on February 12 told leaders of the ruling Republican Party that Tsarukian was "evil" and should not be allowed to participate in politics.
