ARF Call Regarding the Amulsar Issue

The Supreme Body of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) has issued a statement expressing concern over recent comments regarding the operation of the Amulsar mine.

"The source of the growing public tension surrounding the operation of Amulsar in recent days is the contradictory statements of the current authorities, their ill-considered actions, and the absence of measures commensurate with the significant expectations formed within the broader society regarding the issue.

Prioritizing national and state interests, public solidarity, the secure exploitation of natural resources, the preservation of biodiversity in the environment, and the country’s sustainable development, the ARF Supreme Body deems it deeply concerning that the published conclusions do not inspire sufficient assurance and confidence both in public and professional circles.

We urge the authorities not to regard the published professional conclusion as a definitive justification for the operation of the mine. Recognizing the public significance of the issue and its potential serious impacts and risks on the country’s socio-economic and environmental outlook, we find it necessary to:

• Reach convincing solutions through additional public and professional discussions,
• Restore healthy dialogue with the professional expert circles,
• Achieve a decision in the interests of the state and acceptable to the public through a referendum,

as stated in the released announcement.