Director of Yerevan Zoo Resigns

The director of the Yerevan Zoo has submitted a resignation letter, stating:

“Dear colleagues, friends, and companions, considering the recent events surrounding the Yerevan Zoo, the unrest and the attacks by stray dogs on the animals kept in the zoo, and not excluding the human factor involved, while also upholding the presumption of innocence, I have decided to cease my powers as the director of the Yerevan Zoo.

During my 8 years in office, the Yerevan Zoo has achieved visible progress, undergone renovations, and built enclosures that meet European standards, including the importation of animals never before exhibited in Yerevan. The standard of veterinary services has been raised, and the zoo has become a candidate member of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria.

Although I made this decision at the recommendation of Yerevan Deputy Mayor Tigran Virabyan, I am confident that my resignation will put an end to the series of animal fatalities (including attacks by stray dogs), as my focus has always been on the welfare of the animals and public safety.

I officially announce that I have always been, and will continue to be, alongside the Yerevan Zoo as a supporter, as well as a partner and friend to the city authorities, consistently aiding in advancing the path of the Zoo's improvement.

I would like to thank the city authorities for their trust, and even more, I am grateful to my team for consistently exceeding their responsibilities and for adopting the path of transformative development for the Zoo.”

Ruben Khachatryan