We Must Minimize Underperformance in Program Spending, Prime Minister

During discussions held with Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, the progress of loan programs in the fields of tourism and waste management was reviewed. This information was reported by the Prime Minister's office.

It was reported that under the Tourism Development and Infrastructure program, which has a loan amount of $55 million, only $6 million has been spent from 2016 to the present. It is anticipated that an additional amount equivalent to 4 billion drams will be invested in the framework of the project in 2020. The project aims to improve tourism infrastructure in the regions of Ararat, Vayots Dzor, Syunik, Aragatsotn, Shirak, Kotayk, Gegharkunik, and Ararat, specifically focusing on the renovation of tourism zones, road repairs, and the restoration of tourism historical environments.

The possibilities of implementing infrastructure projects in Gyumri and Jermuk were also discussed, as the design work for these projects has already been completed. These projects are expected to be implemented, including through public-private partnerships. The progress of the “Development of Community Infrastructure” loan program was also presented.

In the next meeting, the responsible officials reported to the Prime Minister on the work being carried out under the Solid Waste Management loan program. It was noted that within this framework, a new landfill is planned to be built near the existing landfill in Nubarashen, Yerevan, and two inactive landfills in the capital will be closed. Currently, the process of organizing competitions for the construction of the new landfill is underway. Discussions were also held regarding the construction of landfills in the Kotayk and Gegharkunik regions under the same program.

Summarizing the discussions, the Prime Minister noted that Armenia has had a chronic practice of underperformance in capital expenditures. “Particularly this year, this is unacceptable. We must accurately predict the expenditure part, so that the funds that cannot be spent are redirected to the implementation of other programs,” the Prime Minister emphasized, highlighting the importance of program implementation, especially in terms of solving social issues. “We must minimize the underperformance of programs. There is not only an economic but also a significant social component here,” the head of the government stated.