Minister of Environment Meets with EU Ambassador Andrea Victorin in Armenia

Today, the Minister of Environment of the Republic of Armenia, Romanos Petrosyan, welcomed the delegation led by Andrea Victorin, head of the European Union delegation in Armenia.

“Welcoming the guests, I thanked them for initiating this meeting and emphasized that I place great importance on the close cooperation with international partners, particularly with European countries and EU member states in environmental management,” he stated.

In turn, EU Ambassador Andrea Victorin expressed her gratitude for accepting the meeting proposal during these difficult post-war times.

During the meeting, several issues regarding environmental cooperation between Armenia and the EU and upcoming programs were discussed. I referred to the 44-day war, which led not only to human and humanitarian losses but also resulted in serious environmental challenges and necessitated alterations in the prioritization of environmental issues.

I presented alerts and letters addressed to international organizations, including ambassadors of EU member countries, regarding the environmental risks arising from the war.

I identified the top three environmental issues requiring immediate solutions: the restoration of Lake Sevan’s ecosystem, systematic management of forested areas and protected natural areas, and building a balanced relationship model between the business environment and the surrounding environment in protected areas.

I emphasized that the EU has significant experience in all the outlined areas, and we expect partners to contribute this expertise efficiently.

Ms. Andrea Victorin expressed confidence that Armenia, which has faced challenges from both the war and the COVID-19 pandemic, will be able to follow a path of recovery and implement its planned projects in a short time.

The Ambassador underscored the opportunities provided by the Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement between Armenia and the EU, reiterating the EU's readiness to support the Armenian government in effectively implementing its priorities.

In concluding the meeting, I thanked our EU partners and expressed my willingness to deepen cooperation further for a healthier and more protected environment,” wrote the Minister.