Romanos Petrosyan's Comments on Arpa and Vorotan Watersheds Spark Misinterpretations, Spokesperson

The spokesperson for the Minister of Environment clarified the comments made by Minister Romanos Petrosyan during a press conference today, regarding the sources of the Arpa and Vorotan rivers that feed into Lake Sevan being under Azerbaijani control.

On his Facebook page, he wrote: "Dear colleagues, journalists, during the online press conference held today at the 'Armenpress' state news agency, comments made by Minister of Environment Romanos Petrosyan regarding the two main rivers feeding Lake Sevan—the Arpa and Vorotan watersheds—have led to misinterpretations. We find it necessary to clarify the following: the minister's response to a journalist's question referred not to the direct sources of these rivers, but rather to certain areas that are part of the Vorotan and Arpa river watersheds, where there are springs that feed into these rivers and may have a certain influence on the watershed that nourishes Lake Sevan. Naturally, this influence is very minimal.

In light of concerns raised by environmental circles in Armenia, the Ministry of Environment has already sent several letters and alerts to the relevant authorities. It is also noted that until the final state border demarcation is carried out, it is impossible to address the issue clearly and unequivocally. We seek understanding from professional circles regarding the misinterpretations that have arisen."