IDEX 2021 International Exhibition Service Investigation Concluded

On February 24, 2021, the Minister of High-Tech Industry of the Republic of Armenia issued a decision to initiate a service investigation regarding the participation of Armenian companies in the IDEX 2021 International Defense Industry Exhibition, held from February 21-25 in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The investigation was prompted by the failure to deliver samples of Armenian military technology to the unified pavilion of Armenian companies within the specified timeframe and to ensure their exhibition at the event.

As per point 2 of the ministerial directive, a comprehensive investigation conducted by the task force responsible for conducting the service inquiry revealed that the Ministry of High-Tech Industry was only required to provide support to the participating companies concerning sample transportation. It is noteworthy that the costs incurred for the transportation of the samples were covered by the companies themselves, indicating that no state budget funds were utilized for this purpose.

To assist the participating companies with logistical issues, employees were assigned from the Ministry of High-Tech Industry. However, it was found that three employees had failed in their duty, leading to disciplinary actions against them. Specifically, two employees received a 'warning' and one received a 'severe reprimand.'

Despite these shortcomings, the task force noted that the Armenian pavilion at the exhibition was attractive and garnered significant interest from visitors. Consequently, representatives from the Ministry of High-Tech Industry and the participating companies established over 150 practical contacts and 50 preliminary agreements. Additionally, several senior military officials and other representatives from various countries visited the Armenian pavilion.