Health Ministry Responds to Controversial Post by Armenian-American Benefactor

The Ministry of Health of the Republic of Armenia has issued a statement addressing the controversial post by Armenian-American benefactor Mike Saryan.

“Armenian-American benefactor Mike Saryan donated medical devices and equipment to the Republic of Armenia in 2017 and 2018, both of which were facilitated through the ‘Light’ foundation. In 2018, medical devices and equipment were donated to the Republic of Armenia, represented by the Ministry of Health. The specified devices were customs-cleared, stored, cataloged, and distributed by the National Center for Drug and Medical Equipment Provision of the Ministry of Health, in coordination with the relevant department of the ministry. The shipment consisted of 4 forty-foot containers, of which 3 were distributed between 2018 and 2021, primarily in 2018-2019. Approximately 30 healthcare institutions received these medical supplies, with proper documentation being processed.

One container is currently located at the National Center for Drug and Medical Equipment Provision of the Ministry of Health. However, considering that the devices and equipment in the mentioned container are unsuitable for use and that their repair is impractical or impossible in some cases, the center has initiated the process of dispossession and further disposal in accordance with all applicable regulations.

The Ministry of Health of the Republic of Armenia values and appreciates the patriotic activities of diaspora benefactors. At the same time, the authorities consider attempts to discredit the reputation of state institutions through baseless defamatory statements to be unacceptable.”