Video: We Are Also Interested in the Development of Armenia, But Not at Our Expense, Vardenut Resident Tells Minister

The residents of Vardenut village in the Aragatsotn region, who gathered for a protest near the government, met with the Minister of Economy, Gevorg Papoyan. The residents demand adequate compensation for their land, which has been declared of public necessity.

The minister stated that the government does not have the authority to force the investor to pay a fair amount. Residents presented the issue, stating that documents indicated their lands were rainfed, upon which taxes were collected. However, in reality, these lands are irrigated.

“I have seen that they are irrigated lands; at the same time, my eyes have seen that on paper, they are classified as rainfed lands. This is our reality and the difference with the documentation,” said the minister.

One of the residents also noted, “Now, whatever we have observed should be recorded for assessment reports. We are also interested in the development of Armenia, but not at the expense of losing our personal resources. Since the government is part of the process, we ask for your support to reach a compromise and we expect the same from the other side. We have no intention of obstructing and want to reach a quick solution.”

Minister Papoyan said they would try to contact the investor and propose a new offer lower than the previously suggested price.

For more details, watch the video.