How Much Money Does the Government Spend on Its Initiated Events? - 'Zhoghovurd'

‘Zhoghovurd’ newspaper reports: ‘The authorities spare no expense from the state budget for events conducted on their own initiative. First, a two-day cycling race cost nearly 15 million drams from the state budget. Then, 150 million drams were allocated for the 'Hero of Our Times' awards ceremony to be held in December. And this list of millions does not end here; from September 17 to 20, 2024, the 'Global Armenian Summit' will be held in Armenia. The agreement proposes at least 800 participants from around 50 countries and at least 200 guests from the Republic of Armenia.

The summit is expected to feature at least 8 panel discussions and at least 25 various format discussions (workshop discussions, concurrent sessions, B2B meetings), and three exhibitions (expo) will also be organized, along with opening and closing ceremonies. A total of 180 speakers from about 20 countries are planned for these events. Topics to be discussed include issues related to Armenia's security and foreign policy, investment policy, repatriation, problems of education, cultural preservation, self-organization in the diaspora, strengthening youth organizations, and engaging academic potential.

The summit is designed for at least 1,000 people and is planned to be held at the 'Meridian Expo Center' with space rental. There should also be points for serving coffee, water, and refreshing drinks, the placement of which should be coordinated with the contractor. The area designated for lunch and dinner (buffet) must be equipped as specified in the contract with 'Separated and branded areas with appropriate placement of drink tables (cocktails, wine), hot dishes, coffee, and dessert tables, allowing free movement (to avoid queues and crowds), with at least armchairs for 150 persons, appropriate flooring (color to be agreed with the Contractor), decorative plants or decorations.’

It should be noted that the Armenian authorities will allocate about 2.4 billion drams, or about 6.2 million dollars, to host the annual meeting of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) here in Armenia, which will take place from May 14 to 16. Initially, 2 billion 219 million drams were allocated for the event, but the government decided to increase the sum by an additional 179 million during a cabinet meeting. It turns out that the authorities spare no expense for international meetings, while, for example, they suspend a 16 million dram program to build housing for families in border villages under the pretext of a lack of funds.’