Tuesday, 16 March 2010
Premier’s working visit to Shirak marz
On a working visit to Shirak marz, Prime Minister Tigran Sargsyan called at Berdashen village where “Lake Arpi” national park is being developed. The Minister of Nature Protection and other key officials concerned briefed the head of government on the project referred to as “Creaton of “Lake Arpi” national park in Javakhk (Ashotsk) region of Armenia.”
Then the Prime Minister traveled to Zorakert village community to attend the third session of the advisory council of Shirak marz.
The establishment of “Lake Arpi” national park is among those 3 projects assigned to the Minister of Nature Protection for close control. As stated by those in charge, serious efforts have been made to bring about a tangible effect as early as by this yearend.
The project has two components: investment program and community development programs. Everything was said to have been made to have these two components synchronized. Co-financed by the German KfW bank and the Armenian Government, this project is implemented by the Armenia branch office of the World Nature Fund.
The head of government made a point of forming a joint-stock company involving the private sector as a unique business model. It will trade in the agricultural products purchased from local farmers. The heads of beneficiary communities thanked the Premier for his thoughtfulness of the project and outlined their vision of implementation practicalities.
Summarizing the meeting, Tigran Sargsyan expressed satisfaction at the fact that the project is appreciated not only by the Cabinet, but also by the heads of concerned communities. He pointed out that it will gain in efficiency considerably if backed by all the stakeholders. The Prime Minister hailed the project in the light of the government’s organic farming development concept.
The head of the executive issued corresponding assignments to the agencies in charge in terms of providing favorable conditions for project implementation. In particular, the Minister of Nature Protection was told to submit to the Prime Minister at week’s notice his ministry’s opinion the list of alternative business models, as well as a timetable for implementation. “We are viewing this project not only as an environmental undertaking, but also as a community development initiative. We are intent on extending it to other communities as well,” Tigran Sargsyan said in conclusion.
With reference to road building efforts in the Lake Arpi protected area, the Prime Minister instructed the newly appointed Minister of Transport and Communication to submit proposals on road building activities.
