Tuesday, 7 February 2017
Karen Karapetyan, Peter Switalski Discuss Joint Efforts to Combat Corruption
Prime Minister Karen Karapetyan received Head of EU Delegation to Armenia, Ambassador Peter Switalski. The parties discussed cooperation in the fight against corruption.
Prime Minister Karen Karapetyan introduced the steps taken by the Armenian government to that effect, including legislative reforms, decisions and activities carried out by the Anticorruption Council. Talking about the future plans, the Prime Minister said a new legislative package has been developed to create an independent preventive anti-corruption authority based on the terms of reference of the High-Ranking Officials’ Ethics Commission.
The new package implies full revision of the applicable system of income statements and conflict of interest. Work is underway to improve investigation of corruption offenses. Based on the discussions held by Anticorruption Council, a number of important bills are being developed aimed at reducing the risks of corruption in all spheres of public life.
The Premier stressed that the effectiveness of measures for the fight against corruption is largely dependant on the stance of civil society. Set to activate feedback from society, the Government will give new impetus to the activities of the anticorruption Council of the Republic of Armenia. Noting that his government is open to suggestions and recommendations, Karen Karapetyan stressed the importance of cooperation with EU partners.
Welcoming the Government’s efforts in the fight against corruption, Peter Switalski extended a vote of thanks on behalf of the business community for the Government’s decisions and legislative initiatives. He noted that the EU Delegation to Armenia is prepared to continue cooperation with the Government as part of the priorities and anti-corruption reforms outlined by the Prime Minister.
Taking the opportunity, the Prime Minister and the Head of EU Delegation to Armenia exchanged views on the possibilities for implementing joint projects within the framework of the Center for Strategic Initiatives.
