From where Syunik Governor Possesses 10 Licenses to Sell it to Different Companies?

Small mines in Armenia appear under jurisdiction of different officials by means of a magic stick, it’s their decision to sell those mines to other enterprises. Levon Galstyan, environmentalist, told this during the discussion of the report on “Armenia Strategic Mineral Sector Sustainability Assessment” prepared by the World Bank.

“From where Syunik governor may possess mining exploration or exploitation license to sell them to different companies then?,” he said, stating that mines are sold, foreign companies exploit them for 1-2 years, then leave, after being convinced “there is nothing effective.” He asked whether the World Bank doesn’t think that approaches should be reviewed in this regard, with whom they cooperate.

Laura Bailey, World Bank Country Manager in Armenia, replying to the question said that she believes that they should work with everyone in the room, in the hall, with communities, which they represent. And regarding the role of mining in Armenia’s future, she thinks it’s a decision to be made by Armenian people and the Government, however, they’d like to support, provide as much proof as possible, introduce international experience while making that decision.

By Ofelya Hovhannisyan