Forestry reform discussed with Prime Minister

Prime Minister Karen Karapetyan called a consultative meeting to discuss the situation in the village of Haghartsin of Tavush Marz, as well as the process of forestry reform.

Tavush Marz Governor Hovik Abovyan informed the Prime Minister on the concerns voiced by Haghartsin residents and submitted proposals for the solution of the problem.

Karen Karapetyan instructed those responsible to carry out a comprehensive analysis of the reported instances of logging (illegal and legal) and reforestation activities. The Premier suggested establishing a threshold of deforestation and envisaging severe penalties against offenders.

The Head of Government was presented the updated version of the concept of forestry reform. He was briefed on the steps taken to ensure forest protection, prevent illegal logging, provide control and monitoring, develop the forestry sector and optimize the responsible entities. In particular, reference was made to the structural and functional reforms in ArmForest SNCO that will help enhance the efficiency and targeting of its work.

Approving the proposed changes, as a whole, the Prime Minister instructed the Governor to discuss the draft concept with other stakeholders.