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Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has emphasized that environmental protection must become a national priority, stressing that Armenia is affected by climate change and must strengthen care for its forests and natural resources.
The Prime Minister attended the launch ceremony of the Kotayk and Gegharkunik regional departments of the Eco-Patrol Service under the Ministry of Environment on Saturday. The ceremony took place in Hrazdan, where the HQ of the regional department is located.
The event was also attended by representatives of the legislative and executive branches, regional officials, and other guests.
In his speech, Pashinyan congratulated those present on the launch of the service’s operations in the Gegharkunik and Kotayk regions.
He noted that the Eco-Patrol Service is already operating in four regions, calling it an important milestone and saying it reflects the country’s strategy of paying closer attention to nature and the environment.
“The world is currently experiencing global climate change, and we are also witnessing these changes and anomalies,” he said, stressing that nature must receive special care.
He also highlighted that in difficult and crisis periods, nature and forests have played a vital role in supporting the state and society, and said it is now time to “give back to nature and our forests.” He linked the issue to Armenia’s role as host and chair of the COP17 biodiversity summit, emphasizing that environmental policy directly affects biodiversity conditions.
In conclusion, he again congratulated the newly launched service unit and stressed the importance of integrity in public service, saying that new equipment and expanded responsibilities must come with a new mindset and approach.
The Prime Minister wished the eco-patrol officers success in their duties and emphasized professionalism and high ethical standards to help prevent violations. Environment Minister Hambardzum Matevosyan and the head of the Eco-Patrol Service, Vladimir Kirakosyan, also delivered speeches.
Afterward, Pashinyan toured the Hrazdan headquarters, reviewed the completed works, and was briefed on operations. It was noted that the new department will ensure 24/7 protection of state forests, forest lands, and specially protected natural areas in the two regions, including fire safety monitoring.
Officials said that 127 eco-patrol officers were appointed through a competitive process under the relevant law. The Prime Minister also inspected newly equipped service vehicles.