Hambardzum Matevosyan hopes for joint environmental projects with Azerbaijan and other neighbours

Armenian Environment Minister and COP17 President Hambardzum Matevosyan has expressed hope that, following border delimitation work, it will be possible to implement cross-border environmental projects with Azerbaijan and other neighbouring countries.

Matevosyan made the remarks at a press conference held during COP17, responding to a question about environmental problems in Shikahogh and the Jermuk area.

“I very much hope that we will have the opportunity to carry out cross-border environmental projects together, not only with the Republic of Azerbaijan but also with all our neighbouring countries. As noted, various funds offer such opportunities for countries to submit a single joint package,” Matevosyan said.

The minister added that, following border delimitation work, such cooperation could also provide an opportunity to address environmental losses sustained in previous decades and work towards their restoration.

Matevosyan described environmental damage as condemnable, stressing that nature knows no borders and environmental problems are not confined to individual countries’ territories.

He also said that, as an Armenian citizen and a political officeholder, he was guided by the overriding interests of the Republic of Armenia. In the context of relations with neighbouring countries, the minister stressed the importance of strengthening the peace agenda and advancing the border delimitation process.