YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 30, ARMENPRESS. Prime Minister of Armenia Karen Karapetyan received today a delegation led by Crédit Agricole’s International Retail and Commercial Banking Director Marc Oppenheim.

As “Armenpress” was informed from the press service of the Government of Armenia, praising Crédit Agricole’s activities in Armenia’s banking sector and the presence of French management culture, the Prime Minister stressed the importance increased influx of French capital and the need to push ahead with the implementation of investment programs.

“We are set to improve the business environment, and to this end, we have already changed the focus of the Ministry of Economy, with a primary objective to support the business community and attract investment. Our team will always be open: we will back you in addressing any eventual challenges,” Karen Karapetyan said.

The Premier added that during a recent meeting with the representatives of the banking sector he urged them to develop appropriate SME lending mechanisms using the assets available with the banks in order to activate the economy.

Highlighting the Bank’s involvement in the agricultural sector, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of close cooperation between the French company and the Ministry of Agriculture of Armenia, adding that the Ministry of Agriculture in the near future will develop a package of investment programs. Karen Karapetyan expressed confidence that Crédit Agricole will help bring in French capital and emphasized the need for a turnaround in this matter.

Thankful for the reception, Marc Oppenheim noted that the 20th anniversary of his bank’s activity in Armenia was being marked today. According to him, this is the evidence of close bilateral relations and their willingness to improve the business environment and economic development in Armenia. Marc Oppenheim expressed confidence that the shift in the focus of the Ministry of Economy will contribute to the implementation of the government’s objectives and investment projects. He thanked the Prime Minister for his willingness to assist investors, noting that it is very important for successful business activities.

“Good relations between the government and investors are the keys to success. Any State, which is ready to assist the business community, will be able to achieve development and ensure progress. We will back you on this way as we are keen to become the ambassador of French capital in Armenia,” Marc Oppenheim pointed out.

During the meeting, the parties discussed other issues of mutual interest.