Wednesday, 8 November 2017
Dear Partners and Colleagues,
I welcome the participants of ArmAgroForum conference and wish them fruitful work.
Agriculture is one of the most important branches of our economy, which provides employment, promotes income generation and enhancement of living standards in rural areas, export growth and macroeconomic stability.
We have set a goal to increase agricultural productivity in Armenia and we have all the necessary prerequisites for it through the introduction of modern technologies, high value-added agriculture, import substitution, expansion of exports volume and geography, as well as by creating favorable conditions for farmers. Special attention is being paid to food security.
Dear Partners and Colleagues,
Objectively assessing our current situation we have to state that on the way to developing agriculture, we face many problems that we need to be addressed: sustainable supply of irrigation water, zoning, non-cultivated lands, lack of productivity and efficiency. The solution of these problems calls for consistent effort.
Today, the Government of Armenia is trying to create strong preconditions and new opportunities for competitive, profitable, sustainable and industrial agriculture.
To this end, we have already elaborated targeted assistance programs in agriculture with a view to developing intensive agriculture, introducing modern technologies, increasing the sector’s efficiency.
Affordable lending is available at 2% interest rate with state subsidies and flexible repayments for the financial lease of agricultural machinery, hail-proof nets and drip irrigation systems. 3% loans are provided for procurement purposes, with state subsidies and many other facilities, including educational programs.
Our actions will be continued and consistent with the industry’s requirements. Together, we will discuss the problems and development scenarios on a regular basis.
Today’s logic is as follows: the State and the private sector should work hard together in order to develop this important sector.
In conclusion, I would like to once again wish productive work to ArmAgroForum.
Thank you.