Friday, 4 November 2011
New EBRD-Armenia Strategy Details Discussed
Prime Minister Tigran Sargsyan received EBRD Vice President Jan Fisher who is in Armenia to discuss and finalize the Bank’s country priorities for Armenia.
Welcoming the guest to the Office of Government, Tigran Sargsyan said, “We appreciate our relationship with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. A long path of successful cooperation is left behind. But we have problems as well, and I hope that your present visit will help us outline the steps ahead.”
Thankful for reception, Jan Fisher referred to the key provisions of the new strategy of Armenia-EBRD cooperation. He noted that the Bank prioritizes those programs aimed at developing the private sector with a special focus on small and medium-size enterprise, in particular.
Noting that the two sides have a shared vision of cooperation, Tigran Sargsyan stressed the need for making use of diversified lending tools for small and medium-sized businesses and noted the importance of getting technical assistance from the EBRD. Healthcare, pensions, financial sector and insurance were singled out as prospective areas of cooperation.
Down to joint efforts in infrastructures, the parties have discussed the EBRD-supported “Integrated border management in South Caucasus” program concentrating on the Bank’s participation in the refurbishment of border checkpoints. Jan Fischer said the Bank is ready to discuss the possibility of assisting the government with program implementation.
Hailing the government’s efforts toward improving the business environment, the EBRD Vice President reiterated the Bank’s commitment to providing continued support in this regard. He thanked the Prime Minister for spearheading the activities of the small and medium-size enterprise development council as an evidence of enhanced thoughtfulness for this sphere.
Pleased with the current pace of cooperation, Tigran Sargsyan noted the importance of ensuring its continuity.
