Head of the EU Delegation to Armenia, Ambassador Piotr Switalski, who was in Gyumri on Saturday to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Treaty of Rome, the founding document of the European Union, as well as the “successful year” for Armenia-EU relations, informed that in 2018 some projects will be implemented in Shirak region. “We also celebrate the opening of a new chapter in relations between the EU and Armenia via the signed enhanced partnership agreement”, the ambassador said, reminding that Gyumri is the most European city in Armenia, the only one that has a European Square.
Speaking about the programs, the ambassador said that they will concentrate on projects such as the field of creative production. According to him, the main core program of 2018 will be concentrated and implemented in Gyumri.
“Soon, we will sign a million-euro contract, investments will be made to improve the wool production chain in Amasia. We hope this will substantially contribute to the creation of new jobs and will serve as a stimulus for economic development in the northern part of Shirak region. We will sign a new grant agreement soon to assist in the preparation and implementation of budgets with civic participation in the large communities of Shirak region. Larger communities will have the opportunity to determine the programs and the areas which the European Union will finance. In Ashotsk and Arpi you will have pilot projects aimed at promoting outdoor activities, entertainment and tourism. Gyumri and Shirak region will be in the focus of attention of the European Union in Armenia in the upcoming years”, said the ambassador.
The ambassador also mentioned that the signed agreement between Armenia and the European Union is an enhanced partnership agreement, not an association agreement, and as a legal basis for cooperation, it will help them to direct more assistance to Armenia, particularly to Shirak region.
