The reason for the delays is clear. On one hand, the populist government cannot go against the opinions of the majority, but on the other hand, it understands that it needs to cling onto any opportunity to develop profitable industries to collect taxes and “make money” in these, to put it mildly, unfavorable economic conditions. That is likely the reason why the scales tipped in favor of Lydian and why, to the protesters’ dismay, the police brought a group of workers to the mine. And the majority of environmentalists and the Armenian population are convinced that there is no legal basis for the operation of the Amulsar mine. The Lydian company and everyone else is interested in the mine’s operation for different reasons believe that there is no legal basis for their work to be interrupted. The government, as I mentioned, has not said yes or no to any side. How will this issue be resolved in a legitimate state? Of course, through the courts. But if the different sides do not trust the court’s decision or each side needs to provide testimony on their behalf, then the issue will remain up in the air. This is why an independent and trustworthy court is critical from an economic development and business perspective.
Read the entire editorial in Armenian: https://www.aravot.am/2020/07/29/1126341/?fbclid=IwAR2TEBti48y6FnIWR9Hrk2n66yIXs0lQNGRvjyBE7btivTeUruQXfuGvuDE
Aram Abrahamyan
