Armenian PM reflects on possible operation of Amulsar mine

News.am, Armenia
Jan 25 2020

15:26, 25.01.2020
                  

YEREVAN. – Armenian PM Nikol Pashinyan believes that the actions of activists who blocked the road leading to the Amulsar mine are not logical and disrespectful.

He said there are concerns over possible appeal of the Lydian owners to the international court of arbitration.

“I reiterate my calls to open the road and believe that the actions of our dear compatriots are wrong. The issue will not be solved, until the road is closed,” he said.

Wondering whether he is interested in the operation of Amulsar, Pashinyan said: “Yes, because, as I mentioned it previously, the exploitation is associated with an atmosphere of security. If the mine worked, economic growth would not be 7.5%, thousands of jobs would be created. But on the other hand, I would never agree to the operation of the mine to the detriment of the health of the local residents in Jermuk, neighboring villages, or irreversible damage to the environment and the country”.

However, until the roads leading to the mine are blocked, it is not possible to clarify the matter.

“The actions of the activists are not logical, disrespectful and they do not stem from the interests of Armenia,” he said.

Pashinyan admitted that those concerned are doing everything to reduce the company's shares on the stock exchange.

“But they will be disappointed. If it turns out that there is something like that, they will be held accountable,” Pashinyan promised.