19:27,

YEREVAN, JANUARY 25, ARMENPRESS.  Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan chaired a consultation, during which the draft concept of the new Insecurity Assessment System was discussed. It was developed by the interdepartmental commission established in 2021 in accordance with the instructions of the Prime Minister, the PM's Office said in a statement.

Before the draft concept would be presented, Nikol Pashinyan referred to the data presented at the Cabinet meeting regarding the average monthly salary and noted. "The average monthly salary in December 2023 was AMD 356,180, which is AMD 133,399 or 59.9 percent more compared to December 2018, a little lower than I expected. Compared to December 2022, it is more by 25,273 AMD or 7.6 percent."

According to the source, presenting the concept of the new Insecurity Assessment System, Deputy Minister of Labor and Social Affairs Anna Zhamakochyan first presented the problems in the current system of insecurity assessment related to the formula, addressability and effectiveness of the system.

Next, the Deputy Minister of Labor and Social Affairs presented details about the new system's implementation policy, goals, new formula, and hybrid verification method based on the system. According to Anna Zhamakochyan, the flaw in the formula of the current system is that based on the indirect assessment of vulnerability, assumed insecurity is measured and the calculation of income plays a secondary role. 

"The most important thing we need to change is changing the formula in the new system, that is, not only the procedures, not only the issue of the target, but the logic of the formula itself. Taking this into account, the hybrid means-testing method was chosen as the basis of the new formula. At the moment, the most important thing is to put the income measurement in the logic of the formula, so that the real picture of our insecurity and the estimated insecurity is visible and understandable, and the policy of the Government is measurable," said the Minister of Labor and Social Affairs. According to Anna Zhamakochyan, through the new method, the right to benefit will be determined based on the family income.

According to Anna Zhamakochyan, the target of the new system is the extremely poor family with monthly income below the Minimum Expenditure Basket. "With this model, it is proposed to target extremely poor groups and achieve the goal that the Government has set before itself, that is, to have 0 percent extreme poverty," said the deputy minister.

According to him, through the new system, necessary efforts will also be made for those registered in the insecurity system to obtain employment and improve living conditions through capacity development. According to Anna Zhamakochyan, integrated case management will be implemented, that is, social work will be conducted with families based on complex needs.

In terms of encouraging people to work, the Prime Minister emphasized that there are various programs in the labor market and added. "We can plan further incentives to increase interest among both the employer and the employee. What's the point of what I'm saying? A person has been in the benefit system for 20 years, and for 20 years the state spends huge resources for him, but his life does not improve. This is the problem. We have to approach this program in the logic of these 20 years, because we can accompany him with subsidies, income tax, and other programs before the work we mention becomes a mentality for him."

It is noted that an exchange of ideas on the draft concept took place, observations were presented about the process of transition from the old system to the new system, the steps for launching the new system, the features of the hybrid method, and the expected results.

Summarizing, the Prime Minister noted that the results of the discussion show that the package has been developed and the implementation of the new system can be started.

 19:59,

YEREVAN, JANUARY 25, ARMENPRESS. The Armenian National Assembly delegation in the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) is participating in the first part of the Annual Session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe taking place in Strasbourg on January 21-27, the National Assembly of Armenia said in a statement.

At the ordinary session, the member of the National Assembly delegation Sona Ghazaryan asked a question to the President of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides.

“Your Excellency,

It is an honour to welcome you to this Assembly.

Recently, the Government of Armenia came up with the Crossroads of Peace initiative, which is about unblocking the infrastructure, increasing the interconnectivity in the region. This project will greatly contribute to prosperity, lasting peace and cooperation among the nations of our regions and beyond.

Mr. President, what does Cyprus think of this project?

Thank you.”

“Now with regard to the Armenian proposal, well we, the Republic of Cyprus, in other words, support this particular effort” the President Nikos Christodoulides stated, adding that any effort that involves co-operation between countries, we support it. We feel that it is in the right direction: the crossroads of peace.

 20:05,

YEREVAN, JANUARY 25, ARMENPRESS. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan received Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Norway to Armenia Bergljot Hovland, the Prime Minister's Office said in a readout.

The Prime Minister congratulated Mrs. Hovland on her appointment to the new position and expressed hope that the relations between the two countries will continue to develop and expand. Nikol Pashinyan emphasized the deepening of trade and economic ties, including the implementation of new joint projects in different directions.

Bergljot Hovland noted that the Norwegian government is also interested in the development of cooperation with Armenia and noted that it is ready to contribute to the strengthening of bilateral relations.

It is noted that the interlocutors discussed issues related to cooperation in various branches of the economy, as well as the processes taking place in the region.

 20:14,

YEREVAN, JANUARY 25, ARMENPRESS. The Armenian National Security Service has resumed the survey work among ex-servicemen of Nagorno-Karabakh, resulting in the identification of eight new documents containing information on minefields, which will be transferred to the Azerbaijani side through working channels in the coming days.

The copies of these documents will be handed over  to  the international partners, the National Security Service of the Republic of Armenia said in a statement.

"Committed to the peace agenda with Azerbaijan and based on humanitarian considerations, the Republic of Armenia transferred 972 minefield maps with information about to Azerbaijan on June 12, July 3, October 19, November 1 and November 29, 2021 without preconditions.

Following this unilateral humanitarian gesture, the Republic of Azerbaijan initiated an information campaign, accusing the Republic of Armenia of providing inaccurate and incomplete maps and using the humanitarian step to incite hatred.

Representatives of the Republic of Armenia have repeatedly stated at the public and working levels that there are simply no better quality maps at the disposal of the Republic of Armenia. And the transferred maps were obtained through Nagorno-Karabakh servicemen.

Following the agreement established on December 7, 2023, between the office of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia and the administration of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, aimed at taking tangible steps to build trust between the two states, the National Security Service of the Republic of Armenia has resumed survey work among former military personnel of Nagorno-Karabakh. As a result, eight new documents containing information on minefields have been identified.

These minefield maps will be transmitted to the Azerbaijani side through official channels in the coming days, and copies of these documents will be provided to our international partners," reads the statement.

 20:28,

YEREVAN, JANUARY 25, ARMENPRESS. It is quite alarming that in some countries of the Council of Europe, torture has started to be used in a widespread or systematic manner for the oppression of certain persecuted groups, which amounts to crimes against humanity, the member of the Armenian National Assembly delegation to PACE Vladimir Vardanyan gave a speech at the Assembly Session.

First of all, the deputy congratulated Mr. Constantinos EFSTATHIOU for the brilliant report reflecting all the topical issues of combating torture and addressing the main strategic challenges of the organisation in that respect.

"Absolute, imperative, unacceptable, prohibited, and immoral: these are the adjectives which may be used to describe torture as a phenomenon prohibited under general international law for a long time.

But torture is not just prohibited. It is absolutely prohibited under general international law, having the status of jus cogens prohibition with no derogation possible and no justification acceptable.

Frankly speaking, for the first time I read the draft resolution and faced some factual events mentioned there. I thought that I was mistaken, and I was not reading a contemporary document but I rather faced something which came to me from medieval times.

How is it possible, in the digital era, that there are such kinds of manifestation of torture in the member countries of our organization.

Ladies and gentlemen, the absolute prohibition of torture is not just a legal imperative, it is a moral obligation that defines our civilization, our wellness, our organization. And hence, a zero tolerance approach towards torture should be the only option for our Assembly," Vardanyan said.

He noted that despite the existence of innumerable international documents on the absolute prohibition of torture at a universal and European level, torture persists in various corners of the globe, reminding them of the need for continued vigilance and advocacy.

“We do not naively believe that torture would be demolished as a social phenomenon entirely. The problem is not in the phenomenon of torture, but rather in a gap existing between international obligation taken and their implementation in practice. We should combat the culture of impunity, which is one of the main challenges.

It is quite alarming that in some countries of the Council of Europe, torture has started to be used in a widespread or systematic manner for the oppression of certain persecuted groups, which amounts to crimes against humanity.”

Vardanyan underscored that the Committee on the Prevention of Torture (CPT) is one of the main international instruments combating torture within the Council of Europe, and its activity should be supported in the widest possible manner, not only by incorporation of the standards in the national legislation, but also providing their full implementation on national level.

“The automatic publication of all the CPT reports, past and present, would be a manifestation of goodwill of all the countries concerned and would contribute to the elimination of culture of impunity and torture.

Last but not least, we fully agree with the rapporteur that, in the digital era, the usage of information technologies, video recording, and other technologies would be served as a very efficient measure to prevent torture and ill treatment and for giving up the culture of impunity.

Let’s make the digital era synonymous of an era without torture,” concluded Vladimir Vardanyan.

 21:20,

YEREVAN, JANUARY 25, ARMENPRESS. Growth in economic activity accelerated to 11.2 percent (yoy, in real terms) in November 2023, compared to 6.2 percent (yoy) in October 2023 (Figure 1).

The data is presented in the World Bank's monthly summary of Armenia's economic development.

Growth in industry increased from 0.6 percent in October to 24 percent in November, driven by 33 percent real growth in manufacturing output. This in turn was driven mostly by 13.7 times higher jewelry production (yoy) in November, which, by value, exceeded food production, traditionally the largest manufacturing group. High manufacturing growth in November was partly offset by challenges in mining sector production, affected by the temporary closure of the Sotk mine located on the Armenia-Azerbaijan border. Trade growth also rose, from 26 percent (yoy) in October to 32 percent (yoy) in November, fueled by cash transfers provided by the Government to displaced people from Nagorno Karabakh (NK). Construction growth slowed but remained in double digits at 11.4 percent (yoy) in November. At 2.4 percent (yoy), services (excluding trade) had the least growth; however, this was due to a high base growth of 31 percent in November. Economic activity index growth remained at 9.4 percent (yoy) over January-November 2023 and continued to exceed expectations.

Unemployment rose slightly in Q3 2023 (yoy) and labor force participation also increased. Unemployment was at 12 percent in Q3 2023, up from 11.6 percent in Q3 2022, due to a 2 percent increase in the labor force (net employed and unemployed). Labor force participation increased to 61.7 percent in Q3 2023 from 60.9 percent in Q3 2022.

Net money transfers in November 2023 were down 82 percent from November 2022 and 68 percent compared to October 2023. Money transfer inflows contracted 21 percent (yoy) and outflows increased 26 percent (yoy). The contraction in inflows was mainly due to 29 percent fewer inflows from Russia (Figure 2). The main destinations for increased outflows were Monaco and the USA.

Prices registered 0.6 percent deflation in December 2023 (yoy). This brought average inflation down to 2 percent in 2023, a sharp fall from 8.6 percent in 2022. In response, in its December 12, 2023, meeting, the CBA Board cut the policy rate 25 basis points, to 9.25 percent. A 5 percent (yoy) fall in food prices was the main factor in deflation in December. However, prices of other commodity groups rose, with the highest increase recorded for alcohol and cigarettes, up 

8.4 percent (yoy), reflecting increased excise tax on these products (Figure 3).

Export growth was exceptionally high, driven by a significant increase in gold and jewelry exports. Export of goods grew 86 percent (yoy) in November 2023, driven by a 7-fold increase in exports of precious and semi-precious stones. This increased the share of this group in total exports, up from 18 percent in November 2022 to 66 percent in November 2023. Within the group, exports of unwrought or semi- manufactured gold grew 12-fold (yoy), and jewelry and parts 17-fold (yoy). Textiles and footwear also grew 36 percent and 29 percent, respectively, while exports of other commodity groups mostly contracted. Imports of goods grew 25 percent (yoy), also driven by semi-manufactured gold imports. Cumulatively over January-November 2023, exports and imports grew 45 percent and 41 percent, respectively.

The AMD continued to depreciate gradually against the USD. As of January 9, 2024, the AMD/USD exchange rate stood at AMD 405.6, or 0.6 percent weaker compared to December 2023, and 2.7 percent weaker year-on-year (Figure 4). At year-end 2023, international reserves stood at USD 3.6 billion, equal to 3 months of import cover and USD 510 million lower compared to year-end 2022 reserves (Figure 5). This is partly due to the early buy-back of USD 188 million out of a USD 500 million Eurobond due March 2025, as well as to some delays in project-linked loans.

The budget recorded an AMD 44 billion deficit in November 2023. This brought the cumulative budget deficit through November to AMD 63 billion, or 0.7 percent of annual projected GDP.  Tax revenue growth was modest at 5 percent (yoy) in November, driven by growth in income and excise taxes (up 15 percent and 16 percent, respectively), while VAT and profit tax collection declined 5.5 percent and 22 percent, respectively. Expenditure contracted 11 percent, driven by flat current expenditure and 29 percent lower capital expenditure, related to reduced spending on defense. However, social transfers and subsidies grew 4 percent (yoy) and 51 percent (yoy), respectively, reflecting cash transfers and other assistance to displaced NK people.

The financial system continued to grow in November 2023 and financial stability indicators remained sound. Loans and deposits grew 2.3 percent and 1.5 percent (mom), respectively. The capital adequacy ratio remained unchanged at 20.1 percent, and the ratio of non-performing loans to total loans remained below 3 percent. The return on assets, an indicator of the banking system’s profitability, stood at 3.3 percent.

BY TALINE NAHAPETIAN

Ferrahian’s High School students will embark on a journey of a lifetime as they explore the architectural marvel of Marina Bay Sands and savor delectable dim-sum at the renowned Hawker Centers in the vibrant metropolitan city of Singapore. Our destination: a Model UN conference, promising an experience filled with cultural richness and academic excellence.

Participating in Model UN has been one of the many opportunities us Ferrahian students have been able to partake in. Once a year, we attend a conference at UCLA where we are able to discuss pressing issues that ultimately revolve around dictating the development of the international world. Becoming well-versed in tackling pressing global issues, from climate change to international diplomacy has paved the way for interactive learning, the development of new perspectives, as well as collaborative skills.

Fortunately, Chaperoned by Mrs. Sossi Shanlian, Principal, Mrs. Melanie Carlin, Model UN Coordinator, Miss Sose Kurdian, Model UN Coach, Mr. Vahe Benlian (Board Chair), 32 Ferrahian high schoolers are able to continue this passion for debate with the allure of Singapore, with its blend of modernity and tradition, serving as the perfect backdrop for the upcoming international Model UN conference.

The conference itself will be a platform for intellectual growth and cultural exchange. As we will engage with students from diverse backgrounds, from all corners of the globe, us delegates will not only discuss pressing global issues but also build bridges of understanding and friendship. This conference transcends academic boundaries, fostering a sense of global citizenship among us participants.

However, it won’t be all serious business for us delegates. No trip to Singapore is complete without indulging in the gastronomic delights and breathtaking views that the city offers. We will be able to even connect with the Armenian community, as we will visit the Armenian church and museum of St.Gregory the Illuminator. We will even be able to see some of the geographical attractions Singapore has to offer, such as Sentosa island where we can enjoy pristine beaches and a wealth of entertainment options. One of our head delegates, Zella Sarkissian, tells us that, “I am so beyond excited to visit Singapore with my classmates, visiting alone is an amazing experience, but being able to do it with my classmates, friends, and teachers is going to be absolutely extraordinary.” 

The upcoming Model UN conference in Singapore promises to be an exhilarating journey for us Ferrahian High School students. Beyond the academic excellence and intellectual growth that the conference is known for, this unique experience in the vibrant city of Singapore will provide a perfect blend of cultural richness and global perspective. This journey is set to be an unforgettable experience that goes beyond academic boundaries, creating lasting memories of collaborative learning and cultural exchange.

Taline Nahapetian is a senior at Holy Martyrs Ferrahian High School.