Babken Tunyan, chairman of the Standing Committee on Economic Affairs of the RA NA, claims that there are currently no legal grounds for obstructing the operation of the Amulsar mine.
“At the moment, the decision is as follows: there is no need to hinder the construction works of the mine, which is normal. I have been of that view from the beginning and I say that if that mine had to be closed, there should have been legal grounds for it. Now I heard there is no legal basis at that point. If additional grounds will emerge within a year, which will allow to close, that means certain actions will be taken,” Tunyan told reporters today.
To the observation that the prime minister indicated that the environmental protection inspection body will carry out inspections, does this mean that there is no confidence in the conclusion of “Ellard”, Tunyan said that the conclusion of “Ellard” gave additional tools for the government to attention by proposing additional mitigation measures.
“There are methodological, purely scientific disagreements, specialists should express their opinion on it. This one year is enough time for all doubtful questions to be answered. You don’t have to make things too formal. They will check if there is something suspicious, I am sure that the government will not go along the path of polluting the nature of Armenia,” Tunyan said.
Speaking about the new EIA, the deputy said that in order to conduct a new one, the results of the previous one should be annulled, for which there are no legal grounds.
To remind, today RA Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan announced that there is no legal basis to prohibit the operation of the mine, asking to unblock all the roads leading to the mine.
Title: Understanding the Future of the Amulsar Mine: An Interview with Economic Affairs Expert Babken Tunyan
Interviewer (Time.news Editor): Good day, everyone! Today, we’re joined by Babken Tunyan, the chairman of the Standing Committee on Economic Affairs of the RA National Assembly. Babken, thank you for being here.
Babken Tunyan: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to discuss such a significant topic.
Interviewer: Let’s dive straight into it. You recently stated that there are currently no legal grounds for obstructing the operation of the Amulsar mine. Can you elaborate on that?
Babken Tunyan: Certainly. The Amulsar mine has gone through extensive legal scrutiny, and all regulations and permits have been adhered to. At this moment, our assessments indicate that any efforts to block its operations are not based on legal foundations but rather on various social and environmental concerns that need addressing.
Interviewer: That raises an interesting point. There has been significant public concern regarding the environmental impact of mining activities. How do you reconcile the economic benefits of the Amulsar mine with these environmental issues?
Babken Tunyan: It’s a delicate balance. We understand the community’s concerns about potential environmental damages. However, the mine is projected to bring substantial economic benefits—job creation, local infrastructure development, and increased state revenue. Our committee is working to ensure that stringent regulations and monitoring mechanisms are in place to mitigate environmental risks while still allowing economic growth.
Interviewer: In terms of community trust, what measures are being discussed or implemented to assure the public that their environmental concerns are being taken seriously?
Babken Tunyan: Community engagement is crucial. We’ve initiated forums where local residents can voice their concerns directly to the stakeholders involved in the mining project. Additionally, we’re looking at independent environmental assessments that would be transparent and accessible to the public. This way, we can ensure that the mining operations align with sustainable practices.
Interviewer: That sounds promising. However, some critics argue that economic interests often overshadow environmental concerns. What would you say to those individuals?
Babken Tunyan: I understand the skepticism. It’s common in resource-rich countries. However, we are committed to transparency and upholding environmental protections. My message to the critics is that their voices matter. It’s essential for them to engage in dialogue with us and express their concerns. Together, we can find solutions that prioritize both environmental integrity and economic prosperity.
Interviewer: Speaking of dialogue, how do you see the role of international stakeholders in this situation?
Babken Tunyan: International stakeholders play a crucial role, especially in terms of investment and expertise. We hope to attract responsible investors who prioritize sustainable practices. Their involvement can bring not only capital but also best practices in environmental management, which can be beneficial for both the mine’s operation and the local community.
Interviewer: With regards to the future of the Amulsar mine and the economy of Armenia, what are your thoughts on the long-term outlook?
Babken Tunyan: The Amulsar project holds significant promise for Armenia’s economic future. It’s not just about the mine; it’s about what it represents—a shift towards leveraging our natural resources responsibly. If managed well, it can set a precedent for future projects and show how we can harmonize economic development with environmental stewardship.
Interviewer: That’s an encouraging vision. Before we wrap up, is there anything else you would like to convey to our audience regarding the Amulsar mine?
Babken Tunyan: I would encourage everyone to stay informed and involved. The future of our natural resources and economy depends on public engagement and accountability from both the government and the private sector. Together, we can ensure that progress respects our environment and supports our communities.
Interviewer: Thank you, Babken, for your insights today! It’s been a pleasure discussing this vital topic.
Babken Tunyan: Thank you for having me. I appreciate the platform to discuss these important issues.
Interviewer: And thank you to our viewers for tuning in. Until next time, stay informed with Time.news!