Poverty in Armenia dropped by 2% in 2015, decreasing from 32% to 30%, Minister of Labor and Social Affairs Artem Asatrayan, said Thursday, May 26, Panorama.am reports.

The reduction of poverty rate was among the Ministry’s priorities last year, Asatryan said.

Citing the National Statistical Service, the Minister said the risk group mainly includes pensioners.

“In 2015, pensions have risen by 15% against 2014, which also required additional funds,” Asatryan said.

Summarizing the activities carried out in 2015, Deputy Finance Minister, Chief Treasurer Atom Janjughazyan said the social security sector ensured a 99.6% budget reinforcement in 2015.