On September 10, the World Bank together with the Government of Armenia opened the newly reconstructed Central Veterinary Laboratory in the Erebuni district of Yerevan. The event was attended by Mr. Tigran Sargsyan, Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia, and Mr. Philippe Le Houérou, World Bank Vice President for Europe and Central Asia, Armenian Minister of Agriculture Gerasim Alaverdyan and other officials.

“It will take Armenia five years of cooperation with European partners to undergo certification and obtain world recognition, what will allow our producers to enter international markets, having the center’s conclusion. It is of keen importance for Armenia’s economy, including the processing industry and agriculture,” PM Sargsyan said after familiarizing himself with the center’s activity.

According to him, the modern equipment of the center is a necessary but not enough condition for its compliance with international norms, as normative documents should be introduced, as well as all required procedures should be followed from the very first up to the last stage.

Meanwhile, the Prime Minister added that the first step has been taken in the country for a rapid response to cases of poisoning that allows undertaking preventive measures to decrease such risks.

For his part, Mr. Philippe Le Houérou said that this is the first but required step for Armenia on its way towards international standards, “after which the doors of international markets will be opened for the country.” According to him, “here people’s life is at stake,” and farmers working in the region should be confident that their animals are healthy, what it its turn will allow promoting people’s health. “We believe that animal husbandry can help development of Armenia’s economy, specifically to increase export volumes,” he said.

Besides, Mr. Philippe Le Houérou expressed hope that similar fruitful cooperation between the RA government and WB will continue.