Armenia`s collaboration with IAEA on environmental issues  can serve  as example of successful collaboration to other countries

ArmInfo.On October 14, RA Minister of Environment Hakob Simidyan received Carmina Jimenez, Program  Coordinator of the European Technical Cooperation Division of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

"Almost two years have passed since our last meeting, but we have  managed to accomplish a lot of work.  During your visit, an agreement  was reached that the IAEA will provide Armenia with equipment for the  detecting mercury and methyl mercury analyzers as part of the program  "Strengthening mercury monitoring capacity to meet the requirements  of the Minamata Convention". These devices were received in 2023-  2024, and we are now awaiting a visit from IAEA experts to install  the devices and provide appropriate training to ensure their smooth  peration," the minister said, as quoted by the ministry's press  service.

Simidyan expressed gratitude to the IAEA for its support in acquiring  such important equipment. The minister also touched upon the  legislative work carried out to regulate the industry. "I would like  to inform you that during this period, the law "On Mercury" was  adopted, which created a legal basis for mercury regulation, helping  prevent illegal trafficking in mercury and its safe use. The  procedures for importing mercury to Armenia and exporting it from the  territory of the republic are also regulated. The import and export  of products with mercury additives are prohibited," the minister  noted.

Carmina Jimenez noted that Armenia's collaboration with the IAEA in  the field of the environment sets a precedent and can serve as an  example of successful collaboration to other countries. The parties  agreed to continue cooperation within the framework of the convention  and explore the possibility of implementing new programs and  activities.

Note that Armenia has been a member of the IAEA since 1993. The  Agency oversees the only nuclear facility operating in the republic.  Cooperation with the IAEA in the peaceful use of nuclear energy is  not only progressing effectively developing in the field of nuclear  energy, but also in  nuclear medicine and other sectors of the  country's economy.