Today, the official project launch event of the R2D Syunik: Recovery, Resilience, Development for Syunik was held with representatives of the European Union, RA Ministry of Economy, Austrian Development Cooperation, other international organizations and development partners.
The R2D Syunik: Recovery, Resilience, Development for Syunik 5-year project has launched with co-financing by the European Union and Austrian Development Cooperation and is implemented by the Austrian Development Agency.
The overall objective of the R2D Syunik: Recovery, Resilience, Development for Syunik project, implemented within the Resilient Syunik Team Europe initiative in cooperation with local governments is to enhance recovery and resilience of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and sustainable small-scale communal infrastructure in Syunik. The overall budget of the project is 11M euros.
In his welcome note, H.E. Mr. Vassilis Maragos, Ambassador, Head of the Delegation of the European Union to Armenia, said:``This is an initiative that embodies the spirit of partnership and cooperation between the European Union, the Austrian Development Cooperation and Armenia. The Resilient Syunik Team Europe Initiative, with its R2D Syunik project, represents a concerted effort to uplift the lives and livelihoods of the people in this region, while preserving its rich cultural heritage and natural environment. The project is tangible proof that the European Union`s commitment to supporting Armenia`s development and fostering inclusive growth.``
The purpose of the event was to present the project objectives, planned activities and expected results.
``Throughout the years, the Austrian Development Agency has been unwavering in its commitment to fostering sustainable development in Armenia. Across various projects, ADA has consistently demonstrated its dedication to improving the lives of Armenian citizens,`` said Mr. Klaus Kapper, Head of Coordination Office for Technical Cooperation of Austrian Embassy Yerevan.
Ms. Tatevik Sargsyan, RA Deputy Minister of Economy, mentioned the importance of the cooperation between RA Government and international donors in her welcome speech, and added that such initiatives play a crucial role in private sector development of the Syunik region.
Edgar Martirosyan, Chief Secretary of Syunik Governor’s Staff welcomed the guests and thanked the European Union and the Austrian Development Agency for all the support that they provide to the region through the Resilient Syunik Team Europe initiative. ``This project is especially important after the economic challenges that our region has been facing since 2020. The implementation of the R2D Syunik project reflect that the European Union and the Austrian Development Agency pay special attention to the region and appreciate the geopolitical and strategic importance of it.``
``Working better together as Team Europe`` approach
R2D Syunik is part of the Resilient Syunik Team Europe Initiative. This joint undertaking involves the European Union, the European Investment Bank, and EU Member states including Austria, Czechia, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Poland, and Sweden. Additionally, Switzerland has joined as an external partner.
The main objective of this Team Europe initiative is to contribute to the sustainable socioeconomic and institutional development of the Syunik region, taking coordinated action in line with the development priorities of the regional and local authorities in the Armenia-European Union flagship initiative focusing on the area. The initiative is a flexible mechanism, it may be further expanded and is open for member states to join with new initiatives to promote the development of the Syunik region.
