YEREVAN. – Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) expert Anton Bjilang was in Armenia between November 9 and Saturday.

Together with specialists from the Ministry of Emergency Situations, the SDC expert discussed the implementation of a pilot program in Armenia, and jointly with the SDC, on forming rapid reaction medium rescue teams.

Also, Anton Bjilang visited the Shirak Region, where rescue training was conducted. In addition, the capacities of Armenia’s Special Rescue Squad and State Academy for Crisis Management were inspected.

It was decided to carry out the aforementioned program in capital city Yerevan and in Shirak and Syunik regions. As a result, medium rescue teams—that meet the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG) guidelines and which could respond to major disasters—will be formed in Yerevan and in Shirak and Syunik regions.

The program will be conducted from 2013 to 2014, and, subsequently, it is envisioned to continue and also include Tavush, Kotayk, and Gegharkunik regions as well, MES press service includes.