YEREVAN.- Joint energy programs with Iran are a priority for Armenia, Deputy Energy Minister Ara Simonyan said in the parliament on Saturday.

He stressed that developments over Iran and economic consequences affected implementation of Armenia-Iran programs. Moreover, the programs will require more financial resources. The construction of Meghri hydro power station will cost $300 million and will be fully funded by the Iranian side. About $10 million have been already spent on geophysical and geotechnical survey operations.

Simonyan informed about a joint meeting of Armenian-Iranian inter-government committee scheduled for October 22-25 in Armenia. The sides will specify the start date for construction of hydro power station.