YEREVAN. – French cheese producers are preparing to arrive in Armenia for a second time, Deputy Minister of Agriculture Armen Harutyunyan told Armenian News-NEWS.am.

The program, which is supported by the European Union and the French government, provides expert assistance in the production of a variety of European cheese.

The French cheese producers had come to Armenia two to three months ago, to get familiarized with the respective abilities of their Armenian colleagues. During their second visit, they will stay longer in the country to pass on their knowhow in this domain. They will come a third time in 2017, also for a long stay.

Hard cheese was produced in northern Armenia during the Soviet era. And one to two years ago, a local producer began producing blue cheese. Several other types of known hard cheese have also begun to be produced in the country.

“They are studying, seeking export opportunities,” said Harutyunyan. “New knowhow and track-record can be useful.”