A higher poverty level has been registered in Armenia, Vigen Sargsyan, a World Bank representative in Armenia, stated at a discussion on Armenian economy.

The poverty level in Armenia was 23% in 2008 against 60% in 1990s. However, the economic crisis caused a rise in poverty level up to 34.1%.

The Armenian Government is trying to relieve the situation by means of social programs. "This year`s social expenditures are as much as in 2008. This is an all-important step," Sargsyan said.