In the frames of budget discussion at the National Assembly, RA Health Minister Harutyun Kushkyan told the journalists that funds allocated to health sector in 2010 were not reduced as compared to 2009. However, later it was disclosed that financing was cut, that is AMD 55bln is foreseen under 2010 state budget, which for AMD 10.85m less than the same indicator in 2009.

From the budgetary economy viewpoint, healthcare is the third sector. The greatest reduction was made in education — 24.7%, followed by defense with 17%.

“All our projects will be implemented jointly with World Bank,” Kushkyan said. According to him, the information on go up of medical services starting next year is untrue. “The medical services, including obstetrics in the medical centers will remain free. We expected that birth rate will be over 1500 in 2009, but looks like it reaches 3000,” the Minister concluded.