YEREVAN. – U.S. Ambassador Richard Mills is concerned with the current situation over Amulsar mining project and its major investor Lydian International.
He recalled that it is the second largest investment in Armenia and he closely followed the story during his mission.
“If it is fully operational, it could be the largest tax payer in Armenia,” he emphasized.
Ambassador Mills said the concerns over the mine need to be heard, and it is commendable that the Armenian government is listening to it now.
“The investors will not understand why the government allows this mine to be closed by sincere but a small group of protest, in the absence of any legal decision,” he added.
Ambassador said he fears this issue, if not resolved soon, could affect attractiveness of Armenia as a place to do business.
“I know the PM and advisors understand my concerns and the risks here, but I urge them as a friend to do it quickly and in a way that ensures that the future of the project is handled in accordance with the rule of law and in due process. I am confident that if the issue is resolved quickly and in a fair way, Armenia will continue moving forward,” he added.
