We have a problem in connection with the interpretations of the expert conclusion of ELARD. The Prime Minister of Armenia, Nikol Pashinyan, noted this during the videoconference with experts from ELARD international consulting firm to discuss the findings of the international expert probe into the Amulsar gold mine project and the relevant analysis.

“We have gotten familiarized with the conclusion which you have developed as an invited expert group,” Pashinyan said. “[But] we have a problem in connection with the interpretations of the expert conclusion. We see numerous shortcomings, absence of data in the text of the conclusion itself. But to a large extent, the conclusion is such  that the environmental risks for the operation of the Amulsar mine are manageable.”

In response, ELARD expert Ricardo Khoury noted that in their view, if extra special mitigation measures are added to the mitigation measures proposed in the plan of Lydian Armenia company, and if all these measures are properly planned, drafted, monitored and implemented, they believe that environmental risks should become manageable in the immediate vicinity of the mine.

“Will I understand correctly in saying that you are saying that, since in the case of the measures proposed by Lydian, you are not sure that we will guarantee our waters’ compliance—that is, the cleanliness—with standards?” the PM responded. “Since you are not sure, you are offering additional measures which, in your view, will already bring in line, comply with the situation that we have some confidence—of course, in the case of maintaining additional conditions.”

The expert noted that, in essence, the measures proposed by Lydian are flawed, and in order for them to be complete, there is a need to reevaluate the assessment and, with the recommendations of a new Environmental Impact Assessment, to properly develop the mitigation measures.