Gas price still not to be reduced for citizens
Among the EU member states Germany is the biggest partner of Armenia in terms of turnover; it was announced today during the press conference convened on the occasion of the foundation of German Economic Association in our country. The union aims at presenting the interests of the German economy to the state bodies and boosting bilateral trade through a company, which operates independently and on a membership basis in Armenia “Last year also growth of turnover was registered between two countries. But I think that the potential hasn’t been exhausted,” noted Matthias Kiesler, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Germany to Armenia. He is sure that there are good chances of development in the sectors of agriculture, textile etc. “I hope that the Armenian Government can clearly note the directions, which can be developed,” he highlighted. In addition, he highlighted that in Germany the backbone of economy is comprised of small and medium enterprises. Mr Kiesler thinks that the isolated geopolitical position of Armenia creates obstacles for the economy. “We would like Armenia to have good relations with its all neighbors.” Minister of Economy Artsvik Minasyan hopes that the German Economic Association will contribute to the improvement of investment sphere. As for the reduction of gas price on the border by Russia, the Minister noted, “I cannot consider it as an essential contribution to our economy. In terms of gas and other raw materials, we, together with Russia, must make transition to single currency payments. Our Prime Minister has voiced it, and I regret to say that still we don’t have an answer from the other party. But I think we must seek for alternative energy sources.” Will gas price be reduced for the citizens? “That issue is out of my powers. That power belongs to the Public Services Regulatory Commission. And at present I don’t have information, that a bid has been submitted,” he summed up.
