Recent developments in Armenia
Alternative road in Syunik province ready for use
The asphalting of the Tatev-Aghavni portion of Armenia's Syunik province's Goris-Kapan highway is finished, and this alternate road is now fully operational, according to Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure Gnel Sanosyan.
He said that Tatev-Ltsen road in Syunik province, as well as roads in several communities, including Shurnukh, Vorotan, Bardzravan, are being constructed.
“At this moment we attach importance to the works connected with the Sisian-Kajaran section. We have prepared a government decision according to which the construction of that road was viewed as a priority. Currently, works are underway for the tender stage to pass and the construction to begin in 2022,” he said.
Armenian PM, Italian Ambassador discuss expansion of cooperation
According to the PM's Office, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan met with the Italian Ambassador to Armenia Alfonso Di Riso.
Pashinyan welcomed the Ambassador on his appointment and wished him luck in furthering the positive relations between Armenia and Italy.
The PM emphasised the importance of maintaining ongoing political and economic cooperation between Armenia and Italy, and expressed optimism that meaningful achievements can be achieved via collaborative efforts between the two administrations. The importance of developing bilateral economic cooperation was highlighted, notably through the hosting of business conferences and the promotion of commercial relations. Pashinyan recalled his official visit to Italy in 2019 with fondness and highlighted the importance of bilateral high-level mutual visits, which provide a new impetus to the growth of cooperation in many fields.
Alfonso Di Riso assured that during his tenure he will make all efforts to contribute to the strengthening of mutual cooperation between the two countries. The Ambassador also stressed the necessity of developing commercial ties and added that Italy is interested in discussing and implementing new investment programs with Armenia.
The sides considered the prospective expansion of cooperation in different branches of economics, including high technologies, tourism, construction, and agriculture, stating that there is great potential.
The sides also discussed the activity of the Armenian-Italian inter-governmental commission and the possibility of holding a session in the future.
Armenian Genocide recognition bill passes first reading at UK House of Commons without objections
According to the Armenian National Committee of the United Kingdom, the bill to recognise the Armenian Genocide passed the House of Commons of the British Parliament without opposition on first reading.
“Today is a historic day for the Armenian cause. The first reading of the Armenian Genocide Bill went through without objections. The next reading will take place on March 18, 2022. We thank Tim Loughton and all the co-sponsors for this success,” the Armenian National Committee of the UK said in a statement.
Israeli opposition lawmakers submit bill to recognise Armenian Genocide
Several opposition members of the Israeli parliament (Knesset) submitted a bill to officially recognise the Armenian Genocide and hold a memorial day every year on April 24.
The bill was submitted by Shas MKs Ya'acov Margi, Haim Biton, and Moshe Arbel alongside Likud MKs Yuli Edelstein, Israel Katz, and Yoav Kish.