YEREVAN (Noyan Tapan)–TACIS initiated its activities in Armenia in 1992. About 140 programs of technical assistance to Armenia’sponsored by the European Commission have been implemented since that time. Talking to Noyan Tapan–Deputy Director of the Armenia-based office of the TACIS program David Avagian said that within the next two months the TACIS will launch its program of action for 1998-1999 which was recently ratified by the Armenian National Assembly. The program includes the implementation of the programs of developing small and middle-sized businesses–reforming the judicial system–and supporting the energy strategic center and the territorial development of the Lory region. Several short-term programs are also expected to be implemented.
Avagian reported that after conducting necessary examinations–an expert of the European Commission will present to the government his findings and proposals concerning the programs. And only after being approved by the Armenian authorities and European Commission–the program of action for 1998-1999 worth 7.6 million euro will be launched.
Avagian also reported that some of the programs for 1996-1997 are still under implementation–including those of opening branches of the Agricultural Cooperation Bank of Armenia in all regions of Armenia–establishing an accountancy center in Yerevan–encouraging small and middle-sized businesses–and reforming the health and social security spheres.