YEREVAN (Armenpress)–Armenia’s parliament speaker Armen Khachatrian received Michael Lemmon–Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the US to Armenia on Tuesday. Lemmon was accompanied by USAID representatives.
Lemmon informed Khachatrian of his recent visit to the US. Lemmon had met with the representatives of local Armenian Communities and outstanding businessmen of Armenian origin–whom he informed about the current political and social-economic situations in Armenia–and discussed the prospects of economic development.
Issues concerning privatization were also discussed. Khachatrian said Armenia’s privatization policy has been unrealistic the last 10 years.
"Privatization has been carried out without the creation of relevant infrastructures–giving rise to negative consequences," said Khachatrian. "Many enterprises have been privatized with low prices and dubious terms. The transactions–not being transparent–negatively impacted the economy."
Khachatrian said it is necessary to study the terms–guarantees–efficiency–and benefits of each transaction in detail to overcome current problems.
Both sides emphasized the importance of cooperation with financial organizations–such as World Bank–as well as the creation of a correct investment policy.
Lemmon emphasized the key role of the parliament–and ensured that international organizations are eager to extend support to Armenia in these heavy days.
USAID representatives handed the parliament speaker their proposals on energy distributing networks’ privatization–which Khachatrian ensured would be considered with due attention.