Hambardzum Matevosyan, Minister of Environment of the Republic of Armenia, participated in the "Greenovate" Youth Summit held within the framework of the Sevan Startup Summit 2025. The event aimed to promote the active engagement of young people in global environmental processes, particularly in the context of the preparatory phase for the 17th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (COP17).
Karen Sargsyan, Governor of Gegharkunik Province; Françoise Jacob, UN Resident Coordinator in Armenia; representatives of state agencies; partners from civil society and international organizations; as well as young people from various communities across Armenia with an interest in environmental issues attended the summit.
During the opening ceremony, Minister Matevosyan delivered a welcoming speech, highlighting the importance of enhancing environmental education and awareness. He underscored the vital role of youth not only in shaping environmental policies but also in their implementation, recognizing them as a source of innovative ideas and a driving force for positive change.
The Minister, as a keynote speaker, presented the roadmap for COP17. He outlined Armenia’s position and vision as the host and chair of the summit, emphasizing the country’s aspiration to transform COP17 into a platform of ideological significance. According to the Minister, the summit should serve as a stage for rethinking humanity’s relationship with nature. In addition to logistical and organizational responsibilities, Armenia is committed to assuming a leadership role at both the substantive and ideological levels.
The Minister emphasized the need to move beyond fragmented approaches and toward holistic, integrated ecosystem solutions that promote universal and inclusive environmental governance.
In her remarks, Françoise Jacob underscored the importance of effective and substantive preparations for COP17, noting that Armenia has the potential to serve as a leading country in this process.
Within the framework of the summit, Minister Matevosyan also took part in thematic discussions and Q&A sessions, during which he responded to questions from participants, addressing the COP17 agenda, Armenia’s priorities, and strategies for engaging youth.
In addition, the Minister held a meeting with the founding team and organizers of the “Sevan Startup Summit”. The discussion focused on potential areas and formats for further cooperation, particularly in the joint development of youth platforms and environmental innovation initiatives.