Hakob Simidyan, Minister of Environment, received Carmina Jimenez, Program Coordinator of the European Technical Cooperation Department of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to discuss the progress of the Ministry's cooperation with the IAEA.
After welcoming Ms. Jimenez, Hakob Simidyan touched upon the agenda of the 2022 meeting and the agreements already implemented as a result.
"Almost two years have passed since our last meeting, but we have managed to accomplish a lot of work. During your visit, an agreement was reached that the IAEA will provide Armenia with mercury and methyl mercury detectors and analyzers as part of the "Improving Mercury Monitoring Capacities to Meet the Requirements of the Minamata Convention” programme. These devices were received in 2023-2024, and we are currently waiting for the visit of IAEA experts to install the devices and carry out appropriate training to operate the devices smoothly. I want to express my gratitude for your support in the acquisition of this important equipment," the minister said.
The minister also touched upon the legislative work carried out to regulate the industry: "I would like  to inform you that during this period, the law "On Mercury" was  adopted, which created a legal basis for mercury regulation, helping  prevent illegal trafficking in mercury and its safe use. The procedures for importing mercury to Armenia and exporting it from the territory of the RA are also regulated. The import and export of products with mercury additives are prohibited." 
Carmina Jimenez, in her turn, expressed her gratitude for effective cooperation and the country's efforts to regulate the sector and noted that the cooperation of the Republic of Armenia with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in the field of environment is a precedent and can be presented as an example of successful cooperation to other countries.
The parties agreed to continue cooperation within the framework of the convention and consider the possibilities of implementing new programmes and events.