OPPORTUNITIES EXAMINED FOR LOCALIZATION OF VENDEE’S ECONOMIC MODEL IN ARMENIA

Noyan Tapan

Nov 18, 2008

YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 18, NOYAN TAPAN. The opportunities for localization
of the economic model of Vendee region (France) in Armenian economy
were discussed at the November 17 conference at French University
in Armenia (FUA) with the participation of the French ambassador
to Armenia Serge Smessov, the teaching staff and students of the
university, representatives of Vendee’s Chamber of Commerce and
Industry, and businessmen.

The head of the Vendee delegation, President of the region’s general
council Philippe de Villiers gave the report "The Economic Model of
Vendee", saying that the economies of Armenia and this French region
have some similarities, in particular, in terms of their small areas
and limited energy resources.

According to him, the dynamic development of Vendee’s economy is
ensured by small and medium enterprises, mainly family ones. There is
one enterprise per 17 residents of Vendee, whereas the average index in
France makes an enterprise per 30 residents. The economy of the region
is mainly based on agriculture, craftsmanship, industry and tourism,
and the hopes are pinned on own production rather than import. The
strong relationship between the educational system and enterprises,
as well as the proportionate territorial development and the active
regulation of employment contribute to economic development.

P. de Villiers answered the questions of those present. Some
businessmen of Vendee, who had hosted FUA students in France for a
month, made speeches at the event. They expressed their satisfaction
at the work of the Armenian students, while the students thanked them
for the opportunity to gain experience in Vendee.