The Government of Armenia has sent the audit report of the latest independent environmental impact report by ELARD consultancy group to assess the necessity of conducting additional assessment on the impact of the excavation activities of Amulsar mine on the environment.  As PM Pashinyan posted on Facebook, the government instruction to the ministry reads: “To study whether the audit conclusions contain data that according to the RA legislation require a new assessment on the impact of Amulsar exploitation on the environment.”

To remind, Pashinyan earlier announced his government’s intention to approve the resumption of excavation activities at Amulsar mine based on the conclusions of the independent audit report.

The controversial decision triggered a wide discontent  and opposition among the public and environmentalists, claiming the expertise conclusion is incomplete and not trustworthy, insisting the operation of the gold mine owned and operated by Lydian Armenia may cause a serious damage to the environment.