On July 4, the Minister of Economic Development and Investments of RA Suren Karayan received the head of the working group of UNIDO “Improving competitiveness of export-oriented industries in Armenia through modernization and market access” Anita Travaini and international shoe-making and quality expert Giorgio Gadina to discuss the program implementation process and cooperation with the organization.

“We thank you for your support provided to our Armenian team. We see the Government’s willingness to develop this sector,” mentioned Anita Travaini adding that it’s obvious that the investments in light industry field are increasing. She noted that it is necessary to promote preparation of qualified specialists through joint efforts aimed at developing the field.

The participants of the meeting discussed the activities of establishing of a training center under the project “Improving competitiveness of export-oriented industries in Armenia through modernization and market access” which will be established based on public-private sector cooperation. The center will also provide promotion services for planning and export of shoe-making, as well as services for development of financial management skills.

The Minister informed the guests that the Government of Armenia currently discusses the opportunities to expand the state support tools for light industry sector and offered them to take part in the discussions.

Minister Suren Karayan discussed with the international experts the development prospects of separate branches of light industry in Armenia, particularly carpet weaving, textile, leather production, shoe manufacture.