Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has described the launch of the Amulsar gold mine as an important step for the country’s mining industry, investment climate and broader economy, stressing that the project’s success should ultimately improve citizens’ living standards.

Pashinyan made the remarks on October 10 during a ceremony marking the launch of operations at the deposit, according to Armenpress.

The prime minister said the government had sought to address public concerns and ensure that citizens viewed the project as their own. He described Amulsar as a partnership involving investors, local organizations, the government and the public.

Pashinyan stressed that the mineral resources belong to the Republic of Armenia and its people, adding that the government’s priority was to ensure the country’s natural wealth contributes to national development and public well-being.

He also highlighted the project’s potential to attract further investment, saying its outcome would be important for encouraging similar investment programs in the future.

Discussing the economic benefits, Pashinyan pointed to the introduction of modern equipment and the creation of skilled jobs. Operating and maintaining the mine’s technological systems will require professional training, potentially opening opportunities for higher wages and improved living standards.

The prime minister also emphasized the project’s social responsibilities, noting that Lydian company would provide support to communities affected by the development. He added that the Armenian government holds a 12.5% stake in the project, describing it as another way for the public to participate in its benefits.

Addressing environmental concerns, Pashinyan said dozens of consultations had been held with his participation to examine various warnings and assess the project’s risks. He said this process was important for building confidence in the initiative.

According to the prime minister, the project’s success should be measured not only through economic statistics but also through tangible improvements in people’s lives, including employment, better local infrastructure, roads, schools and public services funded by additional budget revenues.

Pashinyan also expressed hope that the technological standards introduced at Amulsar could be applied to other mining companies and projects in Armenia.

He said he hoped that initiatives of this scale would eventually become standard practice, paving the way for even more ambitious projects in the future.