As preparations continue for COP17, cooperation between public institutions and civil society is becoming increasingly vital for biodiversity conservation in Armenia.

Today, Hovhannes Martirosyan, Head of the Environmental Protection and Subsoil Inspection Body, received Ruben Khachatryan, Director of the Foundation for the Preservation of Wildlife and Cultural Assets (FPWC).

The meeting focused on discussing the main directions of a new environmental project planned by FPWC in Vayots Dzor Province. Key topics included the restoration of the Yeghegis River ecosystem, sustainable management of natural habitats, and the environmental impact of small hydropower plants (SHPPs) operating along the river.

Special attention was also given to strengthening oversight of wild animals kept in captive and semi-captive conditions. The sides discussed improving control mechanisms, as well as steps aimed at enhancing care standards and the temporary and permanent housing conditions for wild animals rescued from captivity.