On May 17, the Minister of Economy of the Republic of Armenia, Gevorg Papoyan, visited several communities in Aragatsotn Province to assess the damage caused by the recent hailstorm.

The Minister visited the communities of Aragatsavan and Arteni in Talin consolidated community, as well as Aghdzk and Ohanavan in Ashtarak consolidated community, where he examined the extent of the damage and discussed pressing issues with local fruit growers.

Minister Papoyan was accompanied by Governor of Aragatsotn Sergey Movsisyan, Head of Talin Community Tavros Sapeyan, and Head of Ashtarak Community Tovmas Shahverdyan.

“The purpose of my visit is to personally assess the situation and to discuss with you what can be done to avoid similar issues in the future. I want to assure you that the state will not leave you alone in this situation. The Government has already developed programs aimed at preventing such cases moving forward,” stated Minister Papoyan.

He informed the local residents that all data on the damages would be collected, and once summarized, the Government would discuss potential formats of support.

During the discussions, special attention was also given to the introduction of an agricultural insurance system and to the state-supported hail protection nets, which are subsidized by 50–75%.

The Minister also answered residents’ questions and provided clarifications regarding the raised concerns and potential solutions.