Armenia’s mountain ecosystem is an important productive source for rural communities. However, its ecological status is rapidly deteriorating. The Swiss funded project “Living Landscapes for Market Development in Armenia” aims at improving incomes of farmers and rural businesses in remote areas, thanks to a better economic and more sustainable use of local natural resources. As an effort to link economic growth, protection of natural resources and biodiversity, it also contributes to promoting environment and climate change policies. 

Launching on 15.04.2021, the preparatory stage of the project will last until 30.11.2021, with a budget of CHF 200’000. After that, the main phase of implementation will last for eight years, with funds amounting to CHF 4’300’000. The project will be implemented in Tavush, Lori, Syunik and Vayots Dzor regions of Armenia.  

The Project translates principles and objectives of Switzerland’s foreign policy and development cooperation into action. Switzerland supports the transition of Armenia towards a market economy and contributes to ensuring that the country’s population benefits from inclusive economic development. Switzerland provides assistance in areas where it has a clear comparative advantage. Being a mountainous country, it has sharpened its knowledge and experience over many years of dealing with challenges related to such environment and ecosystems. The project is fully aligned with national policies and objectives.