ArmInfo. France is interested in and ready to assist Armenia in overcoming the challenges associated with climate change. This was stated by the Head of the Representative Office of the French Development Agency (AFD) in the South Caucasus Jozan Raphael during a meeting with the Deputy Minister of Nature Protection of Armenia Anna Mazmanyan. According to the press service of the ministry, during the meeting the parties highly appreciated the cooperation between France and the Armenian government, discussing in this context issues related to new bilateral programs. "The Ministry of Nature Protection is an important and reliable partner for us, and we are interested in expanding the spheres of cooperation and the framework of joint programs," he said. The Deputy Minister noted that Armenia attaches importance to innovative solutions in programs on climate change, forest management, water resources protection, integrated development and management of specially protected natural areas and attracting specialists, their regular retraining, in this context, noting the need for assistance from the French partners.
Summing up the results of the meeting, the parties agreed to develop joint regulations and, as a result of periodic meetings and discussions, implement programs in the field of environmental protection. The source notes that the French Development Agency is a public institution that promotes sustainable development, which operates under the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs of France. At present, AFD supports the construction of the Vedi reservoir in Armenia, and assists in improving the energy efficiency of apartments for socially disadvantaged families.