WADA to support the development of Armenia’s anti-doping system and specialists’ capacity

ArmInfo.  Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sports of Armenia Zhanna Andreasyan received Sebastian Gillot, Director of the European Regional Office of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) for Relations with the Sports Movement.

During the meeting, the parties discussed issues related to the activities of the Anti-Doping Agency of Armenia and the strengthening of the principles of clean sport.

Zhanna Andreasyan reaffirmed the Armenian government’s commitment to consistently implementing and developing the principles of clean sport in the country, emphasizing that this priority is enshrined in the Strategy for the Development of Physical Culture and Sports in the Republic of Armenia for 2024- 2030 .

She noted that in this context, the activities of the national anti-doping agency in accordance with international standards are of particular importance. According to the minister, in recent months, steps have been taken to improve the working conditions and infrastructure necessary for the Agency’s activities.

In particular, the Agency was provided with new premises at the Armenian State Institute of Physical Culture and Sports, creating new opportunities for cooperation and effective work, including the use of the university’s infrastructure, the organization of seminars and educational events, as well as the involvement of young people and students in promoting the ideas of clean sport.

Emphasizing the importance of effective cooperation between the national anti-doping agency and the state-authorized body, Sebastian Gillot thanked the ministry for its support and noted that he had already familiarized himself with the agency’s new premises.

During the meeting, it was noted that funding for the agency’s activities is fully provided from the state budget, while additional funding is also provided in the event of major international tournaments and championships.

The parties discussed major sporting events held in Armenia and those forthcoming, as well as the importance of an effective anti-doping system.

It was noted that the Anti-Doping Agency of Armenia recently provided full anti-doping support for the international professional multi-day cycling race Tour of Armenia 2026.

In 2027, Armenia will host the 10th International Francophone Sports and Cultural Games, within the framework of which the Agency’s activities are also of great importance.

Sebastian Gillot emphasized that hosting major international tournaments provides Armenia with an opportunity to demonstrate the country’s commitment to the principles of clean sport and integrity. He also confirmed WADA’s readiness to support the development of Armenia’s anti-doping system and the capacity of its specialists.

Other issues of mutual interest were also touched upon during the meeting.