The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report submitted by SAGAMAR CJSC for geological exploration activities planned for 2026–2029 in the western and southeastern flanks of the Armanis mineral field in Lori Region has received a negative conclusion from the state EIA examination.
According to an official response from the Chief Secretary of RA Ministry of Environment dated August 28, 2026 and addressed to “Stepanavan Without Mine” initiative, the Environmental Impact Assessment Examination Centre SNCO issued State Examination Negative Conclusion No. ԲՓ 112-26.
Reminder: on July 17, 2026, the second public hearings on the EIA report for the programme submitted by SAGAMAR CJSC were held in Lori Region.
During the public hearings, citizens, environmentalists, and civil society representatives spoke out against considering Stepanavan community and the surrounding settlements as a mining zone, stating that they see the region’s development prospects in tourism and sustainable agriculture. At the same time, residents who support mining were also present at the hearings.
August 29, 2026 at 11:32