A memorandum of understanding (MoU) on cooperation was signed today between the Initiatives for Development of Armenia (IDeA) Foundation and Asian Development Bank (ADB) Armenia Resident Mission.

The parties have expressed readiness to implement joint projects aimed at community and infrastructure development, and poverty reduction in Armenia. They also stand ready to support the action for achieving Millennium Development Goals.

“ADB is one of the major partners of the Armenian Republic and the Armenian government, and it carries out extensive programs aimed at the development of infrastructures and introduction of various economic criteria in Armenia. The areas of activities of the two organizations align, so we decided to join efforts in bringing to life programs that target at community and infrastructure development,” said CEO of IDeA Foundation Armen Gevorgyan.

He also said that they envisage vast opportunities of cooperation within the framework of major long-term programs implemented by IDeA Foundation, in particular in terms of development of Dilijan and adjacent communities. According to him, relevant studies have already been conducted with the support of ADB, and community development prospects were designated.
“ADB cooperates with the local government, development partners and consults the civil society organizations for aligning investment and priority projects in Armenia. We look forward to productive collaboration with the IDeA Foundation to enhance expertise and consultancy potential of designing and implementing long-term sustainable solutions for the country,” said Country Director of ADB Armenia Resident Mission David Dole.

He added that ADB and the IDeA Foundation look primarily into poverty reduction and infrastructure development.

David Dole also highlighted plans of urban infrastructure development in Dilijan.

ADB has been cooperating with Armenia since 2005. The Armenia Resident Mission was opened in 2008. It provides the primary operational link between ADB and the Armenian government, private sector and civil society.