The delegation led by the Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs Arpine Sargsyan participated in the 2024 Regional Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction in Europe and Central Asia, held from November 6-8 in Budva, Montenegro. The event was attended by representatives from over 40 countries, around 73 organizations, UN agencies, regional entities, local and intergovernmental organizations and international development banks.

The RA delegation included representatives from the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Environment, as well as members of various UN agencies in Armenia.

EU Commissioner Janez Lenarčič, welcoming the attendees, emphasized the necessity of organizing such events for regional countries.

During the high-level roundtable discussion, a political declaration was adopted highlighting the priorities for disaster risk reduction actions to be implemented by 2030 and the frameworks for cooperation.

In her speech, Deputy Minister Arpine Sargsyan highlighted the importance of inclusivity in the disaster risk reduction process emphasizing the involvement of the public and all stakeholders. She specifically noted that Armenia places special attention on disaster risk reduction policies at the community level, addressing both existing and emerging risks, as evidenced by the role of communities in preparedness and response during recent natural disasters in Armenia.

According to Ms. Sargsyan, the disaster risk management strategy aimed at strengthens community capacities, prioritizing a decentralized policy that takes into account risks and local needs.

The platforms for cooperation in the format of the National Disaster Risk Reduction Platform bring together the government, civil society and private sector partners, providing an opportunity to engage youth and children in technological innovations, such as robotics and artificial intelligence through a multilateral approach.