Yerevan Mayor Taron Margaryan`s answer to the environmentalists.

Yerevan Mayor Taron Margaryan issued a statement on the situation in Mashtots park, in Yerevan.

The statement reads in part:

“Dear Yerevan residents,

“The installation of temporary structures in the areas that are not the principal green zones of the park between Mashtots Avenue and Yeznik Kokhbatsi Street evoked a public response. Various opinions have been voiced, most of them arousing concern. I think it is time for specific discussions of the problem and putting forward reasonable arguments, and reaching a public consensus.

“I am well aware of the impossibility of any development or resolution of any problem of public importance without effective protection of ownership.

“The facts are as follow:

“A number of structures in Abovyan Str. Were removed by the Yerevan Municipality. The owners were offered alternative territories, including the undeveloped area near Mashtots Avenue and Yeznik Kokhbatsi Street. The area is registered as liable to improvement by the Yerevan Landscaping CJSC.

“According to the documents, the company is installing the booths in the park as compensation to the owners of structures removed from Abovyan Street. The booths are temporary structures – until the Old Yerevan program has been completed.

“Ownership-related problems cannot be resolved on the basis of individuals’ subjective opinion on justice.

“Despite the negative opinions that have been voiced, I am happy to know that our citizens are so concerned over the problems and future our dear Yerevan city. Although all the legal documents are available in this case, I consider public involvement and awareness necessary.”

In his statement, the Yerevan mayor also assured the public that the city authorities will do their best to develop the areas in question and provide them will all modern amenities.

He expressed the confidence that all the problems of Armenia’s capital have civilized solutions.