The Projects Being Implemented by the KfW and The Possibilities of Further Cooperation Discussed

On January 17, Ashot Manukyan, Minister of Energy Infrastructures and Natural Resources of Armenia, received the delegation of German government-owned KfW Development Bank. The meeting was attended by Thomas Eisenbach, the Head of Energy Department of KfW, Chief Engineer Ralph Kyunast, Project Manager Sandra Lutz and Senior Project Coordinator of Yerevan office Bella Andreasyan. The sides discussed the process of implementing projects in the energy sector and the opportunities for further cooperation.

At the meeting Mr. Eisenbach represented several issues regarding the construction of Armenia-Georgia high-voltage transmission line, one of the biggest projects being implemented in Armenia financed by German bank. The quality and the schedule of the project were touched upon.

“The issue of quality is very important to us. That means that as a guarantee for choosing a contractor could be its past experience. Of course, the offered price is also very important. The best option would be a combination of price and quality'', noted Ashot Manukyan.

As about the terms the Minister stressed the importance of completing the project within the specified deadlines.

The Armenia-Georgia high-voltage electricity transmission line will be a part of the Iran-Armenia-Georgia energy corridor. Therefore it is necessary to exploit that at the same time as Iran-Armenia line.

Also, the parties touched upon the opportunities for further cooperation in the energy sector. Thomas Eisenbach expressed readiness of KfW bank to participate in wind energy projects. Expressing gratitude for such a suggestion, Ashot Manukyan noted that Armenia is ready to discuss any initiative in this field.