The following is an Armenian government press release.

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan today hosted newly appointed Head of International Monetary Fund (IMF) Mission in Armenia Nathan Porter. The meeting was attended by IMF Resident Representative Yulia Ustyugova.

Congratulating Nathan Porter on assuming office, the Prime Minister appreciated the ongoing cooperation with the IMF and the Fund’s continued assistance to the Government’s economic agenda. Coming to the economic situation in Armenia, Nikol Pashinyan noted that more than 7% economic growth is expected this year, which makes him feel confident and optimistic about next year’s economic performance that will help the Government implement its ambitious programs. With reference to the effective implementation of the ongoing institutional reform, capital investment, and public procurement reform, the Head of Government stressed the importance of interaction with international partners, including the IMF.

Nathan Porter said Armenia and the IMF have built up a strong mutually beneficial framework of partnership, and he stands ready to further strengthen it. Welcoming the reforms underway in Armenia, Mr. Porter assured that the IMF will continue to back the Government with its development agenda.

The interlocutors exchanged views on the cooperation agenda, the ongoing joint programs and the educational reform, with a focus on capacity development and future actions.