OREANDA-NEWS. The European Investment Bank (EIB) is lending EUR 8 million to finance the first phase of improvements to the solid waste disposal system in Yerevan and four surrounding regions.  

The project concerns the construction of a sanitary landfill, closure of the existing landfill and the implementation of waste diversion measures in the capital of Armenia and surrounding regions, serving a population of 1.9 million.

EIB Vice-President L?szl? Baranyay, responsible for the Bank’s financing operations in Armenia, stated: “This is the first EIB loan supporting solid waste management in the Eastern Partnership region. It concerns key social infrastructure, highly relevant for the quality of life and health conditions of almost two million people. This project is an example of excellent cooperation between the EIB, regional players, the European Commission and partner IFIs.”

The project is co-financed by a EUR 8 million European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) loan with a EUR 1.9 million technical assistance grant, and a EUR 8 million grant from the EU Neighbourhood Investment Facility (NIF). The EIB is expected to provide EUR 17 million in total to support the project, the EUR 8 million loan signed today representing only the support for the first phase of the project.

H.E. Mr Piotr Antoni Switalski, Ambassador, Head of the European Union Delegation to the Republic of Armenia, said: "The European Union is committed to supporting initiatives that ensure improved solid waste management in Armenia and in the region. This is our third financial grant to the Armenian Government in this field. I am delighted that following regional initiatives in Kotayk and Vanadzor, we are now providing financial assistance to ensure improved living conditions for the citizens of Yerevan.”

To date, the EIB has signed 11 loans in Armenia totalling EUR 220 million. The portfolio is well diversified across transport, energy and water and waste treatment infrastructure as well as SME support.