Experts argues Armenia may secure 9 percent economic growth
09.07.2012,
19:25
Armenia's economy has untapped reserves to secure a 9-10 percent GDP growth this year, according to Tatul Manaserian, head of Alternative think-tank.
YEREVAN, July 9. /ARKA/. Armenia's economy has untapped reserves to secure a 9-10 percent GDP growth this year, according to Tatul Manaserian, head of Alternative think-tank.
"First quarter trends, as well as the anticipated growth in the agricultural and tourism sectors suggest that the 7 percent growth projected by the government is modest," he told a news conference at Novosti international press center.
Speaking at an emergency session of Armenia’s new government on June 18, president Serzh Sargsyan said the main challenge of the new government will be to secure a 7% economic growth for this year.
"Our main goal will be to ensure a 7% economic growth, but this is not an end in itself. Our broader task is to form a strong basis for sustainable economic expansion, for the reduction and elimination of poverty", the president said.
"Winning the election does not mean we may rest on our laurels; quite the contrary, no one promised us laurels. We were sent here to work selflessly and honestly," he said.
According to the president, after the parliamentary elections on May 6 Armenia has a much more open society
"This means that not only the president and the parliament but also our citizens will be following the work of the government on a daily basis. This, in turn means that the new government should be up to the mark", he said.
Manaserian cited today also the unprecedented growth of 32 percent in mining sector in the first quarter of 2012, which he said may carry on, albeit on a smaller scale. Manaserian said his think-tank expects a 1.5-3% growth in construction sector after the recession in 2011 and 2010.
According to the National Statistical Service of Armenia, construction sector posted a 55.6% rise in May as opposed to April. -0-
