Ruben Petrosyan, the Chief Forest Guard at Hayantar State Non-Commercial Organisation commented on the issue of deforestation in Armenia at July 20 news conference.

As he noted, Armenia is listed among the 70 countries with poor forest funds, with unsatisfactory condition reported in 28% of Armenia's forest territory.

The Chief Forest Guard explained illegal deforestation by the poor living conditions of the country’s population. Citing WB study results, he noted that 1 mln cubic meters of forests were cut out in 2003, with 300 thous. cubic meters used for business purposes; currently, the figure rose to 400 thous. cubic meters.

As Mr. Petrosyan stated, in 2003, AMD 178 mln were allocated from state budget for reforestation; in 2006-2009, AMD 1,5 billion were provided for the same purpose.

In 2010, 1750 trees were cut out, with actions brought up against violators. However, he noted, the newly-planted forests are subject to serious problems.