Minister of Environment Hambardzum Matevosyan spoke at the “Greenovate” youth summit within Sevan Startup Summit 2025, outlining Armenia’s readiness, as host, to lead the global biodiversity agenda at COP17. He shared this vision on his Facebook page.
He emphasized that, as COP17 presidency, Armenia’s role goes beyond logistics—it is about setting ideological direction. COP17 will be the platform where Armenia presents its vision as a small yet biologically rich country.
Matevosyan highlighted that COP17 should serve not as another international forum, but as a point of rethinking our relationship with nature at a systemic, deep level. It offers a historic opportunity to shift from sectoral projects to integrated, ecosystem-based solutions in biodiversity conservation.
He also stressed the importance of environmental education, raising awareness, engaging youth in decision-making nationally and internationally, and fostering cooperation for sustainable, effective solutions.
“In this preparatory phase, our goal isn't only to focus global attention on environmental challenges, but also to create a unified, dialogue-based governance model that meaningfully involves youth, women, local communities, and civil society,” Matevosyan said.
Afterwards, he answered questions on COP17 agenda, Armenia’s priorities, and formats for youth participation.
i “Greenovate” youth summit within Sevan Startup Summit 2025 aimed to empower youth in global environmental processes, especially during COP17 preparations. The event was attended by Gegharkunik governor Karen Sargsyan and UN Resident Coordinator in Armenia, Ms. Françoise Jacobs, underscoring its national and international significance.
