Areni, Vayots Dzor - 17 October 2025 - The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Armenia marked a significant milestone in its mission to foster inclusive local growth through the Mayors for Economic Growth (M4EG) initiative. This EU-funded regional programme, implemented by UNDP, empowers municipalities like Areni to co-create solutions for local economic development, urban innovation, and community resilience. The event in Areni showcased how community-driven collaboration in frames of M4EG is transforming local economies and strengthening regional development. 

Natia Natsvlishvili, UNDP Resident Representative in Armenia, Arsen Khachatryan, Deputy Governor of Vayots Dzor region, Husik Sahakyan, Head of Areni community, welcomed the event participants. 

“Our collaboration with Areni Municipality through M4EG exemplifies how community-led initiatives can foster economic resilience and empower local voices. In 2021, to support the implementation of local economic plans, together with the EU, UNDP has introduced an innovative methodology for addressing complex challenges called a ’Portfolio Approach’, and Areni was the first community to successfully embrace and put it into practice. Now, the community is eagerly sharing its experiences with the newly selected communities of Aparan, Goris and Noyemberyan, which will greatly benefit from the learnings, significantly shortening the path to design and implement local interventions,” said Natia Natsvlishvili, UNDP Resident Representative in Armenia. 

“UNDP’s support has been instrumental in advancing local development across Vayots Dzor. This event is not only about achievements but also a reaffirmation of our shared commitment to the prosperity of our communities,” said Arsen Khachatryan, Deputy Governor of Vayots Dzor region. 

“We deeply value our partnership with UNDP, which brings tangible socio-economic improvements to Areni, particularly in the field of tourism and hospitality. As we look ahead, we are inspired to continue working together for the benefit of our residents and the region as a whole, as well as for the improvement of our practices at the municipality” noted Husik Sahakyan, head of Areni community. 

The event also commemorated UNDP Armenia’s 30th anniversary, highlighting three decades of partnership and progress. Attendees viewed the documentary “Stepping Through Change: 30 Years of UNDP in Armenia,” which highlighted the organization’s achievements and impact over the past thirty years. The celebration also featured a culinary showcase, youth-led presentations, traditional games, and musical performances - underscoring the vibrant spirit of community collaboration. 

This milestone gathering reaffirmed UNDP’s commitment to supporting community-led initiatives that promote economic resilience and inclusive development, with Areni standing as a shining example of what can be achieved through partnership and shared vision.