YEREVAN, 8 October 2025 - The European Union’s (EU) flagship initiative to support local development, Mayors for Economic Growth (M4EG), implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), today marked the official launch of its third phase in Armenia. The kickoff event gathered representatives from the Government of Armenia, the EU, the UNDP, municipalities, and civil society organizations.

The third phase of M4EG builds on earlier achievements while introducing a specific focus on a mission-oriented approach to local development. Instead of supporting short-term and isolated projects, municipalities will be working on sets of coordinated initiatives. This reflects the EU’s commitment under M4EG to empower local authorities and drive sustainable transformation across the Eastern Partnership Region and steer systemic change.

“The EU remains committed to supporting Armenian municipalities in becoming engines of sustainable and inclusive growth, particularly through advancing the green transition and fostering innovation at the local level,” noted Frank Hess, Head of Co-operation of the EU Delegation to Armenia.

“Strengthening the role of our municipalities is central to Armenia’s development agenda. Through this initiative with the EU and UNDP support, we are giving the communities the tools to shape sustainable and resilient futures for their citizens,” emphasized Avetik Darbinyan, Deputy Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure.

“This new phase of M4EG marks a shift toward more transformative, mission-oriented approaches that enable municipalities to reimagine their role in building resilience, and driving sustainable development, while creating tangible improvements in the lives of their citizens,” added Natia Natsvlishvili, UNDP Resident Representative in Armenia.

In August 2025, ten municipalities joined the programme across the Eastern Partnership countries, specifically in Armenia these were Aparan, Goris, Noyemberyan. Mission-oriented economy approach focuses on solving specific societal challenges through targeted, strategic interventions. It involves setting clear, ambitious goals ("missions") that require innovation and coordination across various sectors and actors. This approach aims to drive economic growth by addressing complex problems, creating interconnected solutions that benefit society as a whole. For more information on the Mission-Oriented Programme, updates and upcoming opportunities for the new municipalities please visit here.

For media inquiries: 

Mr. Anton Sydorenko, M4EG Facility Communications Lead, anton.sydorenko@undp.org