HTI Minister Visits the PMI Science Research Center: Priorities for Science and Technology Development Discussed

On January 22, RA Minister of High-Tech Industry Mkhitar Hayrapetyan, accompanied by Deputy Minister Ruben Simonyan, visited the PMI Science Research Center, founded by Philip Morris International, a leading multinational corporation. The center is one of the largest research hubs established by Philip Morris worldwide, alongside similar facilities in Switzerland, China, and Italy.

The Minister was introduced to the Center’s focused efforts and development programs by Luca Rossi, Vice President for Products and Technology Processes at Philip Morris International (PMI), and Gurgen Madoyan, Head of the PMI Science Research Center.

Emphasizing the role of the PMI Science Research Center in advancing Armenia’s technological sector, Mkhitar Hayrapetyan highlighted the Armenian Government’s commitment to fostering scientific research (R&D). He referenced the recently adopted Law "On State Support for the High-Tech Sector", which takes effect on January 1, 2025, as well as the new amendments to the "Tax Code of the Republic of Armenia", both aimed at strengthening the sector.

Accompanied by Victoria Poghosyan, Manager of External Relations and Scientific Engagement at Philip Morris Armenia, the Minister toured the Center, exploring its labs and overall infrastructure, which are equipped with cutting-edge technology. Representatives of Armenian engineering partner organizations presented their ongoing projects, current activities, and opportunities for collaboration with the center.

Additionally, a meeting was held with the employees of the Center for Mathematical Sciences, led by its head, Narek Melkonyan. The Minister was briefed on their achievements as well as the challenges encountered in their work, and a number of potential solutions were discussed.

A roundtable discussion was also organized with beneficiaries of the Center’s master’s and doctoral programs, along with invited scientists. The discussion focused on the role of private companies in advancing both fundamental and applied science, ongoing initiatives, and the challenges faced along the way.

Addressing the Armenian Government’s priorities in this domain, Mkhitar Hayrapetyan stressed the importance of building a science-driven, self-sufficient economy powered by

innovation. He highlighted the Government’s investments in the development of the science sector and discussed various opportunities aimed at fostering scientific progress in Armenia. The conversation also touched on the country’s scientific traditions, achievements, and milestones, as well as their continuity.

An agreement was reached to hold more in-depth discussions on these matters in the near future.

During the visit, the Minister, accompanied by Gor Vardanyan, Rector of the National Polytechnic University of Armenia, also toured the university’s campus. He was briefed on the construction of a science park being developed with the support of PMI Science, as well as ongoing infrastructure improvements.