Arman Sahakyan: Armenian law does not prohibit opening a casino near SCC
The Armenian law does not prohibit constructing a casino near Karen Demirchyan Sports and Concert Complex (SCC) in Yerevan if investments of $100 million are made, Head of the State Property Management Department under Armenian Government Arman Sahakyan told reporters today.
On August 13 the Armenian government took a decision to sell Karen Demirchyan SCC state non-profit organization on the balance sheet of Defense Ministry to NTAA Investment Group. The sales price is $30 million. It is planned to repair the building of SCC and construct a family complex comprised of a hotel, an indoor water park, concert halls, restaurants, shops, and a casino. The complex will be the first of its kind in Armenia and the whole region. The project is expected to be completed in 4 years.
After the August 20 sitting of Republican Party of Armenia’s (RPA) Executive Body, RPA’s spokesman, vice speaker of the Armenian government Edward Sharmazanov said, however, that there will be no casino in the Demirchyan Complex. “There will be no processes that would distort the architectural design of the Complex. I insist that there cannot and will not be a casino in SCC,” he said.
“SCC is dear to everyone so no work that contradicts the idea of the building’s architects and may damage that magnificent building can be done there,” Arman Sahakyan said.
As regards the deal, Sahakyan said that it is based on a program which will give SCC a new lease of life. “We should be able to turn SCC into one of the most active facilities in our city. This is the main purpose and I can assure you that the program will be implemented under strict control,” the department head said noting that State Property Management Department will deal with issues related to agreement obligations.
Commenting on rumors about the possible opening of a gambling house in SCC, Arman Sahakyan said there will be no casino inside the Complex. In his words, the construction will be done in the area from Hrazdan Stadium to Leningradian Avenue which is quite far from SCC. The possible constriction of a casino will not impact the architectural appearance of the Complex, he added.
“Everything should be done to ensure financing aimed at maintaining and ensuring the normal operation of SCC,” he said in conclusion.
Newsfeed
Videos
Artur Vanetsyan: I think you'll see me more often at various events in future
