Mkhitar Ayrapetyan, speaking at the Sevan AgriTech Summit, stated that an effective combination of agriculture and advanced technologies is crucial for the development of the modern agri-sector. He emphasized that agriculture can no longer be imagined without big data processing, artificial intelligence, image analysis, and the application of space technologies.
Ayrapetyan noted that these advanced solutions allow for more efficient management of agricultural processes, increased productivity, rational use of natural resources, reduced costs, and timely responses to emerging challenges in the sector.
The minister also pointed out that one of the directions of state policy is to stimulate scientific research and experimental design developments (R&D) to transform Armenia into a unique regional center for R&D and innovation development.
He emphasized that the government is consistently investing in the development of human capital and the creation of necessary infrastructure so that the knowledge and technological solutions developed in Armenia serve both the national economy and are exported to international markets.
Speaking about the infrastructure in the field of artificial intelligence, the minister highlighted that high-performance computing capabilities are a crucial prerequisite for creating new digital solutions, including in agriculture.
In this context, he particularly noted the cooperation of the Ministry of High-Tech Industry of Armenia with Firebird AI, emphasizing that the AI factory being established in Razdan will provide significant computing power that will also be used for the development of agricultural innovations.
Touching on programs for the development of space technologies, the minister reminded that back in 2022, Armenia acquired its first Earth remote sensing satellite, and the government is currently initiating the process of acquiring two more remote observation satellites.
According to Ayrapetyan, the new satellites will provide the agricultural sector with timely and high-precision data that will allow for the timely assessment of the current state of agricultural lands, making informed forecasts, and managing potential risks more effectively.
He emphasized that this is not only about obtaining satellite images but also about creating a comprehensive system for their operational processing, analysis, and practical application.
In his assessment, such an approach will facilitate data-driven decision-making, enhance the efficiency of agriculture, and strengthen Armenia's competitiveness and technological independence in this field.
In this context, Ayrapetyan also highlighted the importance of implementing automated systems in agriculture, noting the need for the development of robotics that will allow for the automation of agricultural work, increase yields, and reduce costs.
According to the minister, such technologies will help to process soil more accurately and care for crops, saving time and resources.
In conclusion, he emphasized that the primary task today is to unite the efforts of the state and the private sector and accelerate all processes so that innovative solutions are implemented in agriculture as quickly as possible.
