The idea of establishing the base has united local residents, local self-government bodies, state institutions, and international organizations. In Meghradzor

A newly constructed building now stands in Meghradzor, replacing the former semi-dilapidated structure. It now serves as a volunteer fire and rescue base—the 13th of its kind in Armenia. The project was implemented by the "Economic Journalists' Club" with funding from the Japanese government. The Director of the Rescue Service of the RA Ministry of Internal Affairs - the Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs, Major General Kamo Tsutsulyan, highlights the importance of establishing the base precisely in Meghradzor. Explains that the region is a forested area. and that wildfires occur frequently.

"By decision of the Government of Armenia, volunteer fire and firefighters rescue squads have already been established in 12 communities, and naturally, this initiative will continue. I should note that the rescue squads consist of local resident volunteers rather than professional firefighters. They do not receive a salary but are trained and certified by the Rescue Service on a voluntary basis. In turn, they provide the necessary services in their community based on the same voluntary principle. As needed, they respond to fires and various disasters," says Kamo Tsutsulyan․  The Deputy Minister emphasizes that experience has shown this model to be highly effective. Before professional firefighters from nearby areas can arrive, the volunteer squad can respond swiftly on-site. The model has proven successful in Japan, which is why the Japanese Embassy in Armenia has financed the project.  The Japan’s Ambassador to Armenia, Aoki Yutaka, highlights that this initiative will serve as a protective shield for the local population, given the constant risk of forest fires. In emergency situations in Meghradzor, rescue teams typically arrive from Hrazdan, which presents timing challenges. Now, responses will be more appropriate and timely. This project also carries an intercultural component, incorporating Japan’s proven model into Armenia’s system. In other words, these individuals have their daily lives and main jobs, but they are also certified to provide volunteer service whenever the need arises, notes Argishti Zurabyan, consultant for the grant program at the Embassy of Japan.

The President of the “Economic Journalists' Club,” Anna Baghdasaryan, President of the Economic Journalists’ Club, emphasizes that when participating in the grant competition of the Embassy of Japan’s Human Security Programs in Armenia, she never imagined the new and unusual journey they would embark on after winning it. They have gone through that journey, and the project is now a reality.According to her, the idea of establishing this base has united local residents, local self-government bodies, state institutions, and international organizations. The project to establish such bases has been underway in the Garni community since 2020 and will continue in the future. By the way, since 1998, the Government of Japan has funded 120 projects in Armenia, over 20 of which are related to rescue services.