Kapan Mining and Processing Company operates the Shahumyan Gold-Polymetallic deposit located in Syunik region through the underground method.

The company produces copper and zinc concentrate with gold and silver content.

Geological exploration works at the mines supplying raw materials for the plant have been carried out since 1929.

Systematic exploration and mining operations began in the 1960s.

In 1988, the company was named “Kapan Mining and Processing Plant.”

Excerpts from the book “History of Mining in Kapan”

Author: Arshavir Hayrapetyan

According to ancient records, between 1279 and 1290, a polymetallic mine operated near the village of Barabatum. The ore from that mine contained high percentages of gold and silver. This mine was known for centuries as "Gyumish" and corresponds to today’s Shaumyan mine.

From the 1170s until the mid-14th century, Armenia was subjected to invasions by predatory tribes that destroyed everything, including mines and smelters operating in Kapan.

Mining declined due to the Seljuk invasions in the 1170s, the Tatar-Mongol conquests in the 1330s–1340s, and finally the raids of Timur's hordes in 1385–1387.

For these reasons, copper production in the mines of Zangezur (Ghatar, Kavart, Gyumish, etc.) often experienced long interruptions—sometimes lasting centuries.

Mining in Kapan was revived during a new phase of the Armenian liberation movement, initiated by Kapan-born Israel Ori. In his extensive report dated September 22, 1699, to Austrian Emperor Wilhelm, Ori mentions that Armenia (referring to the Kapan mines) has rich copper deposits controlled by Armenians. With sufficient interest, smelters could be dispatched to freely cast artillery.

In 1846, Russian official Yakov Rozov received permission to build a copper smelter near the Kapan mines. His plant laid the foundation for copper production in Kapan and became the center of future development.

During the centennial celebration of the plant in 1946, Yakov Rozov was duly honored and recognized as the founder of the present-day Kapan Mining and Processing Plant.

Rozov’s work was continued by Greeks led by master Haralampi Kondourov. In 1850, they opened mines in Kavart, Bashkhand, and Ghatar, and built a smelter.

In 1853, Kondourov, a craftsman from Trebizond, launched Kapan’s first major copper smelting plant near the upper stream of the Kavart River (now dry) in the northeastern area of Sayad-Dagh. The smelter, named after the mine — Kavart — had an annual capacity of 678 poods (approx. 11,000 kg) of copper.

The Kondorovs

After the Kondourovs, a prominent role in mining development was played by the Khojamiryans.

In 1856, upon learning about the rich deposits in Kapan, brothers Karapet and Hovhannes Khojamiryan from Akulis (Ordubad district, Nakhijevan) along with their relative Hayrapet Khojamiryan came to Kapan. They became familiar with the area, were convinced of the profitability of copper mining, and immediately leased mines in Ghatar. They built a smelter and began extracting and processing ore from Ghatar, Kavart, and surrounding areas.

The Khojamiryans

In later years, other entrepreneurs joined the industry: the Lazarev brothers, Muradov, Melik-Parsadanyan, Melik-Gharagyozyan, Atajanyan, the "Caucasian Company," and others.

In the 1880s, a renowned mining entrepreneur from Shushi, Melik-Azaryan, lived in Kapan.

Melik Azaryan

Initially, he rented a mountainous area near the Arpik settlement, where he opened new mine shafts, naming them after his children — Arpik, Sofik, and Hayrapet. Later, he developed another shaft, which he named “Syunik.”

The initiative to build the Syunik plant came from mining engineer Armenak Vagani Vahanyan. He convinced prominent industrialist A. A. Melik-Azaryan of the profitability of building a new, modernized plant.

The Syunik plant was launched in early January 1897 and demonstrated to the mining entrepreneurs of Zangezur the advantages of a new copper smelting method, which significantly saved fuel. It was the first plant in Kapan where copper smelting was performed using a shaft furnace.

At the beginning of the 20th century, about 16 small and large workshops and factories operated in Kapan. Among the copper smelting facilities, those of the Kondourov family, the Khojamiryans, and the “Syunik” plant of Melik-Azaryants stood out — the latter being relatively better equipped.

Besides the Greek mining entrepreneur Kharlampi Kondourov, his successors, Khojamiryan, and Melik-Azaryan — who controlled a large portion of the mines — there were also notable small-scale entrepreneurs, including the Lazarev brothers, Melik-Karagyozov, Melik-Stepanian, Baylar Bek, and others.

The world was entering an era of capitalist development.

Many capitalists from developed Western countries sought to gain control over the mines in Kapan. Among them were Germans, British, Americans, French, and others.

The entry of representatives from these advanced countries and their industrial activities in Kapan became a significant progressive step in developing local industry and improving the socio-economic conditions of the population.

In the spring of 1910, the French purchased the Syunik plant from Melik-Azaryan, along with the “Arpik,” “Sofik,” “Hayrapet,” and “Mutafov” mines. They received permission to operate in the Tejadin and Shahardjik areas, including land plots belonging to the Khalaj and Shahardjik sectors.

Later, in 1911, the French acquired the mines owned by Melik-Karagyozov, and subsequently also obtained the Barabatum and Gyumish mines. In 1912, the French — through the Caucasian Industrial Metallurgical Company — leased all the mines belonging to small-scale miners.

Only the Kondourov and Khojamiryan families continued working with the French.

The French introduced the latest technologies, mechanisms, and equipment to Kapan and signed agreements with advanced industrial nations for the import of necessary machinery and the export of the copper produced.

Within a short period, the French succeeded in modernizing the entire mining industry of Kapan.

The victory of the October Revolution in Russia, the ongoing civil war of 1918, the nationalization of means of production, and the impact of military operations in Zangezur led to the withdrawal of the mining operators — the French, the Kondourov and Khojamiryan families — from the country.

Military actions continued until 1921. During those years, copper smelting plants, power stations, all industrial facilities, and mines were completely destroyed. Everything was looted, and the mines were flooded.

In February 1924, the State Planning Committee of the USSR discussed the restoration of the copper industry, including mines and smelters in Armenia, and decided to rapidly resume copper production in Armenia. It was resolved to organize the All-Union Caucasus Copper Association ("Zamkmed", with its headquarters in Yerevan), which was tasked with prioritizing the restoration of copper production in Zangezur.

Through the initiative of Haykaz Balyan, Chairman of the Armenian People's Economic Council, with the approval of the Transcaucasian Executive Committee and the direct support of Alexander Myasnikyan, a special commission was created to oversee the restoration of the Kapan mines.

Following studies of all the mines, smelters, hydropower plants, and workshops, in July 1924, commission members V.Kh. Zarapov and A.N. Paronyan were dispatched to Kapan to begin the work. The commission was tasked with launching the restoration of the “New Syunik” plant of the Ghatar mines and the Jrakhur hydroelectric plant.

With the active participation of the commission members and local residents, a new enterprise was founded and named "Kapan Red November Copper Smelter".

In 1925, large-scale restoration works began on the mines. People began flowing into Madan (Kapan), especially from villages located near the mines. Since pre-Soviet times, it had been customary for one literate and organizationally capable person from each village to recruit fellow villagers, form brigades, and present them to the mine administration for employment. Such brigades came to work from Kavart, the Greek district, Barabatum, Khalatagh, Arakhadzor, Baghaburj, Vachagan, and other villages.

Despite the difficult working conditions and overcoming numerous hardships, on November 7, 1925, the "Red November" plant was launched, and the country received its first copper. Gradually, the destroyed mines and tunnels were being restored. At first, the mines that operated during the French period until 1917–1918 were reactivated: the Mutafov No. 1 "Gyumish" mine of Shahumyan, Mets Magharan of the Khojamiryans, No. 2, and the "Chekma" No. 3 Pekhri mines of the Kondourov brothers. The old tunnel called "Boyonk" No. 9 was also restored. After some time, the "Arpik" and "Sofik" mines were also reopened. From 1925 onward, ore extraction gradually resumed from these restored mines.

In 1926–1927, a piecework wage system was introduced in the mines. Work norms and rates were developed based on individualized labor organization. Workers formed brigades and began working in a complex, coordinated manner.

Workers of the Shahumyan mine, 1927

In 1927, with the aim of training qualified local personnel, training courses were organized by the mining administration. After work, capable young workers were trained to become foremen and shift production workers. This method of staff training remained in place at the plant until the 1960s.

Communication systems began to develop in Kapan—postal services, radio, and telephone communication improved.

In the 1930s, a factory-school vocational institution called "FEZO" was opened at the plant, where training groups were organized for drillers, timberers, blasters, valve mechanics, electricians, foundry masters, flotation operators, ore enrichment electric winch operators, and line masters. Every year, admissions were held in various specializations to meet the personnel demands of the plant.

Copper extraction increased year by year. Ore mining and smelting gained momentum, and new mining sites were put into operation. Alongside production growth, the average salary of miners also steadily increased.

In 1930, construction began on the Midzhevan–Kapan railway.

Gradually, drilling operations and internal production transport processes were being mechanized. Trucks were actively used to transport ore, and compressors were installed at various sites.

The construction of the enrichment plant, underground transportation systems, mine tunnels, and bridges over rivers and gorges within the city for transporting ore by rail was progressing rapidly, along with other industrial buildings.

Ore transportation by railway, 1930

Women in the production workshop. Flotation operator — Knarik Sargsyan

Due to the large number of incoming workers, there was a high demand for housing, leading to large-scale residential construction—particularly of dormitory-style accommodations.

Attention was also paid to cultural and everyday needs, as well as organizing leisure for workers. Pioneer camps and summer buildings for preschool children were constructed.

On November 7, 1932, the 15th anniversary of the October Revolution, the train entered the Kapan railway station for the first time.

The arrival of the train opened up new horizons for the development of Kapan’s mining industry. It was also of great importance for the economic and cultural development of the entire Syunik region.

The work being carried out produced positive results: by 1940, the plant’s output had increased fivefold compared to 1924. Under the third five-year plan of 1938–1943, approved at the 18th Congress of the Bolshevik Party, the projected growth placed the plant among the most advanced enterprises in the Soviet Union.

On Sunday, June 22, 1941, more than 80 years ago, at 4:30 a.m., fascist Germany treacherously attacked the Soviet Union along the entire length of its western borders.

Copper production became one of the top-priority and most crucial industries in ensuring the development of the country’s military industry.

The miners performed labor feats every day. In 1941, the Kapan miners achieved record-breaking results both in ore extraction and in processing and concentrate production. 264,801 tons of ore were mined, and 43,700 tons of copper concentrate were produced.

Before the Great Patriotic War, 905 women worked in mining as leading production workers. When the war began, many male workers went to the front and were replaced by hundreds of women, who carried out heroic work in the most difficult sectors of the mining industry. By 1942–1943, many of them had become skilled professionals, led brigades, and were recognized as winners in fulfilling the goals of socialist competition.

Together with the entire Soviet people, the working people of Armenia—including the team of Kapan’s copper plant—spared neither their moral and physical efforts nor their material resources to ensure victory over fascism.

The chronicle of the Kapan mines is so rich in facts and events—especially during the post-war "Stalinist" five-year plan years—that it becomes necessary to focus on the key events of each year individually.

During the five-year plans, new mechanisms, mechanical and electrical equipment were installed in the mines of the mining administration. With their operation, working conditions significantly improved, contributing to increased productivity.

Alongside the rise in industrial output, efforts were also made to improve the social and material conditions of the miners.

Year by year, the supply of fresh vegetables, fruits, meat, and dairy products to the miners and all city residents was increased.

From the 1950s, not only in Kapan but throughout the entire republic, a new wave of development in non-ferrous metallurgy began.

Kapan’s mining administration—being one of the oldest enterprises with extensive experience in the mining industry—sent skilled engineering-technical specialists and workers to the newly built metallurgical plants in Kajaran, Agarak, Dastakert, and Zod.

In the 1960s, the auxiliary economy of the combine expanded even further. The nearby collective farms of the city of Kapan—Bekh, Vachagan, Siznag, Gharachiman, and Khalaj—were merged into the combine’s auxiliary economy, forming a large suburban agricultural unit.

The cultivated land areas expanded, and large livestock farms were established for small and large cattle, pig farming, and poultry farming. The volume of agricultural products was so great that, in addition to meeting the needs of the miners, a significant quantity was also delivered to the state to supply the general population of the city.

Having a powerful capital construction department, the combine independently carried out mining and production facility construction and installation works on time. Special attention was paid to the construction of housing, cultural, and social infrastructure. Residential buildings continued to be built in the city, in the industrial district, Lenhanqer, and in the neighborhoods of Shahumyan and Arpik.

During the five-year plan, 6,000 square meters of housing were built for miners in the city alone. According to special designs, two-story houses with personal land plots were constructed in the Hunan Avetisyan district. In Lenhanqer, a Palace of Culture, a secondary school, and a workers’ dormitory were built.

In Kapan, the currently operating hospital-healthcare complex, sports complex, buildings of the House of Culture, music school, vocational schools, and the mining-metallurgical technical college were also constructed and put into operation.

Alongside construction, significant progress was also made in exploitation operations. During this period, new mine shafts, horizons, and working sectors were opened in the mines.

Thanks to the progress made during the post-war five-year plans, by 1960 the combine had already become a powerful mining enterprise. At the mines, there were 44 electric locomotives, 59 loaders, hundreds of perforators, and various other mechanisms and equipment in operation.

Considering that the combine employed numerous representatives of different nationalities, active efforts were made to uphold the ideas of internationalism, create an atmosphere of solidarity, mutual respect, and camaraderie. Armenians, Russians, Ukrainians, Azerbaijanis, Belarusians, Georgians, and representatives of many other nationalities worked side by side.

Meetings with prominent scientists and public figures were frequently organized for the workforce. The miners met with distinguished personalities such as academician Anushavan Arzumanyan, director of the World Economy Institute (who had started his career at the Kavart mines), President of the Academy of Sciences of Armenia Viktor Hambardzumyan, renowned composers Aram Khachaturian and Edvard Mirzoyan, Chairman of the Council of Ministers Grigor Arzumanyan, Chairman of the Armenian Trade Union Council Sokrat Arakelyan, and the famous Soviet military commander, twice Hero of the Soviet Union, Marshal Hovhannes Baghramyan, among others.

World-Renowned Scientist Viktor Ambartsumian at the Kapan Plant with Miners.

World-renowned composer Aram Khachaturian with the employees of the Kapan Combine.

The photographs are from the archives of the History Museum named after Shmavon Movsisyan.

Excerpts from the book “History of Mining in Kapan”

Author: Arshavir Hayrapetyan

According to ancient records, between 1279 and 1290, a polymetallic mine operated near the village of Barabatum. The ore from that mine contained high percentages of gold and silver. This mine was known for centuries as "Gyumish" and corresponds to today’s Shaumyan mine.

From the 1170s until the mid-14th century, Armenia was subjected to invasions by predatory tribes that destroyed everything, including mines and smelters operating in Kapan.

Mining declined due to the Seljuk invasions in the 1170s, the Tatar-Mongol conquests in the 1330s–1340s, and finally the raids of Timur's hordes in 1385–1387.

For these reasons, copper production in the mines of Zangezur (Ghatar, Kavart, Gyumish, etc.) often experienced long interruptions—sometimes lasting centuries.

Mining in Kapan was revived during a new phase of the Armenian liberation movement, initiated by Kapan-born Israel Ori. In his extensive report dated September 22, 1699, to Austrian Emperor Wilhelm, Ori mentions that Armenia (referring to the Kapan mines) has rich copper deposits controlled by Armenians. With sufficient interest, smelters could be dispatched to freely cast artillery.

In 1846, Russian official Yakov Rozov received permission to build a copper smelter near the Kapan mines. His plant laid the foundation for copper production in Kapan and became the center of future development.

During the centennial celebration of the plant in 1946, Yakov Rozov was duly honored and recognized as the founder of the present-day Kapan Mining and Processing Plant.

Rozov’s work was continued by Greeks led by master Haralampi Kondourov. In 1850, they opened mines in Kavart, Bashkhand, and Ghatar, and built a smelter.

In 1853, Kondourov, a craftsman from Trebizond, launched Kapan’s first major copper smelting plant near the upper stream of the Kavart River (now dry) in the northeastern area of Sayad-Dagh. The smelter, named after the mine — Kavart — had an annual capacity of 678 poods (approx. 11,000 kg) of copper.

After the Kondourovs, a prominent role in mining development was played by the Khojamiryans.

In 1856, upon learning about the rich deposits in Kapan, brothers Karapet and Hovhannes Khojamiryan from Akulis (Ordubad district, Nakhijevan) along with their relative Hayrapet Khojamiryan came to Kapan. They became familiar with the area, were convinced of the profitability of copper mining, and immediately leased mines in Ghatar. They built a smelter and began extracting and processing ore from Ghatar, Kavart, and surrounding areas.

In later years, other entrepreneurs joined the industry: the Lazarev brothers, Muradov, Melik-Parsadanyan, Melik-Gharagyozyan, Atajanyan, the "Caucasian Company," and others.

In the 1880s, a renowned mining entrepreneur from Shushi, Melik-Azaryan, lived in Kapan. Initially, he rented a mountainous area near the Arpik settlement, where he opened new mine shafts, naming them after his children — Arpik, Sofik, and Hayrapet. Later, he developed another shaft, which he named “Syunik.”

The initiative to build the Syunik plant came from mining engineer Armenak Vagani Vahanyan. He convinced prominent industrialist A. A. Melik-Azaryan of the profitability of building a new, modernized plant.

The Syunik plant was launched in early January 1897 and demonstrated to the mining entrepreneurs of Zangezur the advantages of a new copper smelting method, which significantly saved fuel. It was the first plant in Kapan where copper smelting was performed using a shaft furnace.

At the beginning of the 20th century, about 16 small and large workshops and factories operated in Kapan. Among the copper smelting facilities, those of the Kondourov family, the Khojamiryans, and the “Syunik” plant of Melik-Azaryants stood out — the latter being relatively better equipped.

Besides the Greek mining entrepreneur Kharlampi Kondourov, his successors, Khojamiryan, and Melik-Azaryan — who controlled a large portion of the mines — there were also notable small-scale entrepreneurs, including the Lazarev brothers, Melik-Karagyozov, Melik-Stepanian, Baylar Bek, and others.

The world was entering an era of capitalist development.

Many capitalists from developed Western countries sought to gain control over the mines in Kapan. Among them were Germans, British, Americans, French, and others.

The entry of representatives from these advanced countries and their industrial activities in Kapan became a significant progressive step in developing local industry and improving the socio-economic conditions of the population.

In the spring of 1910, the French purchased the Syunik plant from Melik-Azaryan, along with the “Arpik,” “Sofik,” “Hayrapet,” and “Mutafov” mines. They received permission to operate in the Tejadin and Shahardjik areas, including land plots belonging to the Khalaj and Shahardjik sectors.

Later, in 1911, the French acquired the mines owned by Melik-Karagyozov, and subsequently also obtained the Barabatum and Gyumish mines. In 1912, the French — through the Caucasian Industrial Metallurgical Company — leased all the mines belonging to small-scale miners.

Only the Kondourov and Khojamiryan families continued working with the French.

The French introduced the latest technologies, mechanisms, and equipment to Kapan and signed agreements with advanced industrial nations for the import of necessary machinery and the export of the copper produced.

Within a short period, the French succeeded in modernizing the entire mining industry of Kapan.

The victory of the October Revolution in Russia, the ongoing civil war of 1918, the nationalization of means of production, and the impact of military operations in Zangezur led to the withdrawal of the mining operators — the French, the Kondourov and Khojamiryan families — from the country.

Military actions continued until 1921. During those years, copper smelting plants, power stations, all industrial facilities, and mines were completely destroyed. Everything was looted, and the mines were flooded.

In February 1924, the State Planning Committee of the USSR discussed the restoration of the copper industry, including mines and smelters in Armenia, and decided to rapidly resume copper production in Armenia. It was resolved to organize the All-Union Caucasus Copper Association ("Zamkmed", with its headquarters in Yerevan), which was tasked with prioritizing the restoration of copper production in Zangezur.

Through the initiative of Haykaz Balyan, Chairman of the Armenian People's Economic Council, with the approval of the Transcaucasian Executive Committee and the direct support of Alexander Myasnikyan, a special commission was created to oversee the restoration of the Kapan mines.

Following studies of all the mines, smelters, hydropower plants, and workshops, in July 1924, commission members V.Kh. Zarapov and A.N. Paronyan were dispatched to Kapan to begin the work. The commission was tasked with launching the restoration of the “New Syunik” plant of the Ghatar mines and the Jrakhur hydroelectric plant.

With the active participation of the commission members and local residents, a new enterprise was founded and named "Kapan Red November Copper Smelter".

In 1925, large-scale restoration works began on the mines. People began flowing into Madan (Kapan), especially from villages located near the mines. Since pre-Soviet times, it had been customary for one literate and organizationally capable person from each village to recruit fellow villagers, form brigades, and present them to the mine administration for employment. Such brigades came to work from Kavart, the Greek district, Barabatum, Khalatagh, Arakhadzor, Baghaburj, Vachagan, and other villages.

Despite the difficult working conditions and overcoming numerous hardships, on November 7, 1925, the "Red November" plant was launched, and the country received its first copper. Gradually, the destroyed mines and tunnels were being restored. At first, the mines that operated during the French period until 1917–1918 were reactivated: the Mutafov No. 1 "Gyumish" mine of Shahumyan, Mets Magharan of the Khojamiryans, No. 2, and the "Chekma" No. 3 Pekhri mines of the Kondourov brothers. The old tunnel called "Boyonk" No. 9 was also restored. After some time, the "Arpik" and "Sofik" mines were also reopened. From 1925 onward, ore extraction gradually resumed from these restored mines.

In 1926–1927, a piecework wage system was introduced in the mines. Work norms and rates were developed based on individualized labor organization. Workers formed brigades and began working in a complex, coordinated manner.

In 1927, with the aim of training qualified local personnel, training courses were organized by the mining administration. After work, capable young workers were trained to become foremen and shift production workers. This method of staff training remained in place at the plant until the 1960s.

Communication systems began to develop in Kapan—postal services, radio, and telephone communication improved.

In the 1930s, a factory-school vocational institution called "FEZO" was opened at the plant, where training groups were organized for drillers, timberers, blasters, valve mechanics, electricians, foundry masters, flotation operators, ore enrichment electric winch operators, and line masters. Every year, admissions were held in various specializations to meet the personnel demands of the plant.

Copper extraction increased year by year. Ore mining and smelting gained momentum, and new mining sites were put into operation. Alongside production growth, the average salary of miners also steadily increased.

In 1930, construction began on the Midzhevan–Kapan railway.

Gradually, drilling operations and internal production transport processes were being mechanized. Trucks were actively used to transport ore, and compressors were installed at various sites.

The construction of the enrichment plant, underground transportation systems, mine tunnels, and bridges over rivers and gorges within the city for transporting ore by rail was progressing rapidly, along with other industrial buildings. Due to the large number of incoming workers, there was a high demand for housing, leading to large-scale residential construction—particularly of dormitory-style accommodations.

Attention was also paid to cultural and everyday needs, as well as organizing leisure for workers. Pioneer camps and summer buildings for preschool children were constructed.

On November 7, 1932, the 15th anniversary of the October Revolution, the train entered the Kapan railway station for the first time.

The arrival of the train opened up new horizons for the development of Kapan’s mining industry. It was also of great importance for the economic and cultural development of the entire Syunik region.

The work being carried out produced positive results: by 1940, the plant’s output had increased fivefold compared to 1924. Under the third five-year plan of 1938–1943, approved at the 18th Congress of the Bolshevik Party, the projected growth placed the plant among the most advanced enterprises in the Soviet Union.

On Sunday, June 22, 1941, more than 80 years ago, at 4:30 a.m., fascist Germany treacherously attacked the Soviet Union along the entire length of its western borders.

Copper production became one of the top-priority and most crucial industries in ensuring the development of the country’s military industry.

The miners performed labor feats every day. In 1941, the Kapan miners achieved record-breaking results both in ore extraction and in processing and concentrate production. 264,801 tons of ore were mined, and 43,700 tons of copper concentrate were produced.

Before the Great Patriotic War, 905 women worked in mining as leading production workers. When the war began, many male workers went to the front and were replaced by hundreds of women, who carried out heroic work in the most difficult sectors of the mining industry. By 1942–1943, many of them had become skilled professionals, led brigades, and were recognized as winners in fulfilling the goals of socialist competition.

Together with the entire Soviet people, the working people of Armenia—including the team of Kapan’s copper plant—spared neither their moral and physical efforts nor their material resources to ensure victory over fascism.

The chronicle of the Kapan mines is so rich in facts and events—especially during the post-war "Stalinist" five-year plan years—that it becomes necessary to focus on the key events of each year individually.

During the five-year plans, new mechanisms, mechanical and electrical equipment were installed in the mines of the mining administration. With their operation, working conditions significantly improved, contributing to increased productivity.

Alongside the rise in industrial output, efforts were also made to improve the social and material conditions of the miners.

Year by year, the supply of fresh vegetables, fruits, meat, and dairy products to the miners and all city residents was increased.

From the 1950s, not only in Kapan but throughout the entire republic, a new wave of development in non-ferrous metallurgy began.

Kapan’s mining administration—being one of the oldest enterprises with extensive experience in the mining industry—sent skilled engineering-technical specialists and workers to the newly built metallurgical plants in Kajaran, Agarak, Dastakert, and Zod.

In the 1960s, the auxiliary economy of the combine expanded even further. The nearby collective farms of the city of Kapan—Bekh, Vachagan, Siznag, Gharachiman, and Khalaj—were merged into the combine’s auxiliary economy, forming a large suburban agricultural unit.

The cultivated land areas expanded, and large livestock farms were established for small and large cattle, pig farming, and poultry farming. The volume of agricultural products was so great that, in addition to meeting the needs of the miners, a significant quantity was also delivered to the state to supply the general population of the city.

Having a powerful capital construction department, the combine independently carried out mining and production facility construction and installation works on time. Special attention was paid to the construction of housing, cultural, and social infrastructure. Residential buildings continued to be built in the city, in the industrial district, Lenhanqer, and in the neighborhoods of Shahumyan and Arpik.

During the five-year plan, 6,000 square meters of housing were built for miners in the city alone. According to special designs, two-story houses with personal land plots were constructed in the Hunan Avetisyan district. In Lenhanqer, a Palace of Culture, a secondary school, and a workers’ dormitory were built.

In Kapan, the currently operating hospital-healthcare complex, sports complex, buildings of the House of Culture, music school, vocational schools, and the mining-metallurgical technical college were also constructed and put into operation.

Alongside construction, significant progress was also made in exploitation operations. During this period, new mine shafts, horizons, and working sectors were opened in the mines.

Thanks to the progress made during the post-war five-year plans, by 1960 the combine had already become a powerful mining enterprise. At the mines, there were 44 electric locomotives, 59 loaders, hundreds of perforators, and various other mechanisms and equipment in operation.

Considering that the combine employed numerous representatives of different nationalities, active efforts were made to uphold the ideas of internationalism, create an atmosphere of solidarity, mutual respect, and camaraderie. Armenians, Russians, Ukrainians, Azerbaijanis, Belarusians, Georgians, and representatives of many other nationalities worked side by side.

Meetings with prominent scientists and public figures were frequently organized for the workforce. The miners met with distinguished personalities such as academician Anushavan Arzumanyan, director of the World Economy Institute (who had started his career at the Kavart mines), President of the Academy of Sciences of Armenia Viktor Hambardzumyan, renowned composers Aram Khachaturian and Edvard Mirzoyan, Chairman of the Council of Ministers Grigor Arzumanyan, Chairman of the Armenian Trade Union Council Sokrat Arakelyan, and the famous Soviet military commander, twice Hero of the Soviet Union, Marshal Hovhannes Baghramyan, among others.

In the first two quarters of 1965, the combine was awarded the Republican Prize and took first place among the republics in the field of rationalization and invention, which enabled the establishment of an enterprise fund. Using this fund, the well-equipped “Okhtari Friendship” Pioneer Camp was built, as well as a comfortable prophylactic facility in Karmrakhar, complete with all necessary amenities. The existing Palace of Culture for miners was renovated. In addition, the enterprise fund was used to acquire vouchers to the best sanatoriums in the Union and to provide material assistance to workers and employees in need.

At the beginning of 1969, the combine operated over 70 loading machines, 65 deep drilling rigs, 40 scraper-type winches, 50 electric locomotives, as well as numerous bulldozers, excavators, truck cranes, pumps, and other mechanisms and equipment.

Along with ensuring industrial growth, efforts were made to improve the housing, cultural, and material conditions of the workers and employees. The USSR Ministry of Non-Ferrous Metallurgy allocated 10,000 square meters of housing to the Kapan City Council to improve the living conditions of the combine’s workers, providing the necessary funding for the construction and distribution of those apartments to miners.

Funds were also allocated for the completion of the new Palace of Culture’s music and vocational schools, the construction of the Mining and Metallurgical Technical College, and the reconstruction of the sports and hospital complexes.

On the day of the 60th anniversary celebration of the October Revolution in 1977, a newly built Miners’ Cultural Center was inaugurated in Kapan. This beautiful gift was not only for the miners but belonged to the entire population of Kapan. In honor of the miners, the A. Spendiaryan Opera and Ballet Theatre troupe performed at the Palace of Culture, opening the 1977–1978 theatrical season with the opera Anush.

Thanks to the regular technical events held at the Palace of Culture, in 1978 it was renamed the Palace of Culture and Technology — the only institution of its kind in the republic.

According to Order No. 72 of the USSR Ministry of Non-Ferrous Metallurgy, dated April 4, 1977, the Kajaran Copper-Molybdenum Combine and the Kapan Copper Combine were merged to form the Zangezur Copper-Molybdenum Combine.

After the merger, no significant positive changes were observed for the Kapan Combine.

By Order No. 306 dated May 8, 1988, the merged combines were separated again: the Kajaran Combine retained the name "Zangezur Copper-Molybdenum Combine," and the Kapan plant was renamed "Kapan Mining and Processing Combine."

After the collapse of the Soviet state and the emergence of the Karabakh liberation movement, Armenian-Azerbaijani conflicts began to intensify.

With access to necessary material resources, conditions were created to direct the profits from the sale of goods primarily toward improving the material and living conditions of the workforce, and subsequently to organizing aid for those in need. Alongside this, significant importance was placed on providing support to the army.

In addition to material assistance, many young workers of the Combine voluntarily joined the front lines and took up arms to fight against the enemy. Five freedom fighters working at the Combine fell in this war. Among them were:

Armen Artemi Vardanyan

Armen Vardanyan was born on March 4, 1953, in Kapan.

He dedicated his professional life to the Kapan Mining Plant, where he earned the love and respect of his colleagues as one of the most skilled, knowledgeable, and committed employees.

However, like thousands of other young men, Armen’s fate was forever changed by the Karabakh Movement. He was among the early participants in the national liberation struggle and joined the volunteer unit of Kapan’s motorized rifle battalion, taking part in the defense of his hometown and surrounding areas.

Armen fell in battle in 1992 while defending the borders of the homeland.

Garnik Sureni Sahakyan

Garnik Sahakyan was born in 1957 in the village of Artsvanik, Kapan region. After finishing secondary school, he enrolled in a vocational technical school and became a trained plasterer-painter. In 1975, he was drafted into the Soviet Armed Forces. After completing his military service, he worked as a machinist at the Kapan Mining Plant.

The Karabakh conflict deeply affected Garnik, a father of three. Replacing his mining uniform with military gear and his tools with a weapon, he voluntarily joined the frontlines to defend his homeland.

In 1992, he volunteered for a self-defense unit and took part in defensive battles in border villages.

He was killed on December 11, 1992, during a shelling attack.

He was posthumously awarded the Medal for Courage.

Ludvig Lendroshi Stepanyan

Ludvig Stepanyan was born on April 9, 1957, in the city of Kapan. After graduating from school, he studied at the Mining and Metallurgical Technical College. In 1975, he was drafted into the Soviet Armed Forces. After completing his military service, he worked at an auto repair station, then as a lathe operator at the “Spin” factory. Since 1987, he worked as a driller at the Kapan Mining Plant.

In 1992, Ludvig voluntarily joined Kapan’s defense unit and participated in battles to protect the border villages of the region. He was a skilled marksman.

Ludvig Stepanyan was killed on August 5, 1992. He was married and had two children.

Harutyun Garniki Balayan

Harutyun Balayan was born on August 8, 1961, in the Kavart settlement of Kapan.

In 1979, he was drafted into the Soviet Army and served in the Kirov region. After completing his service, he worked as an electric locomotive operator in the underground transport division of the Kapan Mining Plant.

Harutyun participated in the reconstruction efforts in the earthquake-stricken city of Spitak. From 1992, he volunteered to defend the city of Kapan and nearby border villages. His final battle was on November 24, 1992, at the defense positions of Paylasar, where he heroically gave his life for his homeland, for his two daughters, and for his loved ones.

He was awarded the Medal for Courage.

Aleksan Mikayeli Parsyan

Aleksan Parsyan was born on January 6, 1961, in the village of Antarashat in the Kapan region. He studied at the local village school and later continued his education at a vocational technical school, earning a qualification as an electric welder. He worked in agriculture in his field of expertise.

From 1979 to 1980, he served in the Soviet Armed Forces in Afghanistan. For exemplary service, he was awarded a letter of commendation.

After completing his military service, he worked at the Kapan Mining Plant. Aleksan actively participated in the Artsakh liberation struggle. In 1992, he joined the Kapan self-defense unit and took part in the defense of border villages.

Aleksan Parsyan was killed on April 10, 1993, during combat operations for the village of Srashen. He was married and had three daughters.

He was awarded the Medal for Courage.

Thanks to the heroic efforts of people like them, victory over the enemy was achieved. During those difficult years, the Combine continued its operations while also engaging in preparatory work in the Shahumyan settlement.

Without external investments, using only its own resources and through ongoing operational work, the construction and installation of the polymetallic ore processing section of the concentrating plant was completed, along with preparatory work at the Shahumyan mine, which was subsequently put into operation. Today, this mine is the main prospective site of the Combine, from which the majority of marketable production is extracted. In the near future, due to the metals extracted from this mine, the Combine is expected to become a highly profitable enterprise.

To improve the material conditions of the miners, a subsidiary farm was organized with a dairy production facility.

A special boarding school was opened in Lenhanq for the children of miners and freedom fighters.

In 1996, the 150th anniversary of the Combine was solemnly celebrated. The festive event took place in the spacious hall of the Miners' House of Culture, where members of the collective gathered alongside officials from the Ministry, other departments, the regional administration, local communities, industrial enterprises, and numerous representatives from the fields of culture, healthcare, education, and others. In the second part of the ceremonial session, students and amateur folk art groups greeted the miners and performed concerts. At the end of the event, valuable gifts were presented by the management to the Combine’s employees, labor veterans, and retirees.

While the existing difficulties, thanks to the mobilization of internal reserves and the rational use of the team’s efforts and capabilities, the Combine maintained its leading position and succeeded in earning a number of international awards.

In 1999, for its achievements in business, it was awarded the prestigious "Euromarket-99" prize in Brussels.

In 2000, the Combine received the "Actual Europe" award for its performance in the fields of quality and business.

In 2001, the Combine was honored with the Platinum Award by the Business Initiative Directions (BID) for overall improvement in quality management activities.

In 2002, the Kapan Mining and Processing Combine was privatized and sold to the Canadian company Dino Gold Mining.

In 2016, the Combine was acquired by the Russian mining company Polymetal International.

In 2019, the exploitation rights of the Shahumyan deposit were acquired by the British company Chaarat Gold Holdings, and the Kapan Mining and Processing Combine was renamed Chaarat Kapan CJSC.

Despite major geopolitical events affecting operations, military actions with a neighboring country, the impact of the coronavirus, and the indirect effects of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, investments in the Kapan community have continued.

People of various nationalities have worked in the Kapan mines, contributing their physical strength and professional knowledge to the development of the copper smelter, the Combine, the hydroelectric plant, and the entire mining industry.

Since 2023, the Shahumyan deposit and the Kapan Mining and Processing Combine have been operated by Kapan Mining and Processing Company CJSC, with Armenia — particularly the Syunik region — serving as the center for valuing its mission of contributing to sector development and the country's economy.

Edward Danielyan Became Immortal in the Battles for the Defense of the Homeland

Today, Our Colleague Khachik Voskanian Would Have Turned 60

Boris Avanesyan Was Killed in Action, Remembered as a Hero

On October 6, Kristapor Artin fell while capturing the Lulasaz height in Artsakh.

Sasun Slavik Avetisyan

Chairman of the Board of Directors, Kapan Mining and Processing CJSC

In today’s world, alongside technological development, the importance of mineral resources continues to grow, creating new opportunities for all parties directly or indirectly involved in the industry. I am pleased to note that our companies’ mining complex has become a dynamically developing unit, where technological modernization has become a continuous process. We strive to combine years of labor traditions with modern technological innovations. Occupational safety, environmental protection, and social programs are at the core of our daily agenda.

David Rubik Danielyan

General Director

The Republic of Armenia — specifically the Syunik Province — is the center of vital interests for Kapan Mining and Processing CJSC.

The company now plans its operations on a decades-long horizon, aligning long-term economic growth and profitability with active involvement in the socio-economic life of Syunik and with maintaining the strong reputation and business credibility of Kapan MPC.

Harutyun Sureni Tamazyan

Chief Engineer

Our mission is to develop a strategy enriched with technical solutions aimed at increasing efficiency and reducing risks.

Arnakh Vladimir Babayan

Deputy Chief Engineer for Mining Operations

By profession, he is a blasting specialist. He has professional experience at the Akhtala Mining and Processing Plant, as well as in Georgia and at the Lichqvaz mine. Based on his experience and comparisons across various mining sites, he is confident that the Kapan mine is one of the best and most advanced in both Armenia and the entire South Caucasus — in terms of applied technologies, work organization, and safety systems.

Hovhannes Avetik Harutyunyan

Deputy General Director for Sustainable Development

Sustainable development lies at the core of our approach. The mining industry, being a high-risk sector, cannot thrive without proper management of environmental and social impacts. We not only assess risks but also take concrete steps to manage them.

Mining Veteran — Ararat Movsisyan

Ararat Movsisyan, mine drilling and blasting section long hole drill rig operator has been working in Kapan mine over three decades. Upon returning from the army he began to work as long hole driller. Growing up in a miners’ family, mining was no stranger to him, he says when going underground he knew what kind of work it was and easily adapted to the job he was entrusted with.

«I have been engaged in this work for 40 years, every day I put on the overall with pride and pleasure.

He says that you perform your job fondly if you have a good staff, reliable colleagues and is grateful that he has been granted with the opportunity.

«We had a manager who used to say that the miner deals with rock and steel, but his spirit is soft. He was indeed, right. The mine has become my second family, I already have many colleagues who are very near and dear to me, who are always ready to support me»,-says the miner.

Ararat Movsisyan values work ethics and discipline at work and always had them in the first place when performing his duties. He assures that many years of work in the same enterprise is the biggest value for the miner.

Dedication in the Depths of the Mine: Skilled Driller Varazdat Matevosyan

Varazdat Mathevosyan, a driller at the mine, is well known within the company. He is cheerful, willing, and endlessly dedicated to his work. With an experienced and skilled drilling career, he is about to complete his second decade at the company. He was young when he first entered the mine, and for over 10 years, his work was physically demanding, but today, technical equipment has replaced heavy tools, making the drillers' work much easier.

"It’s already the second year we’ve been working with mechanisms, for which we are grateful. Our work has become much easier," he says.

Having gained a wealth of experience in his career, the miner points out that, despite constant improvements in working conditions, caution should never change. Everyone working underground should always prioritize the safety of themselves and their colleagues with every step they take. This is the principle by which he has worked and continues to work, passing on his knowledge and advice to beginners.

Varazdat Mathevosyan holds a special place among the best employees of the company.

Explosives Expert — Armen Minasyan

On the Miner and Metallurgist Day, one of the awardees was also Armen Minasyan, a worker in the explosive materials production workshop of the company

Armen Minasyan has considerable work experience at the combine, around 19 years. He says that being recognized like this motivates him even more. "When you feel that your work is appreciated, you do your job with more pleasure, and with it comes an increased sense of responsibility," he says.

His colleagues mention that Armen’s readiness and dedication to work are enviable qualities that not everyone possesses. He is a reliable partner, someone you can entrust an entire section to.

Maksim Barseghyan: A Life Devoted to the Mines

Maksim Barseghyan is one of the long-serving and experienced workers of the underground mine. With 22 years of professional experience, he is a shining example of dedication to work. His human and professional qualities have always earned the respect of both management and colleagues.

"I’ve always had one principle — to work in such a way that I myself am satisfied with the result. If you don’t love and value your own work, no one else will," the miner notes.

Maksim Barseghyan belongs to that generation which endured the hard physical labor of mining in the past. His arms were strengthened through the demands of the job.

He says that today, the fully mechanized nature of mine operations has virtually eliminated the need for physical strength. The miner’s job has become easier, but the sense of responsibility has not diminished.

With years of experience behind him, Maksim now passes on his skills to the younger generation, reinforcing in them, by his own example, the character of an honest, responsible, and respected miner.

35 Years Beside the Mine: Henrik Mnatsakanyan’s Path as a Miner

For over two decades, the professional journey of underground mine support specialist Henrik Mnatsakanyan has been firmly tied to the Kapan Combine.

He entered the mine when he was just 16 years old.

Living near the plant, Henrik was always fascinated by the daily routine of miners rushing to and from work. Before ever setting foot inside, he used to imagine what lay within the mine. Eventually, that dream came true, and he, too, embarked on the honorable path of a miner.

"Aside from my curiosity, back then there was a different kind of respect for miners — it was a title that came with great honor and admiration. Later, through my own experience, I understood how we earn money, support our families, and also make a personal contribution to the development of our beloved town and country," says the miner.

He spent his youth and young adulthood at the combine, which has become like a second family to him. He says that not only did he gain a profession, experience, and skills here, but he has spent 31 years of his life at the same company and can hardly imagine working elsewhere.

"I have an irreplaceable team. Every working day we wish each other a safe shift, and part ways with a smile — until the next day," says the veteran miner.

He firmly believes that the greatest reward for his work is to carry out his responsibilities with honor.

25 Years of Dedication to His Work and City: Vigen Poghosyan

Vigen Poghosyan, a long-time employee of the beneficiation plant, joined the ranks of miners at the age of 20. He began as a flotation operator and, after gaining experience and mastering his profession, is now a shift supervisor.

Industrial work was nothing new to him—his grandfather and father also worked at the plant, so adapting to the job came naturally.

“A great part of success comes from the team. I’ve walked a 20-year journey with them, taken on responsible tasks, and today I continue with the same dedication—for the benefit of our company and the city we live in,” he says.

Devoted to the Mine Rescue Service: Artur Bakunts

Artur Bakunts, a long-serving member of the company’s mine rescue squad, has more than two decades of professional experience and service.

He has loved one of the world’s most humanitarian professions—that of a rescuer—since childhood. He received professional training and continues to do the job he loves to this day. A rescuer's work has no clear beginning or end; being a rescuer is a calling, one that requires 24/7 dedication to saving human lives. Artur lives by this principle, and thanks to his professionalism, compassion, and courage, dozens of lives have been saved.

He says that when you see someone you’ve rescued alive and well, there’s no greater satisfaction or reward for your work.

Artur joined the company in 2008, when a separate mine rescue squad was established. He was one of the first to begin applying his professional skills in underground mining operations.

"Whether we work in the mine or above ground, it makes no difference to us—we do the same job. But having spent most of my service years here, this work has become especially close to my heart," says the rescuer, who remains just as enthusiastic about his job as he was 23 years ago. Now, with added experience, he also mentors the younger generation.

In their line of work, fast and professional response has no substitute—and never will. They are always ready to respond to any incident. But as Artur says, may their professional skills be needed only during training exercises.

Honored Healthcare Worker: Nune Harutyunyan

For over 30 years, the senior nurse of the company’s medical center, Nune Harutyunyan, has been the “first responder” for company employees.

Not everyone can adapt to being a nurse in the mining industry, but that certainly doesn’t apply to our colleague. She was just 19 when she began working at the Kapan Combine. Industrial work might have seemed foreign to a young woman, but it soon became so familiar that she has remained in the same workplace ever since.

“I’ve received many offers to work elsewhere over the years, but I couldn’t leave my team or this job. It feels like family,” she shares sincerely.

She says it doesn’t matter where you perform the duties of a nurse — what matters is that, thanks to you, people’s health is restored and lives are saved.

Throughout her 28 years of service, she faced many challenges — and they made her stronger.

“When I started working at the combine, it was during wartime. We often lacked medicine and medical supplies. There were times when we had to walk into the mines carrying heavy medical equipment on our shoulders to respond to accidents. Today, we have a modern medical center equipped with state-of-the-art devices and all the necessary tools, which makes our work much more efficient,” she says.

As an experienced professional, she affirms that dedication to your work and compassion for the patient are the essential principles she has always followed — and still does. For her dedicated service, she has received numerous certificates of appreciation and awards from the company and was even named Employee of the Year. To further enhance her skills, she has completed multiple professional training programs and continues to learn from and apply the best practices in the field.

She notes that the only downside to her work is having less time for her family. But if she had to choose again, she would still choose the same profession and the same company.

Garik Ovchyan: 21 Years of Dedication at the Kapan Mine

Garik Ovchyan, an underground drilling operator, began his journey at the Kapan Mining Plant back in 1999. For 26 years now, the miner’s uniform has been an inseparable part of his life.

He was 21 when he first entered the mine. He recalls that for the first 18 years, they worked manually, carrying drilling equipment weighing over 50 kilograms on their shoulders every day. Today, that physical burden has shifted to machines, making the job easier. Now a seasoned miner with valuable experience, Garik says:

“If you do your work with love, there’s no such thing as fatigue. I find peace while working.”

Garik is known among his colleagues not only as a devoted and exemplary worker but also as the team's “pigeon keeper.”

For several years now, raising pigeons has become Garik’s favorite pastime. After work, he finds serenity by spending time with his birds. He says:

“Keeping pigeons becomes a unique addiction — it starts out of curiosity, then becomes a hobby, and eventually turns into a way of life.”

The Profession of a Geologist — Ara Abrahamyan’s Path

"The mining industry is fascinating and diverse. It encompasses many professional fields and offers great opportunities for career growth," says Ara Abrahamyan.

The mining industry is dynamic and multifaceted, including numerous professional areas and providing ample room for career development. One of the most vital and interesting roles in this field is that of a geologist—without whom mining as we know it would be impossible.

Ara Abrahamyan, the company’s chief geologist, has dedicated 14 years of his professional knowledge to the benefit of the enterprise. Right after graduation, he began working at the Kapan Plant, gaining hands-on experience and practical skills. Today, he continues to work in his chosen profession and shares his knowledge with young specialists.

Choosing a career in geology in his native town rich in mineral resources was no accident. According to Ara, the profession combines elements from many fields and provides daily opportunities to learn something new or even make discoveries.

"Geology is a science that teaches you not only to love nature, but also to understand the history and formation of every stone and rock. Especially in our region, there are many fascinating objects to study," he says.

In addition to his work, Ara Abrahamyan also lectures at the Kapan branch of the National Polytechnic University of Armenia. Despite his busy schedule, he tries to dedicate time to teaching:

"If you have the opportunity to pass your knowledge and experience on to future professionals, you should definitely do it. This profession is important for our region, and we need specialists both now and in the future," he emphasizes.

Best Employees of September in Underground Mining Operations

Dear Colleagues,

We present the top-performing employees of the company’s underground mining operations for September, representing key professions. In addition to their regular monthly bonuses for meeting production targets, these employees received additional incentives.

Best Underground Drillers:

Karen Sureni Harutyunyan

Ruben Oniki Hovagimyan

Avetis Amasiayi Harutyunyan

Best Operator of Underground Drilling Equipment (RC & CAT):

Murad Vladiki Hambardzumyan

Best Loader Operators in Underground Conditions:

Armen Lenori Verdian

Edward Garniki Danielyan

Robert Rafiki Babayan

Best Underground Dump Truck Drivers:

Vitali Artsviki Poghosyan

Ararat Boriki Aghalyan

Andranik Petrosi Simonyan

Best Operator of Underground Drilling Equipment (UPAT):

Sergey Boriki Hayrapetyan

Women in Industry

In the company’s Metallurgical Service Analytical Laboratory, there are many employees whose professional journey spans over a decade within the same company. Laboratory analyst Lusya Mikayelyan has been doing her beloved work in this familiar environment for 21 years.

"Any job done with love remains just as enjoyable over the years — it never gets tiresome," she says, adding that compared to the past, the introduction of modern equipment has significantly improved and simplified their work.

The laboratory work has also become second nature for Irina Movsisyan. For the past ten years, she has proudly worn her white coat and diligently fulfilled her professional duties.

“I chose this profession following my mother’s advice — she also worked here as a lab technician for many years — and now I can’t imagine myself doing anything else,” Irina notes.

Senior lab technician Narine Avetisyan has been with the company since 1993. Right after completing her studies, she began working at the plant and has come a long way professionally. She is skilled in her work, constantly strives to learn more, and approaches her duties with a strong sense of responsibility.

A Model of Diligence in the Mine: Norayr Vardanyan

Norayr Vardanyan, the vehicle washer of the mine’s technological equipment in the Electromechanical Service, is never seen idle in the production area. Once he finishes one task, he immediately moves on to the next, and even after completing his duties, he looks for other ways to stay engaged.

He says that diligence is a necessary measure of a person's dignity, and he carries out every assignment without delay. He only feels tired at work when his hands are idle.

Thanks to his dedicated efforts, every vehicle entering the mine is always clean and tidy.

“What I consider most important in my work is responsibility. I've always strived to avoid shortcomings, because the company’s ongoing success depends on how well each of us fulfills our duties,” he says.

Norayr Vardanyan has had a long career at the plant — nearly 30 years of industrial experience. He was just 21 when he tied his future to the plant, and ever since, he has remained devoted to his role, supporting his family through his work.

Everyone in the Electromechanical Service attests to Norayr’s work ethic and sense of responsibility.

They say even car washing involves skills, and Norayr excels at it.

“He washes the equipment of the vehicles entering the mine with such expertise that, during the summer, the machinery heats up very little during operation,” his colleagues note.

“He is a leader in his work, always ready to help his teammates. I can’t recall a single day he complained or failed in his duties,” says his supervisor, Norayr Harutyunyan.

From the Past to the Future of Communication — in the Underground Mine

Miners who have worked in the underground mine are surely familiar with this phone. Until the year 2000, communication with the mine was carried out exclusively through such heavy wired telephones.

Today, along with advancements in modern technologies, the communication systems have also evolved. Communication with the company’s underground mine is now also maintained through wireless phones.

As part of upcoming improvement programs for the mine, we plan to install Wi-Fi receivers to enhance internet connectivity.

Kapan Mining and Processing Plant

Hero, a Thousand Bows Before Your Bravery

The month of May, and especially Victory Day, is another occasion to bow our heads in gratitude and respect to the brave sons of our nation who sacrificed their lives during the Great Patriotic War and the Artsakh heroic struggle—for the right to live with dignity in a free and independent country.

During the Artsakh Liberation War, dozens of employees of the Kapan Mining Plant exchanged their work uniforms for military gear and went to the front to defend their homeland. Five of them — Armen Vardanyan, Garnik Sahakyan, Ludwig Stepanyan, Harutyun Balayan, and Aleksan Parsyan — became heroes, laying down their lives for the motherland.

It is our duty to keep the memory of our fallen colleagues alive. They hold an eternal place in our company; their portraits remain on the walls of our plant.

They are present — not here, yet they live.

A thousand bows before your bravery.

Visit to the veterans of the Great Patriotic War

On the evening of the New Year, Kapan Mining and Processing Plant, not breaking the tradition, this year organized visits to the veterans of the Great Patriotic War living in Kapan community, many of whom also worked at the Kapan Mine. The company also prepared New Year gifts for the veterans.

Due to the epidemic conditions, the holidays are different this year, but we could not ignore the opportunity to appreciate and remember the patriotic participants missing every year once in a lifetime.

The veterans in their turn expressed their gratitude to all the staff and management of the Kapan Mining and Processing Plant for their advertence and constant attention.

Today at the Baghaburj Memorial Complex, we paid tribute to the heroes of the 1945 Great Patriotic War and the Artsakh Liberation War.

Tribute in Honor of the First Republic Day

Today, on the occasion of the First Republic Day, the company’s employees, together with representatives of regional and local authorities, laid flowers at the bust of Aram Manukyan, the founder of the First Republic of Armenia, and at the grave of Garegin Nzhdeh.

Honoring Armenian Army Day at the Brotherhood Memorial

On the occasion of Armenian Army Day, a tribute was paid at the Brotherhood Memorial in Kapan in memory of the fallen heroes of the Artsakh War.

Glory to you, brave soldiers — your heroism is eternal.

A Tribute to the Memory of the Heroes Fallen in the Great Patriotic War and the Artsakh Liberation Struggle

A Dedicated Company Doctor – Marine Kocharyan

It has been a year since Dr. Marine Kocharyan joined the medical center team of the company. Despite the short time, her kind demeanor and professional dedication have already earned her great respect and affection within the company. Whenever we turn to her with concerns, we know we are in safe hands. She is calm by nature, patient, always ready to help, and carries a strong sense of responsibility. Even in difficult cases, patients leave her office full of hope.

A therapist by profession, Dr. Kocharyan worked for about 15 years at the Kapan Medical Center. She says she imagined herself in a white coat since childhood, and her love for medicine helped her overcome all the challenges that came with the job. For her, being a doctor is not just a profession, but a way of life — doctors live not only for themselves, but for thousands of others, becoming a remedy for their pain. Over more than a decade of medical practice, she has helped many patients return to a full life.

"I believe my colleagues will agree that the greatest reward for any doctor is the gratitude of a recovered patient. These words always reaffirm that we made the right choice," she says.

With her experience, adapting to work in a mining company came naturally. She notes that while this work has its own specifics, no matter the environment, you remain a doctor.

"The workplace and conditions don’t matter as much. What’s important is the attitude toward your work. If you love what you do, success is inevitable," she emphasizes.

We thank our colleague Marine Kocharyan for her dedicated work and compassionate care.

A Geologist’s Path: Sasun Petrosyan’s 20-Year Journey at Kapan MPC

Sasun Petrosyan, Head of the Mining and Exploration Division of the Geological Service at “Kapan Mining and Processing Company” CJSC, has been working at the company for more than 20 years. He joined the Kapan Plant at the age of 20—first as a flotation operator, later becoming a geologist.

“Growing up in a region rich in rocks and ores, I was always fascinated by this field. That interest led me to specialize and pursue geology. Every working day as a geologist is a new world—tasks range from conducting geological surveys to analyzing core samples extracted from deep underground. Each action requires precision, patience, and great attention to detail,” says Sasun Petrosyan.

He adds that his experience is not limited to professional knowledge alone. It was shaped over years of work both on the surface and in underground mines, through love for earth sciences, and the guidance of senior colleagues. He also emphasizes the role of the company’s management.

“Recently, significant changes have taken place in the Geological Service, resulting in improved efficiency. Thanks to new investments, the department has been re-equipped with essential resources and expanded its scope of work, which places greater responsibility on us,” he notes.

According to Sasun Petrosyan, geology in the mining sector is primarily about economic progress and long-term development.

“We all understand the vital role mining plays in the economic development of our country and its substantial contribution to strengthening national defense.”

Currently, students are also undergoing internships at the Geological Service, taking part in all activities.

“Integrating students into practical work alongside experienced professionals is an excellent way to ensure generational continuity in the field. This approach helps in training new talent and achieving future goals of having highly qualified specialists,” he concludes.

Implementing risk reduction measures in hazardous zones is a key condition for ensuring the continuity of the company's operations and its sustainable development.

State Visit to Kapan MPC: Focus on Mining Challenges and Development Plans

On September 28, 2024, RA Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure Gnel Sanosyan, Deputy Minister overseeing the mining sector Hovhannes Harutyunyan, and Syunik Governor Robert Ghukasyan visited the mining complex of “Kapan Mining and Processing Company” CJSC.

Accompanied by the company’s General Director, Sasun Avetisyan, the guests toured the production facilities, familiarized themselves with the company’s ongoing operations, investment programs, broad-spectrum reforms, safety measures, and other activities. After a brief report on safety instruction procedures, a visit to the underground mine was also organized, where company specialists presented the current issues related to the mine, relevant documentation, and implementation processes.

“Kapan MPC” CJSC highly values the Government’s policies in the field of subsoil use and appreciates the attention paid by the responsible ministry and regional authorities to the activities and challenges of economic operators, as well as to fostering a healthy and constructive state-private dialogue.

The company expresses its appreciation for the visit and the meaningful discussions held.

Photos courtesy of the Ministry of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure of the Republic of Armenia – Garegin Aghabekyan

Kapan Mining and Processing Company is the main employer in Kapan.

This obliges us to have effective mechanisms for interaction with the public.

We believe that transparency of operations is an essential prerequisite for modern business.

In our relations with communities in the area of operation, socially responsible conduct, ensuring the possibility to apply to the company and receive a response, open and transparent operations, and taking into account the needs and approaches of the community when planning programs — all these are as important to us as introducing cutting-edge production technologies and ensuring environmentally safe operations.