12:47, 23 December, 2020 YEREVAN, DECEMBER 23, ARMENPRESS. The Armenian Association of Social Workers (AASW) in cooperation with the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs of the Republic of Armenia announces the start of a new three-year project for social protection system, which aims to promote self-reliant livelihood of poor and vulnerable groups, empower their participation in society and economic life in the Ararat, Armavir, Kotayk, Shirak and Lori marzes of Armenia. The grant project is generously funded by the Government of Japan through the Japan Social Development Fund (JSDF) and administered by the World Bank. The representatives from the Ministry, Association, Embassy of Japan, World Bank, partner agencies and organizations participated in Project launch event. Around 100 government officials, development partners, social workers and experts either attended or followed the event online following COVID-19 restrictions. The official welcomes and presentation of the project were followed by a panel discussion.