7.45 We shall pay special attention to the protection of mothers and children, continually reduce infant mortality rates, and encourage higher birth rates. 7.46 We ascribe importance to ensuring the biosecurity of the individual, society, and the state, as well as protecting the animal world and the surrounding environment from the impact of biologically hazardous elements. 7.47 Armenia will implement an integrated state policy to ensure the biological security of the population. We shall strengthen system response mechanisms and risk management techniques for biological hazards and threats, and epidemics. We will also develop the professional capacities of reference laboratories and their staff. We shall continue to develop and expand a comprehensive health insurance system aimed at offering more effective and affordable healthcare services. 7.48 We shall continue international cooperation on biosecurity and bioprotection through both bilateral and multilateral formats by emphasizing the development of collaborative, equal, and appropriate partnerships and strengthening the Republic of Armenia’s self-relience in this sector. REHABILITATING, PROTECTING, AND IMPROVING THE ENVIRONMENT 7.49 Protecting the environment and the effective management of natural resources are imperative factors for the natural livelihood and national security of Armenia. Armenia balances its policy of environmental management with social justice and economic efficiency. 7.50 Acknowledging Lake Sevan as Armenia’s strategic water resource reserve, we are committed to the rehabilitation and preservation of its ecosystem and the productive management of water resources, including the Ararat artesian well and river ecosystems, as well as the preservation of vital water basins and wetlands. 7.51 We shall take effective steps towards the sustainable management and expansion of fauna and flora, forests, and protected nature reserves, as well as reducing soil erosion and desertification. Our priorities include the reasonable use of natural resources, the remediation of damaged land, ensuring the safety of tailing ponds, preserving biodiversity, and ensuring biosecurity. 7.52 With the purpose of ensuring a safe environment, we shall improve the management of radioactive, chemical, and biological hazardous waste. We will establish a system for the safe management of chemical substances. 7.53 Armenia intends to develop and implement a policy aimed at the introduction of the green economy, develop state-of-the-art technologies and environmentally-clean production, and invest in and apply a monitoring system that is based on scientific evidence and risk assessment. 36 | NATIONAL SECURITY STRATEGY OF RA