Traveling from Armenia to Europe Will Be Easier: We Will Ratify the Agreement on the Common Aviation Area with the EU

Armenia is preparing to ratify the agreement on the Common Aviation Area with the European Union. The essence of the international document was presented today at a meeting of the National Assembly's Economic Affairs Committee by Vahe Terteryan, Deputy Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure, who noted that it is part of Armenia's adopted policy of open skies and integration into the global aviation market.

The purpose of the agreement is the gradual liberalization of the aviation carriers’ market.

“The Common Aviation Area will allow for the expansion of air communication, the development of the international aviation system, relying on non-discriminatory, competitive, transparent, and fair competition accepted between airlines in the market. It is also a direct path for us to adopt the EU's unified aviation standards, implement regulations, and develop cooperation in the field of aviation safety,” explained Terteryan.

The government expects that the ratification and implementation of the agreement will create new opportunities for the development of Armenia's aviation sector and facilitate the connection of Armenian citizens with European countries. The ratification of the agreement is expected to serve as an impetus for trade, tourism, investment, and the socio-economic development of Armenia.

It should be noted that negotiations on the Common Aviation Area agreement between EU member states and Eastern Partnership countries began in March 2017. The agreed text was initially signed on November 24, 2017, in Brussels during the Eastern Partnership summit. The EU Council approved the conclusion of the Common Aviation Area agreement with Armenia only on June 28, 2021, and the actual signing ceremony took place on November 15, 2021, in Brussels.

The final phase of the ratification will take place after adoption at the upcoming full session of the National Assembly.