Armenia Seeks to Deepen Relations with the European Union, Says Pashinyan

Armenia aims to deepen its relations with the European Union. This statement was made today by Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan during a joint press conference with European Parliament President Roberta Metsola in Strasbourg. He emphasized that our country does not wish to contrast this with the vision for developing regional relations.

“The EU-Armenia relations are based on a common value system, and democracy is a strategic choice for Armenia, not a mere circumstance-based opportunity,” said the Prime Minister. He added that Armenia is committed to the complete implementation of the Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement with the EU.

The Prime Minister highlighted that the security component has also increased in relations with the European Union, evidenced by a civilian mission monitoring along the Armenian state border with Azerbaijan.

“Based on the discussions at the European Political Community Summit in Granada and today’s meetings, it is evident that there is a consensus among EU institutions to deepen relations with Armenia. Armenia is also interested in promoting and developing the international legal order,” noted Pashinyan.

He reminded that on October 3, the Armenian National Assembly ratified the Rome Statute. Previously, in September, the parliament had decided to ratify Protocol No. 13 to the Convention on Fundamental Freedoms concerning the abolition of the death penalty in all circumstances.

The Prime Minister emphasized that Armenia expects support from the EU regarding a number of challenges it faces today. Among these, the urgent need to address the humanitarian crisis resulting from the forced displacement of over 100,000 Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh is a priority. According to Pashinyan, Armenia urgently needs assistance in this regard.