Armenia Ready to Deepen Cooperation with the EU, Says Deputy Prime Minister

A meeting dedicated to the sixth anniversary of the Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement (CEPA), signed in 2017, was held today with the participation of representatives from the European Union (EU) delegation, the EU headquarters, and the Government of the Republic of Armenia. The aim of the meeting was to highlight the importance of CEPA within the framework of Armenia-EU relations, evaluate the current phase of implementation, and enhance its effectiveness.

The meeting was attended by 70 participants who actively engaged in exchanging ideas among partners. It became a unique platform to assess the progress of CEPA and to plan meaningful strategies that would encourage its implementation.

Representatives of the Armenian government provided details about their experiences gained in the implementation of CEPA, discussing issues related to successes, challenges, needs, and ways to work better together.

During the meeting, specific sectors were identified by the Armenian government where reforms related to CEPA have been successfully implemented, showcasing tangible achievements made possible through the agreement. The sectors where reforms have been carried out faced particular difficulties were also highlighted, drawing attention to enhancing monitoring and communication and emphasizing that the Armenia-EU partnership is of a collaborative nature.

The head of the EU delegation in Armenia, Ambassador Vasilis Maragos, praised the long-standing cooperation with Deputy Prime Minister Mher Grigoryan and the joint efforts to promote tangible and sustainable results for the citizens of Armenia. Emphasizing the importance of CEPA as a cornerstone tool for engagement in this format, Ambassador Maragos noted the common values and interests existing between the European Union and the Republic of Armenia.

The ambassador reaffirmed support for democratic and economic reforms that will contribute to accelerating Armenia's modernization process.

Deputy Prime Minister Mher Grigoryan noted that the implementation of CEPA has been continuous, despite the difficult situations that arose after its signing. He expressed gratitude to the EU for the expedited process of supporting reforms aimed at ensuring the rule of law and economic initiatives. Grigoryan reiterated that Armenia is ready to deepen cooperation with the EU and move forward on the path of implementing key reforms. He emphasized the EU's active role in utilizing the knowledge and experience of EU member states in this phase of Armenia’s development.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to support the implementation of CEPA with more effective cooperation, expressing mutual dedication to strengthening the EU-Armenia partnership in the days to come.