The EU has issued a report on the progress of its relationship with Armenia in the last year, in anticipation of the EU-Armenia Partnership Council meeting in June.
The report found that trade between the EU and Armenia has now reached a total value of €1.1 billion, an increase of 15 per cent since June 2018. It notes increased effort on Armenia’s part to strengthen its relationship with the EU; and ongoing measures by the EU aimed at promoting political reform in Armenia. Commissioner for European Neighbourhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations Johannes Hahn said: “The EU and Armenia are strong partners and we stand ready to support concrete reforms, including in the area of justice and education, which are key for the people. The swift implementation of the Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement offers new economic opportunities for all Armenian citizens.”
In December 2018 the EU was a driving force behind Armenia’s parliamentary elections, contributing technical equipment and support in promoting a free and fair democracy. In March 2019, the EU-Armenia Partnership expanded to implement a policy dialogue on education, supporting education policy reform, as well as improvements and upgrades to Armenian universities. As Armenia’s largest financial contributor, the EU remains a key partner in ongoing reform across the region and has stated its commitment to continued assistance, both financial and political.
Federica Mogherini, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice-President of the European Commission, said: “The European Union has been and will continue be the biggest supporter of the Armenian government’s ambitious reform plan, which is consolidating democracy, the rule of law and promoting human rights in the country. Armenia is an important partner for the European Union, and together we are focussed on implementing our wide-reaching bilateral agreement, as well as delivering concrete results within the Eastern Partnership. We always keep firmly in mind that our aim is bringing tangible benefits to our citizens.”
