EU recognizes pivotal role of Crossroads of Peace project

YEREVAN, OCTOBER 12, ARMENPRESS. The EU recognizes the pivotal role of Crossroads of Peace project in Armenia’s efforts to normalize regional relations and supports the opening of transport links, guided by the principles of sovereignty, equality, and reciprocity, Head of the EU Delegation to Armenia Vassilis Maragos has said.

"It is a pleasure and an honour to address you today at this important conference focusing on Armenia’s initiative on “Crossroads of Peace” presented almost one year ago by Prime Minister Pashinyan and welcomed and supported by the European Union," Ambassador Maragos said at the Crossroads of Peace, Combining Security and Democracy conference attended by PM Nikol Pashinyan and other officials. 

"As we have stressed at our Partnership Council meeting last February, “the EU welcomes the policy direction of the Government of Armenia aimed at working towards peace and normalisation in the region, including the opening of regional transport links under the countries’ sovereignty and national jurisdiction, as well as according to the principles of equality and reciprocity, which also underpin Armenia’s ‘Crossroads of Peace’ project”. Since October last year (after the meetings in Granada, the speech of the Prime Minister in the European Parliament, and the tasking of the European Council to make proposals on ‘how best to strengthen EU-Armenia relations in all their dimensions’) we have been working relentlessly together, EU and Armenia, to strengthen our partnership, explore new opportunities, and identify the tools and the mechanisms which will bring us closer. I am very proud that these joint efforts and commitment are based on very solid foundations: our common values, our commitment to a rules-based international order and to human rights, the rule of law, and democratic governance. I wish also here to stress that the European Union supports Armenia’s institutions, economy, resilience and sovereignty," he added, emphasising that regional connectivity and peace normalisation are key elements of their commitment.

"The new EU-Armenia Partnership Agenda (which is currently under negotiation) embodies the substantial progress in our relationship, setting more ambitious objectives for cooperation that can unlock the full potential of the Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement. The EU’s support for Armenia’s reform agenda in areas such as justice, governance, and human rights not only strengthens Armenia’s institutions but also lays a solid foundation for long-term stability and democratic resilience. In laying out the future vision, the Resilience and Growth Plan announced by President von der Leyen on 5 April in Brussels will mobilise € 270 million in grants over the next 4 year and is expected to play a critical role in strengthening Armenia’s resilience and bringing Armenia closer to Europe. I wish here to stress in particular connectivity, business development and promotion of sustainable economic growth. These are essential pillars for achieving a sustainable vision of peace and prosperity in the region. Under the Economic and Investment Plan we have already invested more than € 600 million in infrastructure and private sector development. More is to come and we have created an investment platform to coordinate efforts. I want also to stress that our work on nuclear safety and aviation safety is also significant and is already bringing very concrete results. Last but not least, we are also focusing on the plight of Karabakh Armenians. Assistance committed by the EU and its member states amounts to more than 100 million Euros so far. A couple of weeks ago we paid to the government under our budget support programme EUR 13 million for the socio-economic integration of refugees. The latest decisions of the Council of Ministers of the European Union taken this July (in particular the opening up of the European Peace Facility and the launch of the Visa Liberalisation Dialogue) are key steps which will give a new quality in our partnership. They will have a significant and positive impact on Armenia’s reforms, Armenia’s resilience and also when it comes to visa liberalization will also enhance people-to-people contacts," the EU Ambassador said.

He added that the partnership between the European Union and Armenia is grounded on  shared values and commitment to fostering peace, stability, and prosperity in Armenia and the broader South Caucasus region.

"I would like to underscore the importance of Armenia’s “Crossroads of Peace” initiative. The EU recognizes its pivotal role in Armenia’s efforts to normalize regional relations and supports the opening of transport links, guided by the principles of sovereignty, equality, and reciprocity. I am convinced that with our joint efforts we will be able to transform this shared vision into reality," Maragos said. 

This article has been updated with the transcript of the EU Ambassador's full speech.