Armenia committed to democratic reforms amid EU accession process - PM

The launch of Armenia’s accession process to the European Union obliges the country to continue institutional and democratic reforms, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said during a panel discussion on “Armenia’s Vision for Peace Institutionalization, Regional Connectivity and EU Integration” held in Berlin, Armenpress correspondent has reported.

The Prime Minister recalled that in March this year, the National Assembly adopted the law “On the Launch of the Process of Armenia’s Accession to the European Union.”
“We are frequently asked when Armenia will become a member of the European Union and how realistic that goal is. The law on the launch of the EU accession process is, first and foremost, an incentive for us to consistently implement democratic reforms. We are committed to complying with European standards institutionally and in practice to prepare for possible EU membership,” Pashinyan noted.

According to the Prime Minister, when Armenia meets these standards objectively, two paths will open: either Armenia will be accepted as an EU member state, or it will not. He stressed that the country prefers the first scenario, but even if membership is not achieved, Armenia will become a more developed state that meets modern standards.

Pashinyan said that Armenia's aspiration to meet EU standards is driven not by geopolitics but by democratic choice. "Since the Velvet Revolution of 2018, Armenia has been strategically committed to democracy, the rule of law, human rights, and an independent judiciary," he said.

The Prime Minister noted that just a week ago, Armenia and the EU approved the Armenia–EU Strategic Partnership Agenda, complementing the existing Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement. 

Pashinyan also highlighted the economic component of his visit to Germany. “Our government must promote the mobility of our business community, and I am pleased to note that we have successfully launched a dialogue with the EU on visa liberalization,” he said. The Prime Minister reported that Armenia has received an action plan for visa liberalization. If successfully implemented, the plan will allow a visa-free regime, contributing to increased exchange between Armenia and the EU.

The Prime Minister expressed confidence that the deepening of Armenia–EU relations will continue. “The 8th Summit of the European Political Community and the Armenia–EU Summit, which will be held in Yerevan in May next year, will provide a new opportunity to assess the progress of our relations and set new goals,” Pashinyan said.

He also emphasized the need to deepen bilateral ties with EU member states, highlighting the role of Germany. “Germany is a central partner for us, and the adoption of the Strategic Partnership Agenda elevates our relations to a new level, creating new conditions for strategic partnership,” the Prime Minister concluded.