Belgium to open consular service in Yerevan

Belgium will soon open a consular service at its embassy in Yerevan. The initiative stems from a resolution adopted by the Chamber of Representatives of Belgium’s Federal Parliament, which called for a stronger Belgian presence in Armenia, given the growing significance of relations between the two societies.

Member of the Chamber of Representatives Michel De Maegd, in an interview with Armenpress, described the upcoming opening of the consular service as "wonderful news".

“This is a struggle I have pursued over the past months following the opening of the embassy. This issue was of primary importance for Armenians, because they see that Belgium is demonstrating long-term engagement. It is also important for the Armenian diaspora living in Belgium, which remains deeply connected to its homeland. This presence strengthens the people-to-people, family, economic, and cultural ties between our two countries.

And, of course, it is important for our citizens in Armenia, who will have effective support — an accessible presence of a state that always stands by them.

This is also significant from the perspective of our bilateral relations. Armenia is at a pivotal stage in its history, amid profound regional changes. It has chosen the path of moving closer to Europe. Belgium must be ready for this process politically, economically, and on a human level,” Michel De Maegd said.

According to him, being present on the ground means understanding better, acting more accurately, and providing more effective support. The Belgian politician expressed gratitude to Belgium’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Maxime Prévot, for his attention to and initiative in advancing this matter.

According to Armenia’s Ambassador to Belgium, Tigran Balayan, this decision is an important achievement made possible through consistent work with all political forces represented in the Belgian Parliament.

“The importance of opening a consular section at the Belgian Embassy in Armenia was already enshrined in a resolution unanimously adopted by the Belgian Parliament last year. This important step also holds particular significance in the context of the [EU] visa liberalization process. Until its completion, citizens of the Republic of Armenia will have the opportunity to apply for entry visas to Belgium — and possibly other Benelux countries — through the Belgian Embassy.

We express our gratitude to the members of the Belgian Parliament, to Minister of Foreign Affairs Maxime Prévot, and to our colleagues at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for this important decision,” Ambassador Tigran Balayan said in an interview with Armenpress in Brussels.

This decision is regarded as an important signal in terms of deepening Belgium–Armenia relations. Strengthening Belgium’s presence in Yerevan will make it possible to further develop political dialogue, promote cooperation across various sectors, and establish a solid foundation for bilateral ties.