EU values partnership with Armenia in strengthening rule of law, says Vassilis Maragos

The European Union highly values its partnership with Armenia in advancing justice sector reforms and strengthening the rule of law.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the two-day Armenian Platform for European Prosecutors' Dialogue in Yerevan, EU Ambassador to Armenia Vassilis Maragos said Armenia has made significant efforts in recent years to modernize its legal and institutional framework, improve the effectiveness of law enforcement and prosecution services, and align its practices with European standards.

Referring to the significance of the conference, Maragos noted that through the Partnership for Good Governance, the European Union and the Council of Europe continue to work together to support the rule of law, democratic governance, and reforms aimed at strengthening justice institutions. According to him, this applies to the entire Eastern Partnership region.

"The challenges we face today do not stop at national borders. Criminal networks operate internationally, and our response must be equally well coordinated. Conferences such as this provide a valuable opportunity to learn from one another, exchange practical experience, identify emerging threats, and build professional networks that are essential for effective international cooperation and for fostering trust across borders. I reaffirm the European Union's strong support for this initiative and our continued partnership with Armenia and the Council of Europe," Maragos said.

He added that Armenia stands out for its commitment to democracy and its determination to implement important reforms.

Maragos noted that the European Union has placed asset recovery and confiscation at the centre of its efforts to combat serious and organized crime.

"Following the money is often the most effective way to dismantle criminal networks. Depriving criminals of their illicit profits not only delivers justice but also removes the financial incentives that drive criminal activity. Effective asset recovery directly contributes to strengthening public trust in the justice system, democracy, and democratic institutions.

At the same time, our efforts must remain firmly grounded in respect for human rights, due process, and legal certainty. The protection of property rights, judicial oversight, proportionality, and procedural safeguards are essential elements of any successful asset recovery framework.

The European Union welcomes the growing attention being given to the management of seized and confiscated assets. Proper asset management is often an overlooked, yet crucial, component of the asset recovery process," the EU ambassador to Armenia said.