New Armenia-EU framework agreement demonstrates vitality of “both, and” policy

YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 28, ARMENPRESS. By the new framework agreement between Armenia and the EU the sides herald that they will continue developing bilateral agenda in all the spheres, President of Armenia Serzh Sargsyan announced in a meeting with the experts of Carnegie Foundation’s Brussels Office, recalling that yesterday, on February 27, they announced with President of the European Council Donald Tusk that the negotiations on the Armenia-European Union framework agreement have basically been concluded.

“The new Armenia-EU agreement is first and foremost a political document that allows us to accommodate various interests towards the vitality of the so-called policy of “both, and.” It is true that back in 1996, we signed the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement to regulate the relations between Armenia and EU. It, however, was not fully reflecting either the real scope, or depth, or the ambitions of the Armenia-EU relations. Therefore, with the new Agreement we will register the achievements and development milestones and announce that we will continue to develop our bilateral agenda in all areas”, “Armenpress” reports Serzh Sargsyan saying. He highlighted that the cooperation is based on shared values.

According to President Sargsyan, even at the most difficult junctions of its history Armenia has never been confronted with making a civilizational choice.“Nobody is forcing upon us the implementation of democratic reforms; it is our choice. Our people view themselves as Europeans: our spiritual and cultural heritage and our lifestyle are European. It is no coincidence that today hundreds of thousands of Armenians reside in Europe, and are exemplary citizens, whose talents and hard work serve their countries. They also present an important link which connects Armenia and the European Union”, Serzh Sargsyan said, expressing conviction that it will allow and also oblige to ensure a more efficient state.