YEREVAN, MAY 23, ARMENPRESS. The European Union is willing to expand and deepen relations with Armenia, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission Federica Mogherini told a press conference after the May 23 Armenia-EU Cooperation Council’s session in Brussels. Mogherini branded her meeting with Armenia’s FM Edward Nalbandian as constructive and positive.

Mogherini mentioned that the sides have discussed further steps in cooperation, namely regarding the signing of the EU-Armenia new comprehensive and expanded partnership agreement.

“The European Union is willing to expand and deepen cooperation with Armenia. We are ready to continue supporting Armenia's reform process across a range of issues, including economic development, the business environment, the judiciary, human rights, the fight against corruption – issues that are very concrete and relevant for the citizens of Armenia. We have discussed today our shared values, including our commitment to democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, which underpin the new agreement and our future cooperation”, she said.

The Nagorno Karabakh conflict settlement was also discussed during the session.

“The European Union believes the status quo is unsustainable and that the conflict needs an early political settlement in accordance with international law. The European Union continues to fully support the mediation efforts and proposals of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs”, Mogherini told the press conference.

She emphasized that they have also discussed a wider circle of issues, including the situation in Syria and settlement of the Armenian-Turkish relations.

“The EU has also reiterated its commitment to support the normalisation of relations between Armenia and Turkey and our encouragement to both sides to engage in this process without preconditions”, she said.