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Armenia–European Union relations

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Armenia–European Union relations
Map indicating locations of European Union and Armenia

European Union
Armenia
Diplomatic mission
European Union Delegation, YerevanMission of Armenia, Brussels
Envoy
Ambassador Vassilis MaragosAmbassador Tigran Balayan
Politics of Armenia

Commonwealth of Independent States CIS Member State
Council of Europe CoE Member State

Constitution
Head of state
Executive
Legislature
Judiciary
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Elections
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Armenia and the European Union have maintained positive relations over the years. Both parties are connected through the Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which was signed in 2017.[1] Former Armenian foreign minister Eduard Nalbandyan expressed confidence that the new partnership agreement would "open a new page" in EU–Armenia relations.[2] Meanwhile, the former High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Federica Mogherini concluded in June 2019, that Armenia–EU relations are on an "excellent" level.[3] Should either Georgia or Turkey, who are candidates for EU membership, accede to the EU, Armenia will border the European Union.

In 2024, Armenian foreign minister Ararat Mirzoyan stated that Armenia will potentially apply for EU membership in the future, while in March 2024, the European Parliament passed a resolution confirming Armenia meets Article 49 requirements and may apply for EU membership.[4] A petition calling for a referendum on whether Armenia should apply for membership of the EU,[5] which was supported by Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan,[6] succeeded in reaching the 50,000 signatures required in order to be submitted for a vote in the National Assembly.[7] The National Assembly is expected to vote on the matter in January 2025.[8]

Armenia-EU relations

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Members of the Eastern Partnership

The Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA) (signed in 1996 and in force until February 2021) served as the legal framework for EU-Armenia bilateral relations. Since 2004, Armenia[1] and the other South Caucasus states have been part of the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP). An ENP Action Plan for Armenia was published on 2 March 2005, "highlighting areas in which bilateral cooperation could feasibly and valuably be strengthened." The plan sets "jointly defined priorities in selected areas for the next five years." In November 2005, formal consultations on the Action Plan was opened in Yerevan.[9] However, most scholars and commentators have criticized the effectiveness of the ENP in facilitating reform objectives outlined in the Action Plan, especially in relation to democracy, corruption and civil society engagement.[10] Regardless, on 12 January 2002, the European Parliament noted that Armenia and Georgia may enter the EU in the future, as both countries are considered European.[11] Armenia entered the EU's Eastern Partnership in 2009.[1] Armenia is additionally a member state of the Euronest Parliamentary Assembly, Council of Europe, European Political Community, Assembly of European Regions, Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, and takes part in various other European programs and treaties such as the European Cultural Convention, European Higher Education Area and the European Court of Human Rights, among others. Armenia also maintains working arrangements with CEPOL, Europol, and Frontex.[12][13]

Armenia and the EU began negotiating an Association Agreement (AA), which had included a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area agreement, to replace the old PCA in July 2010.[14] The EU Advisory Group to the Republic of Armenia was tasked to support the government of Armenia to implement reforms ahead of signing an Association Agreement with the EU. In November 2012, EU Commissioner for Enlargement and European Neighbourhood Policy Štefan Füle stated that the AA negotiations could be finalized by November 2013.[15] The new EU Centre in Armenia, set to become the European Union's communication hub, officially opened in central Yerevan on 31 January 2013.[16] However, on 3 September 2013 Armenia announced their decision to join the Eurasian Economic Union.[17][18] According to EU politicians, Armenian membership in the Eurasian Economic Union would be incompatible with the agreements negotiated with the EU.[17][18] President of Armenia Serzh Sargsyan stated at the 2 October 2013 Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe session that Armenia was ready to sign the AA during the November 2013 Eastern Partnership Summit in Vilnius, without the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area component of the agreement that contradicts Armenia's membership in the Eurasian Economic Union.[1][18][19] A spokesperson of EU Commissioner Füle responded a few days later by saying "No Armenia-EU document is being readied to be signed at a Vilnius summit" and “We’re trying to find routes for further cooperation with Armenia, based on the existing achievements”.[18] This was followed by other EU officials who echoed this statement.[20] No AA was ultimately initialed at the summit.[21] In December 2013, the Polish ambassador to Armenia said that the EU and Armenia were discussing a less in-depth bilateral agreement on their relations, and did "not rule out the possibility that it may be an association agreement in a different form".[22][23] In January 2015, the EU commissioner for European neighbourhood policy and enlargement Johannes Hahn stated that the EU was willing to sign a revised AA without free trade provisions.[24] Negotiations were launched in December 2015.[25]

Although Armenia's trade with the EU far exceeds that with Eurasian Economic Union members Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan combined, Armenia is dependent on Russia for security.[1] Armenia's alliance with Russia, and its membership in the Collective Security Treaty Organization, is seen by Armenia as a counterbalance to Azerbaijan’s sharp hike in military spending (Azerbaijan bought tanks, artillery cannons and rocket launchers worth billions of US dollars from Russia in 2011, 2012 and 2013).[1][26][27] This is seen by Armenia as a threat given that the first Nagorno-Karabakh War (an armed conflict that took place from 1991 to May 1994 between Armenia and Azerbaijan[28][29]) remains unresolved.[1] Russia (also) has a military presence in Armenia, the Russian 102nd Military Base is an active base located in the city of Gyumri.[1]

On 24 February 2017, Tigran Sargsyan, the Chairman of the Eurasian Economic Commission stated that Armenia's stance was to cooperate and work with both the European Union and the Eurasian Economic Union. Sargsyan added that although Armenia is part of the Eurasian Economic Union, a revised European Union Association Agreement between Armenia and the EU would be finalized shortly.[30]

On 27 February 2017, the European Union and Armenia finalized a new agreement on deepening their political and economic ties. Armenian president, Serzh Sargsyan, met with European Council President Donald Tusk and other high-ranking officials in Brussels. The new Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement will expand and broaden the scope of relations between the EU and Armenia,[31] but will not be an Association Agreement.[32] It was signed by Armenia and all EU member states on 24 November 2017.[33][34]

Developments since 2017

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2017

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On 3 April 2017, the Armenian prime minister, Karen Karapetyan said that Armenia tends to become a bridge between the European Union, Eurasian Union, and other economic blocs. He also said Armenia's membership in the Eurasian Economic Union would not affect its growing relationship with the EU.[35]

A new political alliance in Armenia, comprising several pro-Western parties, had campaigned on opposing further integration into the Eurasian Economic Union and pledged to seek a Free Trade Agreement with the European Union in the 2017 Armenian parliamentary election.[36] Following the 2017 election, the European External Action Service spokesperson Maja Kocijancic said that the EU is committed to a stable, democratic and prosperous future for Armenia and that the EU would strengthen political dialogue and continue supporting economic and social reform in Armenia.[37] Meanwhile, the President of Armenia, Serzh Sargsyan, stated that Armenia seeks to build stronger ties with both Russia and the EU during an election speech.[38]

On 12 April 2017, the Armenian foreign minister, Eduard Nalbandyan attended the Eastern Partnership and Visegrád Group meeting in Warsaw, Poland. The Minister stressed the importance of the Eastern Partnership and Armenia's relations with the EU. He touched upon the importance of interconnectivity on the European continent, beginning talks on visa liberalization, welcomed the decision to extend the Trans-European Transport Networks into Eastern Partnership countries, and Armenia's progress of joining the European Common Aviation Area. He also thanked the EU and the European Investment Bank for funding construction of modern highways and border crossing checkpoints with neighboring Georgia. The Minister stated that Armenia is a country willing to bring together the EU, Eastern Partnership states, and Eurasian Economic Union members to foster economic growth and development.[39]

In May 2017, the delegation of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the European Parliament met with the President of Armenia in Yerevan. The President said with satisfaction that in recent years Armenia has registered significant progress in the relations with the European Union. He also stated that Armenia is willing to expand the existing partnership with the EU in all possible areas.[40] Meanwhile, the Speaker of Parliament of Armenia stated that the EU remains one of Armenia's major partners and cooperation with the EU is based on a common value system, during the meeting.[41]

In August 2017, the Way Out Alliance; emerged as a liberal political alliance in Armenia and declared that it was a serious mistake for Armenia to join the Eurasian Economic Union. Party leaders stated that discussions on leaving the Eurasian Economic Union will be on the agenda of the alliance. The alliance maintained a Pro-European orientation and believed that Armenia should have signed an Association Agreement with the EU rather than joining the Eurasian Economic Union.[42]

2018

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As a result of the 2018 Armenian revolution, Armenian prime minister Serzh Sargsyan announced on 23 April that he would resign to maintain peace in Armenia following daily protests. The EU applauded the peaceful nature of the changes. While opposition leader Nikol Pashinyan advocated for Armenia's neutral position and positive relations with both the EU and Russia.[43] Pashinyan further stated that should he become prime minister, he would deepen relations with the EU and would do everything possible for Armenian citizens to be granted visa-free access to the Schengen Area. However, Pashinyan confirmed he would not withdraw Armenia's membership from the Eurasian Economic Union, despite previous discussions questioning Armenia's membership.[44]

Following the 2018 Armenian parliamentary election, Nikol Pashinyan was appointed Prime Minister of Armenia. During his first speech as prime minister, Pashinyan declared that Armenians deserved to travel freely within Europe, a perk already enjoyed by other Eastern Partnership members Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine. EU foreign affairs chief Federica Mogherini congratulated the new leader.[45]

Meanwhile, Bright Armenia emerged as an official opposition party, becoming the 3rd largest party in the National Assembly. Edmon Marukyan, the leader of Bright Armenia stated that should Armenia continue its membership in the Eurasian Economic Union—even to the detriment of national interests, the Bright Armenia party would act as an opponent, and demand that appropriate measures be taken toward withdrawing Armenia from the Eurasian Economic Union and to begin the first steps of EU accession negotiations without delay.[46]

2019

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In October 2019, the deputy prime minister of Armenia Tigran Avinyan stated that Armenia and the EU have a completely different level of relationship following the 2018 Armenian revolution. The Minister confirmed that the revolution strengthened ties between Armenia and the EU as both share the same democratic values. The Minister further stated that "this new political situation is completely in line with the EU's views". Avinyan also made clear that in the future, Armenia will have to decide whether or not to pursue an EU membership bid. The Minister advised that any decision for Armenia to join the European Union would have to be brought before the people and that future accession of Armenia to the EU would only occur following Armenia's complete withdrawal from the Eurasian Economic Union.[47]

Armenian prime minister Nikol Pashinyan with High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell in Brussels, 9 March 2020

2020

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In June 2020, the Chair of the European Parliament stated that "we believe that the successful implementation of the comprehensive reforms by Armenia, in areas such as the rule of law, justice and fight against corruption, will create new incentives for an ambitious path towards European integration and the next steps to be taken by Armenia and the EU in the next decade".[48] Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia confirmed that the development of the partnership with the European Union is one of the most important directions of foreign policy of the Republic of Armenia.[49]

2021

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The European Union and Armenia ratified the Armenia-EU Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement; which took effect on 1 March 2021. The agreement advances the bilateral relations between the EU and Armenia to a new, partnership level and regulates cooperation in political and economic sectors, while enhancing trade relations. The agreement is also designed to bring Armenian laws and regulations gradually closer to the EU acquis. The Standing Committee on European Integration is responsible for ensuring the terms and agreements of CEPA are implemented.[50]

2022

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On 6 October 2022, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan participated in the 1st European Political Community Summit held in Prague. During the summit, it was agreed that a European Union led mission, the European Union Monitoring Capacity to Armenia (EUMCAP), would be deployed on the Armenian side of the border with Azerbaijan for a period of two months of monitoring following the Armenia–Azerbaijan border crisis.[51][52] The mission completed its mandate on 19 December 2022 and was superseded by the EU Planning Assistance Team in Armenia. The EU Planning Assistance Team concluded its activities on 23 January 2023, in preparation for a longer term EU–led mission.[53]

2023

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On 27 December 2022, Armenian Foreign Minister, Ararat Mirzoyan wrote to the EU's High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and invited the European Union to deploy a civilian Common Security and Defence Policy mission in the country. The European Union Mission in Armenia (EUMA) was subsequently approved by the Council of the European Union on 23 January 2023 with an initial period of deployment of two years. EUMA's mandate is to contribute to stability in the border areas of Armenia, build confidence on the ground, and ensure an environment conducive to normalization efforts between Armenia and Azerbaijan.[53]

On 27 January 2023, the first high-level Armenia–EU Political and Security Dialogue meeting took place in Yerevan. Deputy Foreign Minister of Armenia Vahe Gevorgyan and Deputy Secretary General of the European External Action Service Enrique Mora discussed increasing political ties and further developing Armenia–EU relations. The parties discussed issues facing Armenia and security challenges across Europe, the deployment of EUMA, the need to establish a stable and peaceful South Caucasus region, and the process of normalization of Armenia–Turkey relations. Enrique Mora stated, "The first ever Armenia–EU Political and Security Dialogue launched today demonstrates our mutual interest in enhancing cooperation on foreign and security policy issues, and readiness to work together for the benefit of peace, security and stability." The Armenia–EU Political and Security Dialogue meetings are expected to convene once annually.[54]

On 4 October 2023, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell announced that the EU welcomed Armenia's ratification of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court.[55]

On 5 October 2023, during the 3rd European Political Community Summit, the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen stated "We reiterated our condemnation of the military operation by Azerbaijan against the Armenian population of Nagorno-Karabakh and reaffirmed the need to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Armenia. Armenia and the EU are bound by shared political values and their commitment to a rules-based international order. In these difficult times, the EU and Armenia stand shoulder to shoulder. We are committed to further strengthen EU-Armenia relations". President von der Leyen also informed of the preparations for a joint EU-US event to support Armenia following the flight of Nagorno-Karabakh Armenians.[56]

On 17 October 2023, Armenian prime minister Nikol Pashinyan addressed the European Parliament. Pashinyan stated, "the EU is the key partner supporting the fundamental reforms of the Armenian government in recent years. The agenda of our relations with the European Union is actually very extensive. On October 5 of this year, two extremely important documents for EU–Armenia relations were adopted in Granada. Both statements support the strengthening of EU–Armenia relations in all dimensions based on the needs of the Republic of Armenia" and "we are committed to further strengthen EU–Armenia relations. In the long term, the European Union and Armenia are determined to strengthen their economic ties by working to unlock the full potential of the Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement. The Republic of Armenia is ready to be closer to the European Union, as much as the European Union considers it possible."[57]

On 27 November 2023, a delegation of the European External Action Service and the European Commission visited Armenia to explore the possibilities to deepen and strengthen EU–Armenia relations in all dimensions. Representatives of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, the European Investment Bank, and Frontex also participated in the event alongside Armenian government officials. The EU delegation noted that the EU would further explore providing non-lethal support to the Armenian military.[58]

2024

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Armenian prime minister Nikol Pashinyan meets with President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Brussels, 5 April 2024

On 29 February 2024, the President of the National Assembly Alen Simonyan stated that Armenia should seek EU membership.[59] On 2 March 2024, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan advised that Armenia would officially "apply to become a candidate for EU membership in the coming days, within a month at most".[60][61] On 5 March, Pashinyan stated that Armenia would apply for EU candidacy by autumn 2024 at the latest.[62]

On 8 March 2024, on the sidelines of the 2024 Antalya Diplomacy Forum, Armenian foreign minister Ararat Mirzoyan stated that "Armenia is seeking to get closer to the West amid worsening relations with Russia" and "New opportunities are largely being discussed in Armenia nowadays, that includes membership in the European Union".[63][64]

On 15 March 2024, Armenian Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Paruyr Hovhannisyan announced that Armenia is currently crafting a new cooperation agreement with the EU, aiming to finalize and sign it by July 2024. Hovhannisyan stated, "If the Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement between Armenia and the EU is fully implemented, we will indeed have the status of a candidate country for EU membership." The following day, Foreign Affairs and Security Policy of the European Commission spokesperson Peter Stano stated, "Countries have the right to strive for a better future for their people. They are free to decide how to ensure such a future. As for EU membership, each European country—its people and government—must decide whether it wants to apply for EU membership", the EU official said in response to whether the EU's doors are open to Armenia.[65]

On 5 April 2024, Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan met with President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell, and United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Brussels for a high-level trilateral summit between Armenia, the EU, and the US. Von der Leyen stated, "The European Union and Armenia are increasingly aligned in values and interest", while Borrell added "our relations are developing on a positive track, they are stronger than ever". The sides pledged continued support for Armenia, including providing the country with €270 million in grants and economic support.[66] Von der Leyen stated, "We will make investments to strengthen Armenia's economy and society, making them more robust and stable".[67]

On 5 April 2024, Armenia signed a cooperation agreement with Eurojust.[68][69]

At the 2024 Copenhagen Democracy Summit, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated that he would like Armenia to become a member of the European Union "this year."[70]

In May 2024, the United Platform of Democratic Forces called on the government of Armenia to apply for EU and NATO membership.[71] On 21 June 2024, the United Platform of Democratic Forces organized a hearing in the National Assembly of Armenia calling for the government to hold a referendum on submitting an EU membership application. The alliance proposed holding the referendum within the subsequent four months.[72]

On 27 June, the president of the National Assembly, Alen Simonyan confirmed that Armenia's leadership wanted the country to join the EU, and that it would hold a referendum in the near future. Simonyan stated that "our society has made a decision to be part of the European Union" and "I think that sometime in the near future we will have this referendum and I am sure that our people will say yes".[73]

On 9 September 2024, prime minister Nikol Pashinyan confirmed that the issue of starting the EU membership process has become part of the Armenian political agenda. Pashinyan stated, "discussions are underway in the country regarding the possibility of Armenia becoming a member of the European Union," during a meeting with Vice-President of the European Commission Margaritis Schinas.[74]

On 11 September 2024, the Central Electoral Commission approved the application of the United Platform of Democratic Forces to organize a petition calling for a referendum in Armenia on the country's accession to the EU. The Central Electoral Commission confirmed that 50K signatures would be needed before 14 November 2024 in order to bring the motion to the National Assembly.[5]

On 18 September 2024, prime minister Nikol Pashinyan said in a statement regarding Armenia's EU membership at the 2nd Global Armenian Summit held in Yerevan: "Here, too, we need to understand that this is not a unilateral or even bilateral action. At this point, we need to be very careful when formulating problems in order not to create new disappointments in our people on the way to solving these problems. Finally, Armenia's EU membership also needs to be imagined physically. Georgia–EU relations are important, what will happen, Turkey–EU relations are important, how will they develop. In this context, it is very important how Armenia–Turkey relations will develop. If we see a more or less realistic prospect of becoming a full member of the European Union, including keeping under control the possible threats that may arise along the way, we will definitely not miss that moment," he said.[75]

On 7 November 2024, the United Platform of Democratic Forces submitted the collected signatures to the Central Election Commission for review. Once the Central Election Commission approves the submitted signatures, the petition will be presented to the National Assembly for debate. The alliance stated that if the National Assembly refuses to hold a referendum on EU membership, they will organize a second petition for which it will be necessary to collect 300,000 signatures, which will allow the alliance to hold a referendum bypassing the National Assembly entirely.[76] On 22 November 2024, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated that "there is no political logic in being against holding a referendum on EU membership".[6]

On 10 December 2024, the Central Electoral Commission concluded their review of the 60,000 signatures collected, and determined there was a sufficient amount of valid signatures for the petition to be sent to the National Assembly.[7] The petition was then submitted as the draft law "On the launch of the process of accession of the Republic of Armenia to the European Union",[77] and the National Assembly is expected to conduct its vote for approval of this bill in January 2025.[8]

Representation

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The Delegation of the European Union to Armenia is the diplomatic mission of the EU in Armenia. It is located in Yerevan. The current EU Ambassador to Armenia is Vassilis Maragos.[78] Armenia is represented to the EU through its Permanent Mission, located in Brussels, Belgium. The Armenian Ambassador to the EU is Tigran Balayan.[79]

Visa liberalization dialogue

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See also: Visa policy of the Schengen Area

Since 2013, European Union citizens enjoy visa-free travel to Armenia.[80]

On 15 March 2017, the former president of Armenia, Serzh Sargsyan announced that Armenia currently takes part in a number of EU agreements and programs and that the EU is an important partner. He also announced that Armenia will launch talks with the EU over establishing visa-free travel for Armenian citizens into the EU's Schengen Area soon.[81] Meanwhile, the former Head of the EU Delegation to Armenia, Ambassador Piotr Świtalski stated that, the action plan for beginning visa liberalization between Armenia and the EU will be on the agenda of the next Eastern Partnership summit in 2017 and dialogue for visa-free travel will begin in early 2018. He stressed the importance of better connecting Armenia with the EU.[82] The Ambassador also stated that Armenian citizens could be granted visa-free travel to the EU by 2020.[83]

On 10 April 2018, the former deputy Foreign Minister of Armenia confirmed that the EU will soon provide Armenia with an action program to launch visa liberalization dialogue. The Minister further stated that Armenia has already been implementing preconditions for launching dialogue over visa liberalization.[84] On 1 May 2018, the newly appointed Prime Minister of Armenia, Nikol Pashinyan announced that Armenian citizens would be able to travel within the EU's Schengen Area visa-free in the nearest future.[citation needed] On 24 August 2018, the former Chancellor of Germany, Angela Merkel during her meeting with the Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan stated that, "Georgian and Ukrainian citizens do not need visas to enter the European Union, and we will do everything possible to reach visa liberalization with Armenia as well."[85]

On 18 January 2019, preliminary dialogue on visa liberalization was launched as part of the Armenia-EU Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement.[86]

In May 2020, Nikol Pashinyan announced that an agreement has been reached with the EU to start visa liberalization talks.[87] Meanwhile, former EU Ambassador to Armenia, Andrea Wiktorin confirmed that the Armenia-EU Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement stipulates that the EU will continue to promote the mobility of citizens through a visa facilitation agreement and that she expects official negotiations to begin in due course.[88]

On 22 July 2024, the European Council approved the European Commission's proposal to begin visa liberalization negotiations with Armenia.[89][90] The European Commission officially launched the dialogue with Armenia in July 2024.[91][92]

Armenia-EU common aviation area

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Armenia is a member of Eurocontrol, the European Civil Aviation Conference and a partner of the European Aviation Safety Agency. After the new Armenia-EU Partnership agreement was signed in February 2017, Armenia began negotiations to join the European Common Aviation Area. During the first round of talks in April 2017, the Head of Armenia's Civil Aviation Department stated that Armenia attaches great importance to joining the common aviation area and that this will allow Armenian and European airlines to further boost their activities and allow more European airlines to fly to Armenia.[93] The EU Delegation in Yerevan stated that the agreement will enable Armenia to have a stronger connection with Europe and the outside world and will open up new travel routes, while reducing travel costs for passengers. Once the agreement is finalized, airlines will have the opportunity to operate new routes without any limitations and enjoy equal opportunities of servicing a market with a population of 500 million.[94]

On 15 November 2021, Armenia and the EU finalized negotiations of the Common Aviation Area Agreement between the two sides at a ceremony held in Brussels. The benefits of the agreement include new air transport opportunities, more direct connections and economic benefits to both sides. All EU airlines will be able to operate direct flights from anywhere in the EU to any airport in Armenia, and vice versa for Armenian airlines. All limitations and restrictions on flights between Armenia and the EU will be removed. With the agreement, Armenia will further align its legislation with EU aviation rules and standards.[95]

Armenia-EU trade

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Armenia benefits from the EU's Generalised Scheme of Preferences plus (GSP+) trading initiative. This offers Armenian exports advantageous access to the European single market by allowing complete duty suspension across approximately 66% of all EU tariff lines. More than 96% of EU imports eligible for GSP+ preferences from Armenia entered the EU with zero duties in 2017. The EU is Armenia's biggest export market, trade with the EU accounts for around 26.7% of Armenia's total trade.[96] EU-Armenia trade increased by 15% in 2018 reaching a total value of €1.1 billion.[97]

In 2022, Armenia's bilateral trade with the EU topped $2.3 billion, making the EU one of Armenia's biggest and most important economic partners.[98] In 2023, Armenia's trade with the EU reached $2.7 billion.[99]

EU assistance to Armenia

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The EU is the biggest provider of financial support and a key reform partner in Armenia.[97] As part of the European Neighbourhood Policy, Armenia benefits from EU financial assistance. The amount allocated to Armenia depends on Armenia's commitment to reforms. Certain EU reform targets need to be met before money is paid. The planned amount of EU assistance to Armenia for the period 2017-2020 is up to €185 million.[100][101]

In July 2021, EU Commissioner for Neighborhood and Enlargement Oliver Varhelyi announced that the EU will be granting an amount of approximately $3.1 billion USD in aid to Armenia, a 62% increase than the amount promised before.[102]

Military cooperation

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On 22 July 2024, the European Union approved the allocation of 10 million euros to the Armed Forces of Armenia from the European Peace Facility. This marked the first ever funding assistance to the Armed Forces of Armenia from the EU. The funding will be used to increase the material and technical capabilities of Armenia's army. The EU's Foreign Affairs chief, Josep Borrell stated "Security is an important element of bilateral relations with Armenia. The EU has a mutual interest in further expanding dialogue on foreign and security policy, also looking into Armenia's future participation in EU-led missions and operations." Armenia's Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan stated "We salute the historic decisions of EU Foreign Affairs Council on providing assistance to Armenia under the European Peace Facility. This is a very important milestone in the Armenia-EU partnership based on shared values and principles as well as the vision for stability, peace and prosperity." While the Armenian Minister of Defence, Suren Papikyan stated "This initiative will give a new charge to closer cooperation with our partner EU member countries in both bilateral and multilateral formats."[103][104]

Public opinion

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A December 2006 public opinion poll in Armenia found that EU membership would be welcomed, with 64% out of a sample of 2,000 being in favour and only 11.8% being against.[105] Another poll conducted in the Armenian capital Yerevan in October 2006 suggested that "as many as 72% of city residents believe, with varying degrees of conviction, that their country's future lies with the EU rather than the Russian-dominated Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS)."[105] Still, more than two-thirds of the country's population believed that Armenia would not be ready to join the EU until at least 2019.[105]

A 2007 opinion poll indicated an increase in Armenian EU interest, with 80% of the Armenian public favoring eventual membership.[106]

According to a 2012 opinion poll, 54% (26% strong support+28% rather support) of Armenians supported Armenia's membership in the EU.[107]

The 3 September 2013 decision by Armenia to join the Eurasian Union sparked a series of protests in Yerevan against the action, as many feared that Russia was trying to stop Armenia from building a deeper relationship with the EU just as they had tried to do in Ukraine leading to the Euromaidan demonstrations.[1] Eurasia Partnership Fund director Gevorg Ter-Gabrielyan stated that, "We need to fight against Russian interference" however, he also acknowledged that,"The [Armenian] public largely supports joining with Russia. Plus they don't like the EU, which they see as a source of perverted values," he added "They love Russia, at least insofar as the monster you know is better than one you don't".[1]

According to a 2017 Gallup opinion poll conducted in Armenia, 27.2% of those surveyed favored integration with the European Union, while 36% favored integration with the Eurasian Economic Union.[108]

According to the 2018 survey by EU NEIGHBOURS east project:[109]

  • Pro-EU sentiments are rising in Armenia; 48% of Armenians have a positive image of the EU, the same as in 2017. The number of persons with negative opinions of the EU is just 8%.
  • 80% of Armenians (up 4% on 2017) feel relations with the European Union are good - well ahead of the regional average (63%).
  • 70% of people in Armenia trust the EU (up 5% on 2017), while trust in the Eurasian Economic Union (48%) has declined.
  • 69% of Armenians (up 4% on 2017) are aware of the EU's financial support to the country, and two thirds feel that EU support is effective (66%- up from 62% in 2016 and compared to a regional average of 48% in the Eastern Neighbourhood countries).

A 2020 poll found that over 40% of Armenians were in favor of EU membership.[110]

According to the 2020 survey by EU NEIGHBOURS east project:[111]

  • 86% of Armenians (up 10% on 2016) feel relations with the European Union are good - well ahead of the Eastern Partnership regional average (70%).
  • 60% of people in Armenia trust the EU compared to 51% trusting in the Eurasian Economic Union.
  • 65% of Armenians are aware of the EU's financial support to the country, and 80% of those who are aware of the support feel that it is effective.

According to a February 2023 annual opinion survey, 60% of Armenians trust the European Union, more than any other international institution. While 74% think relations between the EU and Armenia are good.[112]

A March 2024 poll conducted by the International Republican Institute found that over 80% of Armenians were satisfied with the direction of EU–Armenia relations. The same poll showed a dramatic deterioration of public trust in Russia, with only 31% of Armenians considering Armenia–Russia relations good, compared to 93% in 2019.[113]

A July 2024 Gallup opinion poll found that 56.7% of respondents expressed support for Armenia joining the European Union.[114]

A October 2024 poll conducted by the International Republican Institute (IRI) found that 58% of Armenians were in favour of joining the European Union when asked how they would vote in a referendum on EU membership. Senior Director for Eurasia at IRI, Stephen Nix stated "This poll shows that most Armenians see their prospects for a bright future with Europe. Moreover, the people of Armenia understand that moving further away from Russia and towards the West is important to enhancing peace and prosperity."[115]

Individual opinions

[edit]

On 12 January 2002, the European Parliament noted that Armenia and Georgia may enter the EU in the future.[116] There is a lot of interest in Armenia eventually joining the European Union, especially among several prominent Armenian politicians[117] and the general public in Armenia.[105] However, former president Robert Kocharyan, has said he would keep Armenia tied to Russia and the CSTO, remaining partners, and would not seek membership in the EU or NATO.[118] Former president Serzh Sargsyan took a similar position to this issue.

According to Artur Baghdasarian, head of the Rule of Law party and former speaker of the National Assembly, Armenian membership in the European Union "should be one of the key priorities of the country's present and future foreign policy." Baghdasarian believes that "EU membership will open new avenues for Armenia to move to a new geopolitical milieu as well as a new economic environment." He also added that it "will enable Armenia to have access to a completely new security system."[117]

Former Deputy Minister of Trade and Economic Development, Tigran Davtyan, stated "We hope that we will have a clear action plan, by which Armenia will step by step get closer to Europe, to the European value system. Armenia has always been, is and will remain a part of Europe. We have always considered ourselves a part of Europe and the European value system, and Armenia has, even if to a small extent, its contribution to the formation of that value system", during a conference held by OSF Armenia.[119]

Armenia's former Minister of Foreign Affairs Vardan Oskanyan reiterated in 2005 that "Armenia is Europe. This is a fact, it's not a response to a question."[120] Torben Holtze, former head of the European Commission's representation in Armenia and Georgia and Ambassador of the European Union with residence in Tbilisi, stated "As a matter of principle, Armenia is a European country and like other European states it has the right to be an EU member provided it meets necessary standards and criteria."[116]

Hovhannes Hovhannisyan said there is a quite strong opinion in Armenia that the country's future lies with Europe. "There is no talk about Asia," he said, adding that Armenian society considers itself European and celebrates its European origins and values. He also said Armenia shares a significant history with Europe and that the Armenian language comes from the same language family as many European languages.[121]

On 13 November 2010, former deputy ambassador of Armenia to the United States, Armen Kharazyan stated, "Armenia itself must seek to rediscover and re-establish itself as a part of Europe" and that "Armenia is a fundamentally European society."[122]

On 9 June 2015, Styopa Safaryan, Head of the Armenian Institute of International and Security Affairs, stated that Russia had blackmailed Armenia to not sign an Association Agreement with the EU. Safaryan said that Russia had isolated Armenia and called on Armenian authorities to resume negotiations on signing an agreement with the EU.[123] On 10 August 2015, Safaryan also stated that there are no benefits of Armenia joining the Eurasian Economic Union and that joining the economic union had brought no improvements to the Armenian economy.[124]

Mikael Minasyan, Armenia's Ambassador to the Holy See and Malta stated "Armenia and Europe are, first and foremost, united by our common values. Armenia, Artsakh and Armenian people worldwide have been, and are, inalienable part of European civilization and the Eastern border of the Christian world".[125]

In March 2019, the Vice Speaker of the Parliament of Armenia Alen Simonyan stated, "Over the past 28 years following its independence Armenia, adhered to pan-European values and continues building its cooperation in the European direction," during a ceremony dedicating a section of Northern Avenue as "Europe Square".[126]

In July 2019, Armenian president Armen Sarkissian stated that "Armenia is not only a country that signed an agreement with the European Union, but also a country that is and has always been deeply European in terms of culture. Therefore, coming closer to the EU is very natural for us. Armenia is a cradle of European values, from our religion and culture to literature and music," during a meeting with the president of the European Council Donald Tusk in Yerevan.[127] In return, Donald Tusk stated that "Armenia is an integral part of the European family and culture. A place of authentic people who cherish freedom. Sevanavank is a monument that testifies to Armenia's millennia-old imprint on Europe's culture."[128]

In November 2019, during an Eastern Partnership meeting, the former foreign minister of Armenia Zohrab Mnatsakanyan stated that "the Eastern Partnership is not a neighbourhood, it’s the eastern flank of Europe. That is the significance of Eastern Partnership. It’s not to the east of Europe, it’s to the east of the European Union, but the European Union is not the whole of Europe. The important challenge is to spread the sense of the Eastern flank of Europe further towards other parts of Europe." The Minister stated that Armenia shares European values of democracy, human rights and accountability to citizens. Mnatsakanyan also advised that a recent survey has shown 92% of the Armenian public considered relations with the EU as very good. The Minister supported the notion that Europe is Armenia's home.[129]

During a press conference, Tigran Khzmalyan, Chairman of the European Party of Armenia stated that, "We are convinced that Armenia is a European state, that we are not only European but also a key culture for Europe."[130] Khzmalyan also stated that the Eurasian Union is a corrupt, hostile and colonial system and that the European Party of Armenia will stand in opposition to Armenia's current membership while supporting the development of Armenia as a European state within the European family of states.[131]

On 21 February 2023, a conference of democratic forces including opposition political parties and civil society took place in Yerevan. Delegates from the European Party of Armenia, Hanrapetutyun Party, Union for National Self-Determination, National Democratic Pole and over a dozen representatives from Armenian civil society organizations participated. Members of the conference called on the Government of Armenia to announce its withdrawal from the CSTO and Eurasian Union and to realign Armenia's military integration with the United States and the West. In addition, the participants signed a declaration calling on the government to immediately submit an EU membership bid for Armenia.[132]

On 29 February 2024, the President of the National Assembly Alen Simonyan stated that Armenia should seek EU membership. Simonyan stated, "Our actions show that we have much better democracy indicators than many of our partners that are already members of the EU. I think that we should think about seeking EU candidate status."[133]

On 1 May 2024, former Mayor of Yerevan and leader of the New Power party, Hayk Marutyan stated, "We believe that Armenia and the Armenian people are inextricably linked with the European civilization by their value system."[134]

Pro-EU organizations

[edit]
  • AEGEE Yerevan is a non-governmental student organization founded in 2010 as a chapter of the European Students' Forum. AEGEE Yerevan supports the development of closer Armenia–European Union relations, the continued European integration of Armenia, and the development of a democratic and diverse society which is politically and socially integrated.[135]
  • The Armenian Atlantic Association is a non-governmental organization founded in 2001. The organization supports deepening Armenia's relationship with NATO, while encouraging closer ties with the EU.[136]
  • The Assembly of Armenians of Europe (AAE) is a pan-European organization supporting Armenian communities across Europe and developing closer ties between those communities and European institutions. The organization was founded in 2003 and is based in Belgium.
  • EUNIC Armenia, founded in 2018, is the Armenian branch of the European Union National Institutes for Culture. The organization seeks to promote cultural diversity and exchange between EU member states and Armenia.
  • The European Armenian Federation for Justice and Democracy (EAFJD) is a grassroots umbrella organization, based in Belgium, which represents a significant portion of the Armenian diaspora in Europe. The organization was founded in 2002 and actively works on strengthening ties and deepening cooperation between Armenia and the 27 member states of the EU.
  • The European Business Association (Armenia) was established in 2015, with support from the EU Delegation in Armenia. The Association seeks to develop economic and trade relations between EU businesses and Armenia, expand bilateral trade, encourage foreign investments, and support economic reforms in Armenia.
  • The European Friends of Armenia (EuFoA) is an international non-governmental organization established in 2009, which aims to promote cooperation between the European Union and Armenia. The organization is based in Belgium and coordinates activities between the European Parliament, civil societies, associations and NGO's, as well as the Armenian diaspora and political organizations across Europe.
  • The European Integration NGO is a non-governmental organization founded in 2000. The organization seeks to strengthen Armenia–EU relations, support the development of civil society, and further integrate Armenia with the Pan-European family of states. The organization also creates and conducts projects and research initiatives that promote democracy, human rights, and European values, as well as raising public awareness and lobbying for Armenia's orientation towards Europe.
  • The Institute of Liberal Politics, founded in 2017, is an independent think tank and educational institute which promotes liberal politics and the development of closer ties with the EU.
  • The International Center for Human Development, founded in 2000, is a non-governmental think tank. The ICHD supports the European integration of Armenia and seeks to accelerate Armenia's integration with the European Union.[137]
  • PanEuropa Armenia, established in September 2023, is the Armenian branch of the Paneuropean Union. It supports Armenia's bid to join the EU.[138]

Pro-EU political parties

[edit]

There are several political parties in Armenia which advocate for closer relations with the EU or support Armenia's EU membership, or are opposed to Armenia's current membership in the Russian led Eurasian Economic Union or Collective Security Treaty Organization. These include:

Prospect of EU membership

[edit]
Countries that could join the European Union
  Current members
  Candidate countries
  Applicant / potential candidate countries
  Membership possible
  Membership not possible
See also: Euronest Parliamentary Assembly § EU membership perspective, and Potential enlargement of the European Union

Like Cyprus, Armenia has been regarded by many as culturally associated with Europe because of its connections with European society, through its diaspora, its Indo-European language, and the religious aspect of being Christian. On 12 January 2002, the European Parliament noted that Armenia may enter the EU in the future.[153]

In December 2019, following the eighth Euronest Parliamentary Assembly, a resolution was passed by all members outlining various EU integration goals to be achieved by 2030. The resolution affirms that the process of EU enlargement is open to Eastern Partnership member states and that future enlargement of the EU will be mutually beneficial for both the EU and Eastern Partnership members. The resolution praised the progress made in Armenia following the 2018 Velvet Revolution. The resolution also stated that, "Armenia is the only country in Europe to transition from being a hybrid regime in 2017 to a democracy in 2018" and that the ratification of the new Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement (CEPA) by the Armenian Parliament in April 2018 is considered evidence of a strategically reinforced partnership between Armenia and EU.[154]

On 14 November 2023, Civil Contract deputy and Chairman of the Standing Committee on European Integration Arman Yeghoyan stated that "Armenia may plan to join the European Union in the future" during a press conference.[155] On 15 November 2023, Minister of Foreign Affairs Ararat Mirzoyan stated "I want to commend the European Commission's decision to recommend the European Council to open accession talks with Moldova and Ukraine and to grant candidate status to Georgia. This decision is welcomed not only by the Government of Armenia, but also people of Armenia, who also have European aspirations."[156]

On 8 March 2024, Mirzoyan indicated that Armenia is considering formally applying for EU membership following reports that prime minister Nikol Pashinyan plans to formally apply by autumn 2024.[157][158]

On 12 March 2024, the European Parliament passed a resolution confirming that Armenia meets the Maastricht Treaty Article 49 requirements and that the country may apply for EU membership.[4] The resolution also acknowledged that CEPA acts as a blueprint to further integration, reforms, and a potential roadmap to a future Association Agreement and sectoral integration with the European single market.

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
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Further reading

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