European Union and Armenia held their first ever Summit in Yerevan, reinforcing cooperation in the areas of connectivity, security and defence, economic development and people-to-people contacts.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said: “This first EU-Armenia Summit elevates our partnership to a new level and sets a clear direction and agenda for the coming years. At the heart of this work is our joint commitment to peace and stability in the region. Going forward, we will also deepen political dialogue, strengthen economic ties, and work towards a more secure, prosperous, and stable future. Our cooperation is grounded in common values, a shared vision for the South Caucasus, and full respect for sovereign choices”, the Ruropean Commission said in a press release.
The summit served to take stock of the EU-Armenia relations, as well as to address broader regional and global challenges, including the peace agenda and the normalisation of relations in the South Caucasus.
President von der Leyen, European Council President Antonio Costa together with Armenian Prime Minister NIkol Pashinyan witnessed the signing of the EU-Armenia Connectivity Partnership, a major step forward in strengthening transport, energy, and digital links. Fully aligned with the EU's Cross-Regional Connectivity Agenda and Armenia's Crossroad of Peace initiative, it will boost trade, create jobs, reinforce resilience, and support regional stability. The partnership will be institutionalised through a High-Level Dialogue on Connectivity, alongside a High-Level Transport Dialogue, also launched at the summit.
“Additionally, we are boosting economic growth in the country by launching a Call for Expressions of Interest, inviting companies in the EU, the European Economic Area, and Armenia to develop strategic investment projects in the country. The signing of first Letters of Intent with selected private sector partners in the fields of digital infrastructure, semiconductor skills, innovation ecosystems, and private investment mobilisation aim to bring a tangible positive impact to the country”, the statement reads.
The first progress report on Armenia's implementation of the visa liberalisation action plan was solemnly handed to the Armenians. This first report acknowledges good progress and provides recommendations on next steps in its implementation.
In addition, leaders witnessed the initialling of a working arrangement between the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex) and the Armenian Ministry of Internal Affairs, which will enhance cooperation on border and migration management, supporting Armenia in the implementation of the visa liberalisation action plan.
On security and defence, leaders welcomed the establishment of an EU Partnership Mission in Armenia. Upon the request of Armenia, the EU will help enhancing Armenia's resilience. Additionally, the Armenian Armed Forces received the first deliveries of EU assistance under the European Peace Facility, with a total value of EUR 30 million.
