At the 135th session of the Committee of Ministers in Chișinău, Armenia's Deputy Foreign Minister Robert Abisoghomonyan said the Council of Europe must strengthen its capacity to address emerging threats, enhance early response mechanisms, and support member states in implementing ongoing democratic reforms.
Abisoghomonyan stated that the meeting is taking place at a time when democracies are facing serious challenges, including in societies where democratic norms had long been considered irreversible.
“These discussions are especially relevant for Armenia as we continue advancing democratic reforms and deepening cooperation with our European partners,” Robert Abisoghomonyan said. He noted that just 10 days earlier, Yerevan hosted the European Political Community Summit and the first-ever Armenia-EU Summit, describing them as important milestones in strengthening Armenia’s partnership with the European Union based on shared democratic values and reforms. He also praised the active participation of the Secretary General of the Council of Europe in the events held in Yerevan, including remarks delivered alongside the Prime Minister of Armenia and the President of France at the opening of the Yerevan Dialogue conference.
Deputy FM Abisoghomonyan noted that parliamentary elections will be held in Armenia on June 7, adding that the country is approaching the process with a full commitment to democratic standards by ensuring transparency, pluralism, and the free expression of the will of citizens.
“However, we must be honest about the dangers facing us,” Abisoghomonyan said, warning that foreign interference, disinformation campaigns, and systematic manipulation of the information space directly undermine democratic institutions and public trust. He stressed that these threats are real, targeted, and ongoing, adding that no democracy today is immune to coordinated attempts to distort public debate and weaken confidence in institutions.
In this context, he said, the adopted decision on foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI) is particularly relevant and timely.
“Fully aware of these challenges, the Armenian government remains committed to conducting the electoral process in line with our obligations and democratic standards, and we will take all necessary measures to safeguard the integrity of the elections,” he said.
According to Abisoghomonyan, peace and stability in the region remain among Armenia’s top priorities.
“In this context, we welcome the recognition by the Committee of Ministers of the peace established in our region following the meeting held in Washington on August 8, 2025, and emphasize the importance of further strengthening and institutionalizing it,” he said.
Abisoghomonyan noted that the process requires continued efforts aimed at building trust, including by addressing humanitarian issues, ensuring regional connectivity, promoting dialogue, and establishing predictable and lasting stability in the region. He also thanked Moldova’s presidency for its work.
