EU remains cautious over visa liberalization with Armenia, deputy FM says

The EU remains cautious regarding visa liberalization with Armenia, Deputy Foreign Minister Paruyr Hovhannisyan stated at a meeting of the National Assembly Standing Committee on European Integration on Monday.

MP Armen Gevorgyan of the opposition Hayastan faction pressed for clarity on the timeline for visa liberalization talks, questioning whether the process would drag on for years. "What target has Armenia set? For example, to achieve this regime by January 1, 2027? A significant part of Armenian society expects an answer," he said.

“This is perhaps the most painful issue, as it's the only area where we can't say we're satisfied with the cooperation. The incomplete implementation of the visa facilitation agreement remains a problem, with numerous complaints. We're negotiating with various countries and believe that opening new consulates could help improve the situation. However, it remains unsatisfactory,” Hovhannisyan responded.

"I would like to provide a specific timeline, but it’s neither possible nor appropriate. Our EU partners avoid setting deadlines. Similar processes in other countries have taken 3 to 6 years. We are well-prepared for the negotiations, but I cannot give a precise date for their conclusion. The issue remains on the agenda,” he added.