Armenian deputy FM announces launch of security dialogue with EU

The European Union is becoming an increasingly important security partner for Armenia, Deputy Foreign Minister Paruyr Hovhannisyan announced at a meeting of the National Assembly Standing Committee on European Integration on Monday.

Hovhannisyan’s remarks came in response to a question from MP Armen Gevorgyan of the opposition Hayastan faction about Armenia's security expectations from the EU following the adoption of a bill to initiate Armenia’s EU accession process.

The deputy minister revealed that Armenia and the EU have launched a political and security dialogue.

"Two meetings have already taken place. We are discussing new formats within this dialogue to begin active work on defense and security issues. This is why security was not included in the new partnership agenda currently under discussion," he explained.

He added that the EU’s security and defense missions are also part of this process, with a new agreement ready to be signed soon.

Hovhannisyan highlighted the contribution of EU monitors to the security sector as a key factor. He noted that the EU is now working to strengthen security cooperation, which opens up new opportunities for partnership with Armenia.

"The European Peace Facility is a very concrete and tangible program in the defense sector," he said. "We have already submitted a second application for 2025 and rather active work is underway with the defense ministry."