Kallas: EU and Armenia have never been as close as they're now

The European Union and Armenia have never been as close as they are now, EU High Representative Kaja Kallas announced at a joint press conference with Armenia's Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan in Yerevan on Monday.

"I came here with a clear message. The EU and Armenia have never been as close as we are now. Earlier this year, you adopted a law to launch the EU accession process. We very much welcome your readiness to deepen our partnership," she said.

"I am also very pleased today to announce the political agreement between the negotiators of the new partnership agenda which identifies priorities on economic development, security and resilience. To back this up, the European Union is providing €270 million Resilience and Growth Plan for Armenia for the period of 2024 to 2027. This provides support to businesses. It improves connectivity between Armenia and the European Union and contributes to reform efforts. 

"But our relations go beyond economics. We also provide financial housing and psychosocial support for vulnerable people, including the displaced Karabakh Armenians. People-to-People contacts are central to our relationship."

Kallas also reiterated the EU's strong support for the normalisation of relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan based on respect of sovereignty, territorial integrity and inviolability of borders.

"There is no alternative to these three principles. We are pleased and encouraged with the progress of the bilateral normalisation track, because better relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan can open the way for lasting peace in the region," the top diplomat added.