Mogherini in Yerevan for talks on EU – Armenia Agreement
In Yerevan for her first official visit to Armenia Federica Mogherini held talks with political leaders and representatives of civil society. She began her visit to the country with a meeting with Foreign Minister Edward Nalbandian.
During her visit she had a long and constructive exchange with President Serzh Sargsyan.
"The peaceful resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict remains a priority for the European Union. The status quo is unsustainable to us. The conflict does not have a military solution and needs a political settlement in accordance with international law" said Federica Mogherini, "The European Union supports the efforts of the Minsk Group Co-Chairs to facilitate progress drawing on the three Madrid principles and elements and calls for the intensification of high-level talks to advance the settlement".
She met also representatives of NGOs and Civil society, and MPs of all political parties.
The EU's relations with Armenia are undergoing change. Last December both sides agreed to start negotiating on new EU-Armenia agreement which would cover their relations. During her visit Mogherini has underlined her hopes that are concluded rapidly and a new deal is put in place as soon as possible.
“It is important for broader society to be part of this process, to fully understand and share the sense of direction of our relationship and this is true both in the European Union and in Armenia” said F. Mogherini, “I believe we both want to be good partners to each other”.
“Emphasis needs to be placed notably on democracy and the rule of law, anti-corruption, human rights and fundamental freedoms, constitutional and judicial reform, justice and accountability” stressed the High Representative: “Particular attention is also needed as regards the reform of the electoral system”.
The EU's relations with the country are not just bilateral but also through the Eastern Partnership policy the EU has with six of its eastern neighbours.
As you can see from the graphic below, the EU is also a partner and investor in Armenia – helping to train over 4,000 farmers and 930 small enterprises. It has helped build over 170 km of road and improve waste water treatment.
More info:
- Remarks by HRVP Federica Mogherini at the joint press conference with Mr Edward Nalbandian, Foreign Minister of Armenia: http://eeas.europa.eu/statements-eeas/2016/160301_01_en.htm
- The EU's relations with Armenia: http://eeas.europa.eu/armenia/index_en.htm
- The Eastern Partnership: http://www.eeas.europa.eu/eastern/index_en.htm