Yerevan: EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas affirmed that EU-Armenia relations have reached an unprecedented level of closeness, commending Yerevan's dedication to democratic values amidst concerns of "Russian hybrid threats".
According to Kuwait News Agency, Kallas, during a joint press conference with Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan in Yerevan, emphasized that her visit underscored the strengthened ties between the EU and Armenia. She highlighted discussions centered around "Russia's aggression against Ukraine and Russian hybrid activities in neighboring countries," and underscored the importance of Armenia's commitment to democracy.
Kallas announced the EU's allocation of core funding to bolster independent media in Armenia, aimed at supporting democracy and resilience. She also addressed Armenia's relations with Azerbaijan, reiterating EU support for the normalization process between the two countries, emphasizing respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The EU official referenced the Union's new Black Sea strategy and expressed a commitment to collaborate with Armenia on security and infrastructure connectivity. Kallas welcomed Armenia's recent legislative steps towards EU accession, announcing a new partnership agenda focused on economic development and resilience.
The announcement of a EUR 270 million European support plan under the "Resilience and Growth" program for 2024-2027 was made, targeting business support and connectivity enhancement with the EU. The cooperation extends to financial and psychosocial support for vulnerable groups, including displaced Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh.
Kallas also mentioned the adoption of a visa liberalization action plan, viewing it as a step towards integrating Armenia more closely with Europe. Concluding her visit, she reiterated the EU's commitment to standing by Armenia to bolster its resilience and defend shared values. Her visit coincided with the arrest of cleric Bagrat Galstanyan, accused of plotting against Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, with the Armenian Foreign Minister cautioning Moscow against interfering in Armenia's political affairs.