On June 12, Vahagn Khachaturyan, the President of the Republic of Armenia, received Alain Berset, the Secretary General of the Council of Europe, during his official visit to Armenia.
Welcoming Berset, President Khachaturyan expressed satisfaction with the regular high-level dialogue and mutual visits between Armenia and the Council of Europe, highlighting their busy agenda this year. He recalled that the Council of Europe was the first European institution Armenia engaged with after independence and noted the enthusiasm and responsibility felt during the cooperation in the 1990s, which continued after Armenia became a full member of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe. “Accordingly, we assumed obligations that we have fulfilled and continue to fulfill. In this context, I would like to thank you for your consistency, as well as for your support. This concerns in particular the rooting of democratic values,” Khachaturyan stated.
Alain Berset thanked the President for the warm welcome and expressed his happiness at visiting Armenia. “This visit underlines the support that we have always shown to Armenia. We are truly deeply impressed by the developments that the country has had over the past 30 years,” he noted.
During the meeting, the parties discussed the close cooperation between Armenia and the Council of Europe in establishing democratic institutions. The importance of comprehensive reforms by the Armenian authorities to protect democratic values, the rule of law, and fundamental human and citizen rights was emphasized.
Addressing regional security, President Khachaturyan reaffirmed Armenia’s commitment to achieving stable and lasting peace and stated that the country is ready for constructive cooperation to strengthen regional stability and security.
Alain Berset emphasized the Council of Europe’s readiness to continue supporting Armenia in strengthening democratic institutions, developing the justice system, and protecting human rights. He noted the importance of sustainable and inclusive reforms as the foundation of a democratic society and affirmed that the Council of Europe will remain a reliable partner in this process.