Armenia’s Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan met with the delegation led by Margaritis Schinas, Vice President of the European Commission and Commissioner for the Promotion of the European Way of Life, the PM office reports. Pashinyan welcomed Schinas’ visit, noting its significance for advancing Armenia-EU relations and cooperation.

Pashinyan emphasized the moment's importance, highlighting progress in Armenia-EU relations, including the initiation of visa liberalization talks and the European Peace Facility's support for Armenia. He also discussed Armenia's expanding agenda with the EU and mentioned ongoing internal discussions about the possibility of Armenia joining the European Union, stressing the need for a comprehensive approach and guidance from EU partners. Armenian PM also underscored the role of the European Civilian Mission in promoting peace and stability in the region and praised the EU’s support in advancing institutional reforms in Armenia.

Commissioner Schinas reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to strengthening relations with Armenia and supporting its reform efforts. He also expressed optimism about successful cooperation on the visa liberalization dialogue.

Armenia and EU Launch Visa Liberalization Talks

Armenia and the European Union have officially announced the launch of visa liberalization talks, Armenian Deputy Prime Minister Mher Grigoryan stated following a meeting with European Commission Vice President Margaritis Schinas in Yerevan on September 10.

“Armenia attaches great importance to the beginning of the visa liberalization dialogue, realizing that it will take consistent and focused efforts. We see this process as a strategic agenda on the modernization of migration, people’s movements, and border management,” Grigoryan said.

The visa liberalization talks aim to help Armenia achieve a visa-free regime for short stays within the EU, contingent on meeting the conditions for well-managed mobility and security.