In a heartfelt New Year’s message, EU Ambassador to Armenia, Vassilis Maragos, extended his warm greetings on behalf of the European Union, highlighting significant achievements in the partnership between the EU and Armenia over the past year.

Ambassador Maragos emphasized the EU’s support for democratic and economic reforms in Armenia, which have impacted vital sectors such as education, transport, air and nuclear safety, police, and justice. The EU has also invested in energy efficiency, renewable energy (particularly solar panels), waste management, tourism, social cohesion, and cultural development.

To address socio-economic challenges faced by Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh, the EU has mobilized close to €70 million (around 30 billion drams) since September 2023. Additionally, the EU’s Economic and Investment Plan has generated over €600 million in funding, creating jobs, boosting small and medium enterprises, supporting agriculture, and empowering women entrepreneurs.

Ambassador Maragos also announced a €70 million financial package from the European Investment Bank to improve access to finance and a €270 million resilience and growth plan to strengthen Armenia's economy and bring it closer to Europe.

On regional peace and stability, the EU Mission in Armenia completed 4,000 patrols and continued to contribute to human security and confidence-building. The EU also initiated the visa liberalization dialogue to introduce visa-free travel for Armenian citizens under secure and well-managed mobility conditions.

The ambassador expressed gratitude to his team, stakeholders in Armenia, and EU member state ambassadors for their dedication and cooperation. He reaffirmed the EU's unwavering belief in Armenia's potential for sustainable growth, social cohesion, and democratic development while emphasizing shared values and support for Armenia's sovereignty and statehood.