In an interview with RFE/RL’s Armenian Service, Peter Stano, the spokesperson for the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, commended Armenia’s progress in implementing key reforms under its Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with the European Union. Stano highlighted that these reforms, which include political, judicial, and anti-corruption measures, are vital for Armenia’s democratic growth and economic development.

“This has no connection with the potential membership candidacy process. The negotiations on the EU-Armenia partnership agenda reflect both sides' mutual desire and will to do more together and are based on existing relations. The current relationship is defined by the CEPA,” he noted.

Stano also outlined that discussions on EU accession are premature, as Armenia has not yet formally applied for membership.

Despite domestic opposition and civil society concerns regarding the pace and effectiveness of reforms, Stano encouraged Armenia to continue its progress. He also addressed the idea of a referendum on EU membership, suggesting that the Armenian government should first determine the EU’s stance on such an application before proceeding with a public vote.