The EU's Foreign Affairs Council has unanimously approved the expansion of its border monitoring mission in Armenia, a development that underscores the EU's commitment to the stability and security of the region. EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, announced the decision in Brussels, signaling a deeper engagement with Armenia's authorities and the strengthening of its reform initiatives.

"The Council discussed how to strengthen cooperation with Armenia and support its democratically elected authorities, its resilience, its security and the continuation of reforms in the country," Borrell stated. He emphasized the importance of the EU's presence in the area, "We decided to beef up our mission in Armenia with more servants and more patrols in the sensitive areas of the border."

The decision to augment the EU's role in Armenia also includes a dialogue on visa liberalization. "We will explore a possible support to Armenia under European Peace Facility and an option for visa liberalization for Armenia," Borrell added after the meeting.

This move comes at a time when tensions between Armenia and Azerbaijan remain a concern for the EU. "Our message to Azerbaijan was clear: any breach of Armenia's territorial integrity would be unacceptable and would have serious consequences for the quality of our relations," stated Borrell. 

The EU's decision has been welcomed by Armenia as a step towards ensuring peace and stability in the region. The expanded mission is expected to provide a more robust oversight mechanism along the border, contributing to the prevention of conflicts and fostering an environment conducive to diplomatic resolutions.