On June 21, Armenian Foreign Minister Zohrab Mnatsakanyan, who is in Brussels on a working visit, had a meeting with Federica Mogherini, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice-President of the Commission.
Welcoming Zohrab Mnatsakanyan, the EU High Representative noted that the meeting is taking place at the right time, providing an opportunity to learn firsthand about the processes in Armenia, to exchange views on positions and approaches on different issues, first of all, on the further development of Armenia-EU relations.
Expressing gratitude for a warm reception, Minister Mnatsakanyan highlighted the importance of close partnership cooperation established with the European Union and reaffirmed Armenia’s commitment to further strengthen it, which is enshrined in the programme of the Government. Foreign Minister noted with satisfaction that convening the meeting of the Partnership Council at such a significant period of time for Armenia gives an opportunity for an exchange of views on the broad agenda of Armenia-EU cooperation. He also underlined that after signing the Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement, this is the first meeting that will thoroughly discuss the implementation of its provisions.
Minister Mnatsakanyan presented in detail the recent developments in Armenia, the foreign policy priorities of the Government, which are based on the principle of continuity and are aimed at the protection of Armenia’s national interests. Foreign Minister of Armenia noted that the new Government, which enjoys the robust mandate from the people, has shown with its actions the strong will and responsibility for the realization of high expectations of society towards ensuring equal rights in the areas of justice, rule of law, economic, social and other spheres, in order to resolutely address the threats and challenges of corruption. Foreign Minister of Armenia underlined that the determination of the new government of Armenia is unwavering and proved by the deeds.
In this context, the EU High Representative welcomed the peaceful nature of the changes that took place in Armenia within the framework of the Constitution and the laws, at the same time reaffirming EU’s willingness to support the ongoing reforms in Armenia. In this regard, Minister Mnatsakanyan attached importance to Armenia’s cooperation with its partners, including the European Union, aimed at effective implementation of the Government’s reforms.
Foreign Minister Mnatsakanyan and High Representative Mogherini reiterated their readiness to strengthen and expand the comprehensive collaboration in all the areas of mutual interest, underlining that the priorities in this direction coincide.
The interlocutors exchanged views on the issues related to Armenia-EU cooperation, such as political dialogue, trade-economic ties, mobility, human rights and Armenia’s participation in various sectorial programmes of the EU.
Foreign Minister of Armenia and the EU High Representative exchanged views on regional and international challenges and issues, specifically emphasizing the issues of crucial importance for the security agenda of Armenia. The interlocutors touched upon such spheres of cooperation that would provide the opportunity to work together in addressing those challenges.
Foreign Minister of Armenia briefed Federica Mogherini on the position and priorities of the Armenian side with regards the Nagorno Karabakh conflict settlement, reaffirming in this context the provisions set forth in the programme of the Government, in particular, the commitment of Armenia to the exclusively peaceful settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict within the framework of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairmanship. In the context of advancing the negotiation process, the Foreign Minister underlined the importance of creating the environment conducive to peace and implementing the previously reached agreements.
Federica Mogherini reaffirmed the support of the EU for the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs’ efforts aimed at the peaceful settlement of the conflict.