Armenia and the European Union have officially begun discussions on visa liberalization.
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"The launch of the visa liberalisation dialogue is a clear demonstration of our commitment to enhancing mobility and cooperation with Armenia. It represents a step forward in our shared objective of bringing the people of Armenia and the EU closer together and a recognition of Armenia’s efforts in strengthening its ties and shared values with the EU," said European Commission Vice President Margaritis Schinas, who arrived in Yerevan on September 9.
Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan described the start of the dialogue as "an important moment" in the bilateral relations between Yerevan and Brussels.
"I am pleased that noticeable changes are taking place in our relations. Negotiations on visa liberalization are beginning, and a decision has been made to support Armenia through the European Peace Facility, which we highly appreciate," said Pashinyan.
At the meeting with Margaritis Schinas, she referenced her speech in the European Parliament last year, where she stated that Yerevan wishes to be as close to the European Union as the EU deems possible. According to the Prime Minister, discussions have since continued in Armenia regarding the possibility of the country joining the European Union.
"This is not an easy issue, but it has become part of Armenia's political agenda. It is essential to approach this topic in detail and comprehensively. In this regard, it will be important to consider the remarks and advice of our EU partners," Pashinyan said.
The goal of the dialogue is to ultimately abolish the visa requirement for Armenian citizens during short-term visits to the EU. A prerequisite for this is the implementation of reforms by the Armenian authorities. According to the European Commission, the experience of other third countries shows that the dialogue will be a multi-year process carried out in close cooperation with EU member states.
"The European Commission and the Government of Armenia will work closely to ensure that the dialogue is conducted efficiently and effectively. The process is merit-based, it will last as long as it is necessary and there will be no automatic transition to visa-free travel. All benchmarks must be fully met before the final decision on visa liberalisation is taken by the Council of the EU and the European Parliament. The process will require close cooperation with EU Member States to monitor progress and developments rigorously," reads the statement published on the Armenian government's website.
