Armenia and EU begin talks on visa-free regime
On Monday, September 9, the European Union began negotiations on visa liberalization with Armenia, according to the Armenian service of Radio Liberty.
According to reports, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan held a meeting with European Commission Vice-President Margaritis Schinas in Yerevan.
"I am pleased that we are seeing noticeable changes in our relations. Negotiations on visa liberalization are starting, and a decision has been made to support the Republic of Armenia through the European Peace Facility, which we greatly appreciate," Pashinyan said.
During the meeting, the decision was also made to support Armenia through the European Peace Facility. Additionally, discussions about the possibility of Armenia joining the EU are actively ongoing in the country.
For his part, the European Commission Vice-President noted the EU's interest in developing relations with Armenia and advancing reforms in the country. Schinas also expressed hope for effective cooperation with the Armenian government on the visa liberalization dialogue.
Visa-free regime with the EU
EU leaders first promised to start visa liberalization talks with Yerevan at the Eastern Partnership summit with Armenia and five other former Soviet republics back in 2017.
In July 2024, it became known that the European Union ambassadors gave the green light to start a visa-free dialogue with Armenia and agreed to provide military assistance from the European Peace Facility.