On May 5, the European Union and Armenia convened their inaugural summit in Yerevan, focusing on enhanced cooperation across various sectors, including connectivity, security and defence, economic development, and people-to-people interactions. The summit provided an opportunity to assess the status of EU-Armenia relations while addressing broader regional and global challenges, particularly regarding the peace agenda and the normalisation of relations in the South Caucasus.

“This first EU-Armenia Summit elevates our partnership to a new level and sets a clear direction and agenda for the coming years. At the heart of this work is our joint commitment to peace and stability in the region. Going forward, we will also deepen political dialogue, strengthen economic ties, and work towards a more secure, prosperous, and stable future. Our cooperation is grounded in common values, a shared vision for the South Caucasus, and full respect for sovereign choices,” stated European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

During this significant meeting, President Ursula von der Leyen, European Council President António Costa, and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan oversaw the signing of the EU-Armenia Connectivity Partnership. This partnership represents a pivotal step forward in strengthening transportation, energy, and digital connections. It is fully aligned with the EU’s Cross-Regional Connectivity Agenda and Armenia’s Crossroad of Peace initiative, aimed at boosting trade, creating job opportunities, reinforcing resilience, and supporting regional stability.

The partnership will be formalised through the establishment of a High-Level Dialogue on Connectivity and a High-Level Transport Dialogue, both initiated at the summit. To further stimulate economic growth in Armenia, a Call for Expressions of Interest has been launched, inviting companies from the EU, the European Economic Area, and Armenia to submit proposals for strategic investment initiatives in the country.

The signing of the first Letters of Intent with selected private-sector partners in key areas such as digital infrastructure, semiconductor proficiency, innovation ecosystems, and private investment mobilisation is expected to yield tangible benefits for Armenia. Moreover, the first progress report on the implementation of the visa liberalisation action plan was presented, acknowledging significant progress and offering recommendations for subsequent steps.

Additionally, the summit witnessed the initialling of a working arrangement between the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex) and the Armenian Ministry of Internal Affairs. This agreement aims to enhance cooperation on border and migration management, supporting Armenia’s efforts to implement the visa liberalisation action plan effectively.

On the security and defence front, leaders welcomed the establishment of an EU Partnership Mission in Armenia. In response to Armenia’s request, the EU is committed to strengthening the country’s resilience. Furthermore, the Armenian Armed Forces received initial deliveries of EU assistance under the European Peace Facility, totalling €30 million.

The EU-Armenia partnership, based on the CEPA and a 2025 Strategic Agenda, includes a €270 million Resilience and Growth Plan. This plan aims to boost socio-economic resilience through investment in connectivity, strengthen EU ties, and promote an inclusive society, while enhancing political dialogue and economic integration.

https://www.europeaninterest.eu/eu-and-armenia-forge-connectivity-partnership-to-boost-economic-and-security-cooperation/