YEREVAN. On March 26, 2025, the Armenian Parliament passed a law on EU integration, marking a historic milestone in the country’s pursuit of a European future.
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Armenia has officially declared the start of its European Union integration process
Yerevan, Armenia. Armenia has officially declared the start of its EU integration process, adopting a law on March 26 that lays the foundation for developing democratic institutions, improving societal welfare, strengthening national security, and upholding the rule of law, while formally announcing the beginning of its path toward EU membership.
President Vahagn Khachaturyan, during a joint press conference with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier in Yerevan, emphasized the symbolic and practical importance of this step: „The 1995 Constitution of Armenia charts a path toward freedom and democracy. The European Union represents a way to realize this vision.” He added that the integration process should be free from coercion and grounded in partnership and shared vision, stating: „We need support, including from Germany, but the responsibility for action lies with us.”
The adoption of the law received broad public support, especially among Armenia’s younger generation, who view the EU as a guarantor of stability, development, and freedom. Local NGOs and academic circles expressed hope that this step would lead to deeper reforms in education, environmental protection, and technology. Experts stress that Armenia must now focus on legal harmonization, anti-corruption efforts, strengthening free media, and ensuring judicial independence.
CEPA as the Foundation for Reforms and European Aspirations
Four days after this landmark decision, representatives from the EU Delegation and the Armenian government gathered to mark the fourth anniversary of the full entry into force of the Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement (CEPA). The event served not only as a reflection on achievements but also as a platform to discuss the deepening of cooperation in the context of Armenia’s formal EU ambitions.
EU Ambassador to Armenia, Vassilis Maragos, described CEPA as the bedrock of cooperation and an effective reform tool. He highlighted the importance of accelerating adaptation processes, particularly in economic development and aligning with EU standards.
Four Years of CEPA: Achievements, Challenges, and Outlook
At the CEPA retreat, attended by around 80 government officials, EU representatives, and reform experts, the Armenian government presented a draft review of CEPA implementation through the end of 2024. Key achievements included strengthening democratic institutions, judicial reforms, improving the investment climate, and enhancing administrative transparency.
Deputy Prime Minister Mher Grigoryan emphasized that in light of geopolitical instability, consistent implementation of reforms remains crucial. “Despite challenges, the Armenian government is steadily advancing along its chosen reform path, making necessary adjustments and cooperating closely with the EU,” he said.
Toward a New Partnership Agenda and Visa Liberalization
During the event, it was announced that negotiations on a new EU-Armenia Partnership Agenda are nearing completion. The new framework will include security reforms and progress toward visa liberalization. Discussions are also underway regarding the EU’s Resilience and Growth Plan for Armenia, aimed at boosting the country’s development potential.
Meglena Kuneva, former EU Commissioner and Deputy Prime Minister of Bulgaria, shared insights from Bulgaria’s European integration experience. She emphasized the role of an efficient public administration as the cornerstone of successful reforms.
EU observers commenting on Armenia’s prospects stressed the need to develop civil society and enhance social dialogue. Civic education and raising public awareness about the benefits of EU integration are seen as essential. Analysts agree that the long-term success of this process depends on political consistency and transparent governance.
CEPA as a Tool for Tangible Benefits to Citizens
The second CEPA Retreat reaffirmed the shared determination of Armenia and the EU to accelerate reforms and deepen cooperation. The event demonstrated that CEPA is not only a framework for integration and reform but also a symbol of Armenia’s European choice. Both the recent legislative move and current initiatives underscore that Armenia’s path toward the European Union is becoming increasingly tangible.
Central Europe Reports >> Law&Politics >> MHN >> Source: Armenpress >> Photo: Arina Dmitrieva >> 6.04.2025
