EU, US pledge joint support for Armenia in Brussels meeting
European Union and the United States committed to providing political and economic support for Armenia during a high-level trilateral meeting in Brussels
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian convened in Brussels, the Belgian capital.
Von der Leyen congratulated Pashinian for his democratic reforms and collaboration with the EU on sanctions against Russia.
Borrell also noted the positive progress in EU-Armenia relations, stating that they are stronger than ever and that there are mutual interests in furthering them.
$65 million assistance to Armenia
Blinken reaffirmed the trans-Atlantic support for Armenia’s democratic, prosperous future and a more integrated, peaceful South Caucasus region.
Blinken mentioned that the U.S. plans to provide over $65 million in assistance to Armenia, which is a 50% increase compared to two years ago. He highlighted U.S. support for Armenia in areas such as democratic and economic resilience, food security investments, digital infrastructure, diversification of trade partners, and energy resources.
Von der Leyen and Blinken also addressed the need to meet the needs of Armenians displaced from Karabakh and ensure their long-term integration.
Messages from Armenia
Pashinian thanked the EU for organizing this high-level meeting “to reaffirm the collective commitment to a sovereign, resilient, and prosperous Armenia.”
“Today’s high-level dialogue signifies Armenia’s expanding partnership with the US and the EU,” said Pashinian. “It is time to enhance our economic cooperation, promote trade, and broaden our partnership in mobility.”
Pashinian also underscored his country’s commitment to normalizing relations with Azerbaijan based on mutual recognition of sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Source: Newsroom