EU Ambassador to Armenia Vassilis Maragos called for a more “ambitious and realistic” approach to reforms, emphasizing the need to strengthen implementation of agreements between Armenia and the European Union.

Speaking at the 8th EU–Armenia Civil Society Platform meeting, Maragos said Armenia is now “at the center of the European political agenda,” pointing to growing high-level engagement and upcoming summits.

He noted that EU-supported programs aim to improve both institutional frameworks and citizens’ quality of life, including through economic development, public service modernization, and private-sector growth. Some Armenian companies, he said, have already increased exports to European markets by more than 7% within a year.

Maragos highlighted progress in building a structured partnership, including the adoption of a new strategic agenda and expanded cooperation tools. He stressed that civil society remains central to sustaining reforms. “Civil society has an indispensable role in the reform process,” he said.

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, addressing the forum, echoed the importance of civic engagement while acknowledging ongoing structural challenges. “It is difficult to overestimate the role of civil society in our reality,” he said, calling for more coordinated cooperation between institutions and the public.

He admitted that shortcomings persist, particularly in the justice sector, pointing to weak institutional trust and differing perceptions of fairness. Pashinyan argued that Armenia needs a new constitution that genuinely reflects the will of its citizens. “We must admit that we do not have such a Constitution… and when that source…has a rupture with the people, the operation of that mechanism can never be perceived… as justice,” he said.

He emphasized that cooperation with the EU and other international partners is essential to addressing these issues, while safeguarding national identity and sovereignty.

On Armenia’s long-term trajectory, Pashinyan said the country aims to meet “the best standards,” reaffirming continued engagement with the EU and a stronger role for civil society in shaping reforms.