On October 29, Nikol Pashinyan, the Prime Minister of Armenia, reaffirmed his country’s commitment to the peace agenda in the South Caucasus and to deepening cooperation with the European Union during a visit to Paris.

Meeting with Viorica Dăncilă

Prime Minister Pashinyan met with Viorica Dăncilă, the Vice President of the European Parliament, to discuss the ongoing normalization process with Azerbaijan and the expansion of the Armenia-EU partnership.

Dăncilă commended Armenia’s commitment to the peace process, including its active participation in the TRIPP (Transport Routes for International Peace and Prosperity) project. The Vice President acknowledged that the implementation of the Washington agreements, mediated by the United States, was a key factor in ensuring peace and long-term economic development in the region.

Pashinyan expressed appreciation for the European Parliament’s supportive stance on the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Armenia. He noted that the newly established EU civilian monitoring mission in Armenia (EUMA) had already played a significant role in enhancing stability on the border. The Prime Minister reaffirmed that the agreements reached in Washington, D.C., were being implemented and would usher in an era of peace and regional development.

Regarding Armenia’s upcoming parliamentary elections, Pashinyan underscored their significance for the peace process, future prosperity, and stability, expressing confidence that Armenian citizens will continue to support the peace agenda. He also spoke about the prospects for normalizing relations with Turkey and advancing Armenia-EU cooperation.

Meeting with Emmanuel Macron and Kajsa Ollongren

On the same day, Pashinyan attended a dinner hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace, followed by a meeting to discuss strategic bilateral relations. The leaders reviewed cooperation in the economy, infrastructure, and other sectors, reaffirming the strategic importance of Armenia-France relations. They also discussed regional issues, including the TRIPP project and efforts to unblock communication routes, and exchanged views on expanding Armenia-EU cooperation under a new partnership agenda.

Additionally, Prime Minister Pashinyan met with Kajsa Ollongren, the EU Special Representative for Human Rights, to discuss reforms aimed at protecting human rights, strengthening democratic institutions, and ensuring the rule of law. Pashinyan emphasized that safeguarding human rights and continuing democratic reforms are government priorities and described democracy as a strategy rather than a choice. Ollongren praised Armenia’s efforts to develop democratic institutions and implement human rights reforms and reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to close cooperation.