EU-Armenia Celebrate 7th Anniversary of CEPA Agreement

On 22 November 2024, the Ambassador of the European Union to Armenia, H.E. Vassilis Maragos, and the Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia, H.E. Mher Grigoryan, jointly hosted a high-level event in Yerevan to mark the seventh anniversary of the signing of the EU-Armenia Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement (CEPA).

The event brought together Ministers, Deputy Ministers, senior officials from the Armenian Government, representatives of the EU Delegation, diplomatic missions of EU Member States, and members of CEPA civil society platform. It provided an opportunity to reflect on the successes achieved and to reaffirm the shared commitment to the continued implementation of CEPA.

Ambassador Maragos emphasised that CEPA is a cornerstone of EU-Armenia relations, driving reforms, fostering modernisation, and aligning Armenia with its long-term strategic vision. “CEPA underscores our shared commitment to democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. It provides a robust framework for deepened EU-Armenia cooperation in political, economic, trade, and other areas, aimed to bring positive change to people’s lives. Over the years, we have worked intensively to unlock its full potential, advancing our bilateral relations to an elevated level. This year, we launched the Resilience and Growth Plan for Armenia, opened the European Peace Facility, and initiated the Visa Liberalization Dialogue, strengthening connections between our peoples. Simultaneously, the EU continues to support Armenia’s reforms, infrastructure, and regional development, bringing it closer to Europen standards. Together, we remain steadfast in our dedication to fostering progress and achieving our ambitious goals.”

Deputy Prime Minister Grigoryan also reflected on the importance of CEPA, highlighting its role in strengthening Armenia’s partnership with the European Union and advancing the nation’s development.

“CEPA is, first and foremost, an expression of our understanding of sustainable development, grounded in our shared values and aspirations with Europe. The objective is to establish a long-term, mutually beneficial relationship with EU and it Member States. The Agreement serves as a guiding framework for bilateral cooperation, with a particular focus on the promotion of democracy and human rights, the facilitation of trade and investment, the public administration reforms, and the protection of the environment in Armenia. The success of this Agreement will be gauged by the tangible impact of CEPA reforms on the lives of citizens, rather than being defined by the technical specifics or political rhetoric surrounding it.”, said the Deputy Prime Minister.

The EU Delegation to Armenia and the Armenian Government reaffirmed their shared commitment to continuing the successful cooperation under CEPA, marking the occasion as a testament to the deepening ties between the EU and Armenia.