EU, Armenia deepen ties: visa liberalization action plan approved, €270 m support package announced

The European Union has approved a Visa Liberalization Action Plan for Armenia, a major step forward in strengthening people-to-people ties between the EU and Armenia, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas announced during a joint press conference with Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan in Yerevan on June 30.

"I came here with a clear message. The EU and Armenia have never been as close as we are now," said Kallas, highlighting recent progress, including Armenia’s adoption of a law initiating the EU accession process. She emphasized a new political agreement outlining cooperation in economic development, security, and resilience as part of a new EU-Armenia partnership agenda.

According to her, the EU is launching a €270 million Resilience and Growth Plan for Armenia (2024–2027). The plan aims to support Armenian businesses, enhance connectivity with Europe, and accelerate democratic reforms.

Beyond economic collaboration, the EU is offering humanitarian aid, including housing and psychosocial support for displaced Karabakh Armenians, and is increasing funding for independent media to reinforce democracy and societal resilience in Armenia.

Kallas also confirmed the EU’s growing role in regional peace and security. The EU monitoring mission in Armenia is helping stabilize the region, while a newly signed Framework Participation Agreement will allow Armenia to contribute to EU crisis management missions worldwide.

Regarding Armenia-Azerbaijan relations, Kallas reaffirmed the EU’s support for normalization based on sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the inviolability of borders. “There is no alternative to these three principles,” she said, expressing hope for continued progress in bilateral talks.

Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan welcomed the EU's deepening involvement in Armenia's security landscape, saying:

"We value the EU’s support in building a resilient security sector that serves our citizens and strengthens public trust. The EU monitoring mission has become a key stabilizing force, and we look forward to continued assistance through the European Peace Facility in 2025."

Mirzoyan also stressed Armenia's commitment to greater engagement in crisis response operations and strategic partnerships with EU member states, underlining the growing compatibility between Armenian and European institutions.