European Parliament pleased with reform process in Armenia

22.09.2007
PanARMENIAN.Net

Armenia has an important place among the EU’s priorities, Chargé d’Affaires of the Delegation of the European Commission to Armenia, Mr. Raul de Luzenberger told a news conference in Yerevan September 22.

Both sides are rapidly moving towards each other after ratification of the Armenia-EU Action Plan within the ENP, according to him.

“Presently, the EP is pleased with the reform process in Armenia. Moreover, it’s planning to establish a free trade zone and seal economic relations with Yerevan as trade relations,” he said.

When commenting on the policy of neighbor countries which are implementing economic projects bypassing Armenia, Mr de Luzenberger said “the EU cannot impose cooperation.” “The European Union can only render assistance to the states which decided to cooperate,” he said.

For his part, Armenian Deputy Foreign Minister Armen Bayburtian underlined that the Armenia-EU relations have entered a new stage. “The day when the EU member countries will sign an agreement on simplification of visa regime with Armenia is not far off,” he noted.

“Armenia should first of all manage its migration flows,” de Luzenberger’s remark followed.

As to reforms in human rights protection and democracy, both officials gave a high estimation to the May 12 parliamentary elections.

Mr. Raul de Luzenberger wished all inaccuracies and omissions could be corrected during the 2008 presidential elections, IA Regnum reports.

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