Armenia and the European Union (EU) are set to initiate negotiations on visa liberalization, as announced by Armenia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Paruyr Hovhannisyan.

The decision by the Council of EU Foreign Ministers marks the beginning of discussions with Armenia on visa liberalization. Hovhannisyan emphasized the positive development, expressing the importance of unanimous EU support and the challenges in reaching a consensus.

He stated that Armenia will actively collaborate with the EU and its member states to expedite the process. The move follows the EU’s consideration of supporting Armenia through the European Peace Fund and easing visa restrictions. Hovhannisyan believes that increasing the number of EU observers and expanding their capabilities will enhance stability along Armenia’s borders.

While the exact increase in EU observers is yet unknown, Hovhannisyan anticipates swift progress without delays. In a prior announcement, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell highlighted the EU’s decision to bolster its mission in Armenia and extend patrols along the border with Azerbaijan.

In April, Armenia’s Secretary of the Security Council, Armen Grigoryan, advocated for more EU observers and expanded mission capabilities due to the current insufficient number for effective monitoring of Armenia-Azerbaijan borders.