Statement by President Serzh Sargsyan at the EU Eastern Partnership Second Summit

Distinguished Colleagues,


Creation of the Eastern Partnership program was the call of the times indeed. It has breathed new life into and opened new prospects for the relations between the European Union and Eastern partners. Now, after almost two years after its commencement, it is necessary to evaluate progress and decide on future steps. The very fact that these issues are being discussed at the Summit demonstrates attitude toward the Eastern Partnership program and reiterates political will to move it forward.

In our rapidly changing world, emerging challenges in their various manifestations correlate not only to the European Union but also to the Eastern Partnership member-states since as a result of our cooperation our interdependence becomes more and more tangible. We attach great importance to the “more reforms – more assistance” principle which has been developed after reviewing the Eastern Partnership policy. Principles of differentiated approach and involvement are important: each country deserves attitude equivalent to its merits and progress.

In Armenia, progress achieved in the negotiations on the Association Agreement is received with genuine satisfaction. We have purposefully maintained and will continue with such a pace of advancement. Currently we are taking necessary steps aimed at the establishment with the European Union of the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Zone. We view this process as an additional impetus for moving forward basic institutional and structural reforms in Armenia.

Two years ago, we invited a group of EU experts to our country to assist us in the implementation of the second phase of the reforms. Today, we are planning with the assistance of our European partners to start concurrent and large-scale reforms in a number of areas. We are determined to continue consistent comprehensive reforms in line with the EU standards in economy, good governance, democracy, human rights, rule of law and different areas of public life.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Maintaining on its territory a lasting peace and prosperity, the European Union appears to the world as a unique example of political and economic integration. I am confident that this experience can also be employed in the South Caucasus.

Unresolved conflicts must receive their just and lasting resolution. We continue to adhere to the peaceful resolution of the NK conflict in the framework of the peace process conducted by the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group. For Armenia and Nagorno Karabakh physical security of the people and their right to master their own destiny is the key to the resolution of the conflict.

The people of Nagorno Karabakh are no less Europeans than any of us. They put great effort in developing their institutions in accordance with the values which we declare universal and it is, undoubtedly, deserves attention and assistance. Moreover, exclusion of the people of Nagorno Karabakh from that realm of attention cannot be conducive to the just resolution of the conflict.

Unfortunately, today our region is entangled in the cobweb of a persistent infusion of hatred and military rhetoric. This situation cannot be good and demands immediate alteration. It was also for that reason that yesterday, I refrained from responding to the unwarranted accusations voiced by the President of Azerbaijan against Armenia, considering that there is another well-known and universally accepted framework for deep and comprehensive discussions on the NK issue – OSCE and its Minsk Group co-chaired by the US, France and Russia. As for the European Union, as it’s been stated on many occasions, it stands on the positions of creating favorable conditions for a peaceful resolution of the conflict and confidence building measures which is, of course, praiseworthy. This task can be successfully accomplished by the EU, and first of all through the Eastern Partnership which is an important component of regional cooperation. If we can use this opportunity wisely, we all will benefit – the Partner states and EU member states.

Not a single problem, including conflicts, can obstruct cooperation, if there is a desire and sufficient political will. If we are candid in our allegiance to common European values, if we want to have a more secure and prosperous region, if we truly view the Eastern Partnership as an initiative of opportunities, I see no obstacle for regional cooperation. EU has pivotal role in promoting such cooperation, and we anticipate consistency in reaffirming its own principles and values.

A couple of words regarding energy programs:

We do comprehend the imperative for the EU member states to ensure energy security and diversification of supply sources. At the same time, we have the right to anticipate same comprehension of the issue related to the security of our country, regarding stability and even development of our region.

I believe that as a proponent of peace and security in the South Caucasus, the EU policy should be aimed at the even development of the region, therefore to the preservation of the balance. We certainly support the region’s involvement in the pan-European projects which will in turn strengthen existing relations between the South Caucasus and the European Union. However, realization of these projects should not result in the creation of more favorable conditions for some countries, particularly, when that capital is used to undermine regional stability. I trust, the European Union is fully aware of the fragile situation in the region.

The South corridor must not become a new source for nourishing war.

Distinguished Colleagues:

The Eastern Partnership has proved its viability, creating prerequisites for establishing a closer cooperation between our societies, improved governance through giving new impetus and new quality to the reforms, for creating a more harmonious and prosperous European realm without dividing lines. I am confident that in cooperation with the European Union, we will be able to implement in the framework of the Eastern Partnership many ambitious reformation programs.

I thank the EU Polish Chairmanship for hosting this Summit and for the provided opportunity to exchange views on the highest level.