Opening statement by President von der Leyen at the first EU-Armenia Summit

Thank you, Prime Minister, dear Nikol, for the warm reception you have given to my friend António and me receiving us here.

I would like to congratulate you, both for hosting the European Political Community yesterday here in beautiful Yerevan. And for your peace-oriented agenda. Armenia has long been a valued member of our broader European family. Your peaceful Velvet Revolution in 2018 demonstrated your country's commitment to core European values. That is democracy, respect for the rule of law, and fundamental freedoms. Today, I want to express our firm support and partnership with Armenia. We live in a volatile geopolitical context, and in this challenging environment, - this first-ever EU–Armenia Summit could not be more timely. It is the opportunity to deepen our bonds, and take our unique partnership to the next level. We will do so along four key priorities.

First, connectivity. We have just signed a Connectivity Partnership. It brings a new level of ambition to our cooperation. Starting with transport. Few countries are as uniquely positioned as Armenia. Your “Crossroads of Peace” initiative has the potential to link Europe with the South Caucasus and Central Asia. And to turn Armenia into a key transport hub. We are ready to work on rebuilding border crossing points, as your frontiers reopen with neighbouring countries. We know how important it is for a landlocked country like Armenia to be firmly integrated into a regional transport network. 

This is why we will support your integration into key transport networks, like the Trans Caspian Corridor. It is a route that is also of strategic importance for Europe, also given the growing flows of trade between our two regions. This is why today we are launching a High-Level Dialogue on Transport. As transport networks are a driving force for competitiveness.

Turning to energy. Armenia's rapid expansion of solar energy is remarkable. It is a clear sign of your commitment to diversifying Armenia's energy mix. And it is of paramount importance given the energy crisis we are all facing. We are supporting projects to further boost your energy independence, specifically in view of the precious renewable resources you were describing. This already includes 25 million EUR for the Caucasus Transmission Network. And investment in energy storage, for your security of supply.

Now turning to digital. Armenia's emerging AI and engineering ecosystem is a strength we want to build on. Together we have identified a wide set of projects, and we have witnessed the signature of several Letters of Intent with leading companies. We are encouraging European companies to invest here, - where talent and opportunities come together. Armenia is the place to be.

The second priority is stronger cooperation on security. Under the European Peace Facility, we are supporting the Armenian Armed Forces. But Armenia also has to counter foreign information manipulation, hybrid threats and interference. Our new EU Partnership mission will support you in countering hybrid threats and disinformation. Because one thing is absolutely clear, the Armenian people's will must remain the only legitimate source of power in the country.

The third priority is cooperation on visa policy and home affairs. Visa liberalisation is a priority that matters deeply to the Armenian people. And rightly so - since it is a key vehicle to bring our people closer together. So, we are pleased to present the first progress report on the implementation of the visa liberalisation action plan. And congratulation, it shows good work and progress since last November. I am absolutely convinced we are going to get there. Also today, we are also setting a new working arrangement between Frontex and Armenia. It will strengthen cooperation on border and migration management.

Last but not least, the fourth priority is continued economic support and societal resilience. Two years ago, we launched Resilience and Growth Plan for Armenia. Worth a 270 million euro. Its implementation is progressing well. We now expect the plan to leverage 2.5 billion euro in mobilised investments. We are supporting Armenian businesses, helping them grow and innovate, and access new markets. We are investing in skills and employment, but also on demining which is vital for safety and recovery. And we are providing much-needed support, including housing, to those displaced from Karabakh.

So, a wide range of topics. I have just touched on the most important ones, but this, dear Nikol and dear António, shows the width and the depth of our cooperation, and I am very much looking forward to our next summit.