Armenia seeks European standards, not necessarily EU entry, says PM

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to aligning with European Union standards across all sectors, while acknowledging that full compliance may not necessarily lead to EU membership.

Pashinyan delivered the remarks at the Armenian Forum for Democracy, Caliber.Az reports, citing Armenian media.

The PM emphasized that the primary objective of his administration is not formal accession to the EU, but rather the internal transformation of the country to reflect European norms and values.

“The government declares that our goal is to achieve EU standards in all spheres. We understand that even after doing so, we may not become a member of the European Union. But the main objective is precisely to meet those standards,” Pashinyan stated.

The Armenian Prime Minister noted that achieving parity with EU benchmarks in governance, the rule of law, and democratic institutions would, in itself, constitute a strategic success for the country — one that could render the question of formal EU membership less critical over time.

“Many perceive this as geopolitics. I understand that view, but no one is taking note of the decision made by the political majority. The next step is a declaration and a statement of commitment to democratic reforms. Otherwise, passing such a law would be meaningless,” he added.

By Vafa Guliyeva