Armenian ruling party warns public against inflated expectations on EU accession

The ruling Civil Contract party in Armenia has urged the public to manage their expectations regarding the country’s possible accession to the European Union (EU), emphasizing that the process is lengthy and complex.

Speaking at a parliamentary briefing, Artur Hovhannisyan, Secretary of the ruling party’s parliamentary faction, clarified that while Armenia maintains an active dialogue with European partners, joining the EU requires significant time and effort, Caliber.Az reports, citing Armenian media.

He noted that a referendum on EU accession represents the final step in the process, not the beginning, and that it is premature to discuss Armenia's membership prospects at this stage.

“Joining the EU is a long and complicated process. A referendum is only held at the end, after a formal membership application and years of negotiations,” Hovhannisyan explained.

He further highlighted that while the ruling party has consistently supported strengthening ties with the EU, it is important to remind the public that the current discussions around a referendum are driven by extra-parliamentary forces using legal avenues, rather than an immediate step towards membership.

Hovhannisyan concluded by expressing optimism about Armenia’s continued relationship with the EU but cautioned that inflated public expectations could lead to disappointment if the complexity of the process is not understood.

In related news, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has embarked on a working visit to Georgia. According to his press secretary, Nazeli Baghdasaryan, Pashinyan is scheduled to meet with his Georgian counterpart Irakli Kobakhidze for one-on-one talks. Following the meeting, expanded talks are expected, with both leaders set to issue a joint press statement.