Costa: Europe backs Armenia’s right to determine its path

President of the European Council António Costa said it is important for Europe to protect the Armenian people’s freedom to determine their own future, as he addressed the first Armenia–EU summit in Yerevan.

Speaking at the summit, Costa emphasised the significance of the event, describing it as a continuation of what he called a series of historic developments. He referred to the European Political Community summit held in Yerevan a day earlier as historic, adding that the Armenia–EU summit represents “a second historic event” and a clear signal of how the European Union intends to build its relationship with Armenia, Caliber.Az reports, referring to Armenian media.

According to Costa, Armenia has entered a new phase characterised by peace and democracy, creating favourable conditions for development and for strengthening bilateral ties with the EU. He noted that since the launch of the EU–Armenia agenda adopted in December, relations have deepened further.

Costa said the EU and Armenia are working closely on security issues, including through European mechanisms designed to counter hybrid threats. He added that the activities of the EU mission focused on democratic resilience are aimed at achieving the same objectives.

“It is important for us to protect the freedom of the Armenian people to choose their own destiny. You can rely on us, to walk this path together and a common path together,” Costa said.

He also underlined Armenia’s strategic importance, describing it as a key link on the route connecting Europe with the Caspian Sea and Central Asia.

By Tamilla Hasanova