Barev Dzez

Dear friends in Armenia!

As we stand on the threshold of a new year, I wish to extend to you a warm greeting on behalf of the European Union!

The year which is finishing is a year of significant achievements, further strengthening the partnership between Armenia and the European Union.

We have supported democratic and economic reforms in many sectors which affect people’s daily lives: education, transport, air safety, nuclear safety, police and justice reforms; we invested in energy efficiency, in renewables (notably solar panels) and waste management.

We supported tourism, local development, social cohesion, youth and culture. We support Armenia to overcome the socio-economic problems of Armenians from Nagorno Karabakh. Since September 2023 the EU mobilized close to 70 million EUR (around 30 billion drams) to address the needs of Armenian refugees.

The European Union’s Economic and Investment Plan has mobilized more than €600 million, creating new jobs and helping economic diversification, providing new opportunities for small and medium enterprises, agriculture, women entrepreneurs. Last month we signed a new financial package of € 70 million from the European Investment Bank to further improve access to finance.

On top we announced a new 270 million euros resilience and growth plan to strengthen Armenia’s economy and bring it closer to Europe.

As part of our efforts to bring peace and stability to the region, we continued to engage with partners, and the EU Mission in Armenia continued to implement its mandate, providing human security and contributing to confidence-building. It recently completed 4000 patrols.  

Last but not least, we opened the European Peace Facility to Armenia, we have launched the visa liberalization dialogue which aims at introducing visa-free travel for Armenian citizens provided that conditions for well-managed security and mobility are in place.

I wish to thank my team, all stakeholders in Armenia and my colleagues ambassadors of member countries of the EU, for excellent cooperation and dedication. I want to emphasize our unwavering belief in Armenia’s huge potential. Armenia stands at a crossroads – with opportunities for sustainable economic growth, social cohesion and democratic development. We are united by our common values and our belief in peace and a rules-based international order. The European Union supports Armenia’s statehood, sovereignty and democracy. It is a committed partner to Armenia and its people.

May the New Year bring to you and your families peace, prosperity and may it strengthen your dedication to pursue your dreams!

Shnorhavor Nor Tari ev Surb Tsnund

Please watch the New Year’s message here