YEREVAN. – French Minister of State for European Affairs Harlem Desir welcomed EU decision to authorize European Commission to open negotiations on a new agreement with Armenia.

This move marked an important stage in relations between Armenia and EU, Desir said in a statement.

The future agreement should enable to strengthen economic, political and cultural contacts between the EU and Armenia, while respecting the decision of Armenia to join the Eurasian Economic Union, the Minister said.

Relying on the government's constructive engagement in talks, Minister for European Affairs called for quick signing of the agreement and reiterated France's willingness to help Armenia while implementing necessary reforms.