YEREVAN. – Poland’s Ambassador to Armenia Zdzisław Raczyński called not to forget about the achievements in relations between Armenia and the EU.

Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, the Ambassador explained why at this stage the Association Agreement can not be initialed. Figuratively speaking, the Association Agreement can be described as a vehicle. Then, the agreement on free trade zone is the engine and wheels. If the Armenian side confirms its readiness to sign the political part of the agreement without a free trade zone, it is like removing the engine and wheels from the vehicle.

Although at this stage the Association Agreement will not be initialed, however, we must not forget about the achievements, Ambassador added.

“You can call me an optimist, but Armenia’s path toward EU is not over, only the pace has become slower,” he emphasized.

At the same time, he added that perhaps Armenia is at crossroads, and “turned her head to the Customs Union for a moment, but has not yet taken any step.” In this context, the Ambassador recalled about different customs rates in the EU and the Customs Union.

Diplomat said the Association Agreement does not prohibit concluding agreements with the countries of the Customs Union.

Asked about the fact that the EU’s position has become softer after the initial harsh reaction, the Ambassador said that showing they are offended is a wrong approach.

“Poland and the EU are trying to be open to the countries of the Eastern Partnership, because they are our neighbors,” he stressed.

According to him, it all depends on the Armenian side and how it wants to cooperate with the EU.