Тhe European Union Advisory Group and the Interagency Commission for cooperation between Armenia’s government bodies and European agencies have focused their attention on relaxing visa requirements in effect between Armenia and other states, Artur Baghdasaryan, Secretary of the RA National Security Council Artur Baghdsaryan stated at a joint meeting.

He stressed that Armenia has established visa-free regime with nine states, and further work has to be carried out. The EU Advisory Group welcomed Armenia’s work in this field. Baghdasaryan said that the Interagency Commission and the Advisory Group are also highlighting border security. “The matter concerns the improvement of borderline infrastructures,” he aid. Baghdasaryan pointed out the EU Advisory Group’s readiness to help Armenia in this process.

The Group representatives pointed out effective cooperation with Armenia, the first country the Group has launched its program in. The Group’s cooperation with Armenia suggested the launching of similar programs in other countries.

The Interagency Commission and the Advisory Group are implementing reforms in 197 fields under the Armenia-EU cooperation program. Specifically, the Advisory Group, in cooperation with the UN Development Program and the Council of Europe, revised the anti-corruption strategy, facilitated the elaboration of a national human rights program, launched measured improve the social management quality, set the priorities of the Trade Agreement with the EU, and contributed to tax and customs administration development.

RA Ombudsman Armen Harutyunyan stressed the necessity for government financing of the national human rights program and for involving public and government representatives in the elaboration process.