The prime minister of Armenia, Nikol Pashinyan, received a delegation led by Margaritis Schinas, Vice President of the European Commission of the European Union (EU) and Commissioner for Promoting European Way of Life, informs the PM’s office.

The premier welcomed the visit of Schinas to Armenia, and noted that it will contribute to the discussion of the Armenia-EU cooperation agenda and the further development of cooperation. Pashinyan emphasized that this is an important moment for relations between the EU and Armenia.

"I am glad that noticeable changes are being recorded in our relations. The negotiations on the liberalization of the visa regime are starting, a decision was made to assist the Republic of Armenia with the European Peace Facility, which we highly appreciate," said the PM.

According to Nikol Pashinyan, Armenia is actually expanding its agenda with the EU. The prime minister added that especially after his address in the European Parliament last year, discussions are underway in Armenia regarding the possibility of starting a process toward the country becoming an EU member.

"This is not a simple issue, but it has become part of Armenia’s political agenda, so it is necessary to approach this topic in detail and comprehensively. Here it will be important to listen also to the observations and advice of our EU partners," said the Armenian PM.

Pashinyan emphasized the importance of the ongoing activities of the European civilian monitoring mission in Armenia in the context of ensuring peace and stability in the region. In addition, the premier stressed Armenia’s close cooperation with the EU in promoting institutional reforms in the country more effectively.

In turn, Margaritis Schinas emphasized the EU's interest in developing relations with, and promoting reforms in, Armenia. Also, the vice president of the European Commission expressed hope for effective cooperation with the Armenian government in the Visa Liberalization Dialogue.

The interlocutors discussed as well the implementation of the agreements reached at the high-level meeting between the prime minister of Armenia, the president of the European Commission, and the US Secretary of State in Brussels on April 5. Views were exchanged also on several other matters of regional importance.