President of the European People’s Party (EPP) issued a statement ahead of the parliamentary elections in Armenia expressing support to the Republican Party of Armenia which is a member party of EPP.

“I would like to express our support to our member party Republican Party of Armenia, which advocates for a stronger cooperation with the EU and initiated the signing of the Enhanced Partnership Agreement between the European Union and Armenia last year.

A renewed parliament is a renewed opportunity to effectively implement the necessary reforms of the Agreement. The rule of law, the independence of the judiciary, the protection of human rights, the plurality and freedom of media, as well as free and fair elections are all key to the successful development of a democratic Armenian society. 

The EPP has been closely following the election campaign, which must guarantee equal conditions for all political forces engaged in the competition. A strong opposition is a sign of strong democracy in Armenia. We are deeply concerned by the intolerant and hateful rhetoric and the political harassment of the opposition during the election campaign.  This has no place in a democratic society.

Armenia is an important partner for us in the region and we support stronger ties between Armenia and the European Union. We have to explore even further the possible scope of future bilateral cooperation in areas such as good governance, the role of civil society, implementing the mobility partnership and moving toward visa liberalisation. I am confident that the Republican Party of Armenia can deliver on this for Armenia and the Armenian people”.

The EPP has two observer member parties in Armenia: Republican Party of Armenia and Heritage Party Armenia.