Armenia is a very important partner for EU: Barroso

YEREVAN, December 3. /ARKA/. Armenia is a very important partner for the European Union, President of the European Commission Jose Manuel Barroso said in a statement Saturday at the joint press bribing with Armenia’s President Serzh Sargsyan in Yerevan.

“The European Union has a stake in Armenia’s future and we are ready to work together with you in fulfilling the aspirations of all Armenian citizens. You can count on us.”

According to him, in the framework of Eastern Partnership the EU is building a strong relationship based on political association, economic integration, and deeper people-to-people contacts.

“Indeed, the negotiations on the Association Agreement, including a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area, are progressing very well and we should aim to reach a good agreement by the end of next year in time of our Eastern Partnership Summit in Vilnius in November 2013,” he said adding that once completed, these negotiations will further strengthen Armenia’s European perspective.

“This year we increased our assistance to the country giving an additional € 15 million for an existing project on the reform of the Judiciary and for an on-going operation on Vocational and Education Training. This is not only recognition of your good work, but it is an incentive to keep your reformist ambition.”

He also congratulated President Sargsyan for the good conduct of the Parliamentary elections in May 2012. 

“I am reassured by the President’s personal commitment to address the shortcomings that were identified by the OSCE/ODIHR mission.”

Mr. Barroso also noted the EU fully recognizes Armenia’s commitment to reforms and the efforts being made.  -0-