Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan stated during parliamentary budget discussions that Armenia must intensify its steps toward joining the European Union in 2026, Armenpress reports.
“I want to state clearly and unequivocally: Armenia–EU relations have never been this extensive and close. This is reflected in the scope of our political dialogue and the high-level visits and agreements reached throughout 2025,” Mirzoyan said.
He stressed that a law adopted by Parliament in March 2025, based on a citizen-led initiative, formally launched the EU accession process, giving the initiative strategic significance.
“This policy is imperative for the Government and, in particular, for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In 2026, we must accelerate our efforts toward membership. Armenia aspires to join the family of democratic, developing, and prosperous nations,” he said.
At the same time, Mirzoyan emphasized that Armenia will continue pursuing a balanced foreign policy, maintaining multilateral cooperation formats.
The EU Council has approved starting a visa liberalization dialogue with Armenia. On September 9, Deputy Prime Minister Mher Grigoryan officially announced the launch of that process.
