Armenia Moves Toward EU Integration, Awaiting National Assembly and Referendum Amid Strained Ties with Russia

Jan 9, 2025, 10:57 AM

The Armenian government has approved a bill to initiate the process of joining the European Union, marking a significant step toward potential EU membership. The bill, prompted by a civic initiative that gathered over 52,000 signatures, will now be debated in the National Assembly. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan emphasized that the decision to join the EU would ultimately require a national referendum. The move comes amid strained relations with Russia, with whom Armenia has traditionally been closely aligned, and reflects a broader shift toward the West. Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan highlighted the deepening ties with the EU in recent years, noting the bloc's political support and involvement in regional security. The government's action does not constitute an immediate application for EU membership but rather signals Armenia's readiness to engage in practical steps toward closer integration with the EU.