Armenia and European Union Lift Partnership to Strategic Level with New Agreement and €15 Million Support Package

Armenia and the European Union have formally raised their relationship to a strategic level after signing a new long-term cooperation agenda in Brussels. The news was announced during the 6th Armenia–EU Partnership Council meeting, where Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan and EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas presented the new direction of the partnership.

Mirzoyan confirmed the shift in a social media post shortly after the meeting. He said, “Today we signed the new Strategic Agenda for Armenia–EU Partnership, elevating our partnership agenda to strategic level and opening a new chapter.” According to him, this new phase reflects a deeper shared vision. “We are entering a more ambitious phase, with shared vision and responsibility to further deliver meaningful results for our citizens,” he added.

The European side also emphasized the significance of the new agreement. Kallas said the relationship “is only getting better with age,” showing continued progress in democratic reforms, economic development, and Armenia’s efforts to modernize state institutions. The strategic agenda outlines closer cooperation in strengthening the rule of law, advancing economic opportunities, and continuing discussions on visa liberalization for Armenian citizens. Security cooperation is also set to expand.

As part of the renewed partnership, the European Union announced a €15 million ($17.4 million) support package meant to reinforce stability and resilience in Armenia. The funding will be used for several projects, including training and equipment for demining operations and regional confidence-building measures. Kallas said, “Several initiatives will be implemented — training in demining, and the provision of equipment.”

The EU also addressed growing concerns about foreign interference in Armenia ahead of next year’s parliamentary elections. According to Kallas, “Russia and its proxies are conducting disinformation campaigns in Armenia ahead of the parliamentary elections. We see the same networks that were used in Moldova, meaning the scenario is the same.” Part of the new funding will support Armenia’s capacity to detect and respond to such campaigns. Kallas said that countering disinformation requires participation from the whole society and noted Armenia’s commitment to supporting civil society and independent media.

The political context of the region played an important role during the talks. The EU reaffirmed its support for Armenia’s efforts to normalize relations with Azerbaijan following the agreements reached in August. Kallas said, “The agreements between Armenia and Azerbaijan, which were achieved in August, are very important; they mark the end of a long-standing conflict, and you have the EU’s support in this matter.”

Looking ahead, the EU invited Mirzoyan to return to Brussels later in December to meet with all 27 EU foreign ministers. The meeting will focus on supporting Armenia before its parliamentary elections, strengthening the country’s resilience, and ensuring the integrity of its democratic processes.

The signing of the strategic partnership agenda marks one of the most significant milestones in Armenia–EU relations. The new agreement sets the direction for deeper cooperation in the coming years, signaling both sides’ intention to build a closer and more stable partnership.

Armenia and the EU officially adopted the new strategic agenda on December 2 during the Partnership Council meeting in Brussels. The document was signed by Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan and High Representative Kaja Kallas.

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