EU Council Approves €10 Million Aid for Armenian Armed Forces

The European Union (EU) has taken a significant step in its relationship with Armenia by approving a €10 million ($10.9 million) assistance measure to support the Armenian Armed Forces. This is the first time the EU has decided to aid Armenia through the European Peace Facility (EPF). The main goal of this support is to strengthen the logistical capabilities of the Armenian Armed Forces and enhance civilian protection during crises and emergencies. Additionally, it aims to improve Armenia's resilience and prepare its Armed Forces for potential future participation in international military missions, including those led by the EU.

The €10 million assistance will provide a fully-equipped deployable tent camp for a battalion-sized unit. This measure is designed to boost the operational capacity of the Armenian military and improve their ability to respond to various challenges. Josep Borrell, the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, emphasized the importance of security in the bilateral relations between the EU and Armenia. He noted that this measure under the European Peace Facility would contribute to Armenia's resilience and create further dialogue on foreign and security policy, including Armenia's potential involvement in EU-led missions and operations.

This support is part of the EU's broader partnership with Armenia, which is based on shared values and aims to promote peace, stability, and prosperity in Armenia and the South Caucasus region. The EU is committed to enhancing its comprehensive political and economic partnership with Armenia, grounded in the EU-Armenia Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement. This partnership seeks to intensify dialogue and cooperation in foreign and security policy, encompassing the Common Security and Defense Policy (CSDP).

The European Peace Facility was established in March 2021 for the financing of actions under the common foreign and security policy to prevent conflicts, preserve peace and strengthen international security and stability. In particular, the European Peace Facility allows the EU to finance actions designed to strengthen the capacities of third States and regional and international organizations relating to military and defense matters.

Reactions from Armenian Officials

Armenian Defense Minister Suren Papikyan expressed gratitude to the EU and its member states for their decision to support Armenia under the European Peace Facility. He said that this partnership effort, based on mutual trust and shared interests, aims to bolster Armenia's defense capabilities. Papikyan also expressed confidence that this initiative would enhance cooperation with EU member countries in both bilateral and multilateral formats.

Ararat Mirzoyan, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia, also welcomed the EU's decisions. He thanked the EU and its member states for providing support to Armenia and initiating a dialogue on visa liberalization. Mirzoyan described these decisions as historic milestones in the Armenia-EU partnership, based on shared values and principles, and a vision for stability, peace, and prosperity.

The EU's approval of €10 million in support for the Armenian Armed Forces is a significant development in the relationship between Armenia and the EU.