At its first session of 2025 on January 9, the Armenian government approved and sent to parliament a bill titled "On Initiating the Process of Accession of the Republic of Armenia to the European Union." The initiative, supported by over 52,000 citizen signatures, was proposed by the "Platform of Democratic Forces," a coalition of four extra-parliamentary parties and several civil initiatives.
Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, while endorsing the initiative, emphasized that the bill does not equate to automatic EU membership. "The final decision can only be made through a referendum—there are no other options," he stated, reiterating his stance that Armenia is ready to deepen ties with the EU to the extent that Europe deems feasible.
Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan justified the government’s positive position by highlighting the significant progress in Armenia-EU relations in recent years. He cited the EU's consistent support for Armenian democracy and its role in ensuring the country's security through the deployment of a civilian monitoring mission.
For many in Armenia, this step is seen as a logical continuation of the deepening relationship with the EU. Last year, the European Union approved aid for Armenia under the European Peace Facility and initiated dialogue on visa liberalization. In July, EU member state ambassadors backed the European Commission's proposal to begin negotiations on visa-free travel for Armenian citizens.
During the cabinet meeting, Pashinyan also underscored the urgency of accelerating the visa liberalization process, pointing out the increasing wait times at EU embassies. He advised approaching the bill without undue enthusiasm or tension, focusing instead on practical measures to enhance cooperation.
Earlier, in October 2023, Prime Minister Pashinyan told the European Parliament that Armenia was prepared to align more closely with the European Union to the extent deemed feasible by the EU itself. However, months later, he expressed doubts about the EU's readiness to accept Armenia as a full-fledged member.
