Armenian Government Approves Bill to Launch EU Membership Process

YEREVAN – The Armenian government has approved a draft law to initiate the process of Armenia’s accession to the European Union during its regular session today. The bill will now be sent to the National Assembly for further consideration.

Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan presented the proposal, noting that the government supports giving a positive conclusion to the project.

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan emphasized that Armenia can only join the EU if the decision is approved through a referendum. He underscored the importance of developing a joint “roadmap” with the EU to guide the process.

“After the adoption of this law, we need to discuss with the European Union the roadmap they envision and the one we envision, and work together to develop a unified roadmap,” the Prime Minister said.

Highlighting steps toward closer ties between Armenia and the EU, Pashinyan referenced ongoing efforts for visa liberalization and Armenia’s participation in the “European Peace Facility.”

On December 10, 2024, Armenia’s Central Election Commission validated over 50,000 signatures collected by an initiative group supporting the country’s EU accession. This milestone enables the submission of a bill to parliament proposing a referendum on the matter.