Yerevan: Mediamax: European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated today that she came to Yerevan to say, "You can count on us":
"As Armenia approaches the European Union, the South Caucasus is also coming closer. The preliminary signing of the peace treaty last year was a historic event - one of the most important steps this region has taken in recent decades:
The same applies to the normalization of relations with Turkey. These decisions required political courage and leadership, and their fruits will be impressive; open borders will transform Armenia's economic future," the European Commission President said after meeting with Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan:
She noted that "Armenia continues to be under economic pressure from Russia":
"Rest assured, when pressure builds on our partners, the EU takes action. You will soon receive an additional 18 million euros to strengthen your trade. This is the final part of the 52 million euro assistance package we discussed in our phone call in early June:
In addition, we are presenting a proposal that will liberalize about 80% of exports to the EU. The products that were going to the Russian market can be redirected to the EU single market for 450 million consumers:
This measure will open the doors of Europe for nearly 99% of Armenia's fresh agricultural products, 90% of beverages, and spirits:
Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan also stated that Armenia has never aimed to create a crisis in its relations with Russia:
"We act within the framework of our country's interests. We do not disregard the interests of any international partner, but we also cannot prioritize the interests of any partner over the interests of Armenia":
