Secretary of Armenia`s Security Council highlights EU  mission`s  positive impact on regional stability

ArmInfo.  The presence of the EU civilian mission on Armenian land has strengthened relations between Armenia and the EU, bringing the European Union closer to the Armenian people, as stated by Security Council  Secretary Armen Grigoryan in his opening remarks on the third  anniversary of the deployment of the EU civilian mission to Armenia.

According to the Armenian official, it is a great honor for him to  mark the third anniversary of the EU mission in Armenia. He added  that this significant date is a reason to be proud not only of the  progress achieved, but also of what it represents: the strength of  partnership, the value of commitment, and the promise of a brighter  and more secure future. "This anniversary is particularly important  because we are celebrating it in the context of established peace.  Today, peace is not just an aspiration: it is a reality we live in.  When the Mission arrived in Armenia, it had a clear goal: to promote  peace and stability in our region. Today, we see the outcomes of  these commitments. Peace exists not only on our borders: it is also  evident in greater predictability, reduced tensions, and  confidence-building measures that have been developed over time  between Armenia and Azerbaijan,"  the Secretary of the Armenian  Security Council emphasized.

He also noted that the Washington Summit of August 8, 2025, was a  historic turning point,  opening a new chapter in cooperation and  mutual understanding between Armenia and Azerbaijan. "Since then,  Azerbaijan has lifted restrictions on goods transiting to and from  Armenia. Armenia and Azerbaijan have initiated reciprocal visits of  civil society representatives on a bilateral basis. Today, the third  meeting of civil society representatives is taking place in Armenia,  symbolizing the growth of dialogue and interaction," Grigoryan added.  He also recalled the recent release of four Armenians from captivity  in Baku, bringing relief to their families and strengthening trust  between Armenia and Azerbaijan. "Stability on our borders remains.  Taken together, these steps demonstrate that the peace we have long  sought has become a tangible reality. We deeply value the European  Union Mission in Armenia. The Mission's presence has strengthened  relations between Armenia and the EU and brought the European Union  closer to the Armenian people. Through its professionalism,  dedication, and unwavering commitment, the Mission has earned  exceptional public trust and support. This is a rare achievement,  testifying to the tangible impact of its work," the official assured.

He expressed confidence that the Mission also reflects the deepening  strategic partnership between Armenia and the European Union. It is  part of a broader commitment to strengthening stability, resilience,  and democratic values.  Grigoryan then expressed gratitude to the  Mission's representatives for their work and noted that their work  was unique and deeply meaningful. "You have played a vital role in  building and strengthening peace, and this dedication will serve  future generations," Grigoryan said. He also thanked Markus Ritter,  Head of the EU Civilian Mission to Armenia, for his efforts, noting  that "his wisdom and patience inspired not only your colleagues but  also those fortunate enough to work with him."

"Finally, let me remind you that the achievements we celebrate today  are more than just milestones: they are a testament to what is  possible when nations, organizations, and individuals unite around a  shared vision. May this spirit of partnership, commitment, and hope  continue to guide us in shaping a more secure, stable, and prosperous  future for our region," Grigoryan concluded.

It should be noted that on 10 January 2025, the EU High  Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas,  proposed extending the deployment of the EU civilian mission to  Armenia for another two years.

Recvall, on 23 January 2023, the EU Council agreed to establish a new  EU civilian mission to Armenia (EUMA) within the framework of the  Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP). The goal of the Mission is  to promote stability in Armenia's border areas, build confidence on  the ground, and create conditions conducive to EU-supported efforts  to normalize relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan.