Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Piotr Switalski. (Source: Armenpress)

YEREVAN (Armenpress) — Armenia and European Union are entering a phase of constructive relations, according to the Head of EU Delegation to Armenia and Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Piotr Switalski.

“Together we are trying to form a new model of relations. I am very pleased that Armenia-EU relations are developing quite well. Negotiations on a new framework agreement started in last December. The two sides stated they want to complete the negotiations soon. Of course, complex issues and challenges exist but I am hopeful that the negotiations will be smooth and we will reach a mutually acceptable solution at the end of the road,” the ambassador said.

According to Switalski, they are now in the stage of implementation of the revised Neighborhood Policy. That means the negotiations on framework agreement must consider the new Neighborhood Policy.

“We aim to show that it is possible to be a member of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), CSTO and at the same time to be at good neighborly relations with the European Union. As you know the European Union is Armenia’s largest foreign donor. Every year we spend 50 million euros for the benefit of the citizens of Armenia. We are the largest foreign trade partner of Armenia,” Switalski added.

Switalski noted that the framework agreement is important because it will contribute to a solid legal basis for relations. However, the starting point for the initiative is unclear. This is the text of the Association Agreement, which was negotiated between Armenia and the EU. According to the ambassador, the part which refers to the values, the rule of law and cooperation in security sector will be adopted without amendments. Other provisions of the agreement are necessary to be fixed, especially the section on trade.