The ARF delegation (right) discuss MOU with S&P Group officials

STRASBOURG, France—The Armenian Revolutionary Federation-Dashnaktsutiune signed a memorandum of understanding with the European Parliament’s Socialist and Democratic Group, the leading Euro-parliamentary faction that advocates for social justice human rights.

“The signature of this memorandum with the Armenian Revolutionary Federation clearly shows that the S&D Group has the political will and the drive to continue establishing closer links with sister parties from countries in the EU’s neighborhood,” said member of European Parliament and president of the S&D Group Gianni Pittella, according to an item on the group’s website published on Wednesday.

“I trust that this co-operation, together with the admission of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation as an observer member with the Party of European Socialists (PES), will help to strengthen your opportunities in the upcoming parliamentary elections next year,” said Pittella. “But I trust above all that we can contribute to consolidating the social-democratic family in Europe, as a credible political alternative and antidote to nationalism, extremism, populism and other trends that weaken democracy. A free, independent, united and – let me add to your motto – a progressive Armenia.”

European Parliament member and the vice-chair of the S&D Group Knut Fleckenstein made the following announcement:

“We will support the Armenian Revolutionary Federation in this task by exchanging ideas and best practices, and through frank and direct exchange and regular contact, as well as with training opportunities for young people.

“Armenia deserves to benefit from both its membership of the Eurasian Economic Union and the closest relations with the European Union. The Armenian Revolutionary Federation has its place within the European social-democratic family.

“We expect the Armenian Revolutionary Federation to clearly commit to and push for – from within the government – a truly independent anti-corruption agency to be set up, with sufficient authority to rigorously investigate corruption crimes.

“The Armenian Revolutionary Federation should also insist on the adoption of standalone anti-discrimination legislation in line with international standards. It should define categories of discrimination, offer protection mechanisms and establish a specialised body for enforcement.

“Now, the Armenian Revolutionary Federation, as part of the government, should commit to securing the remaining funding from the budget for the 2017 parliamentary elections to make this election the most fair and transparent possible.”

The S&D Group’s website suggests the members of the European Parliament in the faction “are committed to fighting for social justice, jobs and growth, consumer rights, sustainable development, financial market reform and human rights to create a stronger and more democratic Europe and a better future for everyone.”

“In today’s times of crisis, the S&D Group’s priority is to fight unemployment and ensure that our societies and markets become fairer. We want to give people back trust in the EU and hope for their future. These principles inspire our daily work, in the European Parliament and beyond,” the S&D Group’s website elaborates.