The European Union has launched a new democracy assistance project in Armenia in an effort to develop a closer partnership with the country, Tert.am reported.

Introducing the initiative, Arevik Saribekyan, the British Council's country director, noted that the project aims to promote closer EU-Armenia ties and contribute to strengthening of democracy and effective governance. Minister of Justice Hovhannes Manukyan and the Head of the EU Delegation to Armenia Traian Hristea announced the official start of the Assistance to Armenia’s Democratic Governance 18-month project, with a total budget of € 949,670.

In his opening speech, Ambassador Hristea said that the EU – which is a key donor in the Armenia’s civil society building efforts - seeks to foster democratic governance, increase objective information exchange and promote a plurality of opinions in the country. He described the civil society as a key driving force seeking to assist in political decision-making processes.

The ambassador noted that the EU Eastern Partners are still facing restrictions in their democracy-building efforts despite their desire meet the above-mentioned targets.

The project, also focusing on media activities, will be more actively implemented in five regions: Tavush, Lori, Gegharkunik, Vayots Dzor and Syunik.