March 2, 2017 - 12:21 AMT
Sargsyan to travel to Paris as France hails developing EU-Armenia ties

Armenian president Serzh Sargsyan will visit Paris on March 8-9, the French foreign ministry said in a statement.

"France welcomes the conclusion of negotiations on the EU-Armenia Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement announced by European Council President Donald Tusk during Sargsyan's visit to Brussels on February 27-28," the statement read.

"Finalized a few days ahead of president Sargsyan's official visit to France on March 8-9, this agreement responds to the Armenian leader's call in May 2014 to strengthen ties between the EU and his country."

According to the ministry, the agreement will step up the political dialogue between the EU and Armenia on shared commitment to democracy, human rights and the rule of law.

"It will facilitate expanded cooperation on energy, transportation and the environment. It will create new opportunities for trade and investment while protecting French and European geographical indications," the statement concluded.