High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy welcomed Armenia’s progress on the way to European integration.

At Yerevan-hosted briefing, Catherine Ashton expressed hope for the start of intensified negotiations, noting that creation of a free trade zone will positively affect Armenia’s economy, despite current eurozone crisis.

Dwelling on visa regime facilitation, the EU High Representative said there’s a lot to be accomplished to achieve the goal.

Armenian Foreign Minister Edward Nalbandian, in turn, stressed Armenia’s determination to strengthen ties with EU, also noting positive dynamics in the development of bilateral relations.

Catherine Ashton arrived in Armenia Nov 17 on the sidelines of her visit to South Caucasus.