Inarritu: Brussels must help Armenia step toward EU membership

PanARMENIAN.Net - Spanish MP Jon Inarritu has stated that Brussels must support Armenia’s bold step toward European Union membership and ensure that Yerevan does not face its challenges alone. He made these remarks while commenting on a bill initiated by the Armenian parliament to launch the EU accession process, as reported by Armenpress.

Inarritu firmly believes that Armenia has always belonged in Europe, considering both cultural and historical ties.

"In my opinion, Armenia’s place has always been in Europe, whether in terms of cultural or historical connections. The European Union must support Armenia in reclaiming its rightful place within the European family," the MP emphasized.

He pointed out that this initiative is backed by a broad public petition, reflecting the growing role of civil society in shaping Armenia’s national policy and developing its relations with Europe.

"The EU must support this bold step and ensure that Armenia does not face these challenges alone, as it remains one of the few democracies in the region," Inarritu added.

The Spanish MP also stressed that the path to EU membership is not straightforward and requires significant reforms across various sectors.

"The road to joining the European Union is not simple and will require substantial reforms in governance, the rule of law, and economic development. If the bill moves forward, Armenia must take the necessary steps to align with EU standards and values," he stated.

Speaking on Armenia-Russia relations, Inarritu expressed the view that Moscow would attempt to obstruct closer ties between Yerevan and the EU.

"It is also important to remember that Russia will likely launch a major campaign to block closer ties between Armenia and the EU, just as it previously pressured Armenia into joining the Eurasian Economic Union, leaving the country with little choice," the MP noted.

On February 12, Armenia’s National Assembly passed the first reading of the bill on launching the process of Armenia’s accession to the European Union. The bill was approved by 63 MPs, with 7 voting against.