During the European People's Party (EPP) Congress held in Valencia, Spain, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) Miriam Lexmann and Rasa Juknevičienė emphasized Armenia's progress toward European integration and its efforts to normalize regional relations.
Lexmann highlighted Armenia's commitment to democratic reforms and the rule of law, stating that the EPP aims to support Armenia's journey toward the European Union. She acknowledged Armenia's constructive dialogue with Turkey, especially significant during the commemoration of the 110th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, and its leadership in peace negotiations with Azerbaijan despite the 2023 military offensive that displaced tens of thousands of Armenians. Lexmann called for the immediate and unconditional release of all prisoners and reaffirmed the guaranteed right of the Armenian population to return to Nagorno-Karabakh.
Juknevičienė noted that Armenia, after centuries of close ties with Russia, is now seeking a path toward Europe. She addressed narratives suggesting that Europe is not awaiting Armenia, asserting that such claims are false. Juknevičienė declared, "Armenia is Europe, and we need you, together with the Georgians and other peoples of the South Caucasus." She emphasized Armenia's historical ties to Europe, being the first nation to officially adopt Christianity, and its desire to live peacefully within the European family. She urged the EU to accept Armenia's extended hand and build strong bridges of cooperation, viewing this as an opportunity not only for Armenia but also for the entire Black Sea region and the EU itself.