Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset said Armenia has its rightful place in the European family, speaking at the Yerevan Dialogue international forum.

He emphasized the importance of upcoming elections, noting they will test the strength of democracy in Europe, which is under significant internal and external pressure.

“After World War II, a generation of Europeans decided that power must be subject to law. They created institutions such as the Council of Europe, along with the European Convention on Human Rights and the Court, which became the cornerstone of Europe’s legal order. These mechanisms have also played a key role in Armenia’s democratic development,” Berset said.

He stressed that Armenia, Ireland, and Bosnia and Herzegovina demonstrate that lasting peace is not based solely on force.

Berset warned that replacing law with force in international relations risks weakening democratic systems from within and highlighted the need for institutional security, including independent courts, transparent elections, and free media.

He added that Armenia’s upcoming elections reflect a new reality, as they face hybrid threats such as disinformation, often amplified through modern technologies and artificial intelligence.

French President Emmanuel Macron also stated that Armenia is decisively moving toward Europe, strengthening its place within the European family.

“Armenia has chosen the path of peace and prosperity, strengthening its democracy despite challenges. It is moving resolutely toward Europe and has always been a full member of the European family,” Macron said after meeting Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan.

He noted that Armenia has made significant progress since 2018, overcoming the consequences of war and advancing toward peace and development, with average annual economic growth of around 6%.

Macron highlighted that hosting major international events in Yerevan demonstrates Armenia’s European trajectory.

He stressed the importance of expanding Armenia–EU cooperation, particularly in investment, infrastructure, and economic ties, as well as advancing visa liberalization and defense cooperation.

The French president also referred to economic projects involving French companies, including the construction of the Bargushat tunnel and initiatives in the water sector.

He underlined France’s role through the French Development Agency in supporting inclusive development in Armenia and emphasized cooperation in education, science, and culture.

Macron noted that a new phase has begun in defense cooperation, highlighting support for modernizing Armenia’s armed forces and strengthening its sovereignty.

“We want and are determined to accompany you on the path to sustainable peace,” he said, reaffirming support for Armenia’s peace agenda and regional stability.