Armenia’s pivot to the EU
On March 26th 2025 the Armenian parliament passed a law declaring its intention to apply for membership of the European Union. Although the law does not constitute a formal application for EU membership, it is a clear signal of Armenia’s willingness to move out of Russia’s orbit and develop closer relations with the West. However, the path to closer European integration is fraught with obstacles.
In recent years, Armenia has expressed a strong political will to deepen its relations with the EU. In a speech to the European Parliament on October 17th 2023 the prime minister, Nikol Pashinyan, stated that “Armenia is ready to move as close to the EU as the EU deems possible.” The foreign minister, Ararat Mirzoyan, reiterated this in November 2023 after the European Commission recommended granting candidate status to neighbouring Georgia, stating that the Armenian people have European aspirations and are committed to closer relations with the EU. Abandoned by its traditional security ally Russia, these statements clearly underline Armenia's willingness to turn away from Moscow.
In recent years, Armenia has expressed a strong political will to deepen its relations with the EU. In a speech to the European Parliament on October 17th 2023 the prime minister, Nikol Pashinyan, stated that “Armenia is ready to move as close to the EU as the EU deems possible.” The foreign minister, Ararat Mirzoyan, reiterated this in November 2023 after the European Commission recommended granting candidate status to neighbouring Georgia, stating that the Armenian people have European aspirations and are committed to closer relations with the EU. Abandoned by its traditional security ally Russia, these statements clearly underline Armenia's willingness to turn away from Moscow.
July 8, 2025 - Leonie Nienhaus
