YEREVAN, June 4 – The European Union is preparing an aid package for Armenia, which includes over €50 million in immediate financial assistance, announced European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
EU Condemns Russian Economic Coercion Against Armenia
“Today, I spoke with Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan about Russia’s recent restrictions against Armenia. This is nothing less than economic coercion, and it is unacceptable. By extending restrictions on the export of Armenian products, Moscow is weaponizing economic relations to exert political pressure. We know this scenario all too well. That is why Europe stands firmly by Armenia,” stated Ursula von der Leyen.
According to von der Leyen, the assistance will not be limited to the stated amount and will include measures to facilitate trade for certain Armenian products, particularly agro-food products. It will also provide practical support to affected sectors, “such as Armenian flowers, given that Russia recently restricted the import of Armenian flowers based on dubious accusations.”
“It is expected that 10,000 flower consignments will arrive in Latvia tomorrow. Others will follow. We will also continue to connect our businesses, following the commitments made at our recent summit in Yerevan,” she added.
EU Support for Armenian Businesses and Infrastructure
The head of the European Commission noted that since 2024, EU support, within the framework of the Resilience and Growth Plan, has already helped 7,000 enterprises and contributed to the creation of over 20,000 jobs.
“Armenia is a place where talent, innovation, and opportunities meet. For European businesses, this is a key place to be,” she emphasized.
Von der Leyen also called the recent reopening of trade routes with Turkey, including rail communication through Georgia and Turkey, “a fantastic step forward.”
“Armenia has the potential to become a strategic hub connecting Europe, the South Caucasus, and Central Asia. We are ready to support infrastructure and border crossings, alongside the restoration of regional connections,” she said.
The head of the European Commission mentioned that an agreement has been reached on the creation of a joint EU-Armenia working group to ensure effective coordination in all these areas, which will oversee the implementation of all these initiatives and any future measures.
Government Initiatives to Support Exports
In related news, the Armenian government has approved a proposal to sign a grant agreement of €12 million with the French Development Agency (AFD) for the development of the water and agriculture sectors. Additionally, the government has adopted a program to promote the export of fresh fruits, vegetables, and flowers to EU countries, the UK, and Canada through customs duty compensation.
A program to support the export of greenhouse products (tomatoes, peppers, strawberries, and flowers) was also adopted by the government during its session yesterday. These measures aim to mitigate the impact of external economic pressures and boost Armenia’s agricultural exports.
Source: ARKA News Agency, Government of Armenia
