Yerevan, June 3 – European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan are scheduled to hold a telephone conversation today to discuss European Union support for Armenia in the context of economic restrictions imposed by Russia, sources in Brussels told “Azatutyun” (Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty).
EU Prepares Financial Aid and Preferential Trade Conditions
According to these reports, the European Union is preparing to provide financial assistance to Yerevan, although the exact amount has not yet been determined. In addition to monetary aid, Brussels intends to establish preferential trade conditions for Armenia. This refers to Autonomous Trade Measures (ATM), under which certain Armenian products could enter the European market without customs duties and quotas.
It is not yet known which Armenian products might be covered by this preferential regime. However, it is clear that the European Union typically applies this tool when it is necessary to support partners in stabilizing their economies during crisis situations and to deepen their integration into the European market.
Precedents: Ukraine and Moldova
The most recent example is Ukraine, for which this regime was established in June 2022, months after Russia’s full-scale invasion. Moldova has benefited from Autonomous Trade Measures since 2008, and in 2014, the European Union further expanded these preferences when Russia banned the import of Moldovan wines, fruits, and meat products.
The Armenian government had started negotiations with Brussels on this preferential regime years ago. “Discussions are not easy,” Economy Minister Gevorg Papoyan stated in 2024. Now, however, according to “Azatutyun” sources, the European Commission is ready to take a step in this direction.
These trade preferences are unilateral, and Armenia is not obliged to apply the same measures to European goods, which could contradict Yerevan’s obligations within the EAEU.
EU Solidarity with Armenia Against Russian Economic Pressure
Earlier, a telephone conversation between Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan and EU Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kosi was reported. After the conversation, the European official wrote on X that Brussels stands in solidarity with Armenia against increasing Russian economic pressure and is looking for ways to respond quickly.
“We will accelerate work to promote trade and energy ties in and towards the South Caucasus, as well as to support the strengthening of Armenia’s economic ties with its immediate neighbors,” the EU Commissioner stated, adding: “Armenia is a sovereign and independent country whose people are free to choose their country’s path.”
Opportunities for Armenian Producers
If the European Union finally approves the application of Autonomous Trade Measures for Armenia, it will create an opportunity for Armenian producers to enter the European market, which has approximately 450 million consumers, provided that the exported products comply with European standards and quality.
Source: golosarmenii.am
