Eu Armenia Agreement 2017

The EU-Armenia Agreement of 2017: What It Means for Armenia and the EU

On November 24, 2017, the European Union (EU) and Armenia signed a Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement (CEPA), marking a new chapter in their relationship. The agreement replaces the old Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA) and aims to deepen political and economic ties between Armenia and the EU. But what exactly does the EU-Armenia Agreement of 2017 entail, and what are its potential benefits and challenges for both parties?

The CEPA covers a wide range of areas, from trade and investment to energy, transport, education, and culture. Among its key provisions are the establishment of a free trade zone between Armenia and the EU, the promotion of human rights and democracy, and the strengthening of cooperation on security and foreign policy. The agreement also recognizes the importance of the peaceful settlement of conflicts, particularly the Nagorno-Karabakh issue, and the need for good governance and anti-corruption reforms in Armenia.

One of the main advantages of the CEPA for Armenia is the access it provides to the EU`s single market, which is the largest in the world. By removing most tariffs and non-tariff barriers, the agreement is expected to boost Armenian exports and attract foreign investment, particularly in the sectors of agriculture, tourism, and IT. Moreover, the CEPA aims to facilitate the mobility of people, goods, and services between Armenia and the EU, as well as to enhance cooperation on research and innovation.

For the EU, the CEPA represents an opportunity to deepen its engagement with Armenia, a strategic partner in the South Caucasus. By supporting Armenia`s democratic and economic reforms, the EU hopes to contribute to the stability and prosperity of the region, which is of vital interest to Europe. The agreement also reinforces the EU`s commitment to the Eastern Partnership, a policy framework that seeks to foster closer ties with six post-Soviet countries, including Armenia, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova, Ukraine, and Azerbaijan.

However, the implementation of the CEPA is not without challenges. Some critics argue that the agreement could undermine Armenia`s relations with Russia, which remains its main ally and trading partner. They fear that the EU`s demands for reforms and transparency could clash with Russia`s interests and trigger a geopolitical conflict in the region. Others point out that the CEPA does not address the issue of visa liberalization for Armenian citizens, which is a long-standing demand of the Armenian government and society.

Overall, the EU-Armenia Agreement of 2017 represents a significant milestone in the bilateral relations between Armenia and the EU. It offers opportunities for economic growth, political stability, and regional cooperation, while also posing challenges for both parties. As the CEPA enters into force, it will be essential to monitor its implementation and impact, and to ensure that it benefits all stakeholders in a sustainable and inclusive manner.