‘Main obstacle to Armenia’s EU integration is frozen EU-Georgia dialogue’ – Pashinyan

Armenia’s Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan emphasized that the frozen EU-Georgia dialogue remains the primary obstacle to Armenia’s integration into the European Union during a speech at the European Parliament on March 12, 2026. JAMNews Yerevan reported that Pashinyan highlighted the law passed by Armenia’s parliament to initiate accession, spurred by Georgia’s candidate status. He stressed the need for constructive engagement between the European Union and Georgia, viewing it as crucial for Armenia’s prospects.

Pashinyan addressed Armenia’s path toward EU membership, acknowledging the reforms required to meet criteria and the subsequent EU decision. He recognized that EU enlargement necessitates a political resolution, asserting that Armenia would still benefit even without full membership, becoming a nation aligned with EU standards. His remarks encompassed the peace process with Azerbaijan, upcoming elections, and domestic political considerations.

The speech also addressed the broader geopolitical landscape. Pashinyan discussed Armenia’s partnership with the United States while acknowledging Iran as a “friend and a centuries-old neighbour,” and highlighted recent diplomatic relations with Saudi Arabia and other regional partners. He expressed concern regarding events in the Middle East, emphasizing Armenia’s status as a “small, modest state” and advocating for diplomatic solutions.

Regarding the Armenian-Azerbaijani border, Pashinyan noted eight months of calm, reiterating the need for constant vigilance to prevent instability. Responding to criticism of a peace agreement, he questioned the feasibility of “perfect peace,” arguing that proactive efforts to improve it are essential. Pashinyan and Azerbaijani President Aliyev received the Zayed Prize for Peace Efforts, and Armenia’s prime minister advocated for Azerbaijan to provide road transit.

He proposed allowing transit from Azerbaijan to Turkey and back, and suggested Armenia could provide a road connection between western Azerbaijan and Nakhchivan via the Kornidzor-Goris-Yeghegnadzor-Yeraskh route. Pashinyan stated that Armenia’s expectations regarding railway links with Azerbaijan, including a connection between Armenia’s north and south, were mutually beneficial and aligned with the “Trump Route” project’s goals.

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