EU: democratic Armenia approaches Europe step by step

PanARMENIAN.Net - The 8th session of the Armenia-EU cooperation Council took place in Luxembourg, the RA MFA press office said.



The Armenian delegation was led by Foreign Minister Vartan Oskanian and included officials from the Ministry of Trade and Economic Development, Ministry of Energy.



Manuel Lobo Antunes, Portuguese Secretary of State for European Affairs, headed the EU delegation.



Opening the meeting, the sides noted that last week's visit of Armenian President Robert Kocharian to Brussels marked continuation of political dialogue between Yerevan and the European Union.



The delegation discussed implementation of the Armenia-EU Action Plan within the European Neighborhood Policy. Special attention was given to resolution of conflicts, process of reform in Armenia and upcoming presidential elections.



Minister Oskanian said Armenia is resolute in conducting painful but vital reforms. The Action Plan is the guideline for Armenia's economic reforms, he noted.



The EU delegation pointed out to the growth of the microeconomic index. Democratic Armenia is approaching Europe step by step, Manuel Lobo Antunes said confirming readiness to render essential assistance to Armenia.



Cooperation in economic and energy fields and poverty reduction programs were also discussed.



In their resulting statements, the sides proposed more frequent contacts at various levels.