Belgium to open diplomatic mission in Armenia

PanARMENIAN.Net - Belgium will be opening a diplomatic mission in Yerevan, Armenia, according to a statement from Foreign Minister Hadja Lahbib.

“[Armenia] has so far been monitored by our embassy in Moscow, but geopolitical developments require a presnce on the ground. Belgium's increased diplomatic attention in a country and region with a strong Russian influence is part of the European Neighborhood Policy towards the countries to the east of the EU and reflects the concern to safeguard security and stability in this strategically important region,” the statement reads.

“Belgium fully supports European efforts that can contribute to the peace process between Armenia and Azerbaijan, including through an EU civilian observation mission in Armenia, to which Belgium wishes to contribute. Our country also attaches great importance to stability and good neighborly relations in the South Caucasus. The opening of a diplomatic mission in Yerevan, next to our already existing embassy in Baku (Azerbaijan), is an externalization of this vision.”