 European Commission head: DCFTA talks turning point in ties with Armenia March 6, 2012 - 22:21 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan and President of the European Commission, José Barroso, officially launched the negotiations for Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA) between Armenia and the EU. Mr. Barroso issued a statement following the meeting with President of Armenia Serzh Sargsyan. It reads as follows, “We fully support the President's reform and modernization agenda, and we remain committed to deepen our engagement with Armenia in the framework of the Eastern Partnership. Indeed, we are now ready to launch talks on a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area, which is part and parcel of the Association Agreement that we are already negotiating with Armenia. This is to a large extent, the result of Armenia's efforts to comply with our 'key recommendations'. The opening of the DCFTA negotiations marks a turning point in our trading and economic relationship, providing new opportunities for our citizens and businesses. This is also a sign that our ties are getting stronger. Armenia should now continue to advance in its trade and trade-related reforms and work towards reaching a stable, transparent and predictable economic environment. This is essential, we believe, to attract foreign investment and also to stimulate growth and job creation. The relationship between the European Union and Armenia is not only about the economy or trade or mobility, we have discussed these issues. But it is also about the universal values that we share. Democracy, fundamental rights and the rule of law are at the core of the Association Agreement that we are negotiating with Armenia and they are the solid foundations of our present and also our future relations. The next parliamentary and presidential elections will be an important benchmark in Armenia reform's path. I am reassured by the President’s commitment that these elections will be conducted in accordance with democratic international standards,” according to official EU website.   Top stories Six total incidents have burned 19 old-growth trees. Friday night 8 trees were torched along the beautiful main entrance. The EU does not intend to conduct military exercises with Armenia, Lead Spokesperson for EU Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Peter Stano says. Hikmet Hajiyev has said that there is no place for USAID operation in Azerbaijan any longer. A telephone conversation between Putin and Pashinyan before the CSTO summit is not planned, Peskov says.   Partner news |  Latest news The Power of One Dram to benefit Road of Life charity  The companies inform that the May beneficiary of The Power of One Dram is the “Road of Life” charitable organization.Ucom General Director gives lecture at French University in Armenia The General Director of Ucom Ralph Yirikian delivered a lecture at the French University of Armenia.Armenia offers to temporarily host, preserve Gaza manuscripts The Armenian Foreign Minister has said Yerevan is ready to help preserve manuscripts from the conflict zone in Gaza.Aram I supports Karekin II’s “patriotic position” Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia Aram I has expressed support for the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. |
