The European Union highly values its partnership with Armenia in advancing justice sector reforms and strengthening the rule of law, EU Ambassador to Armenia Vassilis Maragos said at the opening of the two-day Armenian Platform of the European Prosecutors' Dialogue in Yerevan.

Maragos said Armenia has made significant efforts in recent years to modernize its legal and institutional framework, improve the effectiveness of law enforcement and prosecutorial services, and align its practices with European standards, Armenpress reported.

Speaking about the conference, the ambassador noted that the European Union and the Council of Europe continue to work together under the Partnership for Good Governance initiative to support reforms aimed at strengthening the rule of law, democratic governance and justice institutions across the Eastern Partnership region.

"The challenges we face today do not stop at national borders. Criminal networks cooperate internationally, and our response must be equally well coordinated. Conferences like this provide valuable opportunities to learn from one another, exchange practical experience, identify emerging threats and build professional networks that are essential for effective international cooperation and trust across borders. I reaffirm the European Union's strong support for this initiative and our continued partnership with Armenia and the Council of Europe," Maragos said.

According to the ambassador, Armenia stands out for its commitment to democracy and its determination to pursue important reforms.

Maragos also stressed that the European Union considers asset recovery and confiscation to be key tools in combating serious and organized crime.

"Following the money is often the most effective way to dismantle criminal networks. Depriving criminals of their profits not only delivers justice but also removes the financial incentives that drive criminal activity. Effective asset recovery directly strengthens public confidence in the justice system, democracy and democratic institutions. At the same time, our efforts must remain firmly grounded in respect for human rights, due process and legal certainty. Protection of property rights, judicial oversight, proportionality and procedural safeguards are essential elements of any successful asset recovery framework. The European Union also welcomes the growing attention being paid to the management of seized and confiscated assets, which is often an overlooked but critical component of the recovery process," he said.