**Armenia’s Diplomatic Shift: Closer Ties with EU, Reduced Dependence on Russia**
In a significant move away from its traditional sphere of influence, Armenia has been strengthening its ties with the European Union while simultaneously diversifying its relationships in the region. According to Ambassador Ashot Smbatyan, Head of Mission of the Republic of Armenia to Georgia, this shift reflects the European aspirations of Armenian citizens and is driven by a desire for greater stability and prosperity.
**EU-Armenia Relations at an All-Time High**
The EU and Armenia have never been as close as they are today, with a comprehensive partnership agenda in place. The recent adoption of a law to start the process of Armenia’s membership in the EU demonstrates the European aspirations of Armenian citizens. During a visit by EU High Representative Kaja Kallas, discussions took place on concrete steps towards implementing Armenia’s path to EU membership and progress was made on visa liberalization.
**Reducing Dependence on Russia**
As Armenia moves closer to the EU, its relationship with Russia has undergone significant changes. While Smbatyan emphasizes that Armenia’s aspiration to regulate relations with neighbors is in no way directed against any third country, it is clear that Yerevan is diversifying its relationships and reducing its dependence on Moscow.
**Regional Dynamics and Regional Stability**
The situation in Georgia has been a point of concern for regional stability. Armenia views its neighbor’s internal dynamics through the prism of shared values and interests. Smbatyan highlights centuries-old friendly ties between the two countries, close cooperation, and joint initiatives to deepen and expand bilateral relations further.
**A New Era of Regional Cooperation**
Armenia’s diplomatic shift towards the EU while maintaining good relationships with its regional partners signals a new era of cooperation in the South Caucasus. This development is likely to have far-reaching implications for regional stability and may signal a decline in Russia’s influence over countries like Armenia and Georgia.
**Key Takeaways:**
1. **EU-Armenia Relations Strengthen**: The partnership between the EU and Armenia has never been as close as it is today, with significant progress made on visa liberalization.
2. **Reducing Dependence on Russia**: Yerevan’s shift towards Europe while maintaining good relations with regional partners indicates a diversification of diplomatic ties.
3. **Regional Dynamics**: The situation in Georgia remains a concern for regional stability, but Armenia views its neighbor through the prism of shared values and interests.
4. **New Era of Cooperation**: This development signals a new era of cooperation in the South Caucasus and may indicate a decline in Russia’s influence over countries like Armenia and Georgia.
**What this means:**
* The EU-Armenia partnership is likely to continue strengthening, with potential implications for regional stability.
* Yerevan’s reduced dependence on Moscow may have significant consequences for Russia’s influence in the region.
* Regional dynamics, particularly in Georgia, remain a point of concern, but Armenia views its neighbor through the prism of shared values and interests.
