Bundestag MP: Armenia has made progress, but speaking of full readiness for EU integration would be unrealistic
Germany and the European Union (EU) should not force Armenia to make an artificial choice between Europe and Russia. This was stated to Известия by Bundestag MP Matthias Moosdorf.
“Bundestag MPs, of course, raise the question of a possible referendum. However, the decisive factor is that such a decision rests solely with the Armenian people,” he noted.
Moosdorf believes that the introduction of secure biometric passports, effective border control, and a genuine fight against corruption are key conditions for approving visa-free travel between Armenia and the European Union.
According to the MP, Armenia has already taken substantial steps in these areas, including the reform of its migration system.
“If these reforms prove effective in practice and are implemented on a permanent basis, I would consider visa liberalization justified. It would bring real benefits to the people and make far more sense than mere symbolic geopolitical statements,” Moosdorf believes.
He noted that Armenia has made more progress in adopting European economic and trade standards than is often perceived in Germany.
“The Partnership Agreement (CEPA) already creates a comprehensive framework for closer alignment in areas such as competition, public procurement, product safety, customs administration, and legal certainty,” he said.
At the same time, it would be unrealistic to speak of full readiness for integration, Moosdorf noted. “Further adaptation is necessary, particularly regarding the uniform application of laws, the independence and predictability of the operations of administrative bodies and the judicial system, the fight against corruption, and compliance with technical and sanitary trade standards. Furthermore, Armenia’s participation in the Eurasian Economic Union must be taken into account,” the politician stated.
Therefore, the process of drawing closer together must be practical and gradual, the MP believes.
“It must not lead to the political disruption of Armenia’s established economic ties,” he concluded.
