Europeans intend to support Armenia’s authorities in parliamentary elections, pursuing their own interests, writes Nezavisimaya Gazeta

Representatives of the European Commission have stated that they have learned a great deal from Moldova’s experience and now plan to apply it in Armenia. Specifically, Brussels aims to reduce Yerevan’s energy dependence on Moscow and “secure” its information space. However, while Moldova undertook this process within its European integration program, Armenia is being offered only a strategic partnership, Nezavisimaya Gazeta writes.

Armenia and the EU signed an agreement on a new strategic partnership agenda on Dec. 2.

The agenda is based on three main principles: strengthening cooperation in defense and security, expanding economic cooperation, and liberalizing the visa regime. EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kaja Kallas stated that Brussels intends to support reforms underway in Armenia.

The signed document is not considered a new international treaty requiring ratification; instead, both sides regard it as a confirmation of their political commitments.

Europeans also intend to help Armenian authorities prepare for parliamentary elections. According to EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos, Brussels plans to approach this matter using Moldova’s model.

Additionally, the EU aims to assist Armenia in beginning to import electricity from Turkey to reduce Yerevan’s dependence on Moscow. The timeline for Turkish electricity delivery to Armenia is not yet clear. Nevertheless, Kos highlighted EU interest in the so-called “Trump Route,” a 42-kilometer highway passing through Armenia’s Syunik province, intended to connect Baku with Nakhijevan.

According to the report, until now, Armenia’s European aspirations were largely seen as preparation for PM Nikol Pashinyan’s parliamentary elections. However, the EU has its own agenda: Pashinyan needs Western support to retain power, while the EU and the United States aim to trade with the East, bypassing Russia and Iran.