15-05-2007 11:05:54

EU Special Representative stated that Armenia “passed the test” and it “will continue to move closer to the EU”


Yerevan, May 15. /Mediamax/. EU Special Representative in the South Caucasus Peter Semneby stated in an exclusive interview to Mediamax that Armenia “passed the test” and “will continue to move closer to the EU”.
Peter Semneby said this, commenting on Mediamax’s request on his previous statements, according to which the elections in Armenia would become an important “test” for the relations with the EU, as they would be the first ones after the start of the implementation of the Action Plan within the framework of the European Neighborhood Policy (ENP).
“Yes, Armenia passed the test, which gives a good base for continuing to develop the partnership with the EU in the way we have envisaged. The high degree of interest in the election was a particularly encouraging proof of what appears to be a growing political and civic engagement”, the EU Special representative stated.
At the same time, Peter Semneby reminded in an interview to Mediamax that “Armenia has not received a perfect mark”.
“The observer missions noticed some remaining problems, which ought to be eliminated before the presidential election next year. In particular, there was often no distinction between the ruling party and the State. There were also too many problems with the vote counting”, Peter Semneby stated.
The Special Representative of the European Union expressed hope that the new members of the Armenian parliament will be committed to “making the parliament a forum for a vital and dynamic debate on the future direction of the country”.
“The joint commitment to democracy, human rights and the rule of law is a cornerstone for the partnership between Armenia and the EU. I am confident that Armenia will continue to move closer to the EU”, Peter Semneby stated in an exclusive interview to Mediamax.--0--