Eurocommissaris Füle op informele Oostelijk Partnerschap Dialoog (en)

EaP: Transparent policy for the benefit of Eastern Neighbours and also their partners

Press points by EU Commissioner for Enlargement and Neighbourhood Policy, Štefan Füle at the third Informal Eastern Partnership Dialogue in Yerevan:

'Good afternoon, it is a pleasure to be in Yerevan for the second time this year and especially on the occasion of such a special meeting.

Let me briefly make the following three points:

First: The EU remains committed to advancing the Eastern Partnership with all six partner countries. Our intentions and policies are clear, transparent, predictable and differentiate - reflecting ambitions of our partners and their commitment to values and principles that form the basis of our relations. We always acted like this and will continue to do so - in the run up to the Vilnius summit and beyond.

Second: The Vilnius summit is a game changer as it offers political association and economic integration. The Association Agreements offers instrument for political transformation and economic modernisation. We are not in the business of building walls. We are in the process that could eventually lead to a free trade zone between Lisbon and Vladivostok.

Third: The development of the Eurasian Union project must respect our partners' sovereign decisions. Any threats from Russia linked to the possible signing of agreements with the European Union are unacceptable. The European Union will support and stand by those who are subject to undue pressures. Let me also focus your attention on the statement made by our Delegation here in Yerevan on the recent violent incidents against activists and human rights defenders. The EU has expressed deep concerns and called on Armenian authorities to take decisive action to bring the perpetrators to justice.

Thank you!'