Armenian gov’t OKs bill on launching EU accession process

The Armenian government on Jan. 9 approved a bill on the accession to the European Union at a cabinet meeting, with the premier reminding that the ultimate decision on the membership would be determined through a national referendum.

The draft law, introduced in the parliament as a citizen-led initiative, required the government's formal position before progressing further.

"Adopting the law doesn't literally mean Armenia's joining the EU, because that point cannot be reached and a decision cannot be made through a law or a government decision. Making a decision in that point can only be made through a referendum, there is no other option," Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said at the meeting.

In case of any scenario, Armenia can become a member of the EU only when a referendum will be called and the required number of votes in favor envisaged by the constitution will be garnered, he added.

After the adoption of the law, a discussion must take place between Armenia and the EU around the development of a roadmap, which will include the visions of both the EU and Armenia, he said.

"It is my understanding that prior to launching the negotiations around creating a roadmap the Republic of Armenia doesn't have any actions to carry out, at least now. I am saying this in order to accurately form the expectations within the society," Pashinyan said.

The subsequent stage entails legislative deliberation over the proposed bill. Upon parliamentary approval, the groundwork for a national referendum will be laid, paving the way for a formal application to the bloc.

The accession process, however, is expected to be lengthy and complex, requiring Armenia to meet the EU's stringent membership criteria, including democratic governance,...