Prime Minister’s meeting with Armenia’s President Vahagn Khachaturian

On Thursday, Prime Minister Ingrida Šimonytė has had an official lunch meeting with Armenia’s President Vahagn Khachaturian to discuss the bilateral cooperation, EU-Armenia relations, Russia’s war in Ukraine, the security situation in the South Caucasus, Armenia’s economic and political developments, and the Armenian agenda for reforms.

‘We strongly believe in the mutual benefits of EU-Armenia cooperation and fully support the strengthening of this relationship, as well as Armenia's reform agenda. We stand ready to share our experience and expertise to help facilitate its implementation. We recognize that a democratic, secure, and prosperous Armenia is not only in the interest of Armenia, but also in the interest of Lithuania and the entire EU,’ said Prime Minister Šimonytė.

The parties have noted the good bilateral relations between Lithuania and Armenia and the mutual commitment of the two countries in this regard, as demonstrated by the cooperation agreement in the field of technology and innovation signed on Wednesday.

Russia’s war against Ukraine and its implications for regional and European security has also been discussed. The Prime Minister has emphasised that the lasting peace and stability in Europe can only be achieved through the victory of Ukraine.

The Prime Minister has noted that an effective implementation of international sanctions, leaving as few loopholes as possible for their circumvention, including through third countries, is crucial.

On the security situation in the South Caucasus, Ingrida Šimonytė has underlined Lithuania’s support for a negotiated peaceful, sustainable and comprehensive settlement of the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The Prime Minister has expressed her expectation that the EU Monitoring Mission in Armenia (EUMA) will contribute to this.