ARMENPRESS: Open borders will transform Armenia's economic future, EU is ready to help make that vision a reality, says European Commission president

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has described the initialing of the Armenia-Azerbaijan peace agreement in Washington in August 2025 as a historic event.

Von der Leyen made the remarks during a joint press conference with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan in Yerevan.

"The initialing of the peace agreement last year was a historic event - one of the most important steps this region has taken in decades. The same applies to the ongoing normalization of relations with Türkiye. These decisions required political courage and leadership, and their benefits will be remarkable. Open borders will transform Armenia's economic future and anchor the country at one of the world's strategically important crossroads. That is why we are ready to work together to turn this vision into reality," the President of the European Commission said.

Speaking about connectivity initiatives in the South Caucasus, von der Leyen referred to the Connectivity for Peace Package of up to €200 million, which is being implemented through the recently launched regional transport infrastructure platform and has the potential to mobilize up to €2 billion in public and private investment.

She also recalled that on July 1, in Baku, she had announced an additional €20 million to support efforts to promote peace between the peoples of Armenia and Azerbaijan.

According to von der Leyen, these support programs will enable Armenia to continue implementing ongoing projects, including border crossing points and road infrastructure.

"We are building real infrastructure for peace. At the same time, we are building bridges between democracies. We also want to support the potential of Armenia's border communities and micro-enterprises," she said.

Von der Leyen also stated that Armenia can count on the European Union.

The President of the European Commission arrived in Armenia on the morning of July 2 on a working visit. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan welcomed Ursula von der Leyen at the Government headquarters.

Published by Armenpress, original at https://armenpress.am/en/article/1254556