The European Union (EU) is reportedly working to strengthen its relations with Armenia by preparing an action plan to simplify the visa regime.

The EU plans to begin negotiations with the Armenian government on this matter in the coming months. According to a report from Azadlig Radio, the European Council approved this initiative on Wednesday.

On the same day, Arman Yegoyan, the chairman of the European integration committee of the Armenian Parliament, confirmed the news. He posted on Facebook that an official decision regarding the action plan could be announced on July 22.

This development comes amid deteriorating relations between Armenia and Russia, alongside Armenia's growing ties with the EU and the USA. This shift occurred when Russia withdrew its security guarantees in the region.

A public opinion survey conducted in December by the International Republican Institute found that 87% of respondents viewed Armenia-EU relations positively.

In March, the European Parliament adopted a resolution expressing support for Armenia's pursuit of a more reliable security system than that offered by the Russian-led Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) and reaffirming Armenia's aspirations for EU membership. A month ago, Armenia announced the termination of its relations with the CSTO.

During her visit to Yerevan, coinciding with joint Armenian-American military exercises, US Deputy Secretary of State Uzra Zeya reiterated these sentiments. She noted that the US does not view Russia's military presence in the South Caucasus as contributing to regional peace and stability. The timing of the exercises also coincided with Armenia's participation in the NATO summit in Washington, which displeased Russian authorities.

In addition, the EU is expected to approve €10 million in non-lethal military aid to Armenia through the European Peace Mechanism. Armenia also participates in the EU's Eastern Partnership initiative, established in 2009.

The Eastern Partnership framework also includes a smaller group known as the "Triangular Association," comprising Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine. This group has greater ambitions and readiness for EU integration.

However, the future of this trio is uncertain following Russia's extensive military intervention in Ukraine and significant shifts in Georgia's foreign policy.

Several EU countries, including Estonia, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, and Sweden, have proposed suspending visa-free travel for Georgia amid deteriorating relations with the EU and Georgia's adoption of a Russian-specific foreign agent law.

This article is published in collaboration with OC Media. You can read the original text in English here.