3 Armenian Political Parties are ‘Constructive Partners’ of European People’s Party, Says EPP President

Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan in currently in the French city of Marseille participating in the 20th Congress of the European People’s Party (EPP) as an honorary guest.

EPP President Wilfried Martens, addressing Sargsyan in his speech at the Congress, said the latter had initiated bold steps with Armenia’s neighbors — mainly, with Turkey.

“You have undertaken [some] very ambitious domestic reforms. Armenia is building a peaceful democracy and that democracy must be consolidated. Armenia has become a market economy. Armenia found its place in the international arena and now has directed its attention toward Europe.

“Returning from Armenia two weeks ago, the EPP delegation, which had come to evaluate the applications for EPP membership of four parties, was full of enthusiasm. We have no doubt that your party, the Republican Party of Armenia, as well as Orinats Yerkir [Rule of Law party] and the Heritage Party, can in the near future become constructive partners of EPP. The decision on EPP membership will be adopted at our Convention in Feb. 2012.

“Mr. President, from this day on we consider you a member of the great family of the European People’s Party. We will be happy to welcome you tomorrow at the EPP Summit, along with the other leaders of our states and governments,” he said, according to a Dec. 7 statement issued by the Armenian presidential office.

Note: Article was updated at 4:10 pm (same day) to reflect translated statement now available on the President of Armenia official website.