EU REPRESENTATIVE PRAISES ARMENIAN PARLIAMENTARY ELECTION
Mediamax news agency
15 May 07
Yerevan, 15 May: Armenia "has passed the test" and "will continues
to move closer to the EU", Peter Semneby, European Union special
representative for the South Caucasus, has said in an interview
with Mediamax. Semneby was commenting on his previous statements
that the Armenian parliamentary election would become an important
"test" in [Armenia’s] relations with the EU because it would be the
first election after the European Neighbourhood Policy Action Plan
became effective.
"Yes, Armenia passed the test, and it is a good ground for continuing
partnership with the EU in the context of previous agreements. The
high level of interest in the election was an inspiring proof of
growing political and civic engagement," Semneby said. He, however,
reminded that Armenia "has not been given excellent marks."
"The observer missions mentioned several remaining problems that
should be eliminated before the presidential election in Armenia next
year. In particular, very often, there was no distinction between the
ruling party and the government. Also, there were too many problems
with the vote counting," Semneby said.
He expressed hope that new members of parliament would make it "a
forum for important and active debates on future directions of the
country’s development".
"The joint devotion to democracy, human rights and the rule of law
is a cornerstone for the partnership between Armenia and the EU. I
am sure that Armenia will continue to move closer to the EU," he said.