Lithuania Helps Armenia to Prepare for Visa Liberalisation with the European Union
Deputy Interior Minister Gintaras Aliksandravičius is currently on a working visit to Armenia, where he is attending the launch event of an EU-funded project titled „Support to the visa liberalisation dialogue in Armenia in border management, document security and law enforcement reforms“
The project, which got underway in May of this year, is designed to support the Republic of Armenia in ensuring a smooth path toward visa liberalisation across the areas of internal security, migration and border management, and document security, in line with best EU practices.
Speaking at the project launch, Deputy Minister Aliksandravičius highlighted the significance of Armenia's decision to pursue closer integration with the European Union.
"I want to sincerely congratulate Armenia on choosing the path of European integration. Armenia is demonstrating determination, resilience, and a firm commitment to a European future. This is the choice of the Armenian people — a choice to build stronger institutions, carry out reforms, and strive for greater prosperity," said Deputy Minister Aliksandravičius.
He added that cooperation between the European Union and Armenia is not directed against anyone — it is about transformation, better governance, the rule of law, more secure borders, and greater opportunities for people.
Free movement is one of the European Union's most fundamental principles, and visa liberalisation represents a meaningful step toward strengthening people-to-people ties and opening new possibilities for travel, study, and cooperation.
Progress in this area comes with responsibility. It requires strengthening institutional capacity, ensuring effective border management, upholding high document security standards, and maintaining well-functioning law enforcement.
"These are not merely requirements imposed by the European Union. They are investments in Armenia's own security, resilience, and the well-being of its citizens. Steady progress in these areas builds trust — both between Armenia and the EU, and among EU member states," the Deputy Minister noted.
Lithuania is actively supporting Armenia's reform process and is ready to share its experience and provide hands-on expert assistance. Deputy Minister Aliksandravičius emphasized that Lithuania understands well the challenges faced by countries navigating the path of reform, and knows how much the support of reliable partners can matter.
"We are committed to contributing to the success of this project and to ensuring it delivers lasting, tangible results. Today marks an important milestone, but it is only the beginning of a longer journey. Reaching our shared goals will require sustained commitment, close cooperation, and resolve," the Deputy Minister said.
The visit also included meetings with Armenian government officials and project partners to discuss next steps in cooperation across migration, border management, internal security, and document security.