Minister of the Interior V. Kondratovič discussed Armenia's European integration path with Armenian Prime Minister N. Pashinyan
Minister of the Interior of Lithuania Vladislav Kondratovič met with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Minister of Internal Affairs Arpine Sargsyan during his visit to Yerevan.
During the meeting, significant attention was given to Armenia's aspiration to become a European Union member and the important reforms that the country has already implemented and plans to implement in the areas of internal affairs, especially law enforcement.
“We fully understand the challenges Armenia faces, including the hybrid war aimed at destabilizing the country and preventing its movement toward the West. However, the European path is not just a geopolitical choice – it is the nation's decision to live in freedom and community. Armenia's decision is a historic step, and we support it not only with words but also with actions. We are ready to share our experience and knowledge, both now and in the future,” said Minister V. Kondratovič.
The main public safety challenges were also discussed, and the modernization of the statutory services was emphasized as a necessary step to strengthen Armenia's institutional resilience and operational effectiveness. Lithuania has already contributed to these processes – a successful project co-financed by the European Union and the Lithuanian Development Cooperation Fund, which lasted two years, involved the Lithuanian police, the State Border Guard Service, and the Migration Department, as well as Latvian institutions.
“The main goals of our project were to share best practices that meet the real needs of our partners in Armenia, to create opportunities for knowledge sharing, foster partnerships, and find optimal solutions to help implement law enforcement and security reforms in Armenia,” the Minister noted.
One of the most important outcomes of this visit was the signing of a bilateral cooperation action plan between the Lithuanian and Armenian police. This will strengthen the law enforcement ties between the two countries and encourage the exchange of best practices.
It is worth noting that Armenia's Ministry of Internal Affairs was only restored in 2023, and the first minister was appointed on January 9 of that year. Prior to that, these functions were divided among other ministries.
Lithuania also provided symbolic and practical support – a patrol boat was handed over to the Armenian police for patrolling purposes. “We stand in solidarity with our partners in Armenia. We are pleased to be able to not only share theoretical knowledge but also provide material assistance that will help our colleagues ensure public safety,” said V. Kondratovič.
Lithuania will continue to actively support Armenia's efforts toward European integration and contribute to reforms and security strengthening. This cooperation is important not only for strengthening bilateral relations but also for the broader implementation of a shared vision for Europe's future.
Having started its own journey toward EU integration more than twenty years ago, Lithuania today actively supports countries striving for the same goal – to be part of the space of European values and cooperation.