European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said Armenia could become a regional hub for new trade routes, speaking in Yerevan during a meeting with Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan at the first Armenia–EU summit.
She noted that the summit would help bring cooperation between Armenia and the European Union to a new level.
“Armenia truly provides the shortest route to Central Asia and the Caspian Sea toward Europe, as you mentioned. Previously, due to war and geopolitical circumstances, this route was closed. Now you are changing that through your courageous choice for peace and deeper integration into European networks. This creates an opportunity for Armenia to become a regional hub,” the European Commission president said.
She added that Europe is ready to support these efforts.
Von der Leyen also thanked Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan for hosting the first summit in Armenia.
“There has always been a special bond between Armenia and Europe, rooted in myths and ancient civilizations. But it is not only our shared history and culture that unite us—our future opportunities do as well. Indeed, Armenia and the European Union are closer than ever,” she said.
Concluding her remarks, von der Leyen expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality.
Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan hosted European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen at the presidential residence as part of the summit.
The visit began with an official welcoming ceremony, including the playing of the EU and Armenian anthems and a military parade, followed by a private meeting and an expanded-format discussion.
