European Commission: Armenia’s decision underscores its commitment to deepening cooperation with EU

On February 13, 2024 the Armenian government approved a proposal to support the funding agreement for the Interreg Black Sea Basin 2021-2027 cooperation program. This is noted in a European Commission statement. The latter continues as follows:

“The programme, with a total budget of €94 million, including €85 million provided by the EU budget: the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and the Neighbourhood, Development, and International Cooperation Instrument (NDICI), aiming to enhance cooperation among the Black Sea region countries.

The programme offers a unique platform for cooperation between 3 Member States and 5 non-EU partner countries in the Black Sea Basin area: Romania, Bulgaria, Greece, Georgia, Turkey, Ukraine, and Moldova.

Armenia’s involvement will be on an in-kind basis, requiring no direct financial contributions from the country.

The program focuses on fostering “green” and “blue” economies, protecting the environment, advancing scientific research, and promoting innovative technologies. The programme is prepared also in line with the priorities of the EU Common Maritime Agenda for the Black Sea.

Eligible beneficiaries include state authorities, local government bodies, non-governmental organizations, academic institutions, and cultural and scientific organizations.

Armenia has been part of the 2007-2013 and 2014-2020 editions of the Black Sea Basin Program, under which a total of 119 projects were awarded and implemented in 8 countries surrounding the Black Sea Basin.

This agreement aligns with the Armenia-EU Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement (CEPA), underscoring Armenia’s commitment to deepening cooperation with the European Union.”