Nikol PASHINYAN, Armenian Prime Minister, officially visits the European Parliament, after the majority of ethnic Armenians had to flee the Nagorno-Karabakh region following the Azerbaijani military attack. Introductory statement by Roberta METSOLA, EP President. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

statement

Strasbourg

plenary session

EU - Armenia (T)

METSOLA, Roberta (EPP, MT, EP President)

president's agenda

Formal sitting with Nikol PASHINYAN, Armenian Prime Minister: Introductory statement by Roberta METSOLA, EP President

SOUNDBITE (English), Roberta METSOLA, EP President, Dear colleagues, today we have Nikol PASHINYAN, Prime Minister of Armenia with us, Prime Minister dear Nikor, welcome to the European Parliament. We are in the context of the events of 19th September in Nagorno-Karabakh.

SOUNDBITE (English), Roberta METSOLA, EP President, In our last plenary we voted on a resolution that deplored the attack on Nagorno-Karabakh and called for the respect of Armenians rights and security. Now, our focus now must be on honest and fair talks to resume.

<p>SOUNDBITE (English), Roberta METSOLA, EP President,Prime Minister, since then, your country, your people have welcomed, housed and fed over 100,000 refugees. It is a testament to your country's commitment. Europe will continue to support Armenia's efforts in dealing with the influx of people from Nagorno-Karabakh. Many Member States have also donated much needed shelter, equipment, food and medical supplies to the EU Civil Protection Mechanism.</p>

SOUNDBITE (English), Roberta METSOLA, EP President, Prime Minister, let me also assure you of our support to your country's democratic reforms, the strengthening of our bilateral relations and stronger cooperation with the European Union, active participation of the international community, as well as international assurances for Armenians to continue to live in Nagorno-Karabakh and help achieve peace and reconciliation.

SOUNDBITE (English), Roberta METSOLA, EP President, We remain committed to all directed towards the normalization of relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan based on mutual recognition of sovereignty, inviolability of borders and territorial integrity.

SOUNDBITE (English), Roberta METSOLA, EP President, Dear Prime Minister, let me assure you that Armenia remains a vital partner for us in the EU's near Eastern neighborhood. The EU stands ready to further support the democratically elected authorities of Armenia, the resilience, security and continuation of democratic reforms in the country. Prime Minister, the floor is yours.