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Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the Republic of Armenia, of the other part
Armenia regained its independence following the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. Following which, independent Armenia sought to develop stronger relations with European states, and in particular, with the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC). The Partnership and Cooperation Agreement was designed to establish deeper partnership between the ECSC and Armenia, especially in the areas of trade, commerce, and economic cooperation. The agreement was also aimed at further strengthening political ties between the ECSC and Armenia.
Supposed benefits of PCA
Provisions in the agreement supported the territorial integrity of Armenia and its progressive integration into the open international system, maintaining peace and security throughout Europe, safeguarding the rule of law and human rights, promoting democratic reforms and free elections, and developing a liberalized free market economy. The agreement also encouraged Armenia to maintain peaceful and constructive relations with its South Caucasus neighbors, develop closer relations with other European institutions, supporting Armenia's membership in the Energy Charter Treaty, and to increase trade and investment between ECSC members and Armenia.
The European Commission and Armenia later agreed to restart negotiations on a new agreement that would eventually replace the PCA. Former European Commissioner for Neighbourhood and EnlargementŠtefan Füle stated that, "the EU stands ready to continue developing ties with Armenia through a new legal framework." While Serzh Sargsyan confirmed that his administration remained committed to deepening ties with the EU and implementing large-scale reforms required for that.
Expiration of PCA and beginning of CEPA
In December 2015, Armenia and the EU began renegotiating a new agreement on bilateral relations. Following extensive negotiations, the Armenia–EU Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement was signed by Armenia and all EU member states on 24 November 2017 and ratified on 25 January 2021. The PCA expired on 28 February 2021 and the new CEPA officially entered into force on 1 March 2021.
First Page of the Agreement
Luxembourg, Luxembourg City
European Coal and Steel Community
European Union as of July 2002)
Armenia
