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 Armenia may count on the further support of the European Union to make progress in social and political reforms and continue with the policy of human rights and freedoms protection, President of the European Council Donald Tusk said during a joint press conference with Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan in Yerevan today.

According to D. Tusk, the EU respects Armenia’s integration choice and, as before, is prepared to deepen relations so as to open new markets, ensure progress in democratic reforms, regional integration, economic growth, sustainable development, business investments, and optimization of environment.

Donald Tusk announced the successful completion of the 1st round of negotiations over the comprehensive agreement on Armenia-EU bilateral relations, adding that EU member states are already discussing the issue of a mandate for those negotiations.

He praised the efficient fulfillment by Armenia of obligations on mobility and the visa facilitation and the readmission agreements, noting that it is an important condition for launching a dialog on visa liberalization.

Underlining the need to involve civil society in reforms as much as possible to extend the dialog, D. Tusk said that 2015 “will become a crucial year in our relations”.

He also expressed his gratitude for a second opportunity to visit Tsitsernakaberd Complex in memory of the Armenian Genocide victims. Mr Tusk said this time his emotions were just as strong as during the first visit.