July 21, 2023 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada
Canada is following the situation on the ground in Armenia very closely and is committed to working with allies to help uphold peace and stability in the region. In this regard, the European Union (EU) is playing an important role to foster peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan, including through the recently-launched EU Mission in Armenia, which seeks to contribute to stability in the border areas of Armenia, build confidence and human security in conflict affected areas, and ensure an environment conducive to the normalisation efforts between Armenia and Azerbaijan supported by the EU.
The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced that Canada has been accepted by the EU as a third-party contributor to the mission. In the coming months, Canada will be identifying Canadian candidates for the EU mission recruitment process, and is prepared to deploy up to 2 experts to contribute to the mission’s critical mandate.
As we seek more opportunities to engage with partners who are already making significant contributions on the ground, Canada will also be expanding its diplomatic presence in Armenia. Active preparations are currently underway towards opening a full embassy with a resident ambassador in Armenia in fall 2023.
Canada supports a comprehensive, negotiated political solution to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and the continuation of dialogue between the parties towards promoting confidence-building measures. Canada is encouraged with the current engagement between Azerbaijan and Armenia, and supports the ongoing efforts of the EU and the United States in facilitating dialogue.